Inspired by the acclaimed biography “George E. Merrick: Son of the Southwind” by Arva Moore Parks What if Works, in association with Homestead Center for the Arts, Coral Gables Department of Historical Resources and Cultural Arts, the Coral Gables Museum, the Merrick House Museum FIU Theatre and Roxy Theatre Group presents “The Placemaker Poet”, a “dramatic curation” written and directed by Phillip M. Church exploring the life and legacy of Coral Gables’ visionary developer, George E. Merrick.
Before its incorporation in 1896 much of the surrounding land around Miami offered intrepid pioneers little else but mosquito-ridden, rocky backwoods of palmetto, pine trees and mangrove-shrouded bays. Into these inhospitable conditions stepped the Merrick family with a singular goal in mind; to escape the cold, unforgiving north in search of the healing powers of the sun and the south wind. What if Works sets out to explore the remarkable story of George E. Merrick, a man who traded his personal dream to build the dreams of others.

Offering an immersive, 90-minute theatre experience in three episodes, “The Pacemaker-Poet” blends Florida history, drama, poetry, choreography, large-scale puppetry, music and digital projections. Episode I: Migration “Departure & Arrival” - “Quarantine” - “Encountering the Doe” - “Grubbing & Planting”. Episode II: Boom Years “Ruskin & Morris” -- “Merrick’s Dream Team” - “Housing the Bahamians” - “Trip to Cuba”. Episode III: Reversal of Fortunes: “1935 Hurricane” - “Bankruptcy - “Return of the Doe” - “Miami Postmaster”. Epilogue: “Walking the Miracle Mile”.

“The Placemaker-Poet” is a thought-provoking, interdisciplinary project, designed for multigenerational audiences offering a unique theatre experience suitable for all members of the family.

All sales are final. There are no refunds for any reason except event cancellation.

Please note: This production, meeting or event is not presented or produced by the Seminole Theatre, Oak View Group or the City of Homestead. The Seminole Theatre acts as a rental venue for groups and promoters of all types. The production values, views and opinions do not reflect those of the Seminole Theatre.

All orders carry a transaction fee. All sales are final unless the event is cancelled, patrons would then get the choice of a refund, credit or pick a different show.All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Lap seat tickets are available for select performances. All sales are final. There are no refunds for any reason except event cancellation.