Nestled in the heart of New Port Richey, Florida, the Richey Suncoast Theatre has stood as a testament to the enduring power of the arts since 1926.
From showcasing “talkies” and silent films to becoming a vibrant community theatre, their story mirrors the evolution of entertainment itself.
But beneath the nostalgia lay a practical challenge: how does a modern performance venue operate inside a century-old structure?
Seeking historic designation through the National Park Service ahead of their 100th anniversary, the theatre’s leadership team was committed to preserving the building’s historic charm while modernizing operations behind the scenes. One critical upgrade: physical security.
“Our local community uses the space for trainings, events, and more,” says Doug Jones, Treasurer and Board Member. “And for years, everyone just ended up with a key.”
Over time, that practice became a logistical and financial burden: as keys inevitably went missing, Richey Suncoast Theatre was forced to annually rekey the entire building, costing the non-profit thousands during a period of significant growth.
To support that growth, their security infrastructure needed to evolve and become smarter and more adaptable, leading them to Gallagher Security.
Empowering staff, enabling growth
Gallagher’s Command Centre solved Richey Suncoast Theatre’s access control problem. The system empowers their team to issue unique PIN codes and mobile credentials to staff, directors, instructors, and vendors, with scheduled access that automatically expires, eliminating the inefficiencies and risks associated with physical keys. Whether it’s managing access for a late-night delivery or a weekend rehearsal, staff can now remotely unlock doors and monitor entry, streamlining operations without the need for additional personnel.
“It’s phenomenal,” Doug says. “We can manage access remotely, monitor who’s in the building, and ensure every door is secure without having to be on site. That capability helps us create a more secure building, but it also gives our dedicated staff time back in their day – for a non-profit, that’s an incredible gift.”
Greater access control also equipped Richey Suncoast Theatre to grow more than fivefold in just a few years, transforming their modest seasonal programming into a robust year-round calendar featuring over 150 events.
“Our rapid growth has primarily been driven by our talented staff, but it also wouldn’t have happened without a strategic reinvestment in infrastructure like Command Centre,” Doug emphasizes.
Gallagher is a key part of how we’ve been able to grow without inflating our operating costs.
Doug Jones, Richey Suncoast Theatre, Treasurer and Board Member
Unlocking preservation through smart security
Since installing their Gallagher system, the Richey Suncoast Theatre team has experienced protection in unexpected ways.
Managing deliveries is one such example.
Deliveries to the theatre used to frequently arrive at the wrong entrance, disrupting operations and threatening the integrity of delicate historic spaces. But Command Centre’s thoughtful design ensures that deliveries now arrive at the correct designated areas, streamlining operations and reducing unnecessary foot traffic.
“Our Gallagher system gives us a level of control that enhances our day-to-day efficiency and safeguards our theatre’s unique character,” says Doug. “It’s a clear example of how smart security planning can support both operational needs and preservation goals.”
As the Richey Suncoast Theatre enters their second century, they’re dedicated to preserving the authenticity of their past while integrating technology that ensures their legacy endures for generations to come.
“Gallagher is a key part of how we’ve been able to grow without inflating our operating costs,” said Doug. “The system is flexible, modern, and works in a building that’s nearly a hundred years old. It’s a perfect match.”
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