Miami is THE Place for Art in December: Art Basel, Satellite Shows & More!

Beatriz Milhazes | Crianças fizeram um homen de neve
(Children Made a Snowman) | Mary-Anne Martin Fine Art, NY

ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH: Dec. 6-9. Art Basel Miami Beach is the most important art show in the United States; a cultural and social highlight for the Americas. Art Basel Miami Beach combines an international selection of top galleries with an exciting program of special exhibitions, parties and crossover events featuring music, film, architecture and design. At the Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 305-674-1292. artbaselmiamibeach.com

SCOPE MIAMI: Dec. 4-9. The art show that has established its name by curating cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world proudly returns to Miami for its 10th year. Cementing its future with an 80,000 square foot pavilion across the street from Art Miami, SCOPE Miami's high-profile venue is centrally located in the heart of the Wynwood Arts District. An Art Basel satellite event. At 3000 NE 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33127, 212-268-1522. scope-art.com

FOUNTAIN ART FAIR: Dec. 6-9. Featuring independent galleries showcase innovative and ambitious projects from younger artists. Returning to Miami for its 7th year, Fountain Art Fair announces an extensive lineup of unique, alternative, exciting art projects and performance art events. With more than 35 exhibitors from around the world, the 2012 art fair will provide a visual display of installation heavy artworks, a spectacle for art enthusiasts to enjoy. An Art Basel satellite event. At 2505 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127. fountainartfair.com

PULSE MIAMI: Dec. 6-9. Held annually in New York, Miami and London, PULSE presents leading international galleries and artists showcasing the latest movements in contemporary art in powerful architectural environments designed to serve both seasoned and emerging collectors. An Art Basel satellite event. At Ice Palace, 1400 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33136, 212-255-2327. pulse-art.com

ART MIAMI: Dec. 5-9. This premier fair celebrates its 22nd anniversary as it kicks off the opening day of Art Week. World-famous for its extraordinary variety, outstanding quality and its stylish gallery-like decor, Art Miami showcases the best in modern and contemporary art from more than 100 international art galleries and prominent art institutions. An Art Basel satellite event. At Art Miami Pavilion, 3101 NE 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33137, 520-529-1108. art-miami.com

MIAMI PHOTO: Dec. 4-9. This leading contemporary international art fair dedicated to photography, video and new media features an international roster of galleries, artist projects, institutions and publishers. An Art Basel satellite event. At Midtown Miami, NE 1st Ave. and NE 34th Street, Miami, FL 33137, 323-937-4659. miamiphotofair.com

DESIGN MIAMI: Dec. 5-9. Design Miami presents the best international design galleries exhibiting extraordinary historic and contemporary design. Designers, collectors, dealers and curators from around the world participate in lectures, exhibits and design installations. An Art Basel satellite event. At the Miami Beach Convention Center, P-Lot, Meridian Avenue and 19th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139, 305-572-0866. designmiami.com

SEVEN: Dec. 4-9. SEVEN, the pioneering collective project organized by the galleries BravinLee programs, Hales Gallery, Pierogi Gallery, Postmasters, P.P.O.W., Ronald Feldman Fine Arts and Winkleman Gallery returns to Miami for its third year. With a focus on a collaborative, exhibition-like presentation commingling galleries and artists, SEVEN looks beyond the art fair model to create a new platform for viewing and acquiring works of art. SEVEN features an integrated exhibition format where galleries and artists are commingled. An Art Basel satellite event. At 2637 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127. seven-miami.com

POP-UP PIANO MIAMI: Dec. 4-9. During the week of Art Basel Miami Beach 2012, Steinway Piano Gallery of Miami presents Pop-Up Pianos Miami. Seven pianos will "pop up" around Miami offering spontaneous concerts for all to enjoy. Visit the website for musician announcements and event details as well as the specific locations where the pianos will be placed. At various locations in Wynwood, Midtown and the Design District, Miami, FL. popuppianomia.com

MIAMI PROJECT: Dec. 4-9. Miami Project is the newest addition to Miami's December contemporary art scene. The centrally-located fair will take place in a 65,000 square food tent/pavilion in Midtown Miami and feature curated presentations from 65 galleries, exhibiting leading emerging and mid-career artists from around the world. At NE 1st Avenue and NE 30th Street, Miami, FL 33137. miami-project.com/miami

AOA TRIBAL ART MIAMI SHOW: Dec. 4-9. This fair features a selection of private dealers showcasing museum-quality traditional art from Africa, Oceania and the Americas. Explore how modern art was conceived. At the end of the 19th century, famous artists work from the likes of Picasso, Matisse and Braque were all profoundly influenced by the Art from Africa, Oceania and the Americas. View African masks, oceanic shields and house panels, as well as ancient zoomorphic vessels from pre-columbian peoples. An Art Basel satellite event. At the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132, 305-949-6722. tribalartmiami.com

