MUSIC
Williamson Branch: 7-10 p.m. Friday, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at door. (musicliveshere.com) The Nashville group Williamson Branch is a dynamic bluegrass, country, gospel and dance music performing family of mom and dad with their daughters who travel across America bringing bluegrass with their voices and dynamic instrument ability.
Andy Summers: 8 p.m. Friday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $49.50-$74.50. (pvconcerthall.com) Andy Summers rose to fame in the early 1980s as the guitarist with the multi-million-record selling rock band The Police.
“Holiday Harmonies X — a Staged Radio Play”: 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Tickets: $20 adults, $15 students and seniors. (tinyurl.com/2p8cwp5k, gainesvillechorus.com, barbergators.com) The Barbergators Chorus and the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus are joining voices for their annual holiday show. This year’s show features the Barbergators Chorus, the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus and the combined chorus as well as chapter quartets, Jazzed, On the Edge and the Time of Our Lives. The performers will take audiences back to a 1940s radio studio for a live broadcast with plenty of barbershop harmony from studio choruses and quartets and a bonus episode of “Bart Holiday, Private Eye.” Also accepting donations for the Harmony Bridge Scholarship for veterans at Santa Fe College.
Dark Star Orchestra: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine. Tickets: $37.50-$49.50. (904-209-0367, theamp.com) Performing to critical acclaim for more than 20 years and more than 3,000 shows, Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. Their shows are built off the Dead’s extensive catalog.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Saturday, 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.
Country Christmas Jamboree: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $13. (musicliveshere.com) Christmas music performed by singer and guitarist Shane Patrick; guitarist, singer and performer Kian Sanchez; performer and singer Liliana Lassetter; Drew Nussbaum; and Riley Hodges.
The Sixties Show: 8 p.m. Saturday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $43.50-$68.50. (pvconcerthall.com) The Sixties Show features former members of The Who, Bob Dylan and NBC TV’s Saturday Night Live band.
Christmas Cantata: 7 p.m. Sunday, 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.
The Outlaws: 7 p.m. Sunday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $55.50-$95.50. (pvconcerthall.com) For more than 40 years, the southern rock legends celebrated triumphs and endured tragedies to remain one of the most influential and best-loved bands of the genre. Today, The Outlaws have returned with new music, new focus and an uncompromising new mission: It’s about a band of brothers bound together by history, harmony and the road.
Ann Wilson of Heart and Tripsitter: 8 p.m. Monday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $44.50-$74.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Ann Wilson, known the world over as a founder and the lead singer-songwriter of the barrier-breaking band Heart, is here to stay. Widely praised among the greatest singers in the history of rock, Wilson’s extraordinarily powerful voice has been sending chills down her audience’s collective spine for over five decades, earning record sales of more than $35 million, an induction into the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award.
“Music of the Season” Concert: 12:15-12:45 p.m. Tuesday, 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. Tuesday, 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.
Winter Concert: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free entry; food for sale. (tinyurl.com/4jbchpew) Healthy Learning Academy Elementary students will perform.
The Allman Betts Family Revival: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $49.50-$99.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Formally known as the Allman Family Revival. Featuring special guests Melody Trucks and J.D. Simo.
Holiday Concert: 7 p.m. Thursday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free entry; food for sale. (tinyurl.com/4jbchpew) Meadowbrook Elementary students will perform.
THEATER
“The Addams Family”: 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, 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 and Dec. 15, Theatre Park, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (alachuachildrenstheatre.com) A one-act performance.
“Miracle on 34th Street”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays through Dec. 17, Chief Theatre, 25 E. Park Ave., Chiefland. Tickets: $13-$15. (app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=chief) By chance, Kris Kringle, an old man in a retirement home, gets a job working as Santa for Macy’s. Kringle unleashes waves of good will with Macy’s customers and the commercial world of New York City by referring parents to other stores to find exactly the toy their child has asked for. Seen as deluded and dangerous by Macy’s vocational counselor, who plots to have Kringle shanghaied to Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital, Kringle ends up in a court competency hearing. Especially at stake is one little girl’s belief in Santa. In a dramatic decision, the court confirms Kringle as the true Santa, allowing Susan and countless other children to experience the joy of childhood fantasy.
