Anticipated to be fully restored within the next few years, the historic Olympia Theater is moving closer to a new chapter as Miami Dade College advances plans to expand educational and cultural opportunities at the landmark downtown Miami venue. In partnership with Sports Leadership Arts Management (SLAM), Miami Dade College plans to create dual-enrollment opportunities and academic pathways in the arts, digital media, design and technology. The initiative also includes opportunities for collaboration with New World School of the Arts. Under the proposal, the school would be named the Miami Innovation Arts Academy. The partnership also envisions activating the Olympia Theater for Miami Dade College’s signature cultural programming, including the Miami Film Festival and Miami Book Fair, while preserving the theater’s historic role as a cultural destination for residents and visitors alike, said Dr. Maryam Laguna Borrego, senior vice president and chief operating officer at Miami Dade College. In September 2025, Miami city commissioners approved the sale of the nearly century-old Olympia Theater at 174 E Flagler St. and the overhead 10-story office building to SLAM. The project follows years of efforts to revitalize the property. In June 2022, the city requested proposals from developers to restore and manage the theater but received no responses. That same year, Miami Dade College launched its own request for proposals to establish an innovation-focused school in downtown Miami. With Miami Dade College serving as the higher education partner, SLAM will lead the renovation, management and operation of the theater, including completing an estimated $50 million restoration project within five years. The partnership is expected to transform the historic venue into a hub for arts, culture and innovation, creating new educational opportunities for students while ensuring the preservation of one of Miami’s most iconic cultural landmarks. “Together, we see an exciting opportunity to connect education, creativity and career pathways while contributing to the continued revitalization of downtown Miami,” Ms. Laguna Borrego said. The post Restored Olympia Theater still years away from education role appeared first on Miami Today. ...read more read less