MIAMI RIVER ART FAIR: Dec. 4-9. The Miami River Art Fair will provide a unique fair-going experience during Art Basel week as the only riverfront art fair, boasting an 800 linear foot public sculpture mall on the banks of the Miami River called the Riverwalk Sculpture Mall. Enjoy art talks, gallery exhibits, and more. At the James L. Knight International Center, 400 SE 2nd Ave., Miami, FL 33131. miamiriverartfair.com

CONTEXT: Dec. 5-9. Trendsetting galleries from around the globe will exhibit in a state-of-the-art pavilion directly adjacent to Art Miami. CONTEXT will feature a curated group of 50 galleries representing exceptional emerging and mid-career artists, including solo artist installations, immersive environments, curated projects and multimedia exhibits. At 3101 NE 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33137. contextartmiami.com

INK MIAMI ART FAIR: Dec. 5-9. The Fair is unique among Miami's fairs for its focus on contemporary works on paper by internationally renowned artists. It is sponsored by the International Fine Print Dealers Association and exhibitors are selected from among members of the Association for their outstanding ability to offer collectors a diverse survey of 20th century masterworks and just published editions by leading contemporary artists. An Art Basel Satellite event. At the Suites of Dorchester, 1850 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139. inkartfair.com

James Dupree’s (Dupree Gallery, Philadelphia, Pa.) work will be

showcased in the Main Lobby of the Catalina and in an exhibition

space during SELECT Fair Miami. www.dupreestudiosinc.com

SELECT FAIR: Dec. 5-9. Select Fair features cutting edge contemporary work by galleries, print dealers, collectives, and artists. An Art Basel Satellite event. At the Catalina Hotel, 1732 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139. select-fair.com

ART ASIA: Dec. 5-9. This fair brings more than 60 galleries together to showcase paintings, photography, sculpture, mixed media, video and installations from established and emerging Asian artists. An Art Basel Satellite event. At Art Asia - Miami Midtown, 2901 N. Miami Ave., Wynwood, FL 33137, 212-268-6148. artasiafair.com

ARTSPOT MIAMI ART FAIR: Dec. 5-9. At Miami Art Basel Week 2012, ArtSpot Miami Art Fair is the new Miami International art wing. Organized by Aldo Castillo (Aldo Castillo Projects) the fair is hosted by Red Dot Art Fair (6th Edition) that will take place from December 5-9. Red Dot Art Fair's prime location is adjacent to Art Miami and next to Scope and Art Asia makes Midtown and Wynwood the most visited areas which run concurrent and successful satellite art fairs during Art Basel Miami Beach. During Red Dot Art Fair, ArtSpot will have a dozen booths located at the right of the 60,000 square foot tent, near the entrance in a section named ARTSPOT showcasing painting, sculpture, photography and works on paper. An Art Basel Satellite event. At 3011 NE 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33137, 312-375-8887. aldocastilloprojects.com

RED DOT ART FAIR: Dec. 5-9. This art show features more than 50 international, modern contemporary art dealers from around the world. It includes painting, photography, sculpture and more. An Art Basel Satellite event. At 3011 NE 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33137, 917-273-8621. reddotfair.com

Andy Warhol "Flash - November 22, 1963" (1968). Siklscreen, colophon and
text on white paper. Photo courtesy of Taglialatella Galleries.

OVERTURE MIAMI ART FAIR: Dec. 4-9. Arts for a Better World returns during Art Basel Miami Beach Week for its third year with OVERTURE MIAMI; its newly redesigned and enhanced international platform for contemporary art. Included is a featured monumental exhibition by Andy Warhol: "100 Warhols, an Overview: Painting, Drawing, Collage, Unique Work on Paper, Trial Proofs and Edition Prints". The principal goal of Arts for a Better World is to promote Social Responsibility by using the arts as a vehicle for positive change. At the Midtown Miami Arts Hub, NW 34th Street & Buena Vista Avenue, Miami, FL 33127, 754-423-0726. overtureartfair.com

UNTITLED: Dec. 5-9. Housed in a customized beachfront pavilion under the artistic direction of New York-based curator Omar Lopez-Chahoud, UNTITLED will present a cohesive collection of international works by contemporary artists selected from 50 galeries. At Ocean Drive & 13th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139. art-untitled.com

NADA ART FAIR MIAMI: Dec. 6-9. The New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) features 88 emerging art galleries from 19 countries as well as performances, lectures, and events. Admission is free and open to the public. An Art Basel Satellite event. At The Deauville Beach Resort, 6701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33140, 212-594-0883. nadaartfair.org

