Scene Calendar: New Year's Eve celebrations and more

Gainesville Sun
·38 min read

MUSIC

New Year’s Eve Eve: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, 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.

Downtown Countdown: 8 p.m. Sunday, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Ring in the New Year with DJ Wax Atom followed by a live performance with Shoddy Beatles. Fireworks display to follow.

Donna the Buffalo: 8 p.m. Thursday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $34-$36. (pvconcerthall.com) Donna The Buffalo is not just a band, rather one might say that Donna The Buffalo has become a lifestyle for its members and audiences. Since 1989, the roots rockers have played thousands of shows and countless festivals.

THEATER

Matt Mathews: 8 p.m. Friday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39.50-$99.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, Matt Mathews is a stand-up comedian, social media star, multi-award-winning boudoir photographer, and the host of the hit podcast “Real Talk with Matt Mathews.”

Fortune Feimster: 7 p.m. Saturday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $29.50-$165. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) You can catch stand-up comedian, writer and actor Fortune Feimster on the radio, on screens both big and small, and touring her stand-up across the nation.

ET CETERA

Venardos Circus: 4 and 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. plus 2 and 5 p.m. Sunday-Monday, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets: $16.95-$54.95. (904-209-0367, theamp.com) Back by popular demand, the Venardos Circus, a Broadway-style, animal-free circus, is returning with its all-new “Let’s Build a Dream” tour. This season the wondrous Venardos Circus cast will take audiences on a journey under the big top as it unveils a fresh, magical and all-new experience for fans. The 2023 Venardos Circus is traveling with a new, custom-crafted, Italian-made red-and-white striped tent that offers expanded seating around a central stage for an immersive experience.

Winter Wonderland: 5:30-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, North Central Florida YMCA, 5201 NW 34th Blvd. Cost: $15. (winterwonderlandfl.com) Walk-through light show with Christmas music, food and merriment.

Suwannee Lights: 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 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.

First Day Hike: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dudley Farm Historic State Park, 18730 W. Newberry Road. Cost: $5 per vehicle. (friendsofdudleyfarm.org) All 50 states are offering a First Day Hike in state parks around the country. Join Dudley Farm Historic State Park for a birding hike led by Ted and Mary Ellen from the Alachua Audubon Society.

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 New Year Walk or Ride Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, 1-3 p.m. Monday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $45 adults, $15 ages 2-11, free ages 1 and younger; $45 motorized-vehicle tours. (carsonspringswildlife.org, 468-2827, contact@cswildlife.org) The New Year Walk or Ride Tour is guided by professional zoologists. It’s a special event held by the foundation on New Year’s Eve and Day with big-cat feeding demonstrations. Tour allows attendees to get very close to the animals.

Vintage Holidays Guided Tours of the Historic Haile Homestead: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, 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.

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.

Sparks in the Park: 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Depot Park, 874 SE Fourth St, Free. (gainesvillefl.gov) Celebrate New Year’s Eve. All festivities are free, family friendly, and open to the public. Bring blankets and chairs and find a spot in the park to enjoy the last sunset of 2023 while a DJ hosts a family friendly dance party throughout the park. Then, a 20-minute musically choreographed fireworks show over the main pond followed by dinner, drinks, festivities and all that downtown has to offer.

Spark Wonder New Year's Celebration: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Cade Museum, 811 S. Main St. Tickets: $40 general admission, $30 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger; Cade Museum members receive a $10 discount on ticket prices. (cademuseum.org) Reflect, celebrate and anticipate the New Year. Watch Depot Park’s fireworks show from the comfort of the Cade Museum’s panoramic galleries with a drink and snacks in hand. Savor the last day of 2023 with games, experiments, New Year’s resolutions, an alternate time zone countdown, a photo booth and more. Adult tickets come with one drink ticket to be used for soda, beer, glass of wine or champagne at the cash bar.

New Years Eve Dance Party: 7 p.m. Sunday, Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St. Tickets: $25 general admission, $75 VIP, $125 two VIP tickets; VIP tickets not sold at door. (heartwoodsoundstage.com/event/new-years-eve-dance-party) Annual event in its second year featuring DJ A-Train. General admission allows access to Heartwood’s outdoor bar, a specially curated seasonal cocktail, unlimited use of the photo booth and dance floor. VIP admission includes everything available to general admission plus free late-night pizza from Humble Woodfire, indoor bar and all drinks paid for until 11 p.m.

New Year’s Eve Party: 8 p.m. Sunday, Amvets Post 444, 13751 NE 52nd Place, Williston. Free. (bit.ly/avny23) New Year’s Eve party featuring live music by Hiredguns.

