Thank you Miami Film Festival for getting me to the Olympia Theater so much this week. The Olympia is one of my favorite venues in Miami, plus my eldest graduated here and thus, a cherished memory. There are no concessions, but the event sponsors didn't have a problem with people bringing in food. I don't know if renovations are being done, but upstairs and some stairs were closed. The rest rooms are on the second floor, I didn't see an elevator. read more

I'm glad that such a historical and beautiful venue and artifact remains for many to enjoy in downtown Miami. This is a large theatre perfect for movie premieres and debuts - with a large main floor and a smaller second floor. We came to visit during the Miami Film Festival - it gave the movie an aura of greater casual fanciness being showcased in such a venue. Easy entrance and easy exit; lots of food options across the street st Julia and Henry's and on the weekends - farmers market with delicious hummus and Italian delicacies. Grab a movie, a beverage and a stroll. Enjoy! read more

See all

I came to this theater to see comedian Marcello Hernandez and I was impressed with how beautiful it was. Walking in, you can feel the history, with its statue and design. There were plaques on the walls that told some of his design and architect's history but I was unable to read it because it was crowded. Unfortunately, I was not able to take pictures of the beautiful stage or theater due to the no phone experience of the show. The only reason I'm not giving this venue give stars was because it was very hot. I don't think the air conditioning was working. Also, finding the assigned seats was also very confusing. Perhaps having staff inside the theater directing individuals would be great. Either way, I would return and hope to be able to take pictures of the beautiful theater. read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

Maybe the most beautiful theater I've ever seen?? The Olympia Theater just takes your breath away - it's so ornate and detailed in its design, they just don't make theatres like this anymore. From all the classical statues to the flickering lamps that emulate soft candlelight, it's just art. I went for a Miami Film Festival event and enjoyed a movie and award presentation here. My biggest concern is that the organizers served concessions like popcorn, candy and hot dogs and unfortunately attendees were super negligent and there was popcorn and garbage everywhere on the floor and seats after the presentation. It was heartbreaking to see - this is not a mass movie theater chain, it's a historic site! I wish people didn't need to be told to be respectful of such a historic place and definitely the organizers aren't fully accountable for people's negligence but maybe worth considering reminding people to take care of their trash and/or don't serve any concessions at all if people can't be respectful. I hope the Olympia will be cared for and enjoyed by our community for years to come. read more

See all

Long Line, beautiful theater. We were down at Olympia last weekend, a comedian we like was doing a taping there. We had o do a long drive down from up here after work, but made it in time for a the show, a little early even. There was a long line outside, and worse, it wasn't moving. Luckily I was ready for this. I had preplanned and had noted a bar across the the street from the entrance, and line. we all had a beverage and waited for the line to go down. It didn't for some time, as it was moving very slow. But a bit later it had, and we trotted across the way and checked in. It was my first time at the Olympia and I was impressed. I had no idea this ornate beautiful theater was here. Its very unassuming from the outside but inside there is plenty of craftmanship to see. the walls, ceilings, lighting and layout has beautiful details and what was a somewhat art deco vibe. We had mezzanine seats, but the view was great. the acoustics were solid as well. We had our phones locked by the people putting on the show, so no photos of the place. But we plan to be back soon for a show, and we will get pics then. read more

Saw a great show at the Olympia Theatre recently. The venue itself has character and the theatre is nice, but there are some issues that hold it back. The air conditioning doesn't work well, and the age of the building shows - there's a little bit of a musty moldy smell at times. It's frustrating because this place has real potential and could be fantastic with some proper renovations and upkeep. Worth visiting for a show you really want to see, just be prepared for the less-than-ideal conditions. read more

This theater is so beautiful! A historic building with lovely architectural aspects inside and out. Being in this space for an exhibit, the Theater shines through, creating an epic background palette for exciting exhibits (I visited most recently for the Van Gogh exhibit). It's so nice to find a theater that hasn't been gutted or 100% modernized inside, leaving so many beautiful spaces and moments here. Even the bathrooms were cool! I love that the OG ticket taker booth is still intact and stuck on the sidewalk a few paces away from the theater itself. I hope this theater last for a long time! read more