JUST MAD MIA: Dec. 6-9. Just Mad MIA features emerging art from a selection of 40 galleries in Spain, Latin America and other countries in Europe. At Soho Studios, Wynwood Convention Center, 2136 NW 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33127. justmadmia.com

AQUA 12 AT THE AQUA HOTEL: Dec. 6-9. Based in Seattle, the fair has a distinctly west coast character set off by the balmy indoor/outdoor atmosphere of the Aqua Hotel. Fair organizers continue to seek out vibrant and noteworthy programs in their region as well as the greater USA and abroad, with a particular interest in supporting young dealers and galleries with strong emerging and early mid-career artists. An Art Basel satellite event. At the Aqua Hotel, 1530 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139. aquaartmiami.com

ART AFRICA MIAMI ARTS FAIR: Dec. 7-9. A juried multidisciplinary exhibition of fine contemporary art from the global African Diaspora, situated in the epicenter of Miami’s African-American cultural hub, Historic Overtown. The central idea of Art Africa Miami is to present an array of visual works that pay homage to the centrality of Africa and its descendant diaspora’s artistic contribution to the modern world. At 919 NW 2nd Ave. (next to Lyric Theater), Miami, FL 33127, 305-576-7101. artafricamiami.com

Landry’s Restaurant Group Menus Add Special Seasoning to Miami Spice

The Oceanaire Seafood Room

During the months of August and September, the city of Miami has teamed up with an impressive lineup of restaurants to host Miami Spice. Participating Landry’s restaurants include Morton’s The Steakhouse, Chart House and The Oceanaire Seafood Room.

Miami Spice has grown to be quite popular because it gives people in Miami an opportunity to experience the city’s exceptional restaurants for an affordable price. Each restaurant is required to create a three-course menu for both lunch and dinner.

Waterfront dining at Chart House

Landry’s restaurants are recognized in Miami for their delicious menus and boast items that guarantee a fine dining experience. Some of these items can be found on the various Miami Spice menus, such as:  Oceanaire’s Parmesan Crusted Maine Lobster Tail for dinner, Oceanaire’s Steamed Prince Edward Island Mussels for lunch, Morton’s Baked Five Onion Soup for dinner, and the Chicken Bianco for lunch. Additionally, Chart House is offering a Slow Roasted Prime Rib and Spiced Yellowfin Ahi Tuna. Lunch is $19 or $23, and dinner is $33 or $39.

A complete listing of all menu items can be found on the Miami Spice webpage:

• The Oceanaire Seafood Room
• Chart House
• Morton's The Steakhouse
• Coral Gables
• Miami

Box springs do battle at tongue-in-cheek Coconut Grove PJ-party tradition dating back 30 years

Vanilla Ice, Miami native and Grand Marshall of the 2011 Bed Race

In the mood for some mattress mayhem? Perhaps even a little bed-on collision? Then set your alarm for Labor Day Weekend and don’t hit snooze—you’ll lose.

There’s no bedside manner required for this pajama party that’ll shake you out of your slumber and have you shedding your slippers and rippin’ your one-sies. This, Sleeping Cutie, is your wake-up call for the 2012 Great Grove Bed Race.

A tongue-in-cheek competition of racing homemade beds down the streets of Coconut Grove, the origins of the Great Grove Bed Race date back three decades. Tireless teams consist of five members—call it a “five-way”—with four ready-to-romp racers and one rider hitched to the headboard. Speed wins the ultimate exhale at the checkered flag, but awards also will be given for theme, creativity and décor (this being a consummate competition). Celebrity judges will be on hand to grade those looking to score away from home, and proceeds from this roll in the hay of hilarity benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade.

Said Daisy Lewis-Salazar, Coconut Grove Merchant Group Event Director: “Racers, sponsors and fans all raising money to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade; who wouldn’t get in bed with that?”

Miami residents, Coconut Grove merchants, and local clubs, businesses and organizations all are invited to pull back the sheets on this year's affair, with festivities kicking off Saturday night, Sept. 1, of Labor Day Weekend with the Pajama Pub Crawl through participating Coconut Grove bars and restaurants.

Sunday, Sept. 2 is race day, with highlights to include Kids Storytelling Time; the Waiters/Waitresses Obstacle Course; a Pit Row Parade of decorated beds on display; and of course the 1/8th-mile trundle through the heart of the Grove Village. And to eliminate any awkwardness or hard feelings after the on-track tryst, Grove merchants will host a post-race celebration complete with live music, interactive exhibits and perhaps even a little pillow talk—just no sleeping with the enemy... maybe....

