The Colony Theater is a historic performing arts center on Lincoln Road in Miami. Built at a cost of $150,000, it first opened as a 1,200 seat Art Deco Paramount Pictures movie house on January 25, 1935 with actress Carol Lombard as the guest of honor. In the 1940's during WWII, the theater showed health and training videos to GI's in training. In the 1960's the movie theater was renovated along with all of Lincoln Road in the MiMo style of architecture (midcentury modern). Seating capacity was reduced to 894 seats. In the ensuing years the Colony used as a movie house and a live performance space. In 1971 Samuel Kipnis purchased the theater and used it to host The Greater Miami Educational Cultural Series and he showed educational films from his private collection. In 1982 ownership of the theater was taken over by the City of Miami Beach and the Miami City Ballet used it as a performance space. In 2006 the Colony Theatre underwent a $6.5 million renovation that returned it to its original Art Deco style and updated it with new light and sound equipment. I love when a historic building is saved, especially when it is such a wonderful example of Art Deco architecture. How wonderful that the theater is still being used today. It is even said to be haunted to be the spirit of a barking poodle and one that likes to hang out by the main stage and lobby. Today the Colony Theatre is a 417 seat performance venue managed by South Florida theater company, Miami New Drama who perform their theatrical season in the theater. The Colony also hosts film festivals, comedy, music, dance, and theater performances. The theater is nicknamed "Miami's Beauty Queen." Make like the golden age of Hollywood and take in a show. . read more

Colony Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

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Even after all the years of marriage, my hubby comes up with creative date nights. I have to hand it to him, because he's always looking for innovative ways for us to have fun! That's really the key to a long relationship-seeing each other on a regular basis, doing things that are fun and different outside of the house, consistent quality time without work interruptions. Making this a priority - is important. All of you out there "newlyweds" trust me it makes a difference. So we went to the Colony theater on Lincoln Road. It was a cool night -perfect for a cocktail, relaxing and easy.. no hurry just taking in the sights and sounds. Latin music playing in the background, smell of perfume and spices in the air- outdoor cafes with with the warmth of flame lamps lighting the cool air. Breezing into the theater the sweet girl at the door greeted us with a huge smile and scanned our tickets. I fell in love with the play " Anna in the Tropics" this extraordinary play written by the Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz-playwright and director -is a work of art! It demonstrates the power of literature to move and inspire you. One of my favorite books, Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, is central to this play. I thoroughly enjoyed the powerful images presented in this masterpiece. Art and literature came together in an extraordinary and impactful way. It is a play for adults because it deals with strong themes. But it is well done! I highly recommend this play! It is worth every penny. The quaint theatre situated on Lincoln Road surrounded by restaurants and bars was also quite comfortable and accommodating. read more

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Came to watch the premiere of Papa Cuatro, a Venezuelan musical following the lives of 5 immigrant artists telling their story through Venezuelan music. The show was absolutely phenomenal and a must watch for any music fan and specially anyone who has a Venezuelan in their lives. The theater beautiful. It is very quaint, the seats are comfortable and this tall guy appreciated that he didn't feel his knees were on my fellow spectator's shoulders... It's well located on Lincoln road near plenty of parking and somewhat far from the insanity or Collins Ave. They put on a great variety of content and it's worth a visit read more

Colony Theatre - Papá Cuatro, world premiere musical summer 2022 - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

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Wow, what a sweet, intimate venue. Came here on a Friday night to see "the Cubans". Small, cosy, located in an art deco style, old world, theatre on Lincoln road, Miami Beach. The location is great, as once you have been to see a show, you can find plenty of places for a drink or meal along the pedestrianised road. It first opened on January 25, 1935 as a Paramount Pictures movie house. Recently, the building underwent a three-year $6.5 million renovation to restore its original Art Deco grandeur and update its stage and technical equipment. read more

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Small and intimate - mit a bad seat in the house! Good sound system and close to lots of bars and restaurants for a pre or post show drink! read more

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We've come here for a number of shows (comedy shows, dance performances, musicals, jazz singers) and I love it her every time. It's small enough too feel intimate (even in the farthest seats) and yet big enough for excellent sound and still feel like you're in a theater. The staff are always very helpful and the facilities are clean. We love coming here (only issue is finding parking but that's the problem with South Beach and doesn't have anything to do with the theater). There are TONS of places to eat after or before a show because of the location. Definitely a nice addition to Lincolln Road. read more

