text: For over 60 years, the Bandshell has carried a legacy of fostering community while celebrating the vibrance of its international influences. Throughout its life as a community space, the bandshell has undergone many attempts at revitalization countered by periods of dismissal and deterioration. Today, the Bandshell is proudly being operated by the Rhythm Foundation, a Miami based non-profit that has been curating international music and experiences for the south florida region since 1988. Under Rhythm Foundation’s passionate management, the Bandshell has seen its greatest period of revitalization and success – with more events, upgraded technology, amenities and local support pouring into the venue than ever before.
  MAKING HISTORY TODAY
  The characteristic style of MiMo (Miami Modernism or MidCentury Modernism), a post-war modern style of architecture that is not only reflected by the Bandshell, but much of the North Shore neighborhood, earned the venue a designation as a historic site. It is no secret that the Bandshell, North Shore, and Miami Beach as a whole offer a very special experience of urban design by the ocean. In this way, the Bandshell is a remarkable symbol of the very impressive and unprecedented collection of historic architecture that has put Miami beach on the map for decades.
  The Bandshell sits next to the site of Miami Beach’s first structure, the Biscayne House of Refuge, built in 1875. Families who lived and worked at the House of Refuge acted as life-savers, traveling up and down the beach after storms in search of castaways from then-common shipwrecks from the offshore shoals.
  The Bandshell has always been a special place for the city’s residents and visitors. Back in the day, Saturday night ‘big bands’ turned the venue into a ballroom under the stars; no one loved dancing more than Miami Beach’s large community of senior citizens! Generations of Miami Beach kids grew up roller skating at the Bandshell. For more than 60 years, the venue has hosted concerts, film screenings and community events.
  A space for history in the making
  In 2015, when the city of Miami Beach awarded the Rhythm Foundation its managerial title over the Bandshell, it marked a major shift in what the future could hold for the space. Not only has programming continued to increase and diversify, but grassroots efforts have evolved into major investment from agencies such as Ocean Terrace and the city of Miami Beach itself. The Bandhsell now boasts a canopy with coverage of the main central audience space, upgraded sound system electrics, stage screens, and a new elevated VIP platform wrapped against the west facing wall. Drinks and food are now available for most events with adaptable bar set-ups, and digital content continues to evolve in ways that makes learning, participating and sharing Bandshell experiences as easy as possible.
  All programming is made possible thanks to the generous support of our partners.
  FAQS
  Where do we park?
  The municipal lot across the street at 73rd Street and Collins Avenue is free after 6pm. When it is full, find street parking (also free after 6pm).
  What if it rains?
  The venue is an open air facility, covered by our new canopy. Shows are scheduled rain or shine.
  Can we bring a picnic?
  No outside food or drink inside the Bandshell, please. We have a fully-stocked bar, and we usually feature wonderful food vendors inside the venue. We also have a water refill station.