Performing arts guide

VENUES

(Venue details and contact information listed here

unless otherwise noted in listing.)

Alhambra Dinner Theatre, 12000 Beach Blvd., 641-1212, alhambrajax.com

Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre, 716 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 249-7177, abettheatre.com

Beaches Fine Arts Series, St. John’s Cathedral, 270-1771, beachesfinearts.org

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, 2445 San Diego Road, 346-5620, da-arts.org

Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., 355-2787, floridatheatre.com

Friday Musicale, 645 Oak St., 355-7584, fridaymusicale.com

Jacksonville Main Library, 303 N. Laura St., 630-2665, events.jacksonville.com

Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., 630-3900, jaxevents.com

JU’s Terry Concert Hall and Swisher Theater, 2800 University Blvd N, 256-7677, arts.ju.edu

Orange Park Community Theatre, 2900 Moody Ave., Orange Park, 276-2599, opct.org

Players by the Sea, 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, 249-0289, playersbythesea.org

Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 471-1965, pvconcerthall.com

Ritz Theatre and LaVilla Museum, 829 N. Davis Street, 632-5555, ritzjacksonville.com

Riverside Fine Arts, 1100 Stockton Street, 389-6222, riversidefinearts.org

Stage Aurora, 5164 Norwood Ave., 765-7372, stageaurora.org

St. Mary’s Little Theatre, 1100 Osborne Road, St. Mary’s, GA, 912-729-1102, stmaryslittletheatre.com

Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, 276-6815, thcenter.org

Times Union Center: Terry Theater, Moran Theater, Jacoby Symphony Hall; 300 W. Water St., 633-6110, jaxevents.com

UNF’s Fine Arts Center: UNF Recital Hall, Lazzara Performance Hall, Andrew A. Robinson Theater; 1 UNF Dr., 620-2961, unf.edu/fineartscenter

Wilson Center for the Performing Arts, 11901 Beach Blvd., 646-2222, fscj.edu.mydegree/campuses

Jan 25-Feb10 Clarinda, The Musical This is the U.S. premiere of a play based on the passionate letters between Robert Burns and his lover. Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre, www.abettheatre.com, (904) 249-7177

Jan 25-Feb17 Lost in Yonkers After a tumultuous teenage year, will Jay learn to accept his comically dysfunctional family? Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Feb 1-16 Conversations After A Burial When a family gathers for a funeral, you can be sure of old grievances re-surfacing, rueful remembrances and, if it’s a French family, love-making. The “conversations” of the title provide humor, insight, romance and hope for the future. Players by the Sea, www.playersbythesea.org, (904) 249-0289

Feb 1-10 Fences In this staged play, Troy Maxson, a former star of the Negro baseball leagues now works as a garbage man in 1957 Pittsburgh. Excluded as a black man from the major leagues during his prime, Troy’s bitterness takes its toll on his relationships with his wife and his son, who now wants his own chance to play ball. Stage Aurora, www.stageaurora.org, (904) 765-7372

Feb 4 at 12:30 pm Austin “Walkin’ Cane” A blues gumbo repertoire that can conjure up the ghosts of Highway 61 & the Delta Blues experience. Austin “Walkin’ Cane” is a blues singer, songwriter and slide guitarist who performs acoustic solo, duo and electric band sets. Free. FSCJ Kent Campus G-Stage, www.fscj.edu/mydegree/campuses/kent/index.php

Feb 5 at 7:30 pm Concerto Showcase Concert Dr. Simon Shiao, conductor. Free Admission. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 5-10 The Capitol Step The Capitol Steps puts the “mock” in democracy with political satire and songs like, Take the Money and Run for President and Desperate Housemembers. The Artist Series, Wilson Center for the Arts, 11901 Beach Boulevard, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 6-Mar 17 Driving Miss Daisy The simple and moving story of Daisy Werthan, a well-to-do widow in Atlanta, and her driver, Hoke Coleburn. Starring Michael Learned (from The Waltons). Alhambra Theatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Boulevard, www.alhambrajax.com, (904) 641-1212

