Big shows and events have happened at the Olympia Theatre for nearly 100 years. — Big shows and events have happened at the Olympia Theatre for nearly 100 years, and on Thursday, the Miami city commission gave final approval for the sale of the downtown Miami venue to a public charter school.
“As much as I don’t like to part with the city property, this is one of those cases that the deal on the table is good for the city,” said Commissioner Joe Carollo.
The 5-0 vote paves the way for SLAM, which stand for Sports Leadership Arts Management, to take control of the theater and an adjacent building.
“Downtown is growing by leaps and bounds,” said Carollo. “We need more schools.”
Said Commissioner Rafael Rosado: “The school means that they’re going to activate the building during the day. Normally, a venue like that is basically dead. You wouldn’t see folks Monday through Friday during the daytime.”
The city took over the building more than a decade ago and has faced challenges.
In the deal, the new owners will pour millions into the property for education, arts and entertainment.
“It’s responsible, corporate people that are going to run this,” said Commissioner Miguel Gabela. “I think it’s a win-win.”
International rap artist and South Florida native Pitbull founded SLAM.
A lot of restoration is ahead for the historic venue, but once complete, leaders stressed that after hours, it will be a community space.
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