Scene Calendar: Holiday concerts, markets, plays and more
MUSIC
Christmas Concert: 7 p.m. Friday, Lakeside Baptist Church, 22027 65th Ave., Hawthorne. Free; donations accepted. (tinyurl.com/yc4bvubp) Fifth annual Christmas concert to benefit Hawthorne Area Resource Center.
“The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”: 3 p.m. Saturday, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Free. (tinyurl.com/yj8kxv3f) The Gainesville Pops will perform holiday favorites including “’Twas the Night before Christmas,” “Highlights from Frozen,” “Sleigh Ride” and other winter favorites.
UF Carillon Annual Holiday Concert: 1:55 p.m. Sunday, Century Tower Carillon, 375 Newell Drive, University of Florida campus. Free. (arts.ufl.edu) Annual holiday concert. Listeners are encouraged to find a location at least 100 feet from the tower for an optimal listening experience.
Bret Michaels: 7 p.m. Saturday, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets: $39.50-$99.50. (904-209-0367, theamp.com) Global entrepreneur, philanthropist and Humanitarian of the Year, Bret Michaels has more than 100 million records, digital and streams sold worldwide, and is a reality TV superstar with some of the highest rated reality shows in history. He will perform with special guest Night Ranger.
The Wood Brothers: 8 p.m. Saturday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $41. (pvconcerthall.com) The singers will perform as part of their “Heart is the Hero” tour.
“Sounds of the Season”: 7 p.m. Sunday, Phillips Center for Performing Arts, 3201 Hull Road. Free; tickets required. (performingarts.ufl.edu) University of Florida School of Music presents a diamond jubilee: “Rejoice and Be Merry.”
“Music of the Season” Concert: 12:15-12:45 p.m. Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Free. (fumcgnv.org) The Gainesville Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
Young Annasemble Holiday Concert: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, 811 S. Main St. Free. (annasemble.org, 317-2276) The Young Annasemble Orchestra will present a holiday concert. The program is varied and includes music of the season. The Young Annasemble is affiliated with the Annasemble Community Orchestra. They are a group of young musicians between the ages of 10 to 16 years old (and a few adults).
A Peter White Christmas: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $62.50-$115. (pvconcerthall.com) Peter White’s annual Christmas show featuring Mindi and Vincent playing Christmas favorites as well as their own personal hits.
THEATER
Michael Carbonaro: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $32.50-$59. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Best known as the star and executive producer of the hit series “The Carbonaro Effect” on truTV, Michael Carbonaro also has been a performing magician since his youth. He studied experimental theater at New York University with aspirations of entertaining audiences through a variety of theatrical mediums, including hidden-camera magic.
Paula Poundstone: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$50, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Described as one of the bravest and best improv comics of our time, Paula Poundstone can be heard regularly on NPR’s news quiz “Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” and podcast “Live from the Poundstone Institute.” Poundstone’s shows are a steady stream of self-deprecation, sarcasm, current events, and stories about her cats and kids.
“The Addams Family”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 10, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) In the kooky, upside-down world of the Addams family, to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy, and death and suffering are the stuff of their dreams. Nonetheless, this quirky family still has to deal with many of the same challenges faced by any other family, and the spookiest nightmare faced by every family creates the focus for this musical: the Addams kids are growing up.
“A Seussified Christmas Carol”: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 and Dec. 15, Theatre Park, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (alachuachildrenstheatre.com) A one-act performance.
“Twelfth Night”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 17, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) Shakespeare’s most sophisticated comedy is a riotous tale of hopelessly unrequited passions and mistaken identity. Duke Orsino is in love with the noblewoman Olivia. She, however, has fallen for his servant Cesario, who is actually Viola, a woman disguised as a man, who loves Orsino — confusion is rife. Meanwhile, Olivia’s arrogant steward Malvolio is cruelly tricked by her uncle Sir Toby Belch, his friend Sir Andrew Aguecheek, and the maidservant Maria into believing his mistress loves him.
“Annie Warbucks”: 8-10:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8-9 and Dec. 14-16 plus 3-5:30 p.m. Dec. 9 and Dec. 17, Star Center Theatre, 11 NE 23rd Ave. Tickets: $22 adults, $18 seniors, $12 students. (spirit-of-soul-ensemble.ticketleap.com/annie-warbucks) If you enjoyed the youth production telling Annie’s story, the story continues! The Spirit of Soul Adult Ensemble sing and dance their way through Annie’s adoption by Mr. Warbucks. All of the ingredients that made “Annie” so successful are here once again in “Annie Warbucks,” with an old-fashioned romance thrown in for good measure. Returns with all-new laughs, unforgettable songs and some familiar characters.
“A Christmas Carol”: 1 and 4 p.m. Saturdays, 7 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23 plus 7 p.m. Dec. 20, 2 p.m. Dec. 21, 1 p.m. Dec. 22 and 3 p.m. Dec. 22, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $20-$50. (thehipp.org) “Bah, humbug!” to dashing through the snow and sleigh rides in Florida. Staying true to the weighty themes of the original novel while delivering a gripping story, cheerful holiday music and genuine laughs for the whole family, “A Christmas Carol” is one of Gainesville’s favorite holiday traditions.
Desi Banks: 7 p.m. Saturday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$55. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Desi Banks is the ultimate triple threat — actor, stand-up comedian and entrepreneur — who's taking the entertainment world by storm. Having built a strong social media influence, he’s amassed an immense following of more than 15 million fans across various platforms and is swiftly becoming a household name known for his razor-sharp wit and hilarious comedic timing.
“Whose Live Anyway?”: 7 p.m. Sunday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39-$59. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” present their new improv tour: “Whose Live Anyway?”
“The Ultimate Christmas Show (Abridged)”: 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $20-$50. (thehipp.org) This audience favorite is back! “The Ultimate Christmas Show (Abridged)” bursts with festive, slapstick fun as these cheerful comedians celebrate all of our favorite holiday traditions — at the same time.
“The Christmas Express”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 20 plus 8 p.m. Dec. 21 and 2 p.m. Dec. 23, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) “This is the most hopeless place in the world!” Hilda intones as she and Satch, her assistant, argue over what time it is. She dreams of faraway places and only finds tedium in running the Holly Railway Station. That is, until Leo Tannenbaum drops in out of nowhere the day before Christmas Eve. Suddenly, an old radio that hasn’t worked in years springs to life, the local group of carolers (that usually yowls like a gang of wet cats) begins to sound like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the whole town gets the Christmas spirit. Coincidence? Or is Leo doing all of this? Even Satch changes his tune when it turns out that Leo might be on the run. This nostalgic theatrical greeting card is full of eccentric small-town characters, wise-cracking their way to finding the true wonder of Christmas. And, on the way, they make us all wish we could take a ride on the Christmas Express.
“Holiday at Santa Fe”: 2-3 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. Saturday, Santa Fe College, Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St, Tickets: $15 adults; $9 seniors, students and military; free ages 12 and younger. (showpass.com/holiday-at-santa-fe-2) SF Performing Arts, SF Teaching Zoo, SF Planetarium and SF Little School collaborate to bring a thrilling performance to young and adult imaginations alike. Watch Perry the mouse and Santa Claus journey through the forest to make it snow in the Fine Arts Hall. Enjoy holiday music during this interactive and educational performance, followed by a meet and greet with the animals in the lobby.
