The Bandshell was designed in 1961 by architect Norman Giller. A leading figure in the MiMo style, his work is now featured on the National Register of Historic Places (an honor also bestowed on the Bandshell in 2022!). Historians Randall Robinson and Eric Nash described the Bandshell as ”a futurist take on a Roman Amphitheater.”

 

In the 1960s and 1970s, many events took place at the Bandshell, including filming of special winter editions of Mike Douglas’s televised talk show, and weekly ballroom dance nights popular with local seniors. During the 1980s and 1990s, the oceanfront ballroom became a rental facility used by various promoters – including the Rhythm Foundation, who began presenting shows here in 1999. Miami Beach children also remember rollerskating and movie nights at the Bandshell during this era.

 

The City of Miami Beach’s Planning and Parks Departments, with the involvement of the Mayor’s North Beach Blue Ribbon Panel, undertook a series of major facility renovations in 2009. In addition to the renovations, which also included the installation of a customized sound system, the Panel recommended that the City seek a professional management company via an RFQ – by which the Rhythm Foundation was awarded this contract.

 

In 2017, the City of Miami Beach named the stage for Clark Douglas Burris. Mr. Burris, the beloved music teacher at Miami Beach High for more than 35 years, founded the Miami Beach Rock Ensemble in 1972 – the first-ever high school rock band (take that, School of Rock!). Despite living with MS as a quadriplegic for most of his career, he inspired generations of young musicians in our community. Enjoy Carry That Weight [LINK], the documentary about Mr. Burris and the Rock Ensemble made after he passed away in 2016. The Miami Beach Rock Ensemble continues to hold an annual tribute at the Bandshell each winter.

 

The Rhythm Foundation’s management contract was renewed by the City in 2019, which also coincided with additional capital improvements – most notably the installation of canopy! This unique architectural addition, designed by Ira Giller (son of Norman Giller), retains the outdoor feel while protecting patrons from the weather.