Homestead’s Seminole Theatre Lights New Marquee
by GLM
October 23, 2018
Hundreds gathered for the countdown as Homestead’s Mayor & Council lighted the Seminole Theatre’s new marquee overlooking Krome Avenue. As the marquee illuminated with a blaze of neon and a burst confetti, the crowd cheered and made their way into the historic theatre for a free screening of the classic film “Singin’ in the Rain.”The Seminole Theatre’s new marquee was specially designed to match the historic character of the existing marquee and was funded by a State of Florida Cultural Affairs Grant. The addition helps to support the theatre’s success as a cultural arts center—part of an overall effort to bring new life to Downtown Homestead. Since it reopened in December 2015, the Seminole Theatre has hosted more than 500 shows and brought more than 50,000 visitors to the downtown.Other recent projects include the new City Hall and Police Headquarters, as well as Homestead Station, which is currently under construction and will bring movies, bowling, and a transit center to Homestead in 2019.About the Seminole TheatreFunding for the Seminole Theatre’s restoration and re-opening in 2015 was made possible thanks to the citizens of Homestead. During the decisive May 2014 Bond Referendum, 64% voted in favor of the $5 million Bond to renovate the Historic Seminole Theatre as a cultural center. The historic structure, originally built in 1921, was first restored in 1940 with the iconic Art Deco façade you see today. The theatre, a central part of Homestead’s social life, was mainly used as a movie house until it closed its doors in 1979. In 1992, it suffered a near total loss as a result of Hurricane Andrew. In an attempt to salvage the historic property, citizen groups embarked on a renovation effort that would span decades. The 2014 citizen-approved funding allowed for the complete restoration of this space as a cultural hub for Homestead. Learn more about the theatre and upcoming events atwww.seminoletheatre.org.