Feb 6 at 7:30 pm Enduring Love: Stories Drawn from Cupid’s Quiver Tale Tellers of St. Augustine presents Theater Of The Mind: Storytelling. Experience stories from classic literature and history as told by Margaret Kaler, tandem tale tellers Wayne and Jane Sims, and the “Backintyme” duo, Frank and Mary Lee Sweet. Limelight Theatre Black Box Studio, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Feb 6 at 9 am 25th Annual Koger/Matteson Jazz Festival Dr. Clarence Hines, director. Free Admission. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 7 at 6 pm Strawberry Shortcake with very special guests The Doodlebops! An all-new musical production starring the most spirited red-haired girl, Strawberry Shortcake! In this live theatrical production, Strawberry Shortcake and her best friends prove that little girls can do berry big things! $38 / $33 / $28, Florida Theatre, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Feb 8 at 8 pm New Directions Veterans Choir The New Directions Veterans Choir is an award winning a cappella group that sings renditions of doo-wop, soul, traditional gospel and popular music. Riverside Fine Arts, Church of The Good Shepherd, 1100 Stockton Street, www.riversidefinearts.org

Feb 8 at 7:30 pm Chamber Music by Brahms An evening of chamber music by Johannes Brahms, featuring Trios for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano, and French Horn, Violin, and Piano, and the powerful Quartet in C minor for Violin, Viola, Cello, and Piano performed by faculty members Artie Clifton, Sean Morgan, Marguerite Richardson, Shannon Lockwood and Scott Watkins. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu/, (904) 256-7677

Feb 8 at 7:30 pm Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild Live Jungle Jack’s live show features many of his favorite animal friends, as well as fascinating and humorous stories and footage from his adventures around the world. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 9 at 8 pm Verdi’s Otello This brings the exploits of Shakespeare’s legendary Moorish general to the opera stage. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Feb 9 at 7:30 pm Turandot Puccini’s Final Operatic Masterpiece. Advance Tickets: $25, $30 at the door. Students with ID are $10. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. Open Seating. First Coast Opera, Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL, www.firstcoastopera.com, (904) 417-5555

Feb10 at 2 pm Thomas Pandolfi American pianist Thomas Pandolfi is an exciting virtuoso who, with each passing season, is becoming more and more sought after by audiences, and showered with superlatives by critics for his passionate artistry and amazing technique. Admission is $25. EMMA Concert Association, Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL, www.emmaconcerts.com, (904) 797-2800

Feb 10 at 3 pm JU Chamber Ensembles JU’s top student chamber ensembles, including the Honors chamber ensembles, present a concert of varied repertoire. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu/, (904) 256-7677

Feb 10 at 4 pm Paul Jacobs The young chair of the Juilliard Organ Department
returns for a third appearance on the series. Beaches Fine Arts Series, St. John’s Cathedral, www.beachesfinearts.org, (904) 270-1771

Feb 10 at 3 pm Chris Kahl Chris Kahl is a solo musician and songwriter who presents musical performances in a folk style that highlights Florida’s history through songs and storytelling. Suitable for all ages, A Musical Journey Through Florida transports the audience on a journey through the state and features songs that cover a wealth of history, characters and folklore. If you enjoy Tony Walsh’s Southern Stories and Bobby Horton, then you will not want to miss this. Tickets are $15. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Feb 13 at 7:30 pm Cummer Family Foundation Chamber Music Series presents: Trio di Colore Dr. Guy Yehuda, Artistic Director. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 13 at 12:30 pm Heroes and Hard Times: African American History Through Song and Story with Sparky and Rhonda Rucker takes audiences on a journey that spans over three centuries of African-American history, including slavery, the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, the birth of blues music, and the Civil Rights Movement. Each era is interspersed with stories and popular songs from the time period. They accompany themselves with finger-picking and bottleneck blues guitar, blues harmonica, old-time banjo, piano, spoons, and bones. Free. FSCJ Kent Campus G-Stage, www.fscj.edu/mydegree/campuses/kent/index.php

Feb 14 at 7:30 pm 25th Anniversary Great American Jazz Series presents: Kevin Mahogany J.B. Scott, Artistic Director. $8/$22/$30 depending on your seat. For tickets call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Lazzara Performance Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 14 at 8 pm Harpeth Rising The four classically trained musicians of Harpeth Rising bring an exciting and distinctively new sound to the folk genre. With a banjo and a fiddle, cello and hand drums round out the ensemble, creating a truly unique sound with intimate vocals and powerful lyrics. $12 advance, $15 at the door. European Street Café, 1704 San Marco Blvd, 399-1740, www.myspace.com/McLewEntertainment