“Little Scrooge”: 2 p.m. Thursday plus Dec. 9-10, PK Yonge Performing Arts Center, 1080 SW 11th St. Tickets: $5. (pkyonge.ufl.edu/extracurricular/performing-arts-season) “Little Scrooge” is an extremely creative, kid-friendly adaptation of the Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol.” When an adolescent Eben Scrooge strikes it rich and makes $1 million by inventing a popular phone app called “Where’s Fluffy” that can help a person find a lost pet, he loses sight of what really matters in life. Eben’s own life is taken over by greed. Worse, he actually stole the idea from his best friend, Bobbie Cratchitt, who now works for Eben, trying to raise money to buy the medicine that will help heal her little brother, Tiny Tim, who has crippled legs. The show is loaded with lots of Christmas songs, sung a cappella. There also is a talking mirror to jolt Eben into seeing the reflection of the way his life will be if he doesn’t change. The Ghost of Christmas Past (a surfer dude), the Ghost of Christmas Present (a beautiful spirit with an attitude) and the Ghost of Christmas Future (an eerie figure in white) help Eben to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Suitable for kids of all ages.
ET CETERA
Country Christmas Festival: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Douberly Farms, 14351 NE CR 339, Trenton. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/CCF23A) Family event featuring more than 75 vendors, food trucks, live music, Santa, and more.
Frogs and Friends Friday: 2-3 p.m. Friday, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free; registration required. (bit.ly/frogfriday22) Family friendly event held every first Friday of the month at the picnic pavilion. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can join Morningside’s animal caretaker and learn about the canter’s amphibian and reptile friends.
Christkindlmarkt: 4-8 p.m. Friday, noon-6 p.m. Saturday, Blackadder Brewing, 618-A NW 60th St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/Christkindlmarkt23a) Annual event in its seventh year featuring outdoor holiday market with craft and food vendors, music and holiday fun.
Tree Lighting and Holiday Market: 4-9 p.m. Friday, Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (shoppesatthornebrook.com) Thornebrook will be decorated in winter-wonderland attire as the location heralds the holiday season. Celebrate with local shops and vendors, food trucks and an annual tree lighting. Santa will be on location, and Chasing Shadows will be photographing magical moments ($10 for an email proof). Participating stores will be open late.
Holiday Show: 5 p.m. Friday, Mossman Hall, 301 SR 26, Melrose. Free entry; items and food for sale. (mossmanhall.com) Holiday craft sale featuring wall art, quilts, jewelry, woodworking, needlecraft, leatherwork, handbags, pottery, holiday decorations and more. The food truck The Creaky Tree Cafe also will be on site.
Light the Village: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Haile Village Center, 5100 SW 91st Terrace. Free. (facebook.com/LoveHaileVillage) Family holiday event featuring cookie decorating, Santa, hot cocoa and more.
Holiday Open House: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Artisans' Guild Gallery, 224 NW Second Ave. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/aggholiday23) Annual holiday open house and ornament sale featuring live jazz by Edward White and Darren Burgess from 6 to 8 p.m. and holiday music performance by guitarist Eric Diamond from 8 to 10 p.m. Serving champagne and gourmet treats.
Winter Wonderland: 5:30-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Dec. 30, North Central Florida YMCA, 5201 NW 34th Blvd. Cost: $15. (winterwonderlandfl.com) Walk-through light show with Christmas music, food and merriment.
Christmas Tree Lighting: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Downtown Skinner Field Park, 15100 NW 142nd Terrace, Alachua. Free. (tinyurl.com/y5tj3wwn) Family holiday event featuring Santa Claus, children's train, bounce house, arts and crafts for kids, live music, carriage rides, hot chocolate, popcorn and more.
Holiday Nights: 6-8 p.m. Friday plus Dec. 8, Dec. 15 and Dec. 22, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (tinyurl.com/yenpnp6b) Family holiday event featuring Christmas tree lighting along with shop, stroll and dine, photos with Santa, children's crafts and activities, horse-and-carriage rides, performances by the Alachua Children's Theater, music and more.
Festival of Trees: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Ignite Life Center, 404 NW 14th Ave. Tickets: $10 general admission $5 ages 3-12. (tinyurl.com/yc5xyav3) All proceeds will benefit the kindergarteners of Metcalf Elementary. Meet Santa, and enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and a winter wonderland.
Kirby Family Farm's Christmas Train: 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday plus Dec. 8-10, Dec. 15-17, Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 26, Kirby Family Farm, 19630 NE 30th St., Williston. Tickets: $17.99 general admission in advance, $20 general admission at gate, $10.99 ages 3-9 in advance, $15 ages 3-9 at gate, free ages 2 and younger. (kirbyfarm.com/the-christmas-express) Annual family holiday event featuring 20-minute journey around through thousands of Christmas lights on authentic, narrow-gauge historic locomotive. Plus, visit with Christmas friends throughout the evening; dance party; visit with Santa; see some of the cutest critters that would have been at the manger, and some of their friends too; a 1950 fully restored Smith and Smith ferris wheel!; Christmas magic show; tractor ride to a lost Christmas town; Secret Elf Shoppe for ages 10 and younger, who will get to pick out one free gift for themselves or someone special; Italian carousel; carnival rides, vendors and more.
Suwannee Lights: 6-10 p.m. nightly through Dec. 30, Suwannee Music Park and Campground, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: Prices vary; see website for more information. (suwanneelights.com) Annual Christmas light display featuring more than 10 million lights, live entertainment and more.
Live Nativity: 7-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Cross City Church of God, 18220 SE U.S. 19, Cross City. Free. (facebook.com/CrossCityChurchOfGod/events) Drive-through event. Take a journey to Bethlehem with live characters, and enjoy homemade hot chocolate.
Joey’s Wings 5K and Kids Obstacle Run: 8:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Santa Fe College, Building O, Northwest 91st Street. Cost: Starting at $25. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/joeysrun) Annual event in its ninth year creating awareness and giving hope to the 47 children and their families who are diagnosed every day featuring Zumba, raffles, bouncing house, face painting, crafts and food from local restaurants. The overall champion (women and men's) will each get a gift certificate ($350 value) from the B3 gym.
Christmas Bazaar: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Celebration United Methodist Church, 9501 SW Archer Road. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/4rm9keya) Annual event featuring homemade crafts, quilts, baked goods and items from local artists for sale, as well as a children's corner.
Hawthorne Community Festival of Trees: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 16, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 23, Hawthorne Woman’s Club, 6751 SE 220th Terrace, Hawthorne. Free. (tinyurl.com/4nvmpmh3) Multi-week family holiday event featuring decorated trees for viewing and voting; holiday tales at 1 p.m. Dec. 9; Christmas music by Galilee Baptist Mission Group at 1 p.m. Dec. 16; and Santa Claus and voting results at noon Dec. 23.
Welcome to Winter, A Shop Local Expo: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Countryside Baptist Church, 10926 NW 39th Ave. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/c99pe6yy) Food and craft vendors.
Cane Festival: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dudley Farm Historic State Park, 18730 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Cost: $8 per vehicle; correct change required and limit eight people per vehicle. (friendsofdudleyfarm.org) See an original Florida working farm as they grind sugar cane and boil it into syrup. Old-time demonstrations include woodworking, blacksmithing and butter churning, quilt drawing, children's games and toys, old-time music and washday. Also the Dudley Farm Market and vendors.
