Good news for North Beach’s historic outdoor amphitheater: the Miami Beach Bandshell has officially been added to the prestigious National Register of Historic Places!
Now are we really that surprised? With a rich history running through our city’s veins, Miami is a force to be reckoned with and the U.S. federal government has picked up on this. The register represents the official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation in recognition of their importance to local communities.
Originally known as the North Shore Community Center and more recently as the North Beach Bandshell, the venue was built in 1961 by renowned architect Norman Giller and it’s as much known for its geometric expression of Miami modernist architecture as it is for hosting national television audiences and showcasing local talent.
From the very beginning, the venue served as the winter home of “The Mike Douglas Show” during the 1970s, and drew big names like Jackie Gleason, Burt Reynolds, Milton Berle, K.C. and the Sunshine Band and singer-composer Bobby Goldsboro among others.
Today, the Bandshell is gearing up for its upcoming 35th anniversary season schedule, which can be found on its website. Ever since the Miami-based Rhythm Foundation took over management of the Bandshell from the city in 2015, programming has blossomed with over 100 events every year, including concerts, movies, dances and any special event you can think of.
“The bandshell is the last surviving structure of its kind in Miami Beach out of four that once brought entertainment to the post W.W. II generation,” said Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber in a press release. “Now that the city has completed an important renovation to the complex, the bandshell is well positioned to welcome another generation of Miami Beach residents and visitors with top-notch entertainment and cultural programming.”
LOCATION: 7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141