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Miami has always been more than just a city; it’s a dynamic mosaic of cultures, traditions, and stories. As one of the world’s most prominent cultural hubs, it has long served as a beacon for promoting Hispanic arts and heritage, connecting the Americas through creativity and community. With its unique blend of vibrant traditions and forward-thinking innovation, Miami stands as a leader in cultural advocacy and celebration.
This spring, the city will once again embrace its role as the epicenter of Hispanic culture with an event that epitomizes its dedication to the arts: the AMÉRICA VIVA! Gala Cocktail. Set to take place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the iconic Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, this highly anticipated evening promises to unite Miami’s multicultural community in a dazzling celebration of unity, creativity, and philanthropy.
From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the Ziff Opera House Lobby and Thomson Plaza will transform into a vibrant stage where art, music, and culture converge. The Gala will bring together some of the region’s most influential cultural advocates, philanthropists, and art enthusiasts for a night that celebrates the spirit of the Americas through powerful performances and recognition of extraordinary contributions to arts and education.
The event is produced by New Land Theatricals, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote Hispanic-American cultural heritage through the performing arts and education. Their dedication to nurturing and showcasing the richness of Hispanic culture makes the AMÉRICA VIVA! Gala more than just an elegant evening—it’s a testament to the cultural pride and shared identity that define the Americas.
Miami’s role in hosting such an event underscores the city’s vital place in the cultural landscape. By blending history, tradition, and innovation, it continues to create a space where diverse voices can come together to celebrate what makes the Americas truly unique.
New Land Theatricals: A Cultural Powerhouse in Arts, Education, and Unity
New Land Theatricals, based in Miami, is a leading organization dedicated to promoting Hispanic-American cultural heritage through the performing arts and education. Founded by Carolina Lizarraga and Roque García, the organization began with the success of their first show, América Viva, which debuted at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2005. The production quickly gained global recognition, becoming one of the top 10 best-selling shows among 2,000 performances. The show’s unique blend of cultural fusion and artistic expression brought the rich history and diversity of the Americas to audiences worldwide.
Over the years, América Viva has toured extensively, with more than 200 performances across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America, attracting thousands of spectators both in person and on TV, which gave the production a global recognition. Alongside the performances, the organization implemented impactful educational programs in Venezuela, benefiting thousands of students. América Viva’s opening song “Tierra Mestiza,” was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award in 2021, solidifying its artistic and cultural significance.
In 2014, Carolina and Roque relocated to New York to refine their expertise in commercial theater, building connections with Broadway legends. In 2019, they moved to Miami and partnered with philanthropist Ana Teresa Rodriguez - Chairman of the Board- to relaunch their project as New Land Theatricals. Today, the organization continues to foster creativity, cultural understanding, and inclusion through innovative performances and educational programs. Their work remains a testament to the power of the arts in bridging
cultural divides and inspiring future generations of artists across the Americas.
A tribute to the Americas: The Inca Garcilaso Medal 2025
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening will be the presentation of the prestigious Inca Garcilaso Medal 2025, a distinguished honor celebrating individuals and organizations whose contributions to the arts, education, and cultural advocacy foster societal unity and inspire future generations. The medal is named after Inca Garcilaso de la Vega (1539–1616), a renowned mestizo writer and historian born to an Inca princess and a Spanish conquistador. His life and legacy embody the rich cultural fusion of the Americas, making him a powerful symbol of unity and a testament to the transformative power of shared heritage.
This year’s honorees exemplify this spirit of cultural excellence and advocacy:
- The Celia Cruz Foundation: Honored during the centennial celebration of Celia Cruz for her unparalleled impact on Latin music and culture.
- The Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation: Recognized for ten years of empowering and supporting emerging Latin music talent.
- The Miami Children’s Chorus: Celebrated for more than three decades of nurturing and inspiring the voices of young artists in the community.
A Night of Captivating Performances
Artistic excellence will take center stage throughout the evening as youth performers from New Land Theatricals’ América Viva The Class, New Land Dance Company, students from the Miami Children’s Chorus, and scholarship recipients from the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation showcase their remarkable talents.
Adding to the magic of the night is a special tribute performance by Latin Grammy-winning artist Aymée Nuviola and her band, honoring the legendary Celia Cruz during the celebration of her centennial. The “Queen of Salsa” remains a cultural icon whose music and legacy continue to inspire generations. This vibrant tribute promises to be a highlight of the event, blending tradition, rhythm, and passion into a memorable moment that celebrates her extraordinary influence on Latin music and culture.
© JC OliveraCommunity-Driven Excellence: Sponsors and Supporters
This extraordinary evening is made possible by the unwavering generosity and support of its sponsors, whose dedication to the arts and the community helps bring this celebration to life. Their contributions reflect a shared commitment to uplifting Miami’s rich cultural fabric and honoring the diverse artistic heritage of the Americas.
Diamond Sponsor: Baptist Health South Florida, Title Sponsors: ATR Luxury Homes, Adonel Companies, Media & Marketing Partners: ¡HOLA! USA and Americas, Loud and Live, Platinum Sponsors: Berkeley Bank, Prestress Concrete, ANF Construction, Gold Sponsors: Weston Jewelry, Indira Fodor, Juan Fernando Mendoza, Silver Sponsors: Lennar, Rock and Dirt, Central Tire, JC Paintings and Waterproofing, Link Construction, Bronze Sponsors: Ocean Bank, Apollo Companies, Duran Roofing, Aqua Tours, Stage Design 3D.
These vital partnerships highlight the strong bond between local businesses and organizations and their dedication to celebrating, preserving, and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Miami and the Americas.
A Night to Celebrate Unity and Creativity Across the Americas
The AMÉRICA VIVA! Gala Cocktail will take place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the Ziff Opera House Lobby and Thomson Plaza will come alive with the vibrant energy of Miami’s multicultural community.
This premier event will celebrate the people, performances, and programs that foster unity and promote the arts across the Americas. Join us for an evening of elegance, entertainment, and empowerment, as we honor those who contribute to the cultural richness of the Americas.
- When: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
- Where: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
- Time: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