Christmas Parade and Festival: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. festival, 2 p.m. parade Saturday, downtown Hawthorne; parade will pass through Southeast 221st Street. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/4f74ykpb, Christmas@HawthorneCommunityFoundation.org) Annual holiday event in its 39th year featuring live music and performances, kids zone with bounce house, photos with Santa at the Hawthorne Library and special appearance by the Grinch.
Living History Saturday: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/frogfriday22) Interpreters will portray day-to-day life on an 1870 Florida farm.
Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park Sinkhole Guided Walk: 10 a.m. Saturday, Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, 4732 Millhopper Road. Cost: $4 per vehicle, $2 pedestrian or bicyclist. (bit.ly/devilsmill) Ask questions and learn about the area and its history while exploring the park with a ranger.
Guided Hike on Rim Ramble: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, La Chua Trail Horse Barn, 4801 Camp Ranch Road. Cost: $4 per vehicle. (prairiefriends.org) Rangers from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park will lead adventures through the La Chua Trail. Limited space available to the first 25 people who are present at the time of each event. Heavily suggested items for the trip include hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera, drinking water and field guides. Insect repellent is highly recommended in warmer weather.
Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $25 adults, $10 ages 2-11, free ages 1 and younger; $45 motorized-vehicle tours. (carsonspringswildlife.org, 468-2827, contact@cswildlife.org) Take a tour — on foot or in a tour vehicle — of Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation with big-cat feeding demonstrations and up-close encounters with the animals.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 5-13, free for ages 4 and younger; free for members; group rates available. (kanapaha.org) Guided tour of the gardens.
Arts and Crafts Expo: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, The Arc of Alachua County, 3303 NW 83rd St. Free entry; items for sale. (arcalachua.org) Adults and children with developmental disabilities will be exhibiting and selling their arts and crafts.
Christmas Sidewalk Sale: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Shoppes of Main St., 708 N. Main St., Chiefland. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/5ek82uv9) Local businesses will participate in a sidewalk sale.
Mini Maker Market: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, 108 Vine, 3735 W. University Ave. Free entry; items for sale. (bren@plantstay.com) Market featuring works by young entrepreneurs.
Rooterville Animal Sanctuary Self-Guided Tours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, 5579 Darwood St., Melrose. Cost: Suggested $15 donation per person or $45 for a family of four. (rooterville.org) Take a map of the sanctuary at the gate to see highlights of Rooterville to help you find your way. Trolley tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Vintage Holidays Guided Tours of the Historic Haile Homestead: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 30, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Tickets: $5, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) Visit the 1856 homestead and enjoy vintage holiday decorations on guided tours.
Festival at Fort King: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Fort King National Historic Landmark and Visitor Center, 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala. Tickets: $5 general admission, free for veterans and ages 5 and younger. (tinyurl.com/599dz546) Step into the 1800s with historic-themed crafts, games, workshops, activities, living historians, vendors, food, drinks and more. The pinnacle of the event is a re-enactment of the event that fueled the start of the Second Seminole War.
Christmas Chaos Fun Show: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Williston Horseman's Park, 803 SW 19th Ave., Williston. Tickets: See website for more information. (willistonhorsemans.com) Equestrian event featuring fun for children and those who still play like them.
UF Craft Festival: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Stephen C. O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. Cost: $6 general admission; $5 general admission with coupon; free ages 13 and younger, and military with ID Children; $4 UF students; $3 UF students with coupon. (oconnellcenter.ufl.edu) Annual event that showcases handmade crafts from more than 200 vendors.
Christmas Parade and Town Lighting: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 3240 W. Railroad Lane, Bell. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/bellparade23) Annual holiday event in its 43rd year featuring Christmas parade, Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, vendors, food trucks, gift drawing, entertainment from local school bands, invocation and town Christmas tree lighting.
Holiday Festival: 11 a.m. Saturday, Wholesale Zone Liquidation, 3521 SW 42nd Ave. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/588khwep) Inaugural holiday event featuring meet-and-greets and photos with the Grinch, food, drinks, games and more.
Horse Feeding: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses, 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua. Entrance: Bag of carrots. (millcreekfarm.org) The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks.
Winter Festival: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays through Dec. 23, Mayhem Ranch, 17830 SE 40th St., Morriston. Tickets: $15 general admission, free ages 2 and younger; additional cost for some extra activities. (mayhemranchfl.com) Family holiday event featuring Santa appearances and photos, live reindeer exhibit, miniature highland encounter, firepits, farm train, slides, animal shows, hayride, Grinch appearances, corn crib, petting zoo, live Nativity scene, swings, games, pig races, live music, mini cow town, jump pad and more.
Crops and Colors Festival: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Grow Hub, 2900 NE Eighth Ave. Free. (floridaheritagefoods.com) Learn how to grow and cook nutritionally dense, locally grown crops. Discover new recipes and cooking techniques. Buy crops grown by local farmers. Join UF IFAS extension agents to learn tips on how to grow these crops in your own back yard or farm.
Christmas Craft Fair: Noon-5:30 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 23, North Central Florida YMCA, 5201 NW 34th Blvd. Cost: $2 admission fee, free ages 2 and younger. (bit.ly/3FONhux) Inaugural event features local vendors. Admission fee gives a $2 discount off items inside the Winter Wonderland Gainesville Gift Shop.
Holiday Parade: Noon Saturday, East University Avenue. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) The inaugural Gainesville holiday parade will head down University Avenue.
Holidays on the Prairie: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Visitor Center, 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy. Admission: $6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/paynes-prairie-preserve-state-park) Family holiday event featuring festive activities inspired by those who lived on the prairie in the mid-1800s. Explore the Visitor Center and enjoy hot cider, roasted pecans, crafts, story time, spinning the dreidel, and Saint Nicholas.
Hot Rodding for Heroes: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, High Springs Brewing Company, 18562 NW 237th St., High Springs. Free for spectators; $20 registration. (tinyurl.com/ymsnjmks) Bring a car or spectate with Best in Show, Top 10 in Show, Best Paint, 50/50 drawing, food trucks and more. Bring a toy for Toys for Tots. All proceeds go to The Marine League for Vets.
Vintage Christmas Market: 2-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sycamore Lane, 25370 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/4hvuhe53) Annual holiday market featuring more than 30 vendors with vintage goods, crafts, gifts, soaps, candles, plants, clothing and food.
The Light, A CHRISTmas Celebration: 2:30 p.m. Saturday, North Florida Speedway, 287 Race Track Road, Lake City. Tickets: $39 general admission, $12 ages 4-12, free ages 3 and younger. (tinyurl.com/5n996b37) A one-night-only event celebrating the birth of Christ with uplifting music, Christmas lights, a Nativity scene and a sky lantern launch.
Holiday Kids Dance Party: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Dance party with DJ E-LO.
Christmas Tree Lighting: 5 p.m. Saturday, corner of Main Street and Railroad Avenue, downtown High Springs. Free. (tinyurl.com/4tdsmwyk) Annual family holiday event featuring old-fashioned Norman Rockwell Christmas tree lighting with a special story time for the children of “Polar Express,” Christmas train crafts, train rides, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, live Nativity scene and carolers.
