Scene Calendar: Noah Hunton Band, 'Misery,' Irish dancers and more
MUSIC
Noah Hunton Band: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Celebration Pointe, Northwest Corner of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (facebook.com/celebrationpointeFL/events) Live music on the promenade stage. Seating is first come first served, so feel free to bring a chair.
Live and Local Concert Series: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/livelocal24) Live performances by Jane K Collective, In Full Swing and Jernie.
Third Friday Concert: 7 p.m. Friday, St Patrick Catholic Church, 500 NE 16th Ave. Free; offering for Gainesville Community Band. (tinyurl.com/tfcsmarch24) The Gainesville Community Band will perform an Irish concert in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.
Santa Fe Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $15 adults; $9 seniors, students, children and military service members; free to SF students, faculty and staff with college ID cards. (395-4181, showpass.com/jazz-up-spring-2) The Santa Fe Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo will celebrate the work of jazz trail blazers Duke Ellington and Count Basie in the annual “Jazz Up Spring” concert.
Get the Led Out: 8 p.m. Friday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $29.50-$55. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Get The Led Out will bring recordings of Led Zeppelin — “All My Love,” “Ramble On,” “Tangerine,” “Kashmir” and more — to life in this high-energy concert experience.
Zach Top: 8-11 p.m. Friday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. TIckets: $15-$20. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) When contemporary influences expand country music’s parameters, you’ll hear “country music ain’t like it used to be” as a common refrain. But 25-year-old Zach Top is reviving the spirit of ’90s traditionalists with classic vibes that evoke the dancehalls of Texas, the roar of the rodeo and jukebox ballads with a cold beer in hand.
UF Carillon Studio Concert Series — Florida Carillon Festival, Malgosia Fiebeg: 6:15 p.m. Saturday, Century Tower Carillon, 375 Newell Drive. Free. (arts.ufl.edu/sites/carillon-studio/welcome) The University of Florida Carillon Studio is made up of students who have auditioned and committed to upholding the tradition of performing in Century Tower. The UF Carillon Studio Concert Series offers a chance to hear the UF Carillon during a 45-minute recital. Listeners are encouraged to find a location at least 100 feet from the tower for an optimal listening experience.
Colin Hay: 8 p.m. Saturday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $59.50-$99.50. (pvconcerthall.com) The former Men at Work singer and now solo star will perform.
Ying Li: 2 p.m. Sunday, 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.
The Weight Band: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $34-$44. (pvconcerthall.com) Featuring members of The Band and the Levon Helm Band.
Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, 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. Wednesday, 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.
Emery and The Almost: 7 p.m. Thursday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $33-$38. (pvconcerthall.com) The emo rock bands will perform.
“Sing Into Spring”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $15 adults; $9 seniors, students, children and military service members; free to SF students, faculty and staff with college ID cards. (395-4181, showpass.com/sing-into-spring-2) The Santa Fe Singers will be joined by the Santa Fe Guitar Ensemble and the Voices Rising Community Chorus for the annual “Sing Into Spring” concert.
Air Supply: 8 p.m. Thursday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39.50-$79.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Air Supply is the Australian rock duo of Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock. They had worldwide success with the major hits “All Out of Love,” “Make Love Out of Nothing At All,” “Lost In Love,” “Here I Am," “The One That You Love” and more. They are members of the Roc ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
THEATER
“Misery”: 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, 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.
Tom Segura: 8 p.m. Friday, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets: $62.50-$112.50. (904-209-0367, theamp.com) Actor/Comedian/Writer Tom Segura is one of the biggest names in the comedy business. Segura is best known for his Netflix specials “Ball Hog” (2020), “Disgraceful” (2018), “Mostly Stories” (2016) and “Completely Normal” (2014). His fifth Netflix special “Sledgehammer” was released July 4, 2023, and debuted at No. 1 on the streamer.
Kountry Wayne: 7:30 p.m.Saturday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39-$79. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Recently named one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch in 2021, Kountry Wayne has garnered a loyal following from his widely popular digital sketches and standup, generating an extraordinary amount of buzz among his peers within the entertainment industry as one of comedy’s most notable rising stars.
The Cancelled Podcast with Tana Mongeau and Brooke Schofield: 7 p.m.Sunday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $25-$45. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Get up close and personal for a discussion with your favorite co-host besties Tana Mongeau and Brooke Schofield in this exclusive live show.