This Labor Day Weekend, Coconut Grove is the place to be for some laborious laughter. For event info—and to register to create your own bedlam—visit www.TheGreatGroveBedRace.com. Don’t sleep on it!

Guests Can Savor the Savings at Dolphin Mall Restaurants 'During the Delicious Discounts At Dolphin Mall' Promotion

From August 10 through 19, Dolphin Mall will host “Delicious Discounts At Dolphin Mall,” where patrons can choose from an array of dining options at discounted prices! Participating restaurants will offer 25 percent off food and beverage bills, excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes and tips.

“We are delighted to bring this new exciting dining event to our patrons,” said Madelyn Bello Calvar, marketing & sponsorship director for Dolphin Mall. “The promotion allows our guests the opportunity to experience a range of dining options at a fantastic value.”

Guests interested in the program are required to visit the Information Booth at the Ramblas Plaza (Entrance 3) in the mall to obtain their Dolphin Mall Delicious Discounts Card. With the Discount Card, customers can try as many of the restaurants as they wish, on their schedule and budget. The special discount applies to the entire bill excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes and tips. Additional restrictions and exclusions apply. The Delicious Discounts Card cannot be combined with any other offers. The Discount card can only be used by one person per household from August 10 to August 19, 2012.

The line-up of participating restaurants at Dolphin Mall includes:

Mojitos Cuban Cuisine is a tropical hideaway at Dolphin Mall, named after the traditional Cuban drink, the Mojito, and the specialty drink of the house in 14 different flavors. In keeping with the Cuban tradition, they pride themselves with preparing and serving only the most authentic Cuban dishes.

Rotelli Pizza & Pasta is a neighborhood Italian eatery that has a well-rounded menu, unique appetizers, traditional and gourmet pizza, freshly made gourmet pastas, hearty soups, salads tossed to order, fresh seafood and much more.

Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar is more than a wing joint, boasting 14 signature sauces. The popular hangout is a fun, edgy, high-energy and easygoing restaurant -- much like the personalities of their guests!

Catch of the Day is an exciting seafood bar and grill where guests can kick back and unwind. Enjoy great food and fun in a relaxed atmosphere.

Dave and Buster’s serves great food in a casual setting, with fun and spirited bars. Whether it's interactive games and simulators, it’s a unique experience that has something for everyone.

CinéBistro is an experience that offers anyone who has a passion for movies and a palate for great food an environment unlike anything they have ever experienced before.

Johnny Rockets is an old-fashioned hamburger and malt shop that takes diners back to the Happy Days. Food, fun and friendliness reminiscent of feel-good Americana. The menu includes classic American burgers and fries, hand-dipped shakes and malts, plus apple pie as good as Mom's.

Dolphin Mall’s Delicious Discounts promotion rules and restrictions are available at Dolphin Mall’s Information Booth located at Ramblas, Entry 3, and also via the website www.shopdolphinmall.com.

Dolphin Mall is an enclosed value retail/entertainment/dining destination with more than 240 retailers. It is located just five miles west of Miami International Airport, where the Dolphin Expressway and the Florida Turnpike intersect. Shoppers can access the mall by taking Exit 27 off of the Florida Turnpike. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. with extended hours in the Ramblas entertainment area.

Preview the stores, the styles and the savings at www.shopdolphinmall.com.

Give $3, Save 30% at Miami Seaquarium, All Proceeds from Offer Benefit South Florida Animals

In a continuing effort to help local animal charities, Miami Seaquarium introduces the Give $3, Save 30% offer, which gives guests the opportunity to donate to one of their favorite charities and receive a 30 percent savings on admission to Miami Seaquarium. Following the success of the last two years’ similar promotions which raised more than $46,000 in donations for wildlife related charities, this year’s promotion will benefit south Florida-based charities including Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-a-Pet, Humane Society of Broward County and South Florida SPCA Horse Rescue.


The offer starts on July 30 and runs until September 30. To participate visit www.miamiseaquarium.com for a donation form.

“Miami Seaquarium has a long history of reaching out to and assisting charities of all types,” said Andrew Hertz, General Manager. “We are happy this year to focus the fruits of these promotions on three very worthy charities that help dogs, cats and horses.”

Guests may choose from one of the following charities:


Humane Society of Greater Miami
The Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet is a limited admit, adoption guarantee facility dedicated to placing every dog and cat in our care into a loving home, and to promoting responsible pet ownership and spay/neuter programs. Adoption guarantee simply means that every animal under our care is safe from the threat of euthanasia for as long as it takes to find them a forever family.

Humane Society of Broward County
The Humane Society of Broward County provides shelter, aid and responsible adoptions to animals entrusted to our care, and educates the community about respect and kindness to all animals.