5-star ambience, 5-star service. A knock-your-socks-off beautiful silent movie palace in downtown Miami, transformed for the 21st Century. If you get a chance to go to any exhibit or performance here, do it. If nothing else you get to see the interior. This is an astoundingly beautiful silent movie palace from 1926, styled in a sort of New World idea of a 300 year Old World Spanish garden. It's one of very few Florida buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been renovated and adapted to modern usage quite well. We saw Van Gogh: the Immersive Experience there, which involved 3D light shows, artificial reality and 75 bucks, but was well worth it. Side note on Van Gogh the Immersive Experience, which was one of two dueling Van Gogh 3D exhibits. The other one was confusingly titled BEYOND Van Gogh: the Immersive Experience. A similar 3D impressionism show was also at the Arsht Center (titled not EVEN MORE Beyond Van Gogh, but Lasting Impressions) We saw all three but IMHO the Olympia venue made this far and away the best experience. Aside from the beautiful, every-surface-carved/molded glamor of the old movie palace itself, the staffers are amazing at the venue (both the Olympia employees and the Van Gogh employees). We got there a few minutes early for our time slot, but it was raining, so the nice gal at the door said stay dry and come on in boys. If you keep me dry in a Miami monsoon, you automatically get an extra star : ) Inside the trend continued: it was the first day or two they were open, so there were a couple of bumps but nothing major, and everyone adapted in practical and friendly ways. Even the gift shop people are stellar (one of them even walked around with us helping find things). read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

See all

This historic theater is located in downtown Miami on Flagler and 2nd Ave. Parking is limited but there is a city garage 2 blocks away for $15 flat rate. The Olympia's history dates back to 1925 when it was built on the site of the Airdrome, an open air movie theater in operation from 1918 to 1926. The Olympia was designed in atmospheric style by John Eberson and built by Paramount Enterprises for 1.5 million dollars. The Olympia and it's sister, The Tampa Theater are the only two atmospheric theater's left in Florida. Eberson departed from the traditional theater design that was popular at the time in favor of a Spanish design with turrets and towers. It was the most elaborate designed theater of its time and the first theater in the south to have air conditioning. The Olympia opened on February 18, 1926 as a silent movie theater. Some of the famous performers who graced the Olympia's stage included The Marx Brothers, Gypsy Rose Lee, Jackie Gleason, Rudy Vallee, and Elvis Presley who famously sold out 15 performances. In the 1960's Etta James, Della Reese, and B.B. King performed here. Movies were shown from 1954 until 1971 when the theater closed. In 1971 the theater was purchased by Maurice Gusman for the Miami Philharmonic Orchestra to perform in. Morris Lapidus oversaw the 5 million dollar restoration. The theater was renamed the Gusman and it reopened on October 21, 1972. In 1975 Gusman gave the theater to Miami with the unique stipulation that it be managed by the Department of Off Street Parking. At the time, Gusman was friends with Colonel Mitchell Wolfson, the Board Chairman of the Agency. In 1977 the Wurlitzer organ was restored. It is the only pipe organ south of Atlanta housed in its original theater. The restoration took 7 years to complete. In 1985 a replica of the theaters original 1925 ticket booth was added to the outside. Also in 1985, the theater was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In the late 1980's the theater suffered another decline. Plans were made to convert the theater into retail space but a group called Friends of Gusman formed to raise funds to preserve the theater. The theater reopened in 1994 under the name Gusman Center for the Performing Arts. In the 1980's and 1990's a new generation of stars performed at the theater including Annie Lennox, Johnny Cash, Luciano Pavarotti, Herbie Hancock, Nancy Wilson, and Nestor Torres. In 2000 the theaters original artwork, exterior frame, and building structure were restored. In 2002 the theater opened as Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts. In 2009 more restoration took place on the marquee and seating. Since 2010 the theater has been managed by the Olympia Center, Inc. The theater has staged performance by the Miami City Ballet, The Florida Philharmonic Orchestra, and the New World Symphony, as well as screened movies for The Miami Film Festival. In 2025 the Olympia will celebrate its 100th birthday. I recently got a chance to visit the theater during the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. The ensuing years have not been kind to the area this glorious theater is located in. Outside the door is a sea of homeless. Once you step inside however you are taken back in time to Florida's wealthy land boom years when the architecture was ornate and opulent. The projection for the exhibit was set up on the stage so the theaters beautifully carved proscenium arch became part of the show. I loved exploring all of the features of this theater, like the intricate wall sconces and carved ceilings. I hope to take one of this history tours one day. Right now there are two competing Van Gogh exhibits in Miami and I would probably pick this one just to be able to visit the Olympia. read more