Colony Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

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So happy I got yo attend the 'Viva Paris' performance thanks to Yelp! The dances and costumes were great and I really enjoyed the MC's comedy relief! The theatre itself looks old but that's what charming about it! I love to go to restored old theaters! There's so much history behind them. I almost feel like I've gone back in time! Anywho, thanks for the tkts. Cassie! SYOY read more

This was one of the best Arts nights in SoBe. This historical, recently renovated art deco style 80-year old Colony theater is conveniently located in the heart of South Beach on Lincoln Road. Colony seats over 400 guests, and hosts a great mix of theatre, opera, dance and comedy. We went to see "Tesla", the world premiere performance of the multidisciplinary opera/music-theatre work. What an amazing story of life of a brilliant scientist, philosopher and doctor Nicola Tesla! Beautifully articulated life of Tesla. Makes you sad how many patents of Tesla were stolen over the years. What a genius. I was amazed to see do many great opera singers, great voices. And this is in our community. Exciting! The place is clean, the meet/greet folks are nice. The theatre is so quaint and comfortable, you get an intimate and boutique experience. The theatre offers Annual Membership packages from $150 to $1,000 with great perks and savings! There is nearby street metered parking along Lenox Ave, and a few parking garages are also close by so don't stress the parking on Lincoln much. Go experience the place, art lovers! I loved it. I'll be going again soon. read more

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Wonderful intimate theatre. Clean bathrooms. Very enjoyable place to see a play in a family setting. Loved it ! ... best is that when the venue is over you walk out onto Lincoln Road for dinner or people watching. Do not change this place it is a win win !! read more

Oh Colony, oh Colony, where art thou thee Colony! Sure one can rate a movie theater or stage based on screen quality, air temperature and concessions for simple comfort; however, when looking at a live stage theatre setting, there is so much more to take into account. Enter the Colony Theatre on Lincoln Road Mall. That's right, right on the strip of shopping is a fantastic spot to view live performances that may be music, comedy, poetry or spoken word, and then even with a pull down screen option, a wonderful setting for a huge movie screen set up. The elegance, grace, upkeep and feel that is The Colony on Lincoln really brings you in, and luckily for my wife and I, comedy was at the top of its game on my first visit to this landmark site. Yes, I would surely call the Colony a landmark, as it has been right on Lincoln, thriving with goodies for many years. I lived on Miami Beach for over two years and walked the mall many times a week, yet did not have an opportunity to visit the theatre until just recently, when during the "Miami Takeover" comedy weekend was in town. Yes indeed, this was a great night, and a Thursday night at that, so the mall was booming and so were the comics and fans. As we walked in right off the mall, just after having a wonderful meal at another local hot spot that is Doraku sushi (shameless plug), we made our way into the theatre, where we were greeted with smiles and concessions. Remember, being built into the mall strip section, this theatre is not huge, but it surely is grander on the inside that one might expect. It is also well kept. The seats and walls and walkways are clean and leave you feeling good about the experience. The concessions offer adult beverages and simple food items which is a great choice for many. There are of course non-adult beverage options as well. The folks who run the venue are very friendly and inviting and even though the event we saw was opening seating, everyone was very much accommodating to our needs. The restrooms were also easy to access and were clean; again, all around great vibes from this venue. It is hard to really review a seated theatre for more than it really is, a room with seats, however the Colony offers a throwback design with majestic décor, concessions for all types, as well as friendly staff to boot. Look around for a schedule of events, as the Colony hosts all types of acts, and find yourself entertained with style and comfort. Enjoy the show and SYOY! read more

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Came to see the play TERROR Bought seats up in the stage. Didn't really know how the theater was inside so I got this in order to have a better view. I am writing this to give hints to everyone coming over that don't know the theater: basically every seat is good since the theater is not that big except for the very back or the first row under stage those are not the best. The actors are so wonderful they make you feel like you are part of the play. TERROR is base on a real life situation we are going through and can be apply towards any life making decisions. I would highly recommend you taking the time and going seen this "Not guilty" verdict, will make you meditate and live an unforgettable experience. read more

Colony Theatre - Terror. "Not guilty" - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