South Florida SPCA Horse Rescue
The South Florida SPCA, founded in 1992, is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of abused, neglected and abandoned horses and other large animals. We also educate the community about responsible animal care, animal ownership and promote the welfare of animals through local and national advocacy.


Miami Seaquarium, South Florida's most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $39.95 and $29.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at www.miamiseaquarium.com; also "Like" Miami Seaquarium on Facebook.


Miami Seaquarium is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, an international organization committed to the care and conservation of marine mammals. Accreditation by the Alliance means this facility meets or exceeds all the standards of excellence for marine mammal care, husbandry, conservation and education.

Global Fashion Retailer H&M to Open New Location at Aventura Mall in Fall 2012

H&M, Hennes & Mauritz, one of the world’s largest global retailers known for offering fashion-forward apparel and quality basics, is thrilled to announce that it will open a second location in Miami at Aventura Mall.


Following the success of its South Beach pop-up shop, H&M will open its Aventura Mall location shortly after its highly anticipated H&M Lincoln Road flagship store opens, in the fall of 2012.

The South Beach pop-up H&M
shop. (Photo by Phillip Pessar)

The fashion retailer is excited to provide even more shoppers in southern Florida access to the brand’s high-fashion, quality collections. The approximately 25,000 square foot space at Aventura Mall will offer collections for ladies, men—including the full suiting collection, young ladies and young men, with separate “store within store” sections for accessories, lingerie, and sports apparel. This location will also carry the Swedish retailer’s fantastic children’s collection, featuring quality clothing for kids ages newborn to eight.


Since H&M opened its first store on New York’s Fifth Avenue 12 years ago, the U.S. has been one of the retailer’s most important markets. With its emphasis on expansion, H&M is committed to opening stores in the best properties and locations for its customers. Now offering U.S. consumers access to quality fashions at the best prices through 245 locations across the country, H&M at Aventura Mall will be a welcome addition to the local Florida market. Internationally, H&M has more than 2,600 stores in 44 markets.

For more information on this store and all the latest from H&M, please visit www.hm.com. 

Miami International Mall Presents the Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration

Hispanic Culture and fall fashion come alive at Miami International Mall with the Eighth Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration, created in partnership with the City of Doral, and taking place Sept. 21-22. The event is FREE and open to the public.


The community will experience the diverse cultures and flavors of various Latin American countries through colorful, energetic fashion shows and interactive entertainment as local leaders are recognized through the Hispanic Star Awards.  Miami International Mall, one of Miami’s leading shopping destinations, is currently seeking nominations for each of the coveted “Hispanic Star” awards.


On Friday, Sept. 21, the Hispanic Heritage Celebration kicks off with a culturally-inspired reception honoring the Hispanic Star Nominees in front of local dignitaries, community leaders, prominent media and special guests at the VIP Reception, which serves as the kick-off for the weekend Hispanic Heritage Celebration. The nominees will also participate in a dynamic, show-stopping presentation of the hottest fall fashion looks beginning at 7pm. A silent auction will follow with the proceeds collected being donated to Simon Youth Foundation and a local charity.


On Saturday, Sept. 22, Hispanic Heritage Celebration continues at the mall with the announcement of the Hispanic Star Award winners.  Additional weekend festivities include authentic folkloric music and fiery dance performances, country heritage exhibits, art and flag displays, live entertainment and a spirited parade of native dresses from South America, Central America and the Caribbean presented by the City of Doral.


For more information please visit www.simon.com or Miami International Mall’s Facebook page.


Miami International Mall features more than 140 nationally-recognized stores including Bath & Body Works, bebe, Cache, Express,  Hollister, Guess, Gymboree, Limited, Nine West, Victoria’s Secret Beauty and Mayors Jewelers, plus department stores JCPenney, Kohl’s, Macy’s and Sears.


Miami International Mall is located at 1455 NW 107 Ave., Doral; in close proximity to the Miami International Airport. The mall is open Mon.-Sat., 10am-9pm, and Sun., 11am-7pm.  For more information, call 305-593-1775 or visit www.simon.com.

Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the world premiere musical Real Men Sing Show Tunes... And Play With Puppets

Nick Santa Maria, Stephen G. Anthony and Paul Louis in Real Men Sing Show Tunes... And Play With Puppets 

Actors' Playhouse will cap off the 2011-2012 Mainstage Season with the world premiere of Real Men Sing Show Tunes... And Play With Puppets, with book, music and lyrics by Paul Louis and Nick Santa Maria. A song-filled comedy for mature audiences, about real men behaving like real men, this manly musical revue will hit the Miracle Theatre from July 11-August 12. 

