ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts generated $227.6 million in annual economic impact, supporting 2,483 jobs and producing $13.2 million in state and local tax revenue, according to a newly released independent study by Tourism Economics.

The analysis, conducted by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company specializing in economic impact and tourism research, measured the direct, indirect and induced economic activity generated by the arts center’s operations, performances, visitors and related spending throughout Central Florida.

The findings underscore the Dr. Phillips Center’s role as both a premier performing arts destination and a major contributor to the region’s economy.

“For more than a decade, we’ve seen firsthand how the arts inspire people, bring communities together and create lasting value,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “This study confirms that our impact reaches far beyond our stages—supporting thousands of jobs, driving business growth, attracting visitors from around the world and helping position Central Florida as a more vibrant, competitive and connected region.”

Economic Impact by the Numbers

According to the Tourism Economics report, the Dr. Phillips Center generated:

• $227.6 million in annual economic output
• 2,483 jobs supported across Central Florida
• $70.8 million in total labor income in Orange County
• $13.2 million in state and local tax revenue
• $73.1 million in off-site spending by event attendees, performers and production crews
• 61,600 hotel room nights generated annually

The study highlights the ripple effect created by visitors attending performances, benefiting nearby hotels, restaurants, retailers and other local businesses.

A Global Destination for Arts and Entertainment

Now in its 11th year, the Dr. Phillips Center welcomes more than 910,000 guests annually, attracting visitors from all 50 states and more than 80 countries.

Since opening in 2014, the venue has hosted:

• More than 6.2 million guests
• More than 6,200 performances and events
• Programming presented 99% of the year
• Venue occupancy rates ranging from 82% to 97%

The center has become one of the world’s busiest performing arts destinations while helping position downtown Orlando as a leading hub for arts, culture and entertainment.

Community Investment Beyond the Stage

In addition to its economic impact, the Dr. Phillips Center continues investing in arts education, community outreach and cultural programming throughout Central Florida.

According to the organization, it has:

• Served 935,920 students and community participants
• Supported and hosted 202 regional arts organizations
• Received support from 24,085 donors
• Benefited from $256 million in philanthropic contributions since its inception

Through partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, community groups and touring productions, the center continues to expand access to the performing arts while strengthening the region’s cultural and economic vitality.

Looking Ahead

Eleven years after opening, the Dr. Phillips Center continues to demonstrate that investment in arts and culture produces measurable returns through tourism, employment, education and community engagement.

As Central Florida continues to grow, the independent analysis reinforces the performing arts center’s importance as both a cultural landmark and an economic engine for the region.

Additional information about the economic impact study is available through the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings announced that his surgery was successful and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from the community as he begins his recovery.

In a statement released Tuesday, Demings said his physicians remain optimistic about his progress and that he looks forward to returning to public service after completing the recovery period recommended by his medical team.

“I appreciate the outpouring of support from our community. My surgery went well, and my doctors remain very optimistic about my recovery. I look forward to getting back to serving the residents of Orange County after taking the time my doctors have recommended for my recovery,” Demings said.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Orange County Fire Rescue Chief Anthony Rios has resigned, effective July 31, following questions raised during a recent Orange County Board of County Commissioners budget workshop regarding the purchase of a county-issued vehicle and his responses to commissioners.

Mayor Jerry L. Demings informed members of the Board of County Commissioners of Rios’ resignation in a memorandum following the chief’s decision to step down. The resignation comes just over a year after Demings appointed Rios to lead one of Florida’s largest fire-rescue agencies.

According to Rios’ resignation letter, the purchase of the county-assigned vehicle complied with Orange County procurement policies and procedures. However, he acknowledged that his explanation during the budget presentation “did not fully communicate the complete context” and could reasonably have been perceived as inaccurate. Rios accepted responsibility for his remarks and said his resignation was in the best interest of the department.

“Throughout my career, I have sought to lead with accountability, transparency, and integrity,” Rios wrote in his resignation letter. “Those values have guided every decision I have made, and they continue to guide this one.”

Appointment Lasted Just Over One Year

Mayor Demings appointed Rios as Orange County Fire Chief in April 2025 after a 24-year career with Orange County Fire Rescue. Before becoming chief, Rios served as Deputy Fire Chief of Administration and previously held positions in field operations, emergency management and executive leadership. He also served as a sworn corrections officer and reserve deputy sheriff during his public safety career.

At the time of his appointment, Demings praised Rios’ leadership and expressed confidence in his ability to guide the department, which serves one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida.

Budget Workshop Sparked Questions

The resignation follows a recent budget workshop where county commissioners questioned Rios regarding the acquisition of a county-issued vehicle as well as other Fire Rescue budget matters. Following that exchange, Rios determined that stepping aside was the appropriate course of action.

In his resignation letter, Rios emphasized that while the procurement itself complied with county policies, he recognized that public confidence depends not only on compliance but also on complete transparency and accurate communication.

He thanked Mayor Demings, the Board of County Commissioners, county administration and Orange County Fire Rescue employees for their support throughout his career.

Rios also stated that he believes the department has become stronger and better prepared to serve residents during his tenure.

Leadership Transition

Orange County has not yet publicly announced a permanent successor to lead the Fire Rescue Department.

The Orange County Fire Rescue Department is among the largest emergency response agencies in Florida, providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue and disaster response throughout Orange County.

Mayor Demings and the Board of County Commissioners are expected to oversee the transition process while ensuring continuity of operations during the leadership change.