Light Up Tioga: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/lighttioga23) Annual tree-lighting and holiday festival featuring live entertainment, Santa visit, food trucks, dance performances, surprise appearances, arts and crafts, local vendors and more.
Holiday Lights Celebration: 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Historic Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. Free entry; $5 per person carriage rides. (gainesvillefl.gov) Watch the Thomas Center Gardens become a winter wonderland of shimmering, magical lights at this annual celebration. Thousands of lights adorn the garden's trees, inviting attendees to stroll the paths and enjoy the wonder and magic of the season. Holiday goodie bags will be available for children, with entertainment by the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus, the Singers of Reformation and the Gypsy Guerilla Band. Inside the Historic Thomas Center, the fabled giant pine provided and decorated by the Thomas Center Associates soars above the Spanish Court. Horse-drawn carriages transport attendees to another era as they tour the surrounding neighborhood that is lit by hundreds of luminaries.
High Springs Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, 23517 NW 185th Road, High Springs. Free. (facebook.com/HSChamberOfCommerce) Annual holiday festival.
Christmas Tree Lighting: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, City Hall, 25440 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/z9ssevtj) Annual tree lighting ceremony will illuminate Newberry with the radiance of the holiday spirit plus hot cocoa, Santa and carolers.
Christmas Parade and Winter Wonderland: 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Heritage Park, Northwest First Avenue, Williston. Free. (tinyurl.com/33sak37u) Williston kicks off the season with its parade west to east on Noble Avenue. Children will receive candy, hot chocolate, popcorn, cookies, games and amusements. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in the Ken Schwiebert Pavilion to listen to Christmas wish lists. There will be snow.
Parade of Lights and Fireworks Display: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, along the Suwannee River, Fort Fanning Park, Fanning Springs. Free. (bit.ly/pol23a) Boat Parade of lights and fireworks display on the Suwannee River at dark. The best public viewing areas are at Fort Fanning Park, Anderson boat ramp just across the bridge, or the Suwannee Belle restaurant.
Sunrise Hike: 7-8 a.m. Sunday, La Chua Trail Horse Barn; see website for map. Cost: $10 per person per hike; registration required. (bit.ly/46Ncv8c) Join a park ranger at sunrise on La Chua Trail for a hike and learn about the natural and cultural history of the North End of Paynes Prairie. Hike will be limited to the first 25 people.
GLAM Craft Show: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/3d45ecuc) Craft show featuring local vendors and food trucks.
Christmas Celebration: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, CityLight Church, 5020 NW 23rd Ave. Admission: New, unwrapped toy donation. (citylightgnv.com) Family holiday event to benefit Alachua County Toys for Tots, meeting the needs of more than 4,000 children. Featuring free lunch, photos with Santa, train rides, Christmas games, crafts and more.
Light Up The Night Christmas Tree Celebration: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Olustee Park Downtown, 169 N. Marion Ave., Lake City. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/ye5529vd) Tree lighting event featuring vendors, live entertainment, Santa and food trucks.
A Whoville Family Christmas in the Park: 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Worthington Springs Community Park, State Road 121, Worthington Springs. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/th58t372) Family holiday event featuring vendors, Christmas music, Santa, the Grinch, food, games, free toys, free bike raffles and more.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park Wednesday Bird Walks: 8:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays through May 29, 2024, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road. Admission: $5 per vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, vans and bikes. (alachuaaudubon.org) Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida's premier birding hotspots during a two- to three-hour guided walking tour. Birders of all levels welcome. Walks are led by volunteers from Alachua Audubon Society with assistance from Sweetwater Wetlands Park rangers.
Barnyard Buddies: 3-4 p.m. Wednesdays through May 29, 2024, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/barnbuds) Weekly program where youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding. Animals love donations of carrots, squash, apples, sweet potatoes and melons.
Holidays in the City: 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Gainesville Fire Rescue Safety City, 1025 NE 13th St. Free. (tinyurl.com/yeyavuk4) An opportunity to learn about different traditions and holidays from all over the world. Santa will make a special appearance from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Fall Farmers Market: 4-7 p.m. Thursdays, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free entry; items and food for sale. (celebrationpointe.com/events/farmers-market-2023, info@celebrationpointe.com) Weekly farmers market featuring a wide selection of products, including grass-fed local meat, fruit smoothies and hand-poured soy candles. Discover the flavors of the season and support local farmers and small businesses.
ART
Artisans' Guild: 5-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring a Holiday Open House, a festive evening of champagne, gourmet treats, live music. And shopping for gifts, handmade ornaments by guild members and holiday décor. Live music with Edward White, Darren Burgess and Eric Diamond. 224 NW Second Ave. (378-1383, artisansguildgallery.com)
The AUK Market: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk even featuring works by Sara Bolds, a PhD student in freshwater ecology at the University of Florida. Her pottery is inspired by plants and wildlife of the Southeast. 2031 NW Sixth St.
Bingo Deli and Pub: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring the works of Nava Ottenberg, whose paintings capture a moment, preserve an impression, revisit an experience and aspire to frame a piece of beauty. 619 S. Main St., Unit 1A. (451-4470)
Black C Art Gallery: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event. Gallery hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. 111 SE Second Place. (blackcproduction.com)
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers,” exploring the joys, pains and creative awakenings Petty experienced when pouring his soul into his magnum opus, on display through December; “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion,” featuring 40 full-scale machines that were built after in-depth study of Leonardo da Vinci’s designs by a group of scientists and skilled craftsmen in Florence, Italy, on display through Jan. 7, 2024. Tickets: $12.50, $10 seniors and college students, $7.50 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. 811 N. Main St. (371-8001, cademuseum.org)
Civic Media Center: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event. 433 S. Main St. (373-0100, civicmediacenter.org)
Cypress and Grove Brewing Company: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring work by Milan Hooper, a painter and psychedelic folk artist who uses recycled material — or “upcycled materials,” as he likes to call it. 1001 NW Fourth St.
First Magnitude Brewing Co.: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event. 1220 SE Veitch St.