See all

Another slice of history in Downtown Miami. The Olympia Theater is a theater located in Miami, Florida. Designed by John Eberson in his famed atmospheric style, the theater opened in 1926. Throughout its history, the venue has served as a movie theater, concert venue and performing arts center. In 1984, it received historical designation by the NRHP. The Olympia Theater and its sister venue, the Tampa Theatre are the only remaining atmospheric theatres in Florida. read more

See all

We came for the Van Gogh exihibit. A very cool experience! You get to learn a little bit about Van Gogh and of course his famous and not so famous works. He is truly one of the most celebrated artists across any generation. We were treated to 3 experiences and 1 VR experience. One where the rooms from one of his painting is recreated to a life-sized, interactive experience that you would have to visit because words would not do it justice. Another experience is large room where you can sit and relax to soothing music while you see Van Gogh's art and words projected on the walls and the floor. You can spend as much time as you want relaxing and contemplating. The last experience involved coloring. It's not just for kids. You can color one of Van Gogh's most famous works as you interpret it and then have the opportunity for everyone to see your work as it is projected on to all wall with other works. The last experience was a VR experience. It's a few extra dollars but definitly worth it as you get to be inside some of Van Gogh's most famous works. With respect to the theatre, I would've loved to attended the venue when it was active with plays, symphonies, etc. From what little bit I was able to discern of the venue, the architecture is truly a wonder and I am sure enhanced any event that was held in it. read more

My girlfriend and I got Vip passes to the Van Gogh exhibit. It was pretty good we finished everything in about an hour and 10 minutes. The best part was the virtual reality experience at the end that was very unique and worth the extra money. read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

See all

What a beautiful venue this is. You feel like you're in an old movie, looking at a classic opera house the way the seats are arranged here. There's a vintage atmosphere to it that makes you feel like you stepped away from the real world. Once the concert started, as if you hadn't been pulled in to this magical place already, the quality of the acoustics draw you in even more. The size of the place makes it easy to see any performance there, regardless of the seat you are at. Allowing everyone to enjoy it fully. My only complaint was with the staff, and that's why I had to take 1 star off. Not sure if they are workers of the venue or hired but, the will call was a mess, the people acting as security were rude, and there was no organization what so ever. As for the staff once inside the venue, that was another story. I felt comfortable with them and found them very helpful, and thankfully made me forget about the chaos outside and enjoy the concert. Definitely one of the best venues in South Florida. Beautiful, great sound and almost intimate. Wouldn't think twice about seeing another performance here. read more

Beautiful venue. I hope they open this up for future events once the Van Gogh exhibit concludes. I would love to see this converted to some sort of a haunted house experience for Halloween read more

A historic and ornate icon of the Miami golden days perfectly preserved and located in the heart of Downtown Miami seems to be a crowd favorite for many obvious reasons. The detail in every crevice of this theater resonates and exudes vintage glamour in every way. They host a multitude of cultured events such as art exhibits during seasoned events, independent film showings, movie releases, concerts, orchestra performances, and more. Although availability is limited and events are sometimes exclusive, there are many opportunities to come witness this architectural beauty. I find their calendar of events to be quite riveting and have yet to be disappointed with my multiple visits to this lovely slice of true Miami in its raw beauty. Certain events require purchasing tickets in person while at other times you're able to checkout online. If you're lucky to find a metervsoot nearby, parking can be a breeze. There's also a few garages and lots available but I recommend arriving earlier to give time to find a spot with time. I love this place. It's truly beautiful in every way. read more

Olympia Theater - Café Tacuba - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

