Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Keon Hardemon to host a groundbreaking on expansion and renovation of Joseph Caleb Auditorium
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County District 3 Commissioner Keon Hardemon, and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs are hosting a groundbreaking ceremony for the much-anticipated expansion and renovation of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium on Friday, February 16, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., on the grounds near the main entrance of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium, located at 5400 NW 22nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33142. The event will feature a musical presentation by Melton Mustafa Jr. Guests should RSVP at www.miamidadearts.org to attend the ceremony.
“Our County’s direct investment in arts and culture venues like the Joseph Caleb Auditorium provide us with the opportunity to come together, share our diverse heritages and traditions, and encourage visitors and residents to celebrate and invest in their own neighborhood,” stated Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “The arts are an important element of a connected and thriving community, and this comprehensive project will enable this cultural gem to continue offering equitable, affordable, and accessible arts programs for children and families in the heart of Liberty City.”
Managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Joseph Caleb Auditorium’s expansion and renovation project will occur in three phases, including a back-of-house expansion to accommodate larger theatrical productions; a front-of-house enhancement for a better theater-going experience for patrons, as well as ADA accommodations; and a courtyard renovation that increases greenspace and capacity for outdoor performances. The project is on track for completion with a grand re-opening during the 50th anniversary of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium.
“It is with great enthusiasm that we host this groundbreaking ceremony to begin renovations of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium. This historically significant cultural gem has served our community for more than 46 years. Iconic guests such as Spike Lee, the Blue Notes, Betty Wright, Ruby Dee, and Ozzie Davis have graced its stage. The renovation will prepare the stage and venue for the next generation of thespians to share their talent and guests to embrace the evolution of entertainment venues in our community,” stated Miami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardemon, District 3.
The improvements to the Joseph Caleb Auditorium are funded by the Building Better Communities General Obligation Bond program, the Countywide Infrastructure Investment Program, the State of Florida Cultural Facilities Grant Program, and the State of Florida African-American Cultural and Historical Grant Program. The project’s Architect of Record is Diaz, Carreño, Scotti & Partners, Inc. and the General Contractor is Florida Construction & Engineering Inc. For more information about the Joseph Caleb Auditorium and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs visit www.miamidadearts.org.