Florida Museum of Natural History: “Antarctic Dinosaurs” on display through April 21, 2024. Today, Antarctica is a forbidding land of snow and ice, but 200 million years ago it was a lush, wooded habitat where dinosaurs thrived. Uncover the history of the world’s southernmost continent and the unique species that have called it home in this interactive, family friendly experience. Tickets: $10 adults; $9 Florida residents, seniors and non-UF college students; $7 ages 3-17; free ages 2 and younger, UF students and museum members. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3215 Hull Road. (floridamuseum.ufl.edu, 846-2000)
Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring “Growth,” the last of a series of exhibitions based on the organization's governing values, on display through Dec. 21. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 1314 S. Main St. (gainesvillefinearts.org, info@gainsevillefinearts.org)
Harn Museum of Art: “Jerry Uelsmann: A Celebration of His Life and Art,” commemorating a beloved UF artist, teacher, colleague and friend through an overview of his creative life, including 37 photographs laid out chronologically, on display through Feb. 18, 2024; “Under the Spell of the Palm Tree: The Rice Collection of Cuban Art” on display through Jan. 7, 2024. “Under the Spell of the Palm Tree” is drawn exclusively from the collection of Susie and Mitchell Rice, and offers a glimpse into the complexity of culture and history that has inspired Cuban art throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century. Guest curators Gabriela Azcuy and David Horta will utilize the work of a broad range of artists in the Rice Collection to display an inclusive view of Cuban art, reflecting on its current dynamic and the existence of new geographies as an essential part of its reality. Through more than 70 works representing 53 artists, the exhibition will present the narrative of a “crossing” — a virtual crossing of the seas as well as a crossing of generations, of artists living or having lived both in Cuba and in the Diaspora; “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display Feb. 6, 2024-July 2024; “Metamorphosis: Reshaping Contemporary Art,” featuring artists who are rethinking traditional materials and techniques to create innovative works of art, on display through Oct. 26, 2025. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3259 Hull Road. (392-9826)
Hippodrome Gallery: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event. Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. (thehipp.org)
Limelight: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring “Verses in the Limelight," an open-minded poetry experience. 4908 NW 34th Blvd., Suite 11. (limelightsalongallery.com)
Matheson History Museum: “We Are Here: Stories From Multilingual Speakers In North Central Florida,” an exhibition that illustrates the immigration journeys of the North Central Florida community through stories that hold power in multiple languages; “Return to Forever: Gainesville’s Great Southern Music Hall,” showcasing dozens of John Moran‘s performance photos from his two years as the Great Southern Music Hall house photographer. Also featured is a display of Bo Diddley artifacts, including one of Bo’s signature square box guitars. Written by music journalist Bill DeYoung and designed by historian Rick Kilby, this unique exhibit celebrates a golden age in the University City’s musical history, the likes of which may never be seen again; “When Johnny Came Marching Home: Some Gave All – All Gave Some,” remembering those who came home from war with both physical and mental wounds, on display outside. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280, mathesonmuseum.org)
Melrose Bay Art Gallery: 2023 Holiday Invitational to be held through Dec. 30 with an Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Friday. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday or by appointment. 103 State Road 26, Melrose. (475-3866, melrosebayartgallery.com)
The Richardson Collection: 6-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring the final showing of The Richardson Collection, on display through Dec. 15. Gallery hours: By appointment. 3620 NW 43rd St., Suite B.
Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall: A large art collection from local collector Hector Puig on display. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Corner of West University Avenue and North Sixth Street.
The SL8: 7-10 p.m. Friday Artwalk event. 10 E. University Ave.
Sweetwater Print Cooperative: 7-9 p.m. Friday Artwalk event featuring the annual Holiday Show, the only show where patrons may buy works by co-op members right off the wall for holiday giving. Show runs through Jan. 23, 2024. Gallery hours: By appointment. 117 S. Main St. (514-3838)
University Galleries: “Vital and Veiled: Valerie Brathwaite and José Gabriel Fernández / ISLAA Artist Initiative” on display through Jan. 26, 2024. Brathwaite's sculptures, created in the late 1960s, explore sensuality in nature through bronze, clay, ceramic, plaster, cement and fabric, resulting in a unique fusion of collage, painting and sculpture. José Gabriel Fernández's work delves into representations of masculinity and veiled homoerotism in bullfighting, including studies of the bullfighter's cape as a generative shape for abstract sculptures. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. 400 SW 13th St. (arts.ufl.edu/university-galleries)
UPCOMING CONCERTS
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 9, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Live music on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Christmas Cantata: 7 p.m. Dec. 10, North Gainesville Baptist Church, 6203 NW 39th Ave. Free. (bit.ly/xmascantata23) A Christmas cantata is a cantata, music for voice or voices in several movements, for Christmas.
“Music of the Season” Concert: 12:15-12:45 p.m. Dec. 12, First Presbyterian Church, 106 SW Third St. Free. (1stpc.org) The Gainesville Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
1000 Voices of Florida and Annasemble Community Orchestra: 7 p.m. Dec. 12, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Free. (Annasemble@gmail.com) 1000 Voices of Florida and Annasemble Community Orchestra of Gainesville are joining together to provide an evening of orchestral and choral music to get their audience in the spirit of the holidays.
Playlist at the Pointe: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 15, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) A live band will perform. Food will be available from area restaurants.
Voices Rising Community Chorus: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Tickets: $10-$20 suggested donation. (vrccgainesville.org) The chorus continues celebrating its 10th anniversary season with a holiday concert featuring music for Christmas, Hanukkah and Winter Solstice.
Gainesville Orchestra Presents: Season's Greetings: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Santa Fe College, Jackson N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $15-$45. (gainesvilleorchestra.com) A symphonic season's greetings. Ring the bells … resound the organ! An international celebration of the most joyous time of the year, including Saint Saens' exalted "Organ" symphony, “Dances” with Tchaiskovsky, special guests, surprising favorites and a finale sing-a-long.
Florida Carillon Festival: 6:15 p.m. Dec. 16, Century Tower Carillon, 375 Newell Drive, University of Florida campus. Free. (arts.ufl.edu) Listeners are encouraged to find a location at least 100 feet from the tower for an optimal listening experience.
New Year’s Eve Eve: 7-10 p.m. Dec. 30, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (bit.ly/nyee23) Elio Piedra will perform under the stars. Piedra is a musician, drummer, entertainer, singer, arranger, composer and voting member at LARAS & NARAS Academy. He was born in Cuba and began his musical career at the age of 10 at the Arts Conservatory Raul Sanchez. At 15, he gained entry into the National Conservatory of Music Carlos Hidalgo, where he continued to hone his craft, even touring Cuba with the symphony orchestra. Piedra immigrated to the United States at the age of 20 and began playing with many notable musicians in Miami. He eventually relocated to Gainesville, where he lives with his wife. Highly in demand, Piedro splits his time between live shows, drum instruction and touring with his group, Elio’s Quartet. Visit the Town Center restaurants for dinner before the show, or to grab take-out to enjoy during the concert.
American Spiritual Ensemble: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) American Spiritual Ensemble began as a dream of performing and preserving the music of the American slave spirituals to keep the art form alive. These songs now stand as a testament to the strength found through faith during times of hardship as well as a unifying force among all people. The chorale is made up of some of the finest classically trained soloists in the United States who have sung in opera houses and theaters around the world.
Young Concert Artists on Tour: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30, 2024, Squitieri Studio Theatre, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Young Concert Artists on Tour is a new program that brings together a unique chamber ensemble of the most extraordinary young artists to cities in North America. This dynamic performance features rarely heard instrumentation that combines voice with violin, cello and piano.
Twisted Pine: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 1, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. New roots string band Twisted Pine draws audiences across the UK and the U.S. with their lush harmonies and daring, forthright and charismatic songwriting. Of bluegrass origin, this quartet has developed its own unique style with layered sound that echoes Indie pop. Their voices blend into unexpected harmonies and grooves together in instrumental interplay.
Alfredo Rodriguez Trio: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 2, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. Over the past decade, Cuban-born pianist Alfredo Rodriguez has gone from a young local artist to a globally recognized Grammy nominee with three critically acclaimed releases. Schooled in the rigorous classical conservatories of Havana, Rodriguez’s riveting artistry is informed as much by Bach and Stravinsky as by his heritage and jazz roots. Discovered at the 2006 Montreux Jazz Festival by Quincy Jones, Rodriguez has distinguished himself as the definition of jazz and improvisation without boundaries.