Reading Maria's review about the Summer flicking at the Gusman center made me wanna go badly. I don't particularly spend time in downtown Miami so this was a good opportunity to discover the area and explore such an amazing building. Since I missed the screening of Fame the previous week, I jumped on the opportunity to see Flashdance and you know what? I had a blast! The Gusman has such a feeling of grandiose with its scene with cute balconies, an artificial sky with moving clouds and stars, and red velvet seats. The staff was very friendly and offered $2 raffle tickets to win gift certificates and other gifts. There's a happy hour : a nice touch if you ask me. The drink are cheap (I had my $3 beer) and it's a good way to get this party started. Watching Flashdance on the big screen was very nice. As soon as the music started every girl in the theatre screamed...we are such Flasdance geeks! Great movie and great after. The scene becomes a dance floor thanks to DJ Pauer and we had some great dancers from the New World School of the Arts showing us their talents. I really hope the Gusman continues to do events such like this. The Wiz is screening this Thursday so let's the party continue! read more

See all

Theater setup spacious interactive Van Gogh exhibition. There is a clean unisex restroom hidden downstairs @ the front of the exhibitions; informative film about famous artist before entering the large immersive exhibition & virtual tour of his travel in Ireland upstairs above the gift shop. Face masks are optional for visitors. read more

See all

Purchased the VIP experience. They make it a 'big deal' online but it is far from it when you arrive. You get a special lanyard and that is it. The experience itself is nice, plenty of info, a lot of it repetitive - so if you miss it in one area, you are likely to catch in another. We passed to 'beverage' stations.. we asked for a drink - just needed water - they said they would be set up in 30 - 45 mins. This was after we waited for someone to show up (there is a sign that says do not serve yourself). When you get to the immersion room it is on 3.5 walls.. not sure what happened with the last half. The room is super cold - the loop is about 30 mins and really cool but, there is nothing on the ceiling plus 1/2 a wall so you can't do the 'lay down and be immersed' even though they provide several blanket/pillow areas. Everything is fabric so it is not cleaned - so caution advised! Once you leave that area you walk thru a drawing area.. there is no assistance and no information - we guessed that we could do a drawing and figured out how to use the machine for the drawing to be projected. The people were NOT helpful. In fact - I felt like we were in the way - even though we asked for nothing. We made our way upstairs to the VR. No smiles - no welcomes - even though there were 4 of them standing there. btw - once you leave the cold immersion room it stays that way until you leave. We had to ask about the VR - someone helped us but no real instruction. We figured out you could turn around 360 degrees and everything is visable - it's a great experience. It's so real i had to check myself twice to get my bearings ! you can turn around and see where you've been, where you are going, the sky - everything. It's included in the VIP but you wouldn't know - they don't even offer that info. It's $5 without VIP - my adivce - get the regular ticket and pay the $5. If you keep the device on - it will restart and you can do it again. They are not paying attention so it doesn't matter. We left there to go to the shop.. no welcome..and no offer of the VIP benefit - which was supposed to be you get to pick a poster. You don't. There is 1 poster they offer and that's what you get. If i hadn't asked about the poster - no one would have said a thing.. even with the special VIP lanyard. :( If you are a fan of 'starry night' you win! So we both had to get the same one - my friend wanted sunflowers but you can't even pay a small upcharge for an option - even though the site says you get to pick a poster. All in all the experience was worth the REGULAR admission plus the VR. The people were not welcoming, not informative and not helpful. I would not recommend unless you area a real fan of Van Gogh..being cold.. and treated like you are in the way. read more

See all

Beautiful architectural historic hidden gem in downtown Miami. Amazing details and decorated ceilings. A must see if you visit Miami. read more

See all

Beautiful venue and it is a perfect place for music as the sounds travel amazingly in this well designed vintage theater. I visited this weekend during the Miami Downtown Jazz Festival and was blown away by the quality of the acoustics. I have gotten so used to mediocre sound quality in concert venues like: American Airlines, James L. Knight, Hard Rock Stadium, Marlins Park, that I forgot what quality sounds like. This is an audiophile's dream concert hall. It was built in 1926 and it has kept the facade of that decade. Some famous act include: Marx Brothers Gypsy Rose Lee Elvis Presley Jimmy Buffet The Police Annie Lennox Luciano Pavaroti Johnny Cash read more