“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. Friday-Saturday and Thursday- Dec. 16 plus 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday 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.
“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.
“Little Scrooge”: 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 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.
“It’s a Wonderful Life — The Radio Play”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Oakview Community Center, 810 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/29fanj9v) An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.
“Raad Tidings We Bring”: 6:30 p.m. Sunday, CLF Church, 19817 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/5a9rx78t) CLF kids tell the story of the birth of Jesus.
Nurse Blake: 8 p.m. Sunday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39.50-$79.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Blake Lynch, aka Nurse Blake, is a nurse, creator, internationally touring comedian, health care advocate and keynote speaker.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage”: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $29.50-$49.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning story by Charles M. Schulz, has warmed the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television more than 55 years ago. Now, the classic animated television special comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation that celebrates the timeless television classic so the whole family can join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the “Peanuts” characters in their journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas.
DANCE
“Cinderella”: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday plus 1 p.m. Saturday, Phillips Center for Performing Arts, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $15. (bit.ly/cinder23) Annual holiday performance presented by Danscompany.
ET CETERA
The Train Guys and Santa Claus: 5-8 p.m. Friday, 2-5 p.m. Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Sunday, 5-8 p.m. Thursday-Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 16, Saint Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church (next to City Hall, 18615 NW 238th St., High Springs. Free. (tinyurl.com/2p83av3p) Inaugural toy train event featuring three separate layout tables — one kid-interactive-friendly with buttons and switches activating the choo choos and accessories — plus Santa Claus making surprise visits and offering small gifts.
A Country Christmas: 5-9 p.m. Friday 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. nightly through Dec. 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.
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.
Holiday Nights: 6-8 p.m. Friday plus Dec. 15 and Dec. 22, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (tinyurl.com/yenpnp6b) Family holiday event featuring 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.
Old Fashioned Christmas: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Trenton Historical Train Depot, Northwest Fourth Avenue, Trenton. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/ofc23trenton) Family holiday event featuring Santa Claus, kids’ gift drawing, live music, food and more.
Kirby Family Farm’s Christmas Train: 6-10 p.m. Friday-Sunday plus 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.
Santa Crawl: 7 p.m. Friday, 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.
Tioga Outdoor Movie Night: 7:30 p.m. Friday, 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 Festival: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Chiefland Trailhead, 121 S. Main St., Chiefland. Free entry; donations for parking plus items and food for sale. (chieflandchamber.com) Rudolph Run, Christmas festival and parade.
Jingle Bell Jog 5K and Holiday Social: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Plantation Hall, 5100 SW 91st Terrace. Cost: Free for Florida Track Club Members, $15 non-members. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/JingleBellJog5kandsocial) Family friendly 5K jog around Haile Plantation followed by food, socializing and reindeer games.
Santa Paws 5K-9: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Albert “Ray” Massey Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St. Cost: $35 for 5K, $44.96 for 10K. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/DogtoberFest5k9) Annual event in its second year benefitting The Humane Society of North Central Florida. After-race party will feature “Jolliest Jogger” holiday-themed costume contest for both humans and pets, K-9 education and adoption, talent show for doggies, local vendors, pet photos with Santa, and family friendly activities.
Christmas in Columbia Holiday Market: 9 a.m. Saturday, Olustee Park, 169 N. Marion Ave., Lake City. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/xmasincolumbia23) Holiday event featuring vendors, children’s activities, food trucks, and live entertainment.
Tyler’s Hope Season of Hope 5K/15K Run: 9 a.m. Saturday, Hawthorne Trail, 3300 SE 15th St. Cost: $30-$40. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/SeasonofHopeRun) Annual run down the Hawthorne Trail where wildlife is abundant.
Breakfast and Photos with Santa: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Brown’s Country Buffet, 14423 NW U.S. 441, Alachua. Free entry; food for sale. (tinyurl.com/2jtfewwj) Santa will be visiting during breakfast and taking photos with customers.
Mega Christmas Household and Kids Item Give Away: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Deeper Purpose Community Church, 19930 N. U.S. 441, High Springs. Cost: $5 per person ages 12 and older, only exact-change cash. (tinyurl.com/rssbcjrd) Instead of a yard sale, everything is free to families who need it. Entry fee donations will go toward Deeper Purpose Community Charities Inc. to help the community.
