First Look: Coral Gables Art Cinema Unveils Expansion Plans

Miami's independent theater scene appears to be undergoing a bit of a renaissance. Months after O Cinema announced its imminent expansion to Little River, Coral Gables Art Cinema has unveiled its plans for a second location steps from its longstanding Aragon Avenue venue.

In an email sent to supporters over the weekend, the single-screen arthouse cinema, which was chosen as the Best Movie Theater in Miami by New Times readers this year, announced it has submitted its final renovation plans to the City of Coral Gables, kicking off "the process of permitting, bidding, and construction" for the space at 240 Aragon Avenue.

Among its proposed amenities are a new 90-seat auditorium with 4K laser projection and state-of-the-art sound, a lobby cafe, vintage cinema display windows, and updated restrooms and offices. A Sims-style rendering of the proposed expansion shows plush, comfortable seating and modern interiors adorned with classic movie posters.
It's a new vision of the arthouse theater that's been years in the making.

"Five years ago, we dreamed up this expansion and launched a capital campaign with the help of generous founding supporters," CGAC founder and president Steven Krams and Marlin Ebbert, chair of the board, wrote in their email announcing a fundraising campaign for the development.

"The plans were drawn. The popcorn was practically popping. Then — setbacks. A global pandemic. Red tape. Delays. Rising costs. But thanks to your support and our sheer determination, we're almost there."

The next step? Gables Cinema is asking for donations from supporters and naming opportunities for major donors. The theater says it has raised 75 percent of its goal, but public support is needed to get the project across the finish line.