The best venue in all of miami. This place is beyond beautiful kinda a shame they barely use it. Any chance you have to come here I would take. When they have the Moth project here I highly recommend it. read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

Absolutely stunning theatre from the 1920s. Monthly free jazz nights the second Wednesday of every month. This is definitely one of Miami hidden gems, world class musicians, and the theatre... oh the theatre ... just go see it and if you're lucky at the time there's a history tour going on by one of the staff members. You'll be amazed. read more

See all

Went to In The Lobby Lounge Jazz to hear the Jesse Jones Jr. Quartet put on a live show on Wednesday evening. Quality Olympia Theater is a historic venue in the heart of downtown Miami close to the courthouses. They have shows inside the main stage area, they also host regular free events, typically on Wednesdays in the lobby area. Definitely pay attention to the schedule because they have a bunch of different things like jazz, movies, burlesque, and much much more. Quantity The lobby is relatively narrow, but there is still a good number of seats downstairs. If you arrive late their is also plenty of seats upstairs, but the view is not quite as good. Value Although most of the events held in the main theater area have admission costs, the lobby series is typically a free event. They also have a small bar set up with drinks and snacks, all of which were reasonably priced. Ambiance The inside of the theater is absolutely gorgeous from the first step inside. When you first enter the highlight is a marble sculpture adorning the top of the staircase. The walls and ceilings are carved and beautifully preserved. As you enter the lobby to the left you find a narrow area with a small stage at the far end. Above is a view to the upper floor as well as several beautiful old chandeliers. On this evening tables were set up across the lounge and near the railing upstairs as well. The theater is amazing and like stepping into the past. It also seems like a great place to have a fancy gala or a halloween party. Crowd Even though the event was free I was surprised at how busy it was. Almost every seat was taken before the concert started and by intermission it was standing room only. It was mostly an older crowd, but everyone seemed in very good spirits dancing and clapping along with the band. Service The organizer of the event went around the room before the concert introducing himself and letting everyone know about other events at the theater. He also seemed very interested in what the audience was interested in seeing for future events. Parking My understanding is a parking garage nearby does discount rates when performances take place at the theater. However, downtown is confusing to me so I prefer to either walk from public transportation or take uber. Extra The Olympia Theater is one of the coolest looking places in Miami and they held a great free event. I would definitely highly recommend checking on their upcoming schedule and I know I will absolutely be back. read more

See all

The Gusman Center is a slice of gold that every Miamian should make a point to visit, this is a historic landmark that still functions in our community. I've been to the Gusman for dance performances and for the Miami International Film Festival. Each time, I always enjoy the entrance marquee and the deco flourishes inside the building. The interior performance halls have venetian art finishes complete with a painted evening sky, gilded cherubs, and frescoes -- it may sound tacky but it isn't, it's quite charming. History for the kiddies: The Olympia Theater (Gusman Center) opened in 1926 and was the first A/C public building in South Florida. Famous folks who've visited: the Marx Brothers, Elvis, and Gypsy Rose Lee among others... read more

See all

Okay, one of my birthday celebratory activities was a jazz concert at the Gusman Center and I gotta say I was impressed by the 3 performers! Yvonne Brown was exquisite, her voice is like Buttah!! Then there was Oriente,which were awesome!! Full o flavor!! Named after the city they're from in Cuba! The place itself is BEAUTIFUL!!!! So detailed and luxurious but gorgeous!!! Parking is either street or garage... read more

Beautiful and one of the only atmospheric theaters left in the USA. A must see. Beautiful carvings ans details

This beautifully renovated theatre was the perfect backdrop for Van Gogh: Immersive. Valet service cost less than the garage. Friendly and helpful inside guides. A very intimate experience. read more

The Olympia Theater is a gem that should be protected at all costs. Visited last night for their Jazz in the Lobby Lounge series. So refreshing in comparison to the usual Miami happenings, so intimate. The Olympia embraces you in a warm hug the second you step through its doors. My only wish is to bring more contemporary artists to perform at this venue. So much to offer! read more