Time Machine Tour: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, 12087 SW U.S. 27, Fort White. Cost: $10 in addition to the $5-per-vehicle park entry fee. (floridastateparks.org/events/time-machine-tour-3) Take a fascinating journey by van into the Ichetucknee’s past and learn about the history of human occupation on Ichetucknee’s lands. Participants will be taken into Ichetucknee’s forest to the site of the 17th century Mission de San Martin de Timucua and the ancient Timucuan capital of Aquacalyquen.
The Grinch: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Newberry Nutrition, 305 SW 250th St., Newberry. Free entry; drinks for sale. (tinyurl.com/2rh7s8xn) Bring your camera and take a free picture with the Grinch.
Old Fashioned Christmas: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Trenton City Park, Southeast Fifth Avenue, Trenton. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/ofc23trenton) Craft and vendor event.
Christmas Cookies Class: 10 a.m. Saturday, Amazing Grace Confections, 618 NW 60th St., Suite A. Cost: $70. (mysugarcookiejar.com) You will get a set of pre-baked cookies as well as all the supplies you will need to decorate them.
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.
Frostie Fest: 10 a.m. Saturday, New Waldo Flea Market, 17805 U.S. 301, Waldo. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/4vbzdjyf) Family holiday event featuring photos with Santa and the Grinch, bounce house, meet and greet with Nasty Boys, wrestling show by Knockout, food, vendors and more.
Merry Melrose Christmas Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, State Road 26 from Center Street to State Road 21, Melrose. Free. (melrosefl.com) Annual holiday parade. This year’s theme is “Peace on Earth.”
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.
Pictures with Santa: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Beauty Lounge & Co., 100 SW 75th St., Suite 203. Free; registration required. (tinyurl.com/4mbnyfu5) Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Christmas on the Farm: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Etheridge Cattle Company, 2551 NE 140th Ave., Williston. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mmuu9nvb) Family holiday event featuring vendors, live music, food trucks and more.
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.
Santa: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Blue Compass RV, 12380 NW U.S. 441, Alachua. Admission: Canned food or unopened toy donation. (tinyurl.com/25avy3js) Santa will collect food donations for Bread of the Mighty food bank and toy donations for Toys for Tots.
Hawthorne Community Festival of Trees: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 16 and 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. Saturday; Christmas music by Galilee Baptist Mission Group at 1 p.m. Dec. 16; and Santa Claus and voting results at noon Dec. 23.
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 Faire: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Constellation Charter School, 14450 NE 148th Ave., Waldo. Tickets: $25 for first child, $15 per additional sibling. (tinyurl.com/53sfrvud) Annual family holiday event featuring food, drinks, crafts for children to make holiday gifts, storytelling and a gift shop.
Jeep Jamboree: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Homestead Park, 1050 NE Sixth Blvd., Williston. Free for spectators; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/yc8h6wp8) Annual event to celebrate a shared love for the iconic Jeep brand with competition, displays, vendors and live music from Kash Erickson.
Holiday Stroll: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Micanopy Downtown Historic District, Northeast First Street, Micanopy. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/4vjtrhvh) Holiday gathering featuring shopping, cafes, live music, plein air artists, museum tours, Santa and Mrs. Claus, community tree lighting ceremony and live music by Gumbo Limbo and Martin Family Band.
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.
Country Circus: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Two Hawk Hammock, 17950 NE 53rd Lane, Williston. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at door, $12 seniors and military, free ages 12 and younger. (tinyurl.com/3rb53bsu) Annual event in its twelfth year featuring live music, arts and crafts vendors, circus arts, trick riding and more. Dogs on leashes welcome.
Mini Makers Market: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, AUK Market, 2031 NW Sixth St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (theaukmarket.com) Vendo market featuring a variety of goods and gifts, vendors and food trucks.
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.
Camp Crystal Lake 75th Anniversary Celebration: 12:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, 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.
Alachua Christmas Parade: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (tinyurl.com/yszxfj8t) Floats and holiday festivities.
Christmas at Butler: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Butler Town Center, 3217 SW 35th Blvd. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mwva62ec) Annual family holiday event featuring vendors, entertainment, holiday festivities, prizes and more.
