First Opera at the Venetian Pool in 1926 with a Cost of $1 Million

April is National Landscape Architecture Monthjust in time for the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables spring event at the Venetian Pool.

HPACG, a 501c3 nonprofit whose mission is to promote the understanding and importance of historic resources and their preservation, is hosting a spring fundraiser on Saturday April 26th at the historically-designated landmark Venetian Pool included in the National Register of Historic Places. The Venetian Pool was opened in 1924 as the Venetian Casino, which was part of the Grand Plan George Merrick had for the City of Coral Gables. Completed in 1925 it was designed by Phineas Paist with Denman Fink.

In 1989, the pools first historical renovation was completed. Between 2009 and 2010 the pool underwent a second renovation. The pools original rich history can still be observed as you walk through the entry fountain room and gaze upon its historic photographs, reminding patrons of an era long gone by.

Oh, about the Opera.

The first national opera troupe performance in Miami was in the drained Venetian Pool on February 2, 1926. The million-dollar production had a cast of 30 singers and 28 ballet dancers who arrived on three special trains. The opera was sponsored by the developers of CG and Miami Shores. A year earlier, in 1925, the celebrated Paul Whiteman Orchestra played in the Venetian Pool to help George Merrick promote sales in CG.

History repeats itself. Help preserve it.

Help support the Venetian Pool and its historical significance in Coral Gables and beyond. Sponsors to date include (Founders Level) Keyes Real Estate and the Elizabeth L. Perez Team; Myrna Mayor/Zamora Group; City of Coral Gables. (Artist Level) Chef Luis/Paella Grill; Calypso. (Architect Level) Realtor Cary Avila/ EWM; Joan Thompson/ Summer House Interiors; Coral Gables Museum.

For more information about HPACG and sponsorship opportunities please email HPACG President Karelia Martinez Carbonell at kmartinezcarbonell@historiccoralgables.org

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First Opera at the Venetian Pool in 1926 with a Cost of $1 Million