First Day Hike: 9-11 a.m. Monday, O'Leno State Park, 410 SE O'Leno Park Drive, High Springs. Cost: $6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org) Guide will talk about the history of O'Leno State Park, the CCC, and resource management as it pertains to invasive removal and prescribed fire.

First Day Hike: 10-11 a.m. Monday, Fanning Springs State Park, 18020 NW U.S. 19, Fanning Springs. Cost: $6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org) Join park staff for a hike to learn about natural resources while enjoying the sounds of nature.

First Day Hike: 10-11 a.m. Monday, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy. Cost:$6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org) Start the New Year off with a guided hike of Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park on the Cones Dike Trail to see what the new year has to offer.

First Day Hike: 10-11 a.m. Monday, Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St., Palatka. Cost: $5 per vehicle or $2 per person. (floridastateparks.org) Enjoy the Ravine with a ranger-led hike while learning about the history of the park and getting to see the real Florida. Meet Park Services Specialist Paige Jones in front of the Civic Center by the flag poles. Wear clothes suited for the outdoors, closed-toe shoes, hat, sunscreen, water bottle and bug spray. The hike will be going down into the ravine, so there will be stairs to navigate as well as root exposure on the trails.

First Day Hike: 10 a.m.-noon Monday, Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, 7450 NE 60th St., High Springs. Cost: $6 per vehicle. (floridastateparks.org) The ranger-led hike will take visitors down the park's mile-long trail to observe multiple springs and learn why protection is so important to Florida's unique water features.

Frank Shorter Mile and Mustache Run Kids Race: Noon Monday, Westside Park, 3100 NW Eighth Ave. Cost: Free for current FTC members and kids; $15 non-members. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/FrankShorterMileandMustacheRunKidsRace2020) Ring in the new year with a fast mile. There will be awards for overall men and women. Awards for age-group winners in 10-year categories for first in each age group plus $100 in prize money for first-place male and female who break the current Frank Shorter mile record.

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.

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.

ART

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 Sunday; “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion,” featuring 40 full-scale machines that were built after in-depth study of Leonardo da Vinci’s designs, 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)

Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday open studio; 9 a.m. Wednesday Boat Builders. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. (543-5801, cedarkeyartscenter.org)

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: “Veiled, Hooded and Hidden” on display Jan. 17-20, 2024. 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: “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; “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; “Surrealism at the Harn,” a centennial celebration, on display through June 2, 2024; “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)

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 Saturday. 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: The annual Holiday Show, the only show where patrons may buy works by co-op members right off the wall for holiday giving, 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

Reed Foley: 7 p.m. Jan. 11, 2024, High Dive, 210 SW Second Ave., Suite A. Tickets: $10. (highdivegainesville.com) The rising Nashville country music star will perform along with Cam Wheaton and Trevor Ellis. Reed’s shows, which include a mix of original songs and a few popular covers, are known for their high energy and highly engaged audiences. It’s traditional country music, a mix of old and new stylings.

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.

Eli Lev: 6 p.m. April 6, 2024, 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, 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

“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.

“Portraits III”: Noon Jan. 26, 6 p.m. Jan. 27, Pofahl Studios, 1325 NW Second St. Tickets: Contact Dance Alive National Ballet for more information. (dancealive.org/2023/07/20/portraits-iii, info@dancealive.org, 371-2986) Step into the world of “Portraits III,” a movement performance created by Ani Collier in improvised collaboration with the Dance Alive National Ballet dancers. Witness magic unfold behind the curtains where silhouettes become storytellers and emotions are painted in motion. Feel the breeze created by each movement of the dancers’ bodies and hear every sound that the costumes and the set create. Enjoy watching the dancers embody the music and show their incredible versatility in an intimate environment at Pofahl Dance Studios, Resident School for Dance Alive National Ballet. Collier is a Bulgarian-born actor, director, dancer, choreographer, photographer and visual artist whose quicksilver thought process creates magic.

Dr. Ibram X. Kendi: 7 p.m. Jan. 26, 2024, Lincoln Middle School, 1001 SE 12th St. Tickets: $25 general admission, $30 family bundle (one adult and one child). (tinyurl.com/4zkvfnxc) Join award-winning author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi for an evening discussing “Barracoon” and his adaptations of Zora Neale Hurston’s work, Hurston’s enduring legacy, and why he wanted to adapt her work for children, plus Q&A with pre-selected audience questions.

“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.

“Beyond Therapy”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, April 19-May 4, 2024, 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.

“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: Winter Wonderland, First Day Hike events and more