The String Queens: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 8, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. Praised for authentic, soulful and orchestral sound, The String Queens is a dynamic trio that inspires audiences to love, hope, feel and imagine through stirring musical experiences. With a repertoire that spans from Baroque to jazz to the Hot 100 Chart, The String Queens act as a bridge between classical music and mainstream pop with an exhilarating journey through time and musical genres with arrangements from the heart.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 13, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $40-$65, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra crafts each performance with thoughtful consideration toward creative ways to merge the power of music with the spirit of exploration.
New York Voices: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 15, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. New York Voices has taken the best classic jazz and moved it to new levels. Shaped by Brazilian, R&B, classical and pop influences, their performances at top venues including Carnegie Hall allow them to be considered one of the most exciting vocal ensembles in the country.
Six One Five Collective: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 16, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. Steeped in a mix of Americana, folk, country and pop, Six One Five Collective is a Grammy-nominated collaborative effort and creative brainstorm of four artists reminiscent of bands like Fleetwood Mac and Little Big Town. With an eclectic mix of high-energy music, original pieces and hit songs they have written for artists such as George Strait, Kesha, Kelly Clarkson and Sister Hazel, Six One Five Collective has carved a distinctive niche for themselves.
Arod Quartet: 2 p.m. Feb. 25, Squitieri Studio Theatre, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) The Arod Quartet skyrocketed to international attention when they won the coveted First Prize at the 2016 ARD International Music Competition in Munich, having already taken First Prize at the Carl Nielsen Chamber Music Competition in Copenhagen in 2015. They later served as the BBC New Generation Artists from 2017 to 2019. Since then, they have firmly established themselves in performance and recording at the forefront of string quartets by dazzling audiences around the globe.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Ladysmith Black Mambazo has celebrated more than 60 years of joyous and uplifting melodies. Within this music are the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African traditions. The a cappella vocal group has created a spirit that has touched a worldwide audience, and garnered praise and accolades from a wide body of people, organizations and countries.
Ying Li: 2 p.m. March 17, 2024, Squitieri Studio Theatre, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Twenty-four-year-old pianist Ying Li has received top awards in numerous national and international competitions. Beginning piano at the age of 5, she has studied in Beijing, Philadelphia and at The Juilliard School. Since then, Li has performed with many leading orchestras such as The Philadelphia Orchestra, New Jersey Symphony and the Nordwestdeutsche Philharmonie, among others.
Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: 7:30 p.m. March 19, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Canada’s reigning couple of Celtic music is coming to the Phillips Center — and they are bringing their family with them! Natalie and Donnell Leahy’s high level of skill and palpable joy at playing the fiddle together has earned them both industry acclaim and built up a loyal fan base. They combine their talents to give audiences an electrifying musical experience.
Pat Metheny: 7:30 p.m. March 20, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $40-$60, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Twenty-time Grammy Award-winning guitarist Pat Metheny is known to bring something unique to every performance. This show is no exception, focusing on the various ways of playing solo he has explored across the decades in an evening that will be very special. The set features personal and fan favorite tracks from his nearly 50-year career, creating an almost orchestral range from bass to soprano within the realm of guitar.
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields: 7:30 p.m. March 24, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Music director and virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell returns to the stage to lead the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. Retaining the flexibility and spirit of their origin as a small, conductorless ensemble, the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields has gained an enviable international reputation as one of the world’s finest chamber orchestras. Renowned for their polished, innovative interpretations of distinctive orchestral music, they present both symphonic and chamber repertoire on a grand scale at prestigious venues around the globe.
Harold López-Nussa: 7 and 9 p.m. April 11, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. Pianist Harold López-Nussa reflects the richness of Cuban music with his distinctive combination of classical, folkloric and improvisation. This fresh take is an exhilarating personification of the ritmo of the modern music scene’s bustling soul. With astonishingly fresh performances that showcase the full range and richness of the genre, López-Nussa has earned significant national and international awards in the classical and jazz worlds.
The Crane Wives: 7 and 9 p.m. April 12, 2024, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m., $35 for 9 p.m., $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar. A four-piece indie band, The Crane Wives defies musical stereotype with eclectic instrumentation and lively stage presence. They perform homegrown Indie folk with candor and touching, soulful harmonies, and are not afraid to experiment with jazz influences and instruments.
UPCOMING EVENTS
A Country Christmas: 5-9 p.m. Dec. 8 plus Dec. 15-16, Elrod Acres, 3679 Thunder Road, Green Cove Springs. Tickets: $10 general admission, free ages 1 and younger, $35 four-pack. (acountrychristmasllc.ticketleap.com/a-country-christmas-event) Annual holiday event in its second year featuring Santa, streets will be lit with more than 750,000 Christmas lights, hot chocolate, food trucks, vendors, live Nativity, live music, holiday characters and more.
Festival of Lights: 5-9 p.m. Dec. 8-24, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive, White Springs. Tickets: $4, free ages 2 and younger. (stephenfostercso.org/event-4573763) Annual family holiday event featuring complimentary popcorn, hot cocoa, marshmallows by the bonfire, Santa, food and craft vendors, kids' crafts and more.
Santa Crawl: 7 p.m. Dec. 8, downtown Gainesville. Tickets: $25; purchase online. (Facebook.Com/GainesvilleSantaCrawl, santacrawlgnv.com) Annual event in its 13th year supporting the Humane Society and Catholic Charities Weekend Hunger Backpack Program.
“Cinderella”: 7 p.m. Dec. 8-9 plus 1 p.m. Dec. 9, Phillips Center for Performing Arts, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: TBA. (bit.ly/cinder23) Annual holiday performance presented by Danscompany.
Tioga Outdoor Movie Night: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, Tioga Town Center, 133 SW 130th Way, Newberry. Free. (tiogatowncenter.com) Tioga movie night featuring “The Santa Clause.” Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy the movie under the stars.
Christmas in Columbia Holiday Market: 9 a.m. Dec. 9, Olustee Park, 169 N. Marion Ave., Lake City. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/xmasincolumbia23) Holiday event featuring arts and crafts vendors, children's activities, food trucks and live entertainment.
Old-Fashioned Christmas: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 9, Trenton City Park, Southeast Fifth Avenue, Trenton. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/ofc23trenton) Craft and vendor event.
Camp Crystal Lake 75th Anniversary Celebration: 12:30-5:30 p.m. Dec. 9, Camp Crystal Lake, 6724 Camp Crystal Road, Starke. Free. facebook.com/leavingcoolatthegatesince1948/events) Celebration featuring family-oriented activities such as fishing, arts and crafts, archery and hayrides as well as a high-ropes course. There also will be an ongoing slideshow featuring different decades of camp. Collectable 75th anniversary T-shirts will be available for purchase. Proceeds from this event will go toward summer program scholarships.
Christmas in the Quarry: 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 9, Dec. 16-17, Dec. 20 and Dec. 22-23, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE 180th Ave., Williston. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 6-13, free ages 5 and younger, free for quarry members. (cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com/upcoming-events) Walkthrough light show designed to dazzle. Families can stroll amongst billions of lights among the 20-acre botanical garden while enjoying treats from a cookie and cocoa station, and join in some of the family holiday crafts for kids to take home. Santa also will visit.
