Sports Leadership and Management Academy (SLAM) has began the works to rebuild the historic building Olympia Theater, following an approval from the City of Miami back in September 2025.
City leaders say the project will renovate the building and create space for a new charter school campus, expanding educational opportunities for Miami students.
The Olympia Theater has been a downtown Miami landmark for nearly a century, hosting concerts, live performances and community events. Over the years, entertainers including Elvis Presley and Kevin Hart have appeared on its stage.
Supporters say the transfer will help preserve the theater’s legacy while ensuring the historic building remains in use.
However, members of Miami’s arts community worry the change could further reduce the number of venues available for local performers and cultural events.
“The city is cutting the theater more than in half,” said Delaena Millen. “Miami is a place that people come to for musical and live opportunities, so for the city to change places like the Olympia Theatre gives people like myself fewer places to experience music, theatre and the arts.”