“Who’s in The Box? 2”: 6-8 p.m. Monday, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Free. (tinyurl.com/witb224) With the increase in gun violence in communities, “Who’s in The Box? 2” is a realistic dramatic presentation addressing youths and gun violence.
DANCE
Gainesville Dance Academy Irish Dancers: Noon Sunday, Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free. (gvilledance.com/performing) St. Patrick's Day community performance.
Gainesville Dance Academy Irish Dancers: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Mother's Pub and Grill North, 1017 W. University Ave. Free. (gvilledance.com/performing) St. Patrick's Day community performance.
Gainesville Dance Academy Irish Dancers: 6 p.m. Sunday, The Bull, 18 SW First Ave. Free. (gvilledance.com/performing) St. Patrick's Day community performance.
Gainesville Dance Academy Irish Dancers: 6-7 p.m. Monday, The Village, 8000 NW 27th Blvd. Free. (gvilledance.com/performing) Academy dancers join Irish music duo Celtic Ray to bring merry luck onstage for a St. Patrick's Day party.
ET CETERA
Rooterville Animal Sanctuary Visit: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, 5579 Darwood St., Melrose. Cost: Suggested $10 donation per person. (tinyurl.com/rasvmar24, rooterville.org) From playful pigs to gobbling turkeys, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Connect with rescued animals and learn about the importance of animal welfare. All proceeds help care for the animals. You are welcome to bring snacks to feed the critters or buy them on site. They love baby carrots, strawberries, grapes, sliced apples and some veggies. Tickets are limited to 20 guests per 1.5-hour time slot.
Weekly Walk and Talk: 3-4 p.m. Friday, Santa Fe River Preserve, 27025 N. SR 121, Alachua. Free. (facebook.com/AlachuaConservationTrust/events) River basin hike.
St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, High Springs Brewing Co., 18562 NW 237th St., High Springs. Contact the GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club for pricing information. (386-518-3276, Ext. 2) The GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club will be serving homemade shepherd's pie, corned beef sliders, hot dogs and dessert. Proceeds will support Al’z Place, a daycare located in Gainesville for Alzheimer’s patients.
“Florida Skies (Spring)”: 7 p.m. Fridays through May 31, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 for adults; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/florida-skies-spring-4) Join James Albury, former co-host of the PBS TV Show “Star Gazers,” as he takes you on a personally guided tour of the night sky using the GOTO Chronos Space Simulator.
Ichetucknee Springs 5K Trail Run: 7 a.m. Saturday, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, 12087 SW U.S. 27, Fort White. Cost: $6 entrance fee per car to enter the park plus $47 race fee. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/FortWhite/IchetuckneeSprings5K) Race fee includes commemorative shirt, finisher medal, patch, accurately measured and well-marked course, chip timing with awards three deep in five-year age groups for both events, post-race food and drinks, and more. A portion of each entry fee will benefit the Florida Springs Council.
Sunrise Hike: 7:30-8 a.m. Saturday, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road. Cost: $5 per vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, vans and bikes. (tinyurl.com/sh24a) Join a ranger on a 30- to 45-minute walk into the wetlands while you enjoy the sunrise and learn about the importance of the sun throughout the world in the past and present. End with a brief guided meditation to enjoy the sun's energy throughout your day.
Family Fishing Day: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, 7922 NW 71st St. Free; cash donations welcomed. (ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu) Family oriented fresh-water fishing with loaner poles and bait available. Railed fishing deck with two handicapped accessible ramps.
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, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $35 adults, $15 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.
Historic Haile Homestead Tour: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Entrance: $5 ages 12 and older, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) The Historic Haile Homestead is unique in the nation for its "Talking Walls.''
Gainesville Street Rods Car and Truck Show: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free for spectators; items and food for sale. (stopchildrenscancer.org) Annual event in its 42nd year featuring automobiles, food, music and vendors. Show benefits Stop Children’s Cancer.
Trenton Spring Festival: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Douberly Farms, 830 NE Trenton Blvd., Trenton. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/tsf24) Celebration of spring featuring more than 100 vendors, food trucks, kids zone 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.
Nowruz and International Festival: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/nif24) Event to celebrate both the Persian New Year as well as all cultures in attendance. Wear your culture's costume to this diverse event that will educate attendees through food, music, dance, clothing and flags.