High Springs Christmas Parade: 6 p.m. Dec. 9, Main Street, downtown High Springs. Free. (facebook.com/HSChamberOfCommerce) Annual Christmas parade.
Holiday Open House: 6-8 p.m. Dec. 9, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park,18700 S. CR 325, Cross Creek. Cost: TBA. (marjoriekinnanrawlings.org/event-5130023) Annual holiday event. More info TBA.
Winter Solstice Celebration: 8 p.m. Dec. 9, Unitarian Universalist Church, 4225 NW 34th St. Tickets: $20-$40. (vfpgainesville.org, 375-2563) The Winter Solstice is a community celebration of peace and light, singing, dancing and fellowship. It will feature performers including Cherokee Peace Chant, Drums of Peace, John Chambers and Friends, Bill Hutchinson, Janet Rucker and David Beede, Cathy Dewitt, Quartermoon, Other Voices, A Choir of Heavenly Semi-Angels and more. Peace Helmet winners will be announced, and Peace Poets will read their poems.
Holiday Mingle: 2-5 p.m. Dec. 10, Prairie Creek Lodge 7204 SE CR 234. Free; donations welcome in support of ACT's conservation efforts. (alachuaconservationtrust.org) Outdoor celebration of this year's conservation victories with light food, drinks and holiday cheer. Picnic blankets and chairs from home are recommended for the musical performance.
“A Christmas Story” 40th Anniversary: 7 p.m. Dec. 10 and Dec. 13, Regal Butler Town Center 14, 3101 SW 35th Blvd. Tickets: $15.05 general admission, $12.90 children. (fathomevents.com/events/A-Christmas-Story-40th-Anniversary) Special screening of the holiday classic. It's the final days before Christmas in early 1940s Cleveland, and 9-year-old Ralphie wants one thing from Santa more than anything else: a Red Ryder Carbine Action Air Rifle. As he trudges through the snow to school, faces the neighborhood bully and visits a malevolent department store Santa Claus, Ralphie connives, conspires and campaigns for the most fabulous Christmas present ever in this heartwarming, hysterical and sweetly nostalgic holiday film. Based on stories by Jean Sheppard.
“The Nutcracker”: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, 2 p.m. Dec. 17, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$60. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Presented by Dance Alive National Ballet. Everyone needs a hero, and in this case she’s a girl. Clara saves the Nutcracker prince, and to thank her, he brings her on a magical journey to the Kingdom of the Sweets, where the exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy puts on a regal show.
Lowe's Kids Workshop: Holiday Delivery Truck: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 16, Lowes, 2564 NW 13th St. and 15910 NW 144th Terrace, Alachua. Free; registration required. (lowes.com) Calling all little elves! Create a jolly holiday delivery truck that’s also a gift card holder. In-store only.
Operation Santa Delivery: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 16, Santa Fe College, North Fields, intersection of Northwest 39th Avenue and Northwest 91st Street. Free entry; items and food for sale. (facebook.com/lifesouth) Come see Santa arrive, not by sled or by reindeer, but by helicopter! This event is a carnival-like celebration featuring Santa’s grand entrance on a ShandsCair helicopter, photos with Santa, and vendors with free games, arts and crafts, and food.
Chip Travers Memorial Christmas Toy Drive: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 16, Williston Horseman's Park, 1610 SW Eighth Terrace, Williston. Cost: Unwrapped, new toy or monetary donation. (bit.ly/ctmemorial23) Annual toy drive in its second year in remembrance of Chip Travers. All toys go to kids in need at Christmastime.
Winter Outdoor Market: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 16, Williston Horseman's Park, 1610 SW Eighth Terrace, Williston. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/wom23a) Winter outdoor market featuring live music, local vendors, food trucks and more.
Downtown High Springs Artwalk: Noon-5 p.m. Dec. 16, downtown High Springs. Free entry; items and food for sale. (facebook.com/downtownhighsprings/events) Monthly event featuring local artists and makers, as well as specials from downtown businesses.
Class with Clara: 4 p.m. Dec. 16-17, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25, free for spectators. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Join the charming Clara, heroine of “The Nutcracker” ballet, for a princess-style ballet class onstage in the Kingdom of the Sweets. Training not required. Street shoes acceptable, but participants can dance in socks or ballet shoes. Company dancers will be available to help as well, so participants will have the most possible attention given. Special gifts will be handed out following the class. Intended for children.
Charity Ball of St. Nicholas: 7-11 p.m. Dec. 16, GFWC Alachua Woman's Club, 14565 Main St., Alachua. Tickets: $75. (alachuawomansclub.org/charity-ball-of-st-nicholas) Annual holiday event to support the Alachua Woman’s Club “Community Service Projects” supporting youths in the city of Alachua. Featuring silent auction, wine and beer bar, food, DJ and dancing, and a special visit from St. Nicholas, including photo opportunities.
“An History Of Kwanzaa”: 7 p.m. Dec. 27, A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, 1013 NW Seventh Ave. Cost: TBA. (bit.ly/49g1iPt) Kwanzaa celebration with music, dance and a food tasting.
New Year’s Eve Party: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, Amvets Post 444, 13751 NE 52nd Place, Williston. Free. (bit.ly/avny23) New Year’s Eve party featuring live music by Hiredguns.
“Little Women”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 19-Feb. 4, 2024, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) A four-women adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy transform into women before our eyes and experience love, loss and the ever-glowing warmth of the March family hearth.
Parsons Dance: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Parsons Dance is known for its energized, athletic and joyous style. For more than 30 years, Artistic Director David Parsons has combined his choreographic gifts and talent for training passionate, highly skilled dancers into a solidified position as one of the world’s leading companies. Their stunning work flawlessly combines the movements and gestures of modern dance with the precision and discipline of classical dance to create a program that delivers a spirited evening for all ages.
“Next To Normal”: 7 p.m. Jan. 24-25, 2024, previews, then 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays Jan. 26-Feb. 18, 2024, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $25. (thehipp.org) Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster ride with “Next to Normal,” the groundbreaking Tony Award-winning musical that explores the highs and lows of a modern-day family struggling with mental illness. With an electrifying rock score and heart-wrenching lyrics, this show will leave audiences on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
“Kong’s Night Out”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays Jan. 26-Feb. 11, 2024, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) You think you know the whole story of the classic 1933 film “King Kong?” Think again! In the film, Broadway producer Carl Dennam sets out to capture a terrifying 40-foot ape, King Kong. The bait? Beautiful blond actress Ann Farrow. When first mate Jack rescues Ann from the beast, Dennam traps Kong and transports him to Manhattan to star in a Broadway show. But lovelorn Kong has other ideas! He escapes, rampaging throughout the city in search of Ann.Now, here’s the backstory: Producer Myron Siegel’s entire career has been constantly sabotaged by Dennam. So, Siegel is furious when he learns that Dennam has booked a “mystery” show to open in the theater next door to where Siegel’s next show will open the very same night. Siegel gathers his entourage — his sassy, ex-stripper mother, his gangster henchman, his Hungarian backer, and his wide-eyed niece — and concocts a plan to find out what the mystery show is all about and prevent Dennam from ruining his show. As this screwball comedy unfolds, there are mistaken identities, pies in the face, cat fights, kidnapping, ape fights, deceit, underhandedness and even some romance as Siegel and his entourage collide with Dennam, Ann and Jack to save Siegel’s show.
