The Larimer Arts Center, in downtown Palatka, Florida, hosts River City Player's Scarlett-Hill Theater - an intimate venue with a capacity of 71 patrons making it unique and a true live theater experience.
River City Players
Established in 1982
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River City Players is a 501c-3 nonprofit and is 100 percent volunteer
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Our volunteers are all ages - from age 10 and up
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We are fortunate to have over 130 volunteers, but can always use more!
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We produce 4 shows per year, one for every season - Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
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We sponsor the RCP Scholarship Program
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Each production run begins with a Champagne Opening Night, sponsored by an individual or business in Putnam County.
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We do a benefit performance during the run of the production with all proceeds benefiting a local charity.
A Short History
The Larimer Arts Center was originally the Palatka Public Library before the Putnam County Library System Headquarters moved to its new location at the Community College (now St. Johns River State College). The City of Palatka provided the Larimer Building to River City Players and the Arts Council of Greater Palatka as a home for the arts.
When the remaining library shelves were removed from the stack area (where the theater seating is now), construction of the black box theater could begin, largely through the efforts of Betsy and Marchetta, with construction help from Harry Gillean.
In recognition of the accomplishments, vision and drive of Ms. Scarlett and Ms. Hill, the theater was named in their honor.
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The Scarlett-Hill Theater now stands as a worthy reminder of two amazing women and their dedication to live theater in Palatka and Putnam County.
Shortly thereafter, River City Players became residents in the now renamed Larimer Arts Center. The first few productions were performed on a stage constructed in what is now the lobby. During this time, River City Players was being led by two fantastic women, Betsy Scarlett and Marchetta Hill. Betsy was president and the artistic muse of River City Players. Her sidekick, Marchetta, was treasurer.
The Larimer Arts Center as it appears today
