THEATRE

that same intimacy worked against the theater in an age of social distancing. To maintain a safe gap between theatergoers, Hair said, the venue would only accommodate an audience of eight to 10, a size that wouldn’t be financially viable.

The theater was known for presenting socially relevant plays — about grief, school shootings and the AIDS crisis — as well as commissioning original work from local playwrights. It also served as an Orlando Fringe Festival venue for many years, and it often found ways to present large musicals, such as “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Aida,” in its small space.

That creativity will be called upon for future endeavors, said Hair.

“It is time to get creative and think outside the box, which is something the Breakthrough has always had to do,” he said in his video message.

To that end, Hair said, he will rebrand as Breakthrough Theatre Company and focus on online efforts, such as children’s educational programs and an arts-based talk show he has been hosting in recent weeks.

“We are looking forward to what the future may hold,” said Hair, while acknowledging that closing the building was part of an “emotionally difficult time.”

Fans expressed their sadness on social media.

“This is heartbreaking,” posted Tatum Ivy.

“We are very disappointed but, at the same time, you know the adage of where 1 door closes another opens,” wrote Liz Alban Trotta. “I will miss the big hugs from your parents. They make everyone feel like part of the family.”

The Breakthrough prided itself on its family vibe. Hair’s father, Sid, collected tickets, passed out playbills and introduced performances. Mom Annie sold her homemade cookies and other treats in the lobby. Other arts leaders, who are struggling to navigate the coronavirus shutdown themselves, offered words of encouragement and acknowledged the Breakthrough’s contributions to the Central Florida arts scene.

“What terrible consequences because of this virus,” wrote Jim Helsinger, artistic director of Orlando Shakes.

“Wade — you made a difference and you will continue to do so,” posted Mitzi Maxwell, executive director of Mad Cow Theatre.

The Breakthrough is the second theater in recent weeks to announce it is leaving its home. The Moonlight Players of Clermont also are vacating their longtime theater this month because of issues with nearby development and parking.

“I know EXACTLY how you feel, buddy!” wrote Moonlight founder Jan Sheldon to Hair on Facebook. “Sending love!!!”

Both theaters are planning sales this weekend as they strip their venues before the end of the month.

Hair invested a lot of time and energy in steadily improving his theater over the years, from seating to lighting to the homey lobby. But he said it was the “incredible people” he would miss the most.

“We have so many wonderful memories of the last 11 years,” he said. “We are thankful for everyone who has purchased a ticket.”