“Boeing, Boeing”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays Feb 2-25, 2024, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) This 1960s French farce adapted for the English-speaking stage features self-styled Parisian Lothario Bernard, who has Italian, German and American fiancées, each a beautiful airline hostess with frequent “layovers.” He keeps “one up, one down and one pending” until unexpected schedule changes bring all three to Paris, and Bernard’s apartment, at the same time.
“Love in the Swamp”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 10, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $27-$55. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Presented by Dance Alive National Ballet. Nothing says “Happy Valentine’s Day” more than Love, and DANB gives you love in abundance! A fun and fantastic show, it sets the mood with the DANB men in Gator orange and blue dancing exuberantly down the aisles. Brian Chung’s magnificent work of love, “Touch Closer,” and resident choreographer Judy Skinner’s ode to Paynes Prairie, “Another Time … Another Place,” with poetry by Lola Haskins and images from Matheson History Museum following. The finale is a joyous celebration of dance framed by remarkable video projections of Gainesville landmarks by Houston Wells. Family friendly event.
“Come From Away”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) On Sept. 11, 2001, the world stopped. On Sept. 12, their stories moved us all. This stirring and inspiring musical takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of the small town of Newfoundland that opened its homes to 7,000 stranded travelers on Sept. 11. During that fateful week, cultures clashed and nerves ran high — but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. Celebrate the best of humankind and the best in all of us.
“Misery”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, March 1-17, 2024, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) “Misery” follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash by his “No. 1 fan,” Annie Wilkes, and wakes up captive in her secluded home. While Sheldon is convalescing, Wilkes reads his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Wilkes forces Sheldon to write a new “Misery” novel, and he quickly realizes Wilkes has no intention of letting him go anywhere. The irate Wilkes has Sheldon writing as if his life depends on it — and it does.
Step Afrika!: 7:30 p.m. March 5, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Step Afrika! is dedicated to the tradition of stepping, blending percussive styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, and traditional African and contemporary dance into a compelling experience. Much more than just movement, they integrate songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. This blend of technique, agility and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with hearts pounding.
“Jesus Christ Superstar”: 7:30 p.m. March 13, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Celebrating its 50th anniversary, a mesmerizing new production of the iconic musical phenomenon returns to the stage. Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, this production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades. Appealing to both theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring. “Jesus Christ Superstar” is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Gethsemane” and “Superstar.”
“Ordinary Days”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays March 22-April 14, 2024, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Experience the beauty of simplicity and the extraordinary in the ordinary with “Ordinary Days.” This intimate and introspective musical follows the lives of Deb, a graduate student who loses the notebook that contains all of her notes for her thesis somewhere on the streets of New York; Warren, a struggling artist and professional cat sitter who finds the notebook; and Jason and Claire, a couple inching toward marriage who can’t seem to completely figure each other out. Through a series of chance encounters and unexpected connections, their individual stories begin to intersect, revealing the profound impact that everyday encounters can have on our lives.
“Giselle”: 2 and 7:30 p.m. March 23, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35-$65. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Presented by Dance Alive National Ballet. The ultimate romantic ballet, “Giselle” is the tragic story of a beautiful, young peasant girl who falls in love with a nobleman disguised as a commoner. Ultimately dying of a broken heart, she becomes one with the “Wilis,” ethereal ghosts of unmarried girls. Family friendly performances.
“White”: 7 p.m. March 27-28 previews, then 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays March 29-April 14, 2024, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $25 previews, then $20-$50. (thehipp.org) When a major museum seeks to showcase diverse voices in its next exhibition, Gus, an artist, enlists Vanessa’s help to create an audacious new artistic persona of color to get him in the show. From there it all spins out of control in this modern comedy, exploring white privilege, racial politics and the fine line between appropriation and opportunity.
“On Your Feet!”: 7:30 p.m. March 30, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) The inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believe in their talent — and each other — to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan.
Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays April 5-28, 2024, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxury train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on Detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer — in case he or she decides to strike again.
360 Allstars: 4 p.m. April 14, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) An energy-packed performance for the whole family complete with basketball, breakdancing, beatboxing, acrobatics, BMX biking and more. 360 Allstars is a supercharged urban circus showcasing the phenomenal physical fusion of the artistry from street culture.
“Private Lives”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, April 19-May 5, 2024, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) Elyot and Amanda, once married and now honeymooning with new spouses at the same hotel, meet by chance, reignite the old spark and impulsively elope. After days of being reunited, they again find their fiery romance alternating between passions of love and anger. Their aggrieved spouses appear, and a roundelay of affiliations ensues as the women first stick together, then apart, and new partnerships are formed.
“Cabaret”: 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, April 19-May 5, 2024, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920s draw to a close, a garish master of ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all of their troubles at the Cabaret. With the emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, “Cabaret” explores the dark, heady and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken with English singer Sally Bowles.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo: 7:30 p.m. April 23, 2024, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $12 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is a world-famous, all-male, classically trained ballet troupe that delivers hilarious parodies while performing both men’s and women’s roles. Described as “a kick from a steel toe cap in a silky pointe shoe,” this irreverent, beloved dance troupe is celebrating its 50th anniversary season of toeing the line between high art and high camp with their humorous blend of deep knowledge of ballet with absolute silliness. Their performances offer satire of the rigid world of dance through their playful, fresh, tongue-in-cheek concept.
The Harlem Globetrotters: 7 p.m. April 25, 2024, Stephen C. O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. Tickets: Prices vary; see website for details. (bit.ly/globetrotters24) The trick-performing basketball team will go head-to-head against the Washington Generals, who will stop at nothing to try and defeat the world’s winningest team.
“Treasure Island”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays May 24-June 9, 2024, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Picture a world where pirates rule what we call Earth. Humanity’s desire to find hidden treasures will take them to heights they never imagined. Based on the masterful adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, “Treasure Island” is an epic adventure from Ken Ludwig. It begins at an inn on the Devon coast of England, and quickly becomes an unforgettable tale of treachery and mayhem featuring a host of legendary swashbucklers including the dangerous Billy Bones, the sinister two-timing Israel Hands, the brassy woman pirate Anne Bonny, and the hideous form of evil incarnate Blind Pew. Sail the vastness of space to find Captain Flint’s treasure in this coming-of-age tale that is out of this world! Join Jim Hawkins as he navigates the universe longing for adventure with the infamous Long John Silver, perhaps the most famous hero-villain of all time. Silver’s greedy quest for gold, coupled with his affection for Jim, cannot help but win the heart of every soul who has ever longed for romance, treasure and adventure.
“Dead Man’s Cellphone”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-30, 2024, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) An incessantly ringing cellphone in a quiet café. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man — with a lot of loose ends. So begins “Dead Man’s Cellphone,” a wildly imaginative new comedy by Sara Ruhl. A work about how we memorialize the dead — and how that remembering changes us.
“In The Heights”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 19-Aug. 11, 2024, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) “In the Heights,” created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood — a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can decide which traditions you take with you and which ones you leave behind.
“The Wizard of Oz — Youth Edition”: 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July/August 2024, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a scarecrow with no brain, a tin man with no heart, and a lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness — and self-awareness — is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Scene Calendar: Paula Poundstone, 'Annie Warbucks,' Joey's Wings 5K