Spring Festival: 1-6 p.m. Saturday, Frog Song Organics, 4317 NE U.S. 301, Hawthorne. Free entry; donations accepted; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/sf24a) Annual event featuring strawberry U-pick and prepared foods available for sale, live music, food trucks and farm-to-table menu, guided walking tours, farm stand, educational workshops and kids’ activities.
Downtown High Springs Artwalk: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, 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.
“Tales of the Maya Skies”: 5-5:30 p.m. Saturdays through March 30, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $6.17-$8.22. (showpass.com/tales-of-the-maya-skies-2) Digital fulldome show that immerses the audience in Mayan astronomy, art and culture through a custom score and visuals. Produced by Chabot Space and Science Center, “Tales of the Maya Skies” inspires and educates through its description of the Maya's accurate astronomical achievements and how astronomy connected them to the universe. The program is accompanied by an extensive educator's guide.
Two Hawk Hammock Happy Hour: 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Two Hawk Hammock, 17950 NE 53rd Lane, Williston. Tickets: $5 ages 13 and older, free ages 12 and younger. (twohawkhammock.com) Live music, food and drinks, and barn animals.
Martin Luther King Jr. Banquet: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Archer Community Center, 16671 SW 137th Ave., Archer. Cost: $20, free for children. (tinyurl.com/mlkjb24) Annual event. This year’s speaker is Marsha Kiner.
“Eclipse”: 7-7:45 p.m. Saturdays through April 8, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St.Tickets: $8.22 for adults; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/eclipse) "Eclipse: The Story of Our Nearest Neighbor in Space" takes you on a journey of discovery to our nearest celestial neighbor. Learn about the origins, composition and mechanics of the moon. Discover how the ancients were able to predict eclipses with great accuracy, and find out when/where you can view the next eclipse.
Sunday Assembly: 11 a.m. Sunday, Pride Center located in the Springhill Professional Center, 3850 NW 83rd St., Suite 201. Free. (SundayAssembly32601@gmail.com, sagainesville.weebly.com) Sunday Assembly will host Donna Waller, now retired professor emerita of history and political science at Santa Fe College. She taught courses in American political history and honors classes, and she continues to teach there and at other venues. She also is active in the League of Women Voters. The title of her talk is “State Legislatures: Ours and Theirs.” Music will be provided by Sunday Assembly musicians with the opportunity to sing along. It also is possible to attend via Zoom.
“Mesmerica 360”: 2, 3:15 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: SOLD OUT. (tickets.mesmerica.com/gainesville2gxp) “Mesmerica” is a visual music journey that brings the mesmerizing music of Grammy-nominated composer and percussionist James Hood together with visually-hypnotic, 3-D animated art curated from artists around the world, creating an immersive experience designed to transcend time, relax, soothe and stimulate your mind and senses.
St. Patrick’s Day Block Party: 5 p.m. Sunday, Haile Village Bistro and Queen’s Arms Pub, 5323 SW 91st Terrace. Free entry; food and drinks for sale. (tinyurl.com/spdbp24) Annual event featuring kids’ station, music, food and more. Don’t forget to wear green.
Sublime Frequencies: Film Screening with Director Hisham Mayet: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. TIckets: $15. (heartwoodsoundstage.com) Screenings of “The Divine River” and “Oulaya’s Wedding.”
Sweetwater Wetlands Park Wednesday Bird Walks: 8:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays through May 29, 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, 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.
Community Afro-Haitian Dance Masterclass: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Eastside Recreation Center, 2841 E. University Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/cahdm24a) The Center for Arts, Migration and Entrepreneurship welcomes Adia Whitaker, director of the Àṣẹ Dance Theatre Collective, for a residency in Gainesville as she develops her dance film project, “Following the Road to Ose Tura.” Along with leading dance masterclasses in the community and on campus, Whitaker will host a public discussion on the creative process of choreographing and producing the project. Light refreshments will be offered.
Celebration Pointe 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.
Easter Egg Hunt: 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Magnolia Ridge Health and Rehabilitation, 6517 NW 39th Ave. Free; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mrrceaster24) Annual event in its second year featuring petting zoo, vendors, food trucks, photo opportunities and the Easter Bunny.
CASTING CALL
Tioga’s Got Talent: Auditions: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Watson Realty Corp Tioga, 12921 SW First Road, No. 117, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/tgt24) Inaugural event that will be held live on stage at the Tioga Town Center Square from 7 to 9 p.m. April 20. There will be two age groups; the Junior Division for ages 8-17, and the Adult Division for ages 18 and older. Prizes will be provided by local businesses, and will be awarded after each division performs. All performances are limited to 5 minutes, and must be age-appropriate and family friendly.