Movie in the Park: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Barry Park, 25440 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/56f237ym) “Elf” on the big screen, popcorn, gingerbread-decorating craft and golf cart decorating contest.
Christmas in the Quarry: 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday plus 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. Saturday, Main Street, downtown High Springs. Free. (facebook.com/HSChamberOfCommerce) Annual Christmas parade with the theme “A Toyland Christmas.”
Holiday Open House: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park,18700 S. CR 325, Cross Creek. Cost: $3 per group in one vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay the fee. Correct change is needed. (marjoriekinnanrawlings.org/event-5130023) Annual holiday event.
Holiday Block Party and Vendor Market: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, 108 Vine, 3739 W. University Ave. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/3hc2n6ms) Holiday event featuring vendors, tarot readings, coquito and Puerto Rican desserts, and giveaways.
Winter Solstice Celebration: 8 p.m. Saturday, 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.
Breakfast with Santa: 9 a.m. Sunday, Dave and Buster’s, 3023 SW 45th St. Cost: $32.34. (tinyurl.com/2s3ubkdc) Ticket includes all-American breakfast buffet ticket with soda, coffee and tea; a $10 Power Card with unlimited video game play; kid-friendly crafts; early access to store; personal photo with Santa; suggested 18% gratuity; and taxes.
Brunch with Santa: 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Local Provisions, 13005 SW First Road, Suite 129, Newberry. Cost: $19.95 ages 12 and younger, $29.95 ages 13 and older. (tinyurl.com/282aup6y) A visit with Santa plus build your own pancakes, decorate your own donuts and visit the honey baked ham carving station.
Dr. Kevin Kokomoor: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free; registration required. (mathesonmuseum.org) Author and historian Dr. Kevin Kokomoor will discuss his book “La Florida: Catholics, Conquistadors, and Other American Origin Stories” followed by a Q&A and book signing.
Michaels Sunday Makebreak: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Michaels, 3644 SW Archer Road. Free. (michaels.com) A paper holiday or Hanukkah banner design. All supplies included.
Sunday with Santa: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Blackadder Brewing, 618-A NW 60th St. Free entry; drinks for sale. (tinyurl.com/5d9dc6mx) Santa, milk and cookies, and holiday draft offerings.
Holiday Mingle: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, 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.
Advent Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols: 5-6 p.m. Sunday, First Presbyterian Church, 300 SW Second Ave. Free. (1stpcmusic.org) Sing and hear lessons and carols for Advent and Christmas showing the development of the loving purposes of God as seen through the windows and words of scripture. At 4:30 p.m. the Gainesville Brass Quintet and First Presbyterian Jubilate Ringers present seasonal music.
McIntosh-Evinston Community Christmas Service of Lessons, Carols and Choir Anthems: 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Community Presbyterian Church, 20098 N. U.S. 441, McIntosh. Free. (facebook.com/McIntoshCommunityPresbyterian) Annual holiday service. Cookies and hot cocoa to follow.
“A Christmas Story” 40th Anniversary: 7 p.m. Sunday and Wednesday, 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.
Downtown Chanukah Family Festival: 5:30 p.m. Monday, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free; donations appreciated. (jewishgator.com) Community event for all ages.
“Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”: 12:10 p.m., 3:20 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9:40 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Regal Celebration Pointe, 4901 SW 31st Place; 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road; 1:05 p.m., 4:05 p.m. 7:05 p.m. and 10:05 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Regal Butler Town Center, 3101 SW 35th Blvd. (fathomevents.com/events/christmas-with-the-chosen-2023) A young mother labeled impure. A shepherd boy considered “unclean.” Experience Jesus’ birth through their eyes as “Christmas With The Chosen: Holy Night” blends The Messengers and The Shepherd into one special remastered and re-scored story. Plus, a never-before-seen performance from Andrea and Matteo Bocelli highlights seven musical performances and two new monologues.
Santa: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sweet Myra’s, 203 NW First St., Trenton. Free entry; food for sale. (tinyurl.com/vc7zarj2) Santa will be stopping by.
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.
Cocoa with Santa: 2-6 p.m. Wednesday, Gainesville Kitchen and Bath, Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free entry; items for sale. (tinyurl.com/y4juszsx) Christmas celebration featuring photos with Santa Claus, holiday delights, Christmas tunes and Santa Claus. This event is pet-friendly.