A hilarious romp through manhood, Real Men Sing Show Tunes... And Play With Puppets offers an inside glimpse of what it takes to be a man in a modern world shared with women, children, and yes, even puppets. The story of Real Men, who make a habit of juggling their balls every day; fatherhood, mid-life crisis, dating, marriage, potency, sexuality, and the lack of it. Men will finally have a musical comedy that speaks to them, while their ladies can gather some comedic material to use against them.

Although puppetry is featured in this production, this risqué and witty musical is not suitable for children...only the childish and immature.

"After years of working on new shows featuring 'today's women,' it's been a blast turning the tables and having fun with life, love, marriage, etc., from the guy's point of view," said Actors' Playhouse Artistic Director David Arisco. "Nick and Paul are tremendously talented comedic writers, and this brand new show will have both men and women laughing at the results."

Paul Louis, Nick Santa Maria and Stephen G. Anthony.(All photos courtesy of Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre.)

Arisco has worked closely with the playwrights throughout the past year developing this new work through a series of public and private readings. The playwrights will also be working closely on the production, with Paul Louis and Nick Santa Maria starring in the show.

Preview performances of Real Men Sing Show Tunes... And Play With Puppets will be held Wednesday and Thursday, July 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. The show will open on Friday, July 13 at 8 p.m. and play through August 12. Evening performances will be held Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., with afternoon matinees on Sunday at 2 p.m. A special weekday matinee is scheduled on Wednesday, July 18 at 2 p.m.

Preview night tickets on the first Wednesday and Thursday are $35. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $40, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $48. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Discounts are based on availability and exclude Saturday and Sunday.

Group discounted rates are offered for 15 or more through our group sales department. Single tickets may be purchased through the box office at 305-444-9293 or online at www.actorsplayhouse.org.

Zoo Miami’s Playworld Playground Is Now Open

Jungle Journey

Zoo Miami is excited to announce the opening of its new Playworld Playground that contains two play areas, Jungle Journey and Ocean Voyage. With more than 1.5 acres of play and picnic space, kids ages 12 and under have plenty of room to explore the splashing water features and jungle gym while parents supervise in comfortable shaded seating.

In the Jungle Journey playground, children have 11 play features to help them create their own adventures. While the jungle gym could keep them busy for a while, kids can find themselves making their way past a wobbly bridge, through a hollow log and escaping life-size gorilla and hippo figures. Their imaginations may take them on a wild journey, but kids remain safe on spongy floors as they bounce around the playground.

After their jungle adventure, kids can cool down by splashing through spouting blow holes and overflowing buckets of water in the Ocean Voyage playground. This water-themed area includes 28 features that are guaranteed to get kids dripping wet. It would be hard to stay dry around water shooting cannons, a whale tail waterfall, and touch-activated rods spraying water. The ocean theme comes to life with shells and glossy starfish on the floor as guests walk in.

Ocean Voyage

“This $1 million state-of-the-art playground has been a highly-anticipated addition to Zoo Miami,” said Eric Stephens, Zoo Miami Director. “We are so excited to open it and offer our guests a top-notch play experience.”

Directly next to the playgrounds are two new shaded pavilions that are available to rent for special events like birthday parties or picnics.

With parents and kids sure to work up an appetite, the Playworld Playground is conveniently located next to the new and improved Oasis Grille. There guests can chow down on everything including hot-dogs, salads, fruit, burgers and refreshing drinks in the shade of the African-outpost themed area before heading to their next adventure in Zoo Miami.

Speaking of adventures, now guests can rent pedal boats, water tricycles and kayaks on the lake at Amazon and Beyond on weekends (Friday-Sunday) and holidays from 10am-5pm.

Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 St., Miami. General Zoo Admission is: $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child (ages 3-12), plus tax.  Children under 2, Zoo members and parking are free. Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30am-5:30pm; ticket booths close at 4pm.  For more information please visit www.zoomiami.org or call 305-251-0400.

Vizcaya Now Offers Audio Tour in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and Haitian Creole

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami-Dade County’s European-inspired estate on Biscayne Bay, has announced the launch of audio tours in additional languages for visitors who speak Portuguese, French and Haitian Creole. First introduced a year ago in English and Spanish, the Discover Vizcaya Audio Tour in multiple languages is sure to delight Vizcaya visitors from around town and around the globe.

The Discover Vizcaya Audio Tour features 90 minutes of content and guides visitors through the main spaces and primary ideas associated with Vizcaya at their own pace. In this way, visitors will gain an in-depth understanding of individual objects while exploring themes such as cultural exchange, design and patronage, and work and leisure.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens preserves the Miami estate of International Harvester Vice President James Deering (1859-1925). Built between 1914 and 1922, Vizcaya is one of the most intact remaining architectural examples from the era in United States history known as the American Renaissance, when the nation’s wealthy industrialists built lavish estates inspired by the palaces of Europe. Vizcaya was designated a National Historic Landmark and is owned by Miami-Dade County.