This was my first time going to a show at the Colony Theatre. It's not a large auditorium but I think it looks like it can hold about 250 max capacity. It's a good size for a venue like the one I came here for: Cabaret Follies by Erika Moon on May 1st which was very entertaining. It's nice to have a place like this theatre for the performing arts located in the heart of Miami Beach and Lincoln Road. read more

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A wonderful renovation of an Art Deco theater that hosted glamorous shows and movies back in the day. The sensitive renovation has preserved the theater's wonderful architecture and provided Miami Beach with an intimate venue for live performances of music, dance, theater, opera, comedy, and performance art - as well as film and video. Don't expect Radio City Music Hall but a small gem build in 1934 to entertain the seasonal visitors. Easy to visit, there is always something interesting being presented making a trip worthwhile. Paired with a meal on Lincoln Road, The Colony Theater never fails. read more

Colony Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

Was here last night to see Viva Paris courtesy of Yelp Culture events organized by Cassie. This was my first time here and surprised that it was a decent size theater. Seats were a little cramped and outdated but my assigned seat was dead center on the upper level so I had great unobstructed view. The show itself was pretty entertaining. Don't expect Las Vegas production here though as the show didn't have elaborate props. It did have great dance performances but I think it needed more lightning effects. Music selection was satisfactory but couple tracks had low quality sound (I'm assuming it was the mp3 compression) although the theater had a great sound system. I know, this might seem "Alien" talk but I worked as sound engineer in my past life. I enjoyed my visit here. It was not a typical have dinner on Lincoln Road and hit the bars after kinda night. This adult show was pretty good. Great for groups and couples. read more

I love the Colony Theater on Lincoln Road. The art deco style captures the essence of old time miami beach. Yelp Miami graciously comped me tickets to Erika Moon Burlesque show this past weekend. Although I am very fond of this theater, I had some caveats. For instance, there was only one bartender at the bar serving drinks, minimal choices, and to top it off cash only. I'm glad I had a $10 barely enough to get a glass of prosecco. And my other suggestion would be to update the seats. My gosh they were so old and uncomfortable. I'm all for keeping the vintage feel, in fact it's what I admire but update some necessities please. read more

This isn't a review of the show we saw here ("The Golem of Havana", which was fantastic both in writing and execution), but of the venue itself. Because while shows come and go -- the facility stays. Colony Theater epitomizes what's good -- and a good deal of what's bad -- about Miami Beach. The good: The theater itself, while small, is filled with wonderful Art Deco detail and architectural flourishes. From our seats, I couldn't help notice the beautiful arabesques on the pillars. Details like that fill the space. The bad: It's small, poorly maintained and the service is a stereotype of Miami Beach apathy toward the patron. When we arrived, the line to get into the theater was around the block as the ticket takers guarded the front door and, at a casual pace, checked each to let them in. There were several cases where there was a snafu with the tickets and people had to stand aside to wait as it got straightened out. We know this, because we were among that group. Even though it was their error, the sullen usher took our tickets, handed it off to a guy who didn't address us or make eye contact, who then without explanation disappeared into an office for a good long time, and eventually came out and handed us our tickets with no apologies or explanation for the inconvenience. It was sprinkling when we were waiting outside, and the rain became harder while we were inside the door waiting for our tickets. The theatergoers stuck in the long line outside weren't so fortunate. However, this did nothing for the languid lack of urgency on the part of the ticket takers. The line was kept outside -- despite the fact that there was a long lobby entrance where they could have collected tickets on far end instead of the outer door and at least gotten a majority of the people by that time into a covered area. This fact wasn't lost on the head of the theater company performing the show, who rushed out and basically begged them (he was definitely pleading) to take tickets inside so his audience wouldn't be rained on. After some persuasion, they reluctantly did so. Although why he had to do so with the theater that was hosting his performance is baffling. Once inside, likely because of the slow line, the show started late. Although, this being Miami, it's not totally unexpected. The wall that butted against my seat was grimy and filled with black scuff marks. However, I had a great night thanks to the play and efforts of the troupe. I would definitely return if they had a show I wanted to see. They also host the Young Arts performances, which is positive. read more

Quite a nice little theater, very reasonable. came here for MADAMA BUTTERFLY, G. Puccini (Miami Lyric Opera -- more on the amateur side but still good) cozy, an alternative to Arsht when you're looking for a smaller production read more