Beautiful performing art center that is a great addition to downtown Miami although I'm not sure which came first since Gusman Center is almost as old as the city itself. I came here for the Miami International Film Festival (recommended) and watched a Belgium film in this beautiful facility. read more

What an interesting experience. Loving the fact that my daughter goes to a tiny school so the graduation ceremony was not huge and therefore not in a huge venue, we were happy that it was a smaller and more intimate affair. Now this theatre was opened in 1926 and has hosted Vaudeville and silent movies. Originally the Olympia it was renamed in honor of the philanthropist that saved it. I know in this sense my opinion doesn't matter but I much prefer the original name. Inside, the first thing we all thought was that it reminded us of the World Pavillion in EPCOT right down to the twinkling stars on the roof. Although built in the 20's the decor is not Art Deco which is what one would expect. An extravagant trip to the past, every inch of this center is lavishly decorated. You feel like you have been transported to the past. The service was great, and only in Miami would they be selling Empanadas and Coffee. That was cute, however the one thing I wish they had was outside, when we were waiting for the doors to open some dividers so people are forced to make lines because of course, being in Miami no one knows how and although we arrived early people crowded and pushed in front of us. I must say, that having been in another graduation in NYC where a nice line formed, so stress free... I didn't miss Miami at all on the NYC trip. The graduation ceremony went without a hitch, it was wonderful and I couldn't have been happier with everything. read more

I'm not sure what you did last night but whatever it was I'll raise you a classic, criminally not recognized, iconic movie mansion in Miami, throw in a an old school, Oscar nominated movie with a soundtrack that can still stir 'em up decades later: FAME http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1xO7RwTV4k So now watching a movie at the Gusman and enjoying their snack bar which includes $3 beers is already an unusual Thursday however, the night's festivities took a turn for the better when after the film's conclusion the audience hit the stage for a night of dancing to favorite 80's songs including: The Outfield http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78pQOkLTdFo Micheal Jackson http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_hz2am90Hk&feature=related and plenty more where that came from. Clearly the Gusman is positioning themselves for a major comeback to infuse some necessary cinematic splendor back into Downtown Miami. Next week it's another Cara classic and you might want to throw on some leg warmers and dance around like a Maniac post movie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsJukf6_B4s A beautiful theater, fun movies, cheap drinks, and a party after wards: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4KSVnKho6c read more

This is a beautiful theater, and I've seen some great shows here, mostly political comics. My only beef is the parking. Even with the valet, across the street, it's a monumental pain to slog through the traffic and lack of parking that's not hugely expensive. Surely the city should be able to do something for this historic venue. read more

Saw international films and a Natalia Lafourcade concert here and it was utter perfection. It was more expensive for a glass of wine than the Fillmore, which was unexpected, but it was worth it. My favorite concert venue in Miami. read more

See all

While you were watching reruns of Miami Social Maria A. and I were catching a fever. A dance fever that is. I was laying in bed when I received a message form Maria asking if I wanted to meet up and see Fame. Not that Remake B.s coming to a theater near you. The original with Ralph Garcie Himself. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 day of. Now, you can either use Ticketmaster and pay their ridiculous fees or you can simply stop by the box office which is located right outside the theater. Don't worry their is an ATM also. I was speechless the first time I walked into this AMAZING venue. Its a diamond in the rough. From the outside you would never guess that this place even existed. When your first walk in their is a small table setup with snacks and a mini bar the prices were very reasonable. Only $3 for a Heineken and a few other beers that's better than sum of the restaurants. Chips, nachos, even fresh Popcorn. In the mood for some liquor? I mean who isn't? they serve johnny walker, Bacardi and I even saw a bottle of patron if your feeling lucky. Down to earth friendly and sweet are all the words that come to mind when I think of the staff here. They danced and sang the night away with us. Beside the movie the dance party had to be my favorite part ! You could see that the employees actually went out of their way to make the stage look like a club dance floor and all ! The DJ played Some Madonna, Micheal Jackson even some Joan Jett ! I may be an 80's Baby but I can hang with the best of them. I genuinely hope that the Summer Flick program stays around because there are so many wonderful movies that Id love to see So get off that ass grab some friends and head out to the Gusman Next Thursday. You wont regret it. read more