Vizcaya features a Main House, 10 acres of formal gardens, a rockland hammock (native forest), mangrove shore and historic village. Located at 3251 South Miami Avenue, Vizcaya is open daily except Tuesdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day (Dec. 25), from 9:30am-4:30pm. For more information, visit www.vizcayamuseum.org or call 305-250-9133.

MAY Art Live On!

Before the summer fun begins, the city of Coconut Grove invites visitors to enjoy a night out with international art, hors d’oeuvres, friends and family. The Grove Gallery Walk, an event that takes place the first Saturday of each month, will continue with the May 5 event. 

The Grove Gallery Walk begins at 7pm and continues through 10pm. It is FREE and open to the public. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be made available at selected galleries, while live music at some locations.

* * * * * * * * * * *

This month RODEZArt.com Gallery (3015 Grand Avenue, Suite 237) will host the 24th annual exhibition by the National Art Exhibitions by the Mentally Ill (NAEMI), an organization dedicated to collecting, displaying and selling art by persons in recovery from mental illness. The exhibition features the works of artists from Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Spain and the United States. All 40 artworks featured in the exhibition will be available for sale with the proceeds benefiting the artists and NAEMI’s goals of helping artists from around the world.

Cristina Chacon Gallery (3162 Commodore Plaza, Suite 1f2) will feature artist Alberto González Vivo’s exhibit titled “Formas/Shapes.” His work ranges from geometric abstraction to Op art, influenced by his research on the production of artists Luis Tomasello, Julio Le Parc, Victor Vasarely, Martha Boto and Eduardo Moisset de Espanés, a generative geometry artist and creator of the Centre for Plastic Mathematical Research of Argentina. The artist’s use of light combined with geometric shapes and smart colors adds balance to his work creating effects of great magnetism.


May’s featured artist for FrameWorks Gallery (3196 Commodore Plaza) is fine art photographer Paul Marcellini. His photos capture the unspoiled scenes of wild Florida with breathtaking views of the Everglades. Through the end of May, Marcellini’s work will also be on display at the Everglades National Park Visitor’s Center.  In the past, he has been featured at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, The Winter Park Side Walk Festival, The Santa Fe College Arts Festival and The Islamorada Fine Art Expo. 


At Boswell Mourot Fine Art (3162 Commodore Plaza), May’s exhibit will feature all of the current gallery’s artists. Boswell Mourot is solely a fine art gallery, selling original paintings, mixed media and sculptures by international, national and local artists for the established and emerging collector. Artists include Hans Feyerbend, Karen Deilke, John Allison and Diana Ashley.


The Coconut Grove Arts Festival Gallery (339 Mayfair Street, Suite 128) Meme Ferre will showcase her paintings for another month in her exhibition titled “Raw Energy / Energía Cruda.” Ferre’s pieces combine colors of the Caribbean and the iconic mysticism of India. She will also conduct a live program titled “Art Attack” during the opening, where she will paint to music.


The Jim Hunter Gallery (3390 Mary St. Suite 128) right next door will continue to feature Erika King’s retrospective collage collection, titled “Evolution of Spirit.” This exhibition displays iconic images of the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Statue of Liberty, Native Americans, angels and even Marilyn Monroe, through the use of familiar fragments of sheet music, stamps and torn foreign currency.


Art-inspired events such as these are provided by partnering galleries and the Coconut Grove BID. The Coconut Grove BID exists to improve the quality and financial success of the Grove’s commercial core. It enhances Grove parking, lighting, sanitation, marketing, and safety, as well as supporting special events. 


For more information on the Coconut Grove BID, or to see a map of participating galleries, visit www.coconutgrove.com or call 305-461-5506.

Summer Camp Returns To Miami Seaquarium: Runs from June 11-Aug. 17 for Campers Ages 5-18

With summer vacation right around the corner, parents are often looking for exciting and innovative ways to keep their children engaged in education outside the classroom. Summer Camp 2012 at Miami Seaquarium offers students from kindergarten to high school the opportunity to learn about animals, environmental awareness, and so much more at summer camp. Summer Camp 2012 at Miami Seaquarium will run from June 11-Aug. 17, for campers ages 5 to 18.

Summer activities for kids will focus on educational topics according to their grade level. These activities include lessons on pollution, recycling, water and its properties, invasive and endangered species, animal adaptations and more. Special pricing at Dolphin Harbor is available for parents who wish to enroll their campers in an unforgettable Dolphin Interaction program.