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.
Christmas Dinner, Cantata and Live Nativity: 5:15-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. Cost: $15 in advance for dinner; free cantata and Nativity. (trinitygnv.org) “Invitation to a Miracle” offered by Trinity’s choir and guest musicians.
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.
Holiday Market: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, GNV Market, 619 S. Main St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (tinyurl.com/mr255wt9) Holiday event featuring vendors, activities, hot drinks and Santa.
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 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)
Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday open studio; 5 p.m. Saturday drum circle; 4:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday Lions Club holiday party; 9 a.m. Wednesday Boat Builders; 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Keyhole holiday party; 2:30-5 p.m. Wednesday Shark Sewing Club. 457 Second St., Cedar Key. 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: “Growth,” the last of a series of exhibitions based on the organization’s governing values, on display through Dec. 21; “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: “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)
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; Works by Bjorn Parramoure on display Jan. 5-28, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Jan. 5; Works by Ray Hale on display Feb. 2-25, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Feb. 2; Works by Santa Fe art students on display March 1-10, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. March 1; Open Air Arts on display March 16-April 28, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. April 5; Works by Julie Robitaille on display May 3-26, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. May 3; Works by Carron Wedlund on display June 1-30, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. June 7; July featured artist TBA July 5-28, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. July 5; August featured artist TBA Aug. 2-25, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Aug. 2; Works by Candace McCaffery on display Aug. 31-Sept. 29, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Sept. 6; Works by Kay Deuben on display Oct. 4-27, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Oct. 4; Special Pre-Holiday Gifts Show to be held Nov. 1-10, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Nov. 3; 2024 Holiday Invitational to be held Nov. 16-Dec. 29, 2024, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6. 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: 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.
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
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
“Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night”: 12:10 p.m., 3:20 p.m., 6:40 p.m. and 9:50 p.m. Dec. 15-17, Regal Celebration Pointe, 4901 SW 31st Place; 1:05 p.m., 4:05 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10:05 p.m. Dec. 15-17, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road; 1:05 p.m., 4:05 p.m. 7:05 p.m. and 10:05 p.m. Dec. 15 and Dec. 17 plus 1:10 p.m., 4:10 p.m., 7:10 p.m. and 10:10 p.m. Dec. 16, Regal Butler Town Center, 3101 SW 35th Blvd. (fathomevents.com/events/christmas-with-the-chosen-2023) A young mother labeled impure. A shepherd boy considered “unclean.” Experience Jesus’ birth through their eyes as “Christmas With The Chosen: Holy Night” blends The Messengers and The Shepherd into one special remastered and re-scored story. Plus, a never-before-seen performance from Andrea and Matteo Bocelli highlights seven musical performances and two new monologues.
“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.
Dashing Through History: Step Back in Time for the Holidays: Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 16, Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Tickets: $16 members, $20 general admission, $10 ages 5-18, free ages 4 and younger. (simpletix.com/e/dashing-through-history-step-back-in-time-tickets149324, mathesonmuseum.org) Step back in time and celebrate the holidays with a twist of history featuring historical decor, live music, refreshments, historical crafts, stories of the past, gift shop, photo opportunities, community and connection.
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.
Holiday Pop-Up Market: Noon-5 p.m. Dec. 16, AUK Market, 2031 NW Sixth St. Free entry; items and food for sale. (theaukmarket.com) Vendo market featuring a variety of goods and gifts, vendors and food trucks.
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.
Sunday Assembly: 11 a.m. Dec. 17, 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 Stacy A. Scott as their guest speaker. Since 2010, Scott has been the public defender for the Eighth Judicial Circuit. She has been a strong advocate in Tallahassee on issues related to criminal justice and on funding for public defenders statewide. Currently, she is president elect of the Florida Public Defenders Association. Among other awards, she is the recipient of the 2017 Craig Stewart Barnard Outstanding Service Award. The title of her talk will be “Public defenders: Who we are, what we do, why we are important.” Music will be provided by Sunday Assembly musicians with the opportunity to sing along. It also is possible to attend via Zoom.
“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.
“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.
“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 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, 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.