Beautiful theater with middle easter decir. We were there last night for the miami film festival. Don't expect too much on the food scene. A little limited. The theater has clean chairs, and your visibility is great from almost any angle. Sound could be better, but enjoyable experience read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

I went yesterday to the see "La Guitarra Vuela", hosted by Iberia Airlines was an amazing showcase of Paco De Lucia's influence as a guitarist in Latin Music. It was an excellent event and the perfect place to host it. The Olympia theater is truly a hidden piece of Miami history. I hope we can preserve it for generations to come. read more

See all

I'm all for modern, convenient and contemporary theaters, but sometimes you just want something a little more intimate with a lot of character. The Gusman is the perfect solution, offering old-world glamor, sophistication and charm. Walking along in downtown you might have seen the garishly lit canopy thinking it was just another theater. This would be a mistake though, because the splendid magic and ornate uniqueness inside is anything but ordinary. The fake night sky, complete with moving clouds and twinkling stars, the arches, the statues...the whole theater makes you feel like you're sitting inside the courtyard of a gorgeous Mediterranean villa, waiting for a private production of some fabulous performance. Went with some friends recently to see the Nutcracker. Picked up our tickets without problem from the old movie theater style box office. Inside we were greeted with the glowing chandeliers, a huge curving staircase and the pleasant aroma of fresh popcorn popping! Love the snack bar and that they don't hassle you about eating or drinking inside! My only tiny complaint was more about the production we were seeing, which started with a speech that included a laundry list of all their sponsors. Since we had paid for the tickets and it wasn't a free production, this seemed a bit unusual. Furthermore, it started a half an hour late to accommodate all those still waiting for their tickets. I know it's Miami and people are frequently late, but I've never been to a show where they held up the entire thing for 35 min. just to give the late a chance to be seated. As the consummate proponent of being punctual, my friends and I had arrived twenty min. beforehand to pick up the tickets and we had no problems whatsoever, but didn't really want to wait so long for it to begin once we were inside. Furthermore, it was surprising that even after everyone was seated, there was still a great number of empty chairs. Once it did commence though, it was every bit the lovely holiday tale you've heard of as a child. An enchanting story, set to some of Tchaikovsky's iconic music, with some equally stunning dance numbers and beautiful costumes. Highly recommend seeing it at least once in your life and couldn't be more enthusiastic about this venue. Whether seeing a ballet, movie or musical it is the perfect setting! Historical, transcendental and utterly fabulous! read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

See all

Watched a Jazz Concert there by Lourdes Valentin and her quintet. Or quartet if you don't count her. They do these sort of concerts every first Wednesday of the month and they also give an additional free tour of the building. They're and the art should be more alive these days. Olympia has a lot to offer. Very nice ambiance. Good service. Didn't try the food but it all looked very nice. read more

Olympia Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami, Florida

HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY THAT I LOVE YOU? Every time I see you, I discover some new enchanting detail to adore. You're splendid, mesmerizing, clever, and I'll never get bored of you. You're the theater of my dreams, Gusman, you're everything I've ever wanted and more. So you're getting older? So what? You have a certain savoir-faire, a sophistication, that you just wouldn't find in some big, young 'plex. Can I visit you again soon, Gusman? I miss your red velvet curtains, the peacock feathers, the gallery, the balcony... and most of all... forgive me, I'm blushing... that great big organ of yours... read more

Gusman Center is one of the few places in Miami with some history to it. It's a must-visit for anyone living in or passing through. They have all sorts of events here- from movies, to concerts...from opera to film festivals. But no matter what's goin' on, it's a real treat to come here. The decor is beautiful and old-school in the best way ever. The actual theater itself is lavishly designed, with balconies adorned with roman statues and golden trim. There's even a stuffed/freeze dried peacock perching on one of the railings. The best part about Gusman for me is the ceiling. Remember to look up while you're sitting in your seat waiting for the show to start. It looks like the midnight sky, complete with moving clouds and twinkling stars. I was telling a fellow yelper last night when I was there that they should open up the theater just for a slumber party sometime. It could be fun. Minus one star for the very uncomfortable seats with no leg room. Other than that, Gusman does not disappoint. I love this place. read more