The Coleman Theatre is a beautifully restored theatre that was donated to the City of Miami (pronounced Mi-am-uh) by the Coleman family in 1989. Originally opened in 1929 as a vaudeville theatre and movie palace, the Coleman was designed to bring a touch of glamour to the city.
The Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ and gigantic Chandelier take you back to the times when the likes of Will Rogers, Bing Crosby and Bob Hope graced the boards here. The decor really is something to behold, with gargoyles, dolphins, cherubs and faces dotted around the premises.
Events at the Coleman range from ballets and operas, to country and western acts, to jazz and dance bands. If you're a movie fan they also show classic silent movies with the “Mighty Wurlitzer” providing the music and sound effects!
The Coleman Theatre is open for tours from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Friday, and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. I was shown around by a fantastic guy called Larry who clearly loved the theatre and was full of stories of it’s past glories and supernatural history. Legend has it that three ghosts roam the Coleman Theatre so if you're taking a tour be sure to enquire about the many spooky tales, particularly regarding Stuart the poltergeist!