Historic house, Limelight Theatre present living history experience

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Limelight Theatre was commissioned by the Peña-Peck House to conceive, develop and fully produce “A Treasury of Voices,” a new, original living-history experience created specifically for the historic site located at 143 St. George St. in St. Augustine. 

As guests move through the historic home, professional actors portray Spanish, British and American residents who once lived and worked within its walls. Powerful stories unfold. Defining moments come alive. The past speaks in its own voice. 

This special event will take place now through May 2 on Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Tickets are available at penapeckhouse.com/events.

The original coquina house was built circa 1750 by royal decree of Spain’s King Ferdinand VI for Spanish Royal Treasurer Juan Estevan de Pena. The property features coquina on the first floor, the second floor built after 1837 by owner Dr. Seth Peck, and the well-known historic gardens, which play host to weddings and events. 

“A Treasury of Voices” times and dates are 10 and 11 a.m. March 28; April 4, 18, 25; and May 2.

The Peña-Peck House is under the care of The Woman’s Exchange of St. Augustine. The volunteer members give tours of the historic house, manage the property as an event venue and operate the gift shop, which is St. Augustine’s oldest artisan market. Funds go to historic preservation of the property, to support area artisans, and for college scholarships for women age 25 and older in St. Augustine. 

“Limelight Theatre is honored to be commissioned by the Peña-Peck House to create ‘A Treasury of Voices,’” said Sherrie Provence, executive director of Limelight Theatre. “This partnership gave us the opportunity to build an entirely new work from the ground up – stretching beyond the traditional stage to pioneer a new form of storytelling in our community. From research and writing to casting, costuming and performance, Limelight is producing every element of this experience, blending theatre, history and place in a deeply immersive and meaningful way.”

Limelight Theatre was responsible for all creative and production elements, including historical research, original script development, casting multiple performers, costume design and overall artistic direction. The result is an immersive experience that blends professional theatre with authentic historic interpretation.

“We are thrilled to present this new event to our visitors, sharing the stories of those who lived and worked in this historic house,” said Brooke Gast, president of The Woman’s Exchange of St. Augustine. 

Together, the Peña-Peck House and Limelight Theatre are introducing a pioneering cultural experience that expands how history is interpreted and how theatre is experienced in St. Augustine.

Reservations can be made at penapeckhouse.com/events.