A performing arts studio is coming to St. Pete—with you at center stage.

In the aftermath of COVID-19 unemployment, The MAR St. Pete will be a refuge for artists. But Heather Hamar’s dream, transforming the space at 2309 Central Avenue into a workshopping wonderland, started long before the coronavirus chaos.

Originally from Flower Mound, Texas, Hamar wore many hats before settling into St. Pete. From Event Coordinator at Busch Gardens to Production Management at Norwegian Cruise Line, she knows what it takes to put on a great show.

She also knows that breaking into show business is no easy task.

“There are infinite resources on how to perfect your craft,” Hamar says, “but very few that shed a light on how to make a living with your craft. We want to help artists navigate through that darkness.”

After falling in love with her husband, Dave—and the priceless St. Pete sunsets—Hamar knew she had to open a studio with him in the city. “We imagined a hub for artists to create, collaborate, and strengthen the local performing arts community,” Hamar says.

At 2,342 square feet, The MAR St. Pete provides plenty of space for people to nurture their talent. Performers can entertain onstage, or opt for no stage at all—immersing themselves in the crowd. Comprised of eight 4 ft. x 8 ft. decks, the stage itself is entirely customizable, able to mold into whatever size necessary. Whether you need a spot for a dress rehearsal or a Broadway duet, you’ll find it here.

Been meaning to drop your latest EP, but have nowhere to record it live? Hop into The MAR’s exclusive performance space, fit with a full PA system, and sing your heart out. Hosting a live stream soon? The studio specializes in private online performances, so you can film your latest broadcast (with professional lighting and visuals) without worrying about catching the virus.

Though The MAR hopes to entertain the masses in the future, for now, audiences will be small due to COVID-19. Hamar aims to partner with local breweries and restaurants to offer live music—dinner with a show. Virtually, that is.

While the details aren't clear just yet, The MAR will feature performing arts courses for every age and experience level. Completely new to the acting world? Enroll in a summer workshop for beginners. Have a knack for storytelling? Maybe the Adult Improv class is for you. From music to yoga courses, you'll find something new to learn—and maybe unearth a skill or two.

Enter through the lobby—and let the striking black ceiling remind you of what Hamar calls a “true theater vibe.” The waiting room walls are a pleasing palette of yellow and blue, symbolic for a reason. “MAR,” the last 3 letters of the owners’ names, translates to “ocean”  in Spanish. It’s no wonder this sensational studio found its way to St. Pete.

Ready to book your time in the spotlight? An online portal is in the works at The MAR’s website. Bookings run at $143 per rental hour, with a surcharge on the weekends.

With so many resources at their fingertips, The MAR will undoubtedly foster the next generation of performers in St. Petersburg. As for us, we’re already lacing up our tap shoes.

While you wait for The MAR to open on September 1st, catch their Morning (MARning) Meditation sessions at 9 AM weekdays, on Instagram and Facebook.