Adrienne Arsht Center Celebrates 10 Years Of Performances
Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter
MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- From dynamic Broadway shows to jaw dropping performances by world-class musicians and everything in between the Adrienne Arsht Center made up of the Ziff Ballet Opera House and Knight Concert Hall has changed the landscape both physically and culturally of downtown Miami.
Plans were well in the works for a performing arts center before a well-known business leader and philanthropist named Adrienne Arsht came into town.
Her first donation - a beautiful fountain - just outside of the building. It was made by artist Anna Valentina Murch.
"This has become quite a place to gather," said Adrienne Arsht about the flowing fountains.
In 2008, Mrs. Arsht made a $30 million donation to the center. In recognition of the gift, the center at that time, known as the Carnival Center was re-named the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County.
"For a great city to be great, it must have a performing arts center. That's in all the literature about what makes a city great. It's a university. It's a hospital and it's a performing arts center," she said.
John Richard is CEO and President of the Arsht center. He says Mrs. Arsht's donation changed everything.
"It was an incredible offer of investment to be sure that the center would be properly programmed, that to be sure the people would be invited, that we would reduce ticket prices, that we could do free performances and be significant with arts education," Richard said.
The aesthetics is a glowing change to the neighborhood as well.
"It's a signature architectural accomplishment by César Pelli and I believe this community has a sense of pride that it's here and it feels like it's always been here now," explained Richard.
Since opening in 2006, the Arsht Center has welcomed more than 3 million guests, inspired audiences with more than 20,000 artists and more than 5,000 performances.
"We literally have thousands of performances, thousands of school kids attending free performances . It has been about opening our doors wide and making for the community," Richards said.
Arsht told CBS4's Lisa Petrillo that looking up at the building and seeing her name on top is always a thrill.
"I confess I certainly do. It's a pinch me moment and yes, I'm very proud," said Arsht. "I always knew when you put up a performing arts center, the world comes to that building."
On Thursday evening, the Arsht Center will honor Adrienne Arsht at the 10th Anniversary gala. The 7:30 p.m. performance featuring Michael Feinstein, The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, Jon Secada as well as surprise guests is open to the public with tickets starting at $25.00. The gala dinner following the concert is a private event.
Click here for more information.