ART
Artisans' Guild Gallery: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. March 23 “Earth Bound,” featuring folk art and fine crafts from around the world along with a presentation from Laurie Wilkins about how she came to acquire the artifacts. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 224 NW Second Ave. (378-1383, artisansguildgallery.com)
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Imagination in Motion: Animation and Optical Illusions,” a world of endless possibilities where reality blurs and creativity takes center stage. Unveil the secrets of animation’s evolution, immerse yourself in optical illusions and discover the science behind your favorite animated films; “Reel Revolution: The Rise of Animation,” where attendees can explore how the future of animation is being shaped within the minds of visionaries just like them. Step through time to uncover the origins of some of the most well-loved movies, shows and characters of all time. 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)
Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. open studio Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. open studio Sunday; 9 a.m. Wednesday Boat Builders; 2:30-5 p.m. Wednesday Shark Sewing Club; 4-7 p.m. Thursday Mixed Medium Spring Wreath with Sonja Rine. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 457 Second St., Cedar Key. (543-5801, cedarkeyartscenter.org)
Florida Museum of Natural History: “Antarctic Dinosaurs” on display through April 21. 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: “An Elegy to Rosewood” on display through March 23; “Crossroads of Western and Eastern Europe — The Center for European Studies at UF” on display March 26-April 20; “Disruption” on display April 23-May 25; “Weeklong Solo/Curated Shows and Member Postcards” on display May 28-June 22; “Summer Showcase 2024” on display June 25-July 20; “Hair” on display July 23-Aug. 24; “Biennial National Juried Exhibition — Heat” on display Aug. 27-Oct. 19; “Nostalgia” on display Oct. 22-Nov. 23; “Winter Showcase 2024” on display Nov. 26-Dec. 20. 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: “Surrealism at the Harn,” a centennial celebration, on display through June 2; “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display through July; “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)
Matheson History Museum: “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. On display through May 4; “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum,” an all-encompassing view of the Matheson’s history and its origins; “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: Open Air Arts on display Saturday-April 28, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. April 5. 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)
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.
Sweetwater Print Cooperative: "No Words," an exhibit of watercolors and other works by Joon Thomas, on display through March 26. Gallery hours: By appointment. 117 S. Main St. (514-3838)
UPCOMING CONCERTS
Live and Local Concert Series: 7-9 p.m. March 22, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/livelocal24) Live performances by Half Gone, Earworms and Boat Stuff.
Playlist at the Pointe: 7-9 p.m. March 22, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Jamie Davis will perform. Food will be available from area restaurants.
UF Carillon Studio Concert Series: 1:55 p.m. March 24, Century Tower Carillon, 375 Newell Drive. Free. (arts.ufl.edu/sites/carillon-studio/welcome) The University of Florida Carillon Studio is made up of students who have auditioned and committed to upholding the tradition of performing in Century Tower. The UF Carillon Studio Concert Series offers a chance to hear the UF Carillon during a 45-minute recital. Listeners are encouraged to find a location at least 100 feet from the tower for an optimal listening experience.
Academy of St. Martin in the Fields: 7:30 p.m. March 24, 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.
Community Choral Singing: 4-6 p.m. March 29, Oakview Community Center, 810 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/ccsmar24) Come together to enjoy singing madrigals, anthems, spirituals, pop, jazz and holiday classics.
Live and Local Concert Series: 7-9 p.m. March 29, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/livelocal24) Second annual Teen Artist Showcase.
Eli Lev: 6 p.m. April 6, Satchel's Pizza, 1800 NE 23rd Ave. Free. (satchelspizza.com) The rising singer-songwriter pens lyrics and melodies for everyday enlightenment — songs that resonate because they’re heartfelt and earthy, and offer the wisdom he’s gained through lifelong travel and self-discovery.
Harold López-Nussa: 7 and 9 p.m. April 11, 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, 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.
UF Carillon Studio Concert Series: 1:55 p.m. April 21, Century Tower Carillon, 375 Newell Drive. Free. (arts.ufl.edu/sites/carillon-studio/welcome) The University of Florida Carillon Studio is made up of students who have auditioned and committed to upholding the tradition of performing in Century Tower. The UF Carillon Studio Concert Series offers a chance to hear the UF Carillon during a 45-minute recital. Listeners are encouraged to find a location at least 100 feet from the tower for an optimal listening experience.
