This past year brought unexpected challenges — from the fire at Players by the Sea to navigating shared spaces and shifting venues and personnel— but ABET (All Beaches Experimental Theatre) is still standing. After 33 Seasons, we remain committed to producing bold, high-quality theatre that challenges, connects, and inspires our community.
Through venue changes, capacity setbacks, and every hurdle in between, our passion has never wavered. And as we move forward into our 34th season, we invite you to join us — because the show always goes on.
ABET is here to stay. And the best is yet to come.
Announcing our 34th Season:
A Moon for the Misbegotten
by Eugene O’Neill | September 2025
This searing, deeply human drama finds a tenant farmer’s daughter and a broken soul seeking redemption and tenderness under the light of a moon that shines on the lost. A masterpiece of love, regret, and raw vulnerability.
Stage Kiss
by Sarah Ruhl | November 2025
When two ex-lovers are cast opposite each other in a romantic melodrama, the line between onstage and offstage passion blurs. Ruhl’s clever and bittersweet comedy is a love letter to the theater — and to the people we almost forget.
Everybody
by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins | February 2026
A modern riff on the medieval morality play Everyman, this Pulitzer Prize-nominated work asks what it means to live, to die, and to love when faced with the ultimate mystery of life. Each night, actors draw lots to determine who plays “Everybody” — making every performance a one-of-a-kind experience.
Six Degrees of Separation
by John Guare | April 2026
Based on a true story, this sharply witty and unsettling play examines the illusion of connection through a conman who disrupts the lives of a wealthy Manhattan couple. A study of trust, privilege, and the human desire for meaning.
The Mad Ones
by Kerrigan and Lowdermilk | June 2026
In this indie-pop musical, a high school valedictorian sits behind the wheel of her car, trying to decide whether to follow expectations or forge her own path. A powerful story of youth, memory, and love — and the people who shape who we become.
Please join us as Love Takes Center Stage at ABET this season!
To Our Valued Misery Ticket Holders, Flex Pass Holders, and ABET Patrons,
We are reaching out with unfortunate news regarding our upcoming performances of Misery at Players by the Sea.
We are saddened to share that an isolated fire occurred inside the Studio Theatre while we were away, damaging part of the Studio. The building’s sprinkler system was activated, successfully suppressing the fire. But, as a result, there is widespread water damage throughout the entire facility.
The impact is substantial and thankfully, no one was hurt or present during the fire. The safety and well-being of our staff, artists, volunteers, and patrons remain our top priority. Because of the extent of the damage, all of this weekend's performances of Misery are cancelled.
We are currently assessing the full scope of the damage. Tickets or Flex Pass that were to be used this weekend will be honored for a future performance. In the meantime, we can still be reached at hello@abetjax.org for any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued support, love, and belief in the power of community theatre.
Thank you for your patience and support during this time,
Raines Carr
Interim Artistic Director
ABET Theatre
abetjax.com
ABET Theatre Announces Season Update Amid Artistic Personnel Changes
Jacksonville, FL – 3/14/25 – ABET Theatre announces an important update to our current theatrical season. Due to recent artistic personnel changes and losses, we have made the difficult decision to revise our season’s lineup. Consequently, the previously announced productions of She Loves Me and The Spitfire Grill will be replaced by two fresh offerings: The Fantasticks and Four Old Broads on the High Seas.
“We understand our subscribers and patrons have eagerly anticipated our original lineup, and we deeply regret any inconvenience this change may cause,” said Raines Carr, Interim Artistic Director at ABET Theatre. “These decisions were not made lightly, and we are confident that our new programming will bring a unique and engaging experience to our community.” He added: “We want to honor our past while looking ahead to the future.”
Revised Season Highlights:
THE FANTASTICKS
This show has the long-standing reputation as the world’s longest-running musical. A timeless classic that enchants with its witty dialogue, charming romance, and innovative staging, promising an intimate and thought-provoking theatrical experience.
FOUR OLD BROADS ON THE HIGH SEAS
A new raucous comedy adventure that celebrates the spirit and humor of life’s later chapters. This production offers a spirited twist on traditional narratives, ensuring laughter and lively entertainment for all. A sequel to our well-loved run of Four Old Broads last fall.
Refund and Ticket Exchange Policy:
We value our audience and their trust in our artistic vision. Should any subscriber or patron feel that the revised lineup does not meet their expectations, we are offering refunds for those who have already made reservations for The Spitfire Grill and She Loves Me. Please contact our box office at (904) 686-9872 or email us at hello@abetjax.org.
ABET Theatre remains dedicated to providing innovative and high-quality theatrical experiences. We appreciate your understanding and continued support during this transition, and we look forward to welcoming you to our renewed season.
For further information, please contact:
Raines Carr
Interim Artistic Director
rainescarr@gmail.com
All shows
will be performed at
106 N 6th Street
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250