The Parker

The Parker is a historic neo-classical performing arts theater located at 707 NE 8th Street in the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Built by Dr. Louis Parker and designed by architect John L. Volk, the theater opened on February 6, 1967, and seats approximately 1,147 patrons. It was one of Fort Lauderdale's first entertainment venues and has hosted Broadway productions, concerts, dance, comedy, and performances by legendary artists including Elizabeth Taylor and Carol Channing. The venue underwent a major $30 million renovation completed in 2021, which included expanded lobbies, renovated lounges and bathrooms, and technical upgrades. Today, The Parker is managed by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone of the community with year-round theater, dance, music, and comedy programming.