Playlist at the Pointe: 7-9 p.m. April 26, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) TJ Brown Band will perform. Food will be available from area restaurants.
UPCOMING EVENTS
“Ordinary Days”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays March 22-April 14, 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, 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, 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.
Sunrise Hike: 7:20-8 a.m. March 30, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road. Cost: $5 per vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, vans and bikes. (tinyurl.com/sh24a) Join a ranger on a 30- to 45-minute walk into the wetlands while you enjoy the sunrise and learn about the importance of the sun throughout the world in the past and present. End with a brief guided meditation to enjoy the sun's energy throughout your day.
“On Your Feet!”: 7:30 p.m. March 30, 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, 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.
Pancakes on the Prairie: 9-11:30 a.m. April 6, Poe Springs boat ramp, 28800 NW 182nd Ave., High Springs. Free. (alachuaconservationtrust.org) Join ACT for a pancake breakfast at the cabin on Tuscawilla Prairie. This event is first come, first served; pancakes and coffee will be available while supplies last.
Perspectives in the Park Speaker Series: Noon-1 p.m. April 7, Hogtown Creek Headwaters Park 1500 NW 45th Ave. Free. (facebook.com/cityofgainesvillenature/events) Monthly event. Learn from experts in their field about nature, history and art, and hear some of their stories. “Wandering in Wiregrass” with Raelene Crandall.
Spring Arts Festival: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 14, Santa Fe College Northwest Campus, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (sfcollege.edu) Artists and craftspeople from across the country and around the world will highlight their talents in mediums including painting, sculpture, jewelry, glass, ceramics and more.
Yoga in the Park with Emma Sugarman: 2 p.m. April 13, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free. (mathesonmuseum.org) Yoga class on the front lawn of the historic Matheson House. All levels and abilities are welcome. Bring your own yoga mat or towel.
360 Allstars: 4 p.m. April 14, 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.
Houston Keen Band: 6-9 p.m. April 16, Celebration Pointe, Northwest Corner of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (facebook.com/celebrationpointeFL/events) Live music on the promenade stage. Seating is first come first served, so feel free to bring a chair.
“Beyond Therapy”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, April 19-May 4, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. Tickets: $25 general admission; $20 students, seniors, military and teachers. (acrosstown.org) Bruce and Prudence, two modern, neurotic urbanites searching for love and sanity — with the questionable help of their offbeat therapists. This delightful comedy will keep you laughing as the couple learn to live beyond therapy.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo: 7:30 p.m. April 23, 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.
Ann Weimer Moxley: “Just Call Me Rae: The Story of Rae O. Weimer, Founder of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications”: 7 p.m. April 24, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free; registration required. (mathesonmuseum.org) Rae O. Weimer founded the University of Florida’s first school of journalism in 1949. Ann Weimer Moxley, Weimer’s daughter, has written an eye-opening chronicle of her late father’s lasting legacy to journalism in the state of Florida.
The Harlem Globetrotters: 7 p.m. April 25, 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.
“Once Upon a Time in Florida: Roots and Rivers” with Jacki Levine, Jack E. Davis and Cynthia Barnett: 6:30 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. panel discussion May 1, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free; registration required. (mathesonmuseum.org) This is the final stop in the Florida Humanities’ statewide book tour for “Once Upon a Time in Florida.” This book marks Florida Humanities' 50th anniversary with a collection of 50 timeless stories from the archives of FORUM, the award-winning magazine of Florida Humanities. This tour stop will focus on Florida’s environment.
Floridiana Show: Time TBD May 4, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free. (mathesonmuseum.org) The Floridiana Show is back featuring Florida kitsch and vintage Florida from a variety of vendors from Gainesville and around the state.
I Heart Art: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May 4, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, 11016 Lillian Saunders Drive, White Springs. Free entry; items and food for sale. (artinmypark@yahoo.com) Traditional arts-and-crafts demonstrations and items for sale. Items range from weaving, painting, wood working, soap making, photography and other handmade items.
“Treasure Island”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays May 24-June 9, 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.
“Cabaret”: 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-23, 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.
“Dead Man’s Cellphone”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays June 7-30, 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 cafe. 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, 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, 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: Live and Local concert, Spring Festival and more