Feb 14-15 Hadelich Plays Beethoven Wagner’s “Tristan and Isolde” and Tchaikovsky’s “Francesca da Rimini”. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Feb 15-16 The Fella Sings Ella: Scott Coulter sings Ella Fitzgerald Lauded for his soaring high notes, purity of tone and way with a lyric, Scott Coulter has been called “the male Ella Fitzgerald”. Now, for the first time, the multi-award-winning vocalist dedicates an entire evening to the First Lady of Song in “The Fella Sings Ella.” Coulter lovingly puts his own stamp on Fitzgerald classics from the Great American Songbook and sheds light on the life story of the greatest female jazz singer of all time. Tickets are $35. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Feb 15 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Trio Di Colore Guy Yehuda, clarinet. Yuval Gotlibovich, viola. Jimmy Briere, piano. Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

Feb 19 at 7:30 pm Rhythm of the Dance This dance and music extravaganza contains a wealth of talent, derived from all areas of Irish life, including three tenors and a Sean-nós dancer. The show is an inspiring epic, reliving the journey of the Irish Celts through history. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 20 at 7:30 pm Composerfest This concert will feature works by Jianjun He, Thomas Harrison and Tony Steve, as well as other composers on the faculty at JU. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Feb 20 at 7:30 pm Jazz Scholarship Concert: The UNF Jazz Trio Barry Greene, guitar. Danny Gottlieb, drums. Dennis Marks, bass. Special Guests: TBA. General Admission: $20/Students: $8. Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 21 at 7:30 pm Guest Artist Concert Dr. Gordon Brock, UNF Wind Symphony, conductor. Adults: $10/Students Free with ID. Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Lazzara Performance Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 21-Mar 3 Laundry & Bourbon and Lonestar Jacksonville University Theatre presents two one-act plays written by James McLure. These ‘good ole boy and gal’ comedies complement each other perfectly as bookends telling the tale of Roy as he returns home from war. Both ‘kitchen sink’ plays explore how difficult returning home from a war can be, both for the soldiers and the loved ones they left behind. This evening of one-acts has humor for country folk and city slickers alike. JU’s Swisher Theater, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Feb 22 at 11 am Classical Fusion This features the earliest works of Beethoven. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Feb 22 at 7:30 pm Great Guitar Gathering featuring Roland Dyens with Michael Chapdelaine and the DASOTA Guitar Orchestra $23.50 general admission, $13.50 student, Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Feb 22 at 7:30 pm Sing into Spring! Vocal Showcase: Featuring UNF Choral Ensembles and Student Soloists. Dr. Cara Tasher, UNF Director of Choral Activities, is the conductor. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 22-24 Color Blind An original musical that will open your heart and open your mind as it plays tribute to Black History Month and the challenges of racial harmony. St. Marys Little Theatre, 511 Osborne St, St. Marys, GA, www.stmaryslittletheatre.com

February 22-March 3 All New People Written by Zach Braff, the show begins with Charlie, taking a winter getaway at a friend’s empty summer house. The abandoned location seems just right for the sullen Charlie to make his final escape, until his solitude is interrupted by a parade of misfits. In come a British realtor, the local fireman, and a girl for hire, and the mood turns from angst to amusement and back again. $10, $15 at the door. Presented by The 5 & Dime, continuing its tradition of hosting innovative artistic events in Jacksonville’s Urban Core. Performed at The Pangea Live, 956 N Liberty St, www.The5andDime.org

Feb 22 at 8 pm 60’s Folk Reunion Festival The Kingston Trio (‘Tom Dooley’) headlines this show, and The Lovin’ Spoonful (‘Do You Believe in Magic?’), and Melanie Safka (‘Brand New Key’) also perform. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 22 – 23 Tom Arnold Tom Arnold has returned to his roots as a stand-up
comic this year. Never scripted, Tom pokes fun at his Midwest past, marital follies and absurd Hollywood stories. Comedy Zone at the Ramada Conference Center in Mandarin, 3130 Hartley Road, ComedyZone.com

