Master of the Magic City – Charlie Cinnamon

All roads led to Charlie — “We met through Charlie,” or “I am a friend of Charlie Cinnamon” – doors opened when you mentioned his name.

To those who knew Charlie Cinnamon, the refrain is the same the past few days: “We have lost a legend, and I have lost a friend.”

The air in Miami is thick with sadness, not just for the obvious “end of an era” reasons, but because of the particular loss of a unique character. Mention Charlie Cinnamon’s name anywhere in Miami, and everyone has a story.

He was beloved, humble, and your eyes lit up when you saw him. Seemingly tireless, he was a “larger-than-life figure” in a town where the contest for celebrity is unbridled. In the process, Charlie turned into something of a celebrity himself.

Charlie’s unique blend of show-business glitz and fast-talking pitch turned out to work equally well for him in every culture in Miami, a multi-cultural city. For Charlie, an Opening Night was the truest expression of his ability to blend business and friendship. He was a dedicated loyalist – he did not miss one Miami City Ballet Opening Night with his pal, Toby Lerner Ansin.

Charlie Cinnamon brought a sense of community to the arts in South Florida. And he did have his own, unrelenting standards coupled with perfect manners and a cool, intelligent wit. To the delight of his intimate audience at a panel discussion this past year (with Seth Browarnik and Bob Goodman at Bal Harbour Shops), he chastised young publicists to “get off that computer, stop with the emails, and make a phone call — it’s all about relationships!”

Charlie Cinnamon was part of my family. He played an intimate role in the successes of those he held near and dear (Manny, Toby, Stephanie and Stephanie, Lisa, Rhoda, Joy, Zack, Suzanne, Melanie, Joan) and did not hold back in his support and advice.

Louie Aguirre said it best, ””Charlie was my friend. One of the kindest most gentle souls I have ever met. He loved Miami. He was passionate about the arts, especially the performing arts, and made a huge impact on the cultural landscape of our city. He brought magic to the magic city. His legacy is timeless.”

My heart, our hearts are broken, but I have a sneaking suspicion he is up there, working with Liz Taylor on getting the word out on her “next show.”