Had the pleasure of going here for the Viva Paris production courtesy of the Yelp Culture month. The show was great and very entertaining. Definitely was something different to try out! However, I did not pay for the tickets and do not think it would have been worth it to pay $50+ for the ticket. While the performers were talented, it was a low budget performance and you could tell that the performers were not high grade professionals (ex. frequently were out of sync with each other or made mistakes, sound difficulties, long pauses between acts, etc.) But, it was very entertaining and I did enjoy the performance! The venue itself is also nice. It is outdated and small but it has character and am ambiance. Though, if you are particular about having comfortable seats, you might want to pass on a show here. I banged my knees a few times on the seat in front of me and I am a petite short female. The staff was also quite courteous and the venue was very manageable with short restroom lines and easy accessibility to the seats. read more

I went to Colony Theater for the Viva Paris show as a courtesy of yelp culture month. This was my first time at the theater and I would say its a gem of SoBe. Its in a fantastic location for a night out, right near Shake Shack and Serendipidity 3 and other lincoln road institutions. The hallway leading up to the theater is classy. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic refreshments are available at expected prices. Seats are comfortable. Of note, I was in the handicap seats randomly and I do not feel like my seats were actually handicap friendly (they required stepping down a step to get in). Also, the stage/theater could use better lighting. There was one point in the show where a light was shining directly onto my seat for an entire song. The show was solid. Dancing with plenty of music and Moulin Rouge re-enactments. I guess its no Vegas, but I've never been to Vegas and I feel like I was entertained. It picked up for sure as it moved along. The comedian who MCed the event was great. read more

Nice staff, old-time theater, innovative events. My favorite is the Brazilian Film Festival, everyyyy year... read more

Colony Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Miami Beach, Florida

Been here several times to see my daughter perform with her school. This theater is located in the heart of Lincoln Road. The location is priceless. The beautiful theater is very old and small but very well kept and decorated. You can see the show from any seat your seating . The ushers are very helpful in getting you to your seat and guiding you when the lights are off. Is nice to be able to see a show without to much up and down. You can truly just walk in and your at your seat just like the old days. You totally forget where your at till is time to go and you walk out into the party scene in Lincoln Road. I just wish it had a bigger concession stand with more selections. Over all the word to describe the theater are # beautiful # Classy read more

Very uncomfortable & out dated theater. The seats are very tiny. Now I'm short & I was uncomfortable. I can't imagine a very tall person how much they would suffer. However, my main reason for such a low rating in this little theater is the AC. I don't know what is wrong with the air conditioning but it was so hot & humid in the theater & it was very uncomfortable. We complained several times to several ushers & they all gave us the same answer, "I will let my manager know." but nothing happened. It remain very hot & humid the entire performance. In Miami this is a major problem. When it is cooler outside in the middle of May than inside, you need to fix your AC, like yesterday. read more

This is a nice, small, well-kept theater on Lincoln Road. I came here to see a performance hosted by Miami Light Project and it was great!

i was really happy to hear that Amy Schumer was performing on lincoln for Sobe comedy festival. She was great! And im glad the colony theater got to host her in their venue. The only thing that annoyed me was that the security said i could not step out before the show started once they took their part of the ticket stub...that doesnt make any sense. if i have proof with my ticket stub...stood in line to pay for a driink and wanted to stand outside and do a little people watching on lincoln road whats the big deal? they had no patio or outdoor space...i did not appreciate that what so ever. read more

Saw The Elaborate Entrance Of Chad Deity on Feb. 10th and...wow! I'm so amazed by this theatre and it's in house theatre company. You rarely see theatre this good in South Florida. In fact, you never see it. The shows are of the best quality and never fail to move. The venue itself is beautiful. It's vintage are deco design and grandiose feel make you feel like you've been transported back to the 1930s'. I'll take this over the Arsht and Broward Performing Arts Center any day of the week! read more

Old but good facilities. They opened early and that was a plus for a 6 pm show on a Sunday. Drinks were good and the ushers were very nice. We will return ASAP. Thanks read more