Feb 23 at 7:30 pm Jacksonville Private Schools Honor Band Concert This 20th annual young artist program features the best instrumentalists from eight area private schools: Bishop Kenny, Bishop Snyder, Bolles, Episcopal, First Coast Christian, Providence, Trinity Christian and University Christian. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Feb 23 at 8 pm Major-Minor Concert Winston Family-Endowed Chair. This annual concert brings together the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and Youth Orchestra on one stage. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org,
(904) 354-5479

Feb 23 at 8 pm Celtic Crossroads Celtic Crossroads is critically acclaimed as ‘the most exhilarating and authentic show to come from Ireland in decades – not to be missed’. It is an explosion of youthful energy and dazzling musicianship. Celtic Crossroads abounds with fusions of traditional Irish music, bluegrass, gypsy and jazz whilst pulsating with the rhythms of exciting Irish dance percussion. Spontaneous mid-show ovations are the norm, and enraptured Celtic Crossroads audiences are always compelled to shout, and SHOUT for more. $40/$35 Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Feb 23 at 7:30 pm Russian National Ballet: Sleeping Beauty The Russian National Ballet Theatre returns to the THCA with “Sleeping Beauty”. This classic fairy-tale ballet comes alive amidst a lavish theatrical set complete with magical effects and courtly splendor with music by Tchaikovsky. Tickets start at $16. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Feb 23 at 7pm In the Mood More than a concert, this performance is a Big Band Theatrical Swing Revue. It’s the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Harry James, Erskine Hawkins, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra, and other greats of the 1940’s. Presented by The Artist Series. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 25 at 7:30 pm Faculty Recital Dr. Erin K. Bennett, piano. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Feb 26-Mar 3 Billy Elliot The Musical This is the joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dreams come true as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class. Based on the international smash-hit film, BILLY ELLIOT is brought to life by a phenomenal cast, a Tony Award-winning creative team, and music by Elton John. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Feb 28 Theatreworks Presents: Charlotte’s Web TheatreworksUSA’s production of Charlotte’s Web is based on E.B. White’s loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 353-3500

Feb 28 at 7:30 pm Nature and Music Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra Nature and music come together to create a breathtaking show, in partnership with the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA). Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

February 28 at 7:30 pm Piano Studio Class Recital This year’s annual Piano Studio Class Recital will celebrate Jacksonville University’s newest ensemble: A Marching Band! Marches by Strauss, Sousa, Schubert, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Elgar, Debussy, and others are featured. Solo piano, four hands at one piano, two pianos, and eight hands at two pianos in this fifth annual event. Get in step with all the fun! JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 1 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Trio Cleonice Ari Isaacman-Beck, violin. Gwen Krosnick, cello. Emely Phelphs, piano. Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

Mar 1-4 Opera Ensemble Presents “Gianni Schicchi” Dr. Krzysztof Biernacki, Director. 7:30 pm/Sunday 3 pm Matinee. Adults: $18/UNF Students Free with ID. Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 1-16 The Triangle Factory Fire Project A fire breaks out in the Triangle Waist Factory in downtown NYC. In the space of twenty-eight minutes the fire is under control, but 146 people, mainly young immigrant girls, have died. The Triangle Factory Fire Project uses eyewitness reports, court transcripts and other archival material to create this new dramatic account of the historic fire and the social upheaval that followed. Theatre Jacksonville, 2032 San Marco Boulevard, www.theatrejax.com, (904) 396-4425

Mar 2 at 7:30 pm Fiddler on the Roof Join Tevye, a poor milkman with a wealth of daughters, must choose between his own daughters’ happiness and those beloved traditions that keep the outside world at bay. No other musical has so magically woven music, dance, poignancy and laughter into such an electrifying and unforgettable experience. Relive the tradition! Tickets start at $21. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Mar 2-3 Amadeus Erik DeCicco stars as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Peter Shaffer’s Tony award-winning play, “Amadeus”, is produced and performed by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, in partnership with Players by the Sea. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Mar 5 at 10:15 am Aesop’s Dinosaur Fable An original musical production adapted by the Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre from Aesop’s well-known tale of the Grasshopper and the Ant. In this rollicking tale, the moral lesson, “It’s perilous to procrastinate,” plays out engaging young audiences in a creative way. Tickets $8. Connection to academic areas: Language Arts. Suggested audience: VPK – grade 2. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Mar 5 at 7:30 pm Orchestra Concert The JU Orchestra features the music of Swiss-born
American composer Ernest Bloch and other orchestral favorites. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 6 at 7:30 pm Jazz Scholarship Concert: The UNF Jazz Combos Lynne Arriale directs this concert. General Admission: $20/Students: $8. Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 7 at 7:30 pm New Music This concert will feature new works by some of Jacksonville University’s most talented young composers. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 8 at 7:30 pm Pablo Ziegler Quartet Latin Grammy Award-winner Pablo Ziegler and his
Quartet return to the series for a second appearance. Beaches Fine Arts Series, St. Pauls by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, www.beachesfinearts.org, (904) 270-1771

