The Tropic Theatre

Downtown Leesburg

The Tropic Theatre in Leesburg is once again becoming a place where history, creativity and community come together.

It originally opened as the Fain Theatre in the 1930s before undergoing a major renovation in 1960 and reopening as the Tropic Theatre. A second auditorium was added in 1979, creating the Tropic Twin Theatre.

Today, the building has found new purpose as a shared arts destination. After the City of Leesburg purchased the property in 2024, the Melon Patch Players and Leesburg Arts Center moved in to present visual and performing arts under one roof.

Melon Patch Players Executive Director Dustin Lavine says the organization has worked to improve the theater while preserving its character. Updates include extending and leveling the stage, upgrading lighting and installing an inset revolving stage designed to make the space more versatile for larger productions.

The Leesburg Arts Center also helped refresh the lobby and continues to bring exhibits, classes and community programming into the historic space.

“What makes the Tropic extraordinary to me is the opportunity to preserve an important piece of Leesburg’s history while giving it new life and purpose,” says Leesburg Arts Center’s Executive Board President Amanda McLea, who believes the Tropic’s downtown location is an important part of its impact.

“I have always believed the arts belong downtown and are an important part of creating a vibrant community,” she says.

Dustin agrees. He says the goal is to help make downtown Leesburg a destination by pairing quality theater and arts experiences with restaurants, shops and other businesses.

As theater, art and community programming continue to bring people through its doors, the Tropic is helping preserve an important piece of Leesburg’s past while playing a new role in the city’s future.