Curriculum for each grade level at Summer Camp 2012 at Miami Seaquarium will revolve on a one-week schedule with additional weeks optional. Camp hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with early and late care available for an additional charge.

For Summer Camp enrollment or additional information, please call 305-361-5705, Ext. 298, 207, or 520. Summer Camp Miami Seaquarium information & registration forms are available on our website at www.miamiseaquarium.com.

Miami Seaquarium, South Florida's most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits. General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $39.95 and $29.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at www.miamiseaquarium.com.

Miami Seaquarium is an accredited member of the Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, an international organization committed to the care and conservation of marine mammals. Accreditation by the Alliance means this facility meets or exceeds all the standards of excellence for marine mammal care, husbandry, conservation and education.

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the 17th Annual National Children’s Theatre Festival FREE Kids Fest Family Weekend, April 28-29

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents an entire weekend of FREE theatre fun for the whole family at the 17th Annual National Children’s Theatre Festival Kids Fest Family Weekend.

Featuring activities geared toward children, Kids Fest will be held at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables on Saturday & Sunday, April 28-29 from noon to 5 p.m. To make reservations, call 305-444-9293 or visit www.actorsplayhouse.org. Advance reservations are strongly suggested.

The festival will feature the brand new children's musical Peter Rabbit and the Garden of Doom, chosen as the winner of the 17th Annual National Children's Theatre Festival Competition.

This year's Kids Fest Family Weekend will also present several other great events and activities, including displays of magic and comedy as well as special performances of Disney on Broadway presented by Actors’ Playhouse’s acclaimed youth performing troupe, The Musical Miracles. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the creative arts through a variety of hands-on Activity Stations such as Puppet Passion, Mask Mania, Costume Creations and Video “Dress Up” Studio. Characters like Cycler the Robot, The Mad Hatter, Alice in Wonderland, Dorothy, and more will appear on the scene to take photos with guests.

Finals for Young Talent Big Dreams, the most widespread local youth talent contest in Miami-Dade County will be held following the festival at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 28. Tickets for this event, which is modeled after the many reality TV talent shows that have gained in popularity in recent years, are just $10 for adults and children.

The Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. For more information please call 305-444-9293 or visit www.actorsplayhouse.org.

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Bunny-Palooza Hops onto the Scene at Miami Seaquarium: Celebrity Grand Marshal For Easter Parade, Continuous Egg Hunts, More!

Salty the Sea Lion

Easter Weekend in Miami gets underway with Bunny-Palooza 2012 at Miami Seaquarium, which hops onto the Easter scene from Friday, April 6th to Easter Sunday, Sunday, April 8th, with the largest parade in the event’s more than 10 year history. 

Ariana Grande of hit TV Show Victorious,
to serve as Grand Marshal of Easter Parade
during all three days of Easter weekend

The Easter Parade will feature Ariana Grande, who plays Cat Valentine, on the hit TV show Victorious.


In addition, guests will enjoy continuous Easter Egg Hunts throughout the day, candy galore and five acres of adrenaline pumping fun with bounce houses, ‘Giant Fun Slide,’ Rock Climbing Wall and many prizes and surprises.  


A discount offering of $8 off admission to Bunny-Palooza is available with a receipt or coupon from Publix Supermarkets.  Each day 10 lucky fans will have the opportunity to Meet and Greet with Parade Grand Marshal Ariana Grande. For more information on Bunny-Palooza and how to enter to win a Meet and Greet with Ariana Grande visit www.miamiseaquarium.com.




“Easter is a big deal at Miami Seaquarium,” said Andrew Hertz, General Manager at Miami Seaquarium. “This year, by bringing in a celebrity Grand Marshal we are building on the tradition that we have created over the course of more than 10 years. The 2012 Bunny-Palooza will be bigger and better than ever before. We are happy to welcome Ariana Grande to our parade and invite all her fans to come out to see her.”


The Easter Parade will start at 12:30pm on each day, complete with marching bands, strolling performers, costumed characters and of course the Easter Bunny. In addition, during the festivities, bunny hoppers should be on the lookout for a Golden Egg, which will be hidden in one goodie bag that will be given out during Bunny-Palooza. The Golden Egg will give one lucky child and up to three other family members or friends, admission to Miami Seaquarium for their entire lifetime. 


For more information please call 305-361-5705, Ext. 225.  Miami Seaquarium is located at 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami.


Miami Seaquarium, South Florida's most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and marine-life exhibits.


General admission to Miami Seaquarium is $39.95 and $29.95 for children (ages 3-9). More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at www.miamiseaquarium.com.  Like Miami Seaquarium on Facebook.