The Colony is a charming landmark on Lincoln Road. I'm happy that it a viable venue for local dance events. If you read this before August 28, 2010, & you want something special to do on Miami Beach, check the Argentine Tango Show, Eras del Tango. You can see more information, here: http://tangoaxis.com/ (Click on enter, and then go to "show"). Nice videos are on the site even if you miss the show. : ) read more

This is a great little theater (450 seats), it was restored within the past few years and is a comfortable venue to see a performance or show. I came here for the Florida Grand Opera's Young Artists Series where several of the understudies who also had smaller roles in Operas in the Miami/Lauderdale area came to perform. It was convenient to be able to show up here after work, collect our tickets, stroll down Lincoln Rd. and find a place to have dinner, then return in time for the performance. As mentioned, this was an opera performance, so just a piano and the singers, all acoustic, no microphones. The room was packed, and the acoustics were fine for a performance like this one. According to the pamphlet, the Colony opened in 1934 as part of the Paramount Pictures theater chain, has gone through several renovations, was recently restored over a 3 year period and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. read more

I attended the Matisyahu concert, and just like Todd, I was not a fan of the venue. I think the only pro was that the venue felt small and intimate. However, that's where the compliments end. When we arrived, it was a bit awkward to climb across the stage to get to your seat. This made it pretty distracting during the show when people were constantly walking in and out of the show. I think the most annoying part of the concert were the attendants. They did not announce before the show that no photos/videos were allowed, nor was there any signage. No, they in fact waited till the artist began to start running down the aisles and screaming at people who took photos. There was one attendant in particular with straight,short blonde hair that was driving my boyfriend and I crazy. She was running down the aisles and HISSING at adults like she was an angry librarian to put phones away. Not only was it incredibly distracting, but it was so rude. It also took so much from the show, because you couldn't NOT notice and be distracted by her running around. You shouldn't scold people for taking pictures like any normal concert goer if you don't forewarn them. We also happened to sit next to an annoying couple that was screaming and FaceTiming their friend in Russia the concert, and it was so convenient that the attendants didn't stop them. All in all, the venue was not my favorite and i probably would not recommend it, nor return. read more

Checked out some comedy the other night at the Colony. Nice little theater that apparently gets some big names from time to time.

Best place to go and have a fun time! Michael Hausmann a young Venezuela Director as made the Theater a great place. It's a must go place in Florida read more

Colony Theater was a great experience first time I enjoyed it very much will be coming back for the next show

Great theater. Not too large but just perfect enough to enjoy any show. I came here to see a few shows by the Miami Contemporary Dance Company. Comfortable venue with a great sound system. I would highly seeing a show here. After any show just walk out the door and stroll down Lincoln Road for a nice evening. Cheers! read more

It's small, it's outdated and not the cleanest. Also, their website does not include events sponsored by other promoters/ vendors. At least the bathrooms were clean. read more

Went to see "Ritmo Jondo" last night and had an awesome time. The performance was beautifully choreographed and the dancers were amazing. It is an older, smaller theatre but well maintained. It is intimate and charming. There is a parking garage close by on Alton Road. read more

I love coming to watch movies during the Brazilian film festival here. The bathrooms there are always very clean and modern. The theater is small but comfy. Location is the best in Lincoln Rd since it's right next to Segafredo, which is still the most popular and the best hangout + people watch spot for both tourists and locals in South Beach. read more

The theater is nice, I wish the ac vents were cleaner they liked very dusty. The show we watched was great, however the announcer before the show explained there would be snacks for purchase during intermission, however there wasn't. Overall the theater didn't seem well organized. read more

Saw The Golem of Havana! Outstanding. The best show we've seen in Miami! Bravo Colony Theater ! Hopefully you'll have more shows like this one! read more

I haven't been to the theatre yet but already have a negative opinion. I called from Indiana to get some help identifying a florist that could deliver flowers to my son, a cast member in the current show for opening night. The person I spoke with told me they don't work with any florists and I am the first person whose ever asked that. I asked her who she would call if she were sending folowers to the theatre. She said, "I don't." So I asked if there was anyone I could speak to who could guide me. She said she was the only one there. That was it. No offer to call me back with suggestions or give a message to someone else coming in later. My son has been in shows across the country. this is the ONLY time I've been given no help in welcoming him to the city and facility. We will wait to see the show in Fort Lauderdale! read more

Arrived two minute late with second row seats, and was put in the very back. The personnel are very rude.