Mar 8-10 The Me Nobody Knows The theme is of children in the neighborhoods of New York City, who are “complex, introspective characters. Each ‘I’ is an authentic voice saying attention must be paid.” The children are self-assertive in the face of difficult lives. There are various stories told through song by the cast of 12, 8 black and 4 white. One story is about a 13-year old boy taking heroin for the first time. A boy watches as a drunk black man is taken away in an ambulance after an accident. In the musical number “If I Had a Million Dollars” the children ponder what they would do with the money and express “tightwad selfishness to outrageous spending sprees.” Stage Aurora, 5188 Norwood Avenue, www.stageaurora.org, (904) 765-7372

Mar 8-23 In the Next Room, or the Vibrator Play A comedy about progressive Dr. Givings who explores the use of a new technology, electricity, in treating women with “hysteria”, while neglecting his young wife Catherine. When he undertakes treatment of Sabrina Daldry, she and lonely Catherine strike up a friendship that transforms their lives. Players by the Sea, 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL, www.playersbythesea.org, (904) 249-0289

Mar 8-23 Moon Over Buffalo Charlotte and George Hay are an acting couple on tour in Buffalo in 1953. Their repertory consists of Cyrano de Bergerac (“revised, one nostril version”) and Noel Coward’s “Private Lives”. There seems to be some confusion as to which show is on tonight. Cyrano, Private Lives or a disturbing mixture of the two. Hilarious misunderstandings pile on madcap misadventures in this delightful love letter to live theater. Ticket prices are $15. Orange Park Community Theatre, 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL, www.opct.org, (904) 276-2599

Mar 8-Mar 30 The Rainmaker In Depression-era America, spinster-like Lizzie Curry’s family worries more about their daughter’s marital prospects than the drought that is threatening their ranch. When a swindler arrives and promises rain for $100, a chain of events has Lizzie seeing herself in a whole new light. Family-Friendly. Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Mar 8-9 at 8 pm Broadway’s Leading Men Four leading men from Broadway, one leading lady, and guest conductor Jack Everly present “The Great White Way’s” greatest moments including music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim and Rodgers & Hammerstein. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

March 9 Creative Intuitions Braided Light Dance Project is a modern dance company that is inspired by the intrigue of the human condition. They collaborate with other local artists to increase the awareness of the array of talent in Jacksonville. They will perform a benefit concert with live music, craft brewed beers, a food truck, a silent auction, and lots of dancing. The event begins at 6 pm with live music by Jackson Vegas and Phillip Pan of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Food will be available by On the Fly food truck and specialty craft beers by Intuition Ale Works. The dancers will present an hour-long concert starting at 7:30 pm and the evening will finish off with more music and an open dance floor. Tickets $20 and can be purchased by visiting www.BraidedLightDanceProject.org or 351-MOVE. Intuition Ale Works, 720 King St.

Mar 9-10 5th Annual Florida Clarinet Extravaganza Dr. Guy Yehuda, Artistic Director. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 10 at 2 pm Cowboy Jamboree Mosey on down to Jacoby Hall for a real, live Cowboy Jamboree with special guest Frank Oden! Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Mar 11 at 7:30 pm Cummer Family Foundation Chamber Music Series presents: Project Trio Dr. Guy Yehuda, Artistic Director. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 12 at 7:30 pm The Pirates of Penzance This New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players production is your chance to get carried away by Pirates. The rich sounds of full orchestra, chorus and legitimate vocal soloists resonate with classic elegance and power while the company’s vibrancy, energy and contemporary sense of humor keep the show alive and exciting to a modern audience. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 12 at 7:30 pm Cello at the Opera Shannon Lockwood and Dr. Scott Watkins perform a
collection of pieces for cello and piano inspired by opera, including music by Beethoven, Rossini, Verdi, and Puccini. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 13 at 8 pm Get The Led Out The Philadelphia-based band, Get The Led Out, has been dubbed by the media as “The American Led Zeppelin”. They continue to sell out shows on a regular basis leaving audiences feeling like they just witnessed an actual Led Zeppelin show. $35 / $28.50 / $63 combo with One Night of Queen. Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Mar 13 at 7:30 pm JU Student Jazz Concert Back to the big stage, the students and faculty of the JU Jazz Program perform their second show. Formally known as the “packed-out” Jazz in the Black Box, you don’t want to miss this concert! JU’s Swisher Theater, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 13 at 7:30 pm A Chorus Line This is the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line. Winner of nine Tony Awards®, including “Best Musical” and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the singular sensation returns for an all new tour. Come meet the new generation of Broadway’s best! The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 14 at 7:30 pm Faculty Recital Dr. James Hall, tenor. Dr. Michael Mastronicola, piano. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 14 at 7:30 pm Second Annual High School Choral Invitational The JU Men’s and Women’s Choirs and the University Singers share the stage with outstanding high school choruses from throughout the greater Jacksonville area in a celebration of choral music education in our schools. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Mar 14 at 7:30 pm Tierney Sutton Band A three-time Grammy nominee for “Best Jazz Vocal Album”, Tierney Sutton is often described as “a singer’s singer”, but just as often, she is described as a “musician’s singer”, who uses her voice like an instrument. The band’s music consistently top the US jazz radio charts. Riverside Fine Arts, Church of The Good Shepherd, 1100 Stockton Street, www.riversidefinearts.org

Mar 15 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Dover Quartet Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

Mar 15 at 8 pm Lord of the Dance created by Michael Flatley Lord of the Dance is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern Celtic music and dance. The action is played out over 21 scenes on a grand scale of precision dancing, dramatic music, colorful costumes and state-of-the-art staging and lighting. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 15 at 11 am Maestro’s Choice Enjoy some of Fabio Mechetti’s all-time favorites, with Beethoven’s “Egmont” and Mozart’s “Posthorn” for openers, as well as Copland’s “Appalachian Spring” and music from Verdi’s “Aida” and Bernstein’s “West Side Story”. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Mar 15-16 at 8 am Southeast United States Tuba Euphonium Conference Dr. Marc Dickman, coordinator. For fees and details call (904) 620-3841. UNF’s Fine Arts Center, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 15-30 Once on This Island This is a captivating legend of romance between a peasant girl and a rich city boy whom she saves from death. The family musical is a calypso-flavored re-telling of The Little Mermaid. Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL, www.abettheatre.com, (904) 249-7177

Mar 17 at 5 pm Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra Festival of Strings Presented by the Winston Family Endowed Chair. Music is in the air at this JSYO festive event! Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Mar 19 Pajanimals Live: Pajama Playdate Filled with lively music, interactive dance fun and silly adventures all set in the cozy, comfy environment of the Pajanimals world. This fun and nurturing show is designed to introduce kids and families to their first theater experience. $41/$31, Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Mar 20 at 8 pm Jake Shimabukuro In his young career, ukulele wizard Jake Shimabukuro has already redefined a heretofore under-the-radar instrument, been declared a musical “hero” by Rolling Stone, won accolades from the disparate likes of Eddie Vedder, Perez Hilton and Dr. Sanjay Gupta, wowed audiences on TV (Jimmy Kimmel, Conan), earned comparisons to Jimi Hendrix and Miles Davis, and even played in front of the Queen of England. $30 Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Mar 20-May 5 Crazy for You The Tony award-winning show is the story of Bobby, son of a New York banking family who is sent to Nevada to close down a local theater. Instead, he falls in love with the theater owner’s daughter. AlhambraTheatre & Dining 12000 Beach Boulevard, www.alhambrajax.com, (904) 641-1212

Mar 21-23 Ride of the Valkyries Excerpts from “Die Meistersinger”, Act III
by Wagner, arr. Maazel The “Ring” Without Words. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Mar 22 at 8 pm Johnny Mathis Johnny Mathis is famous for songs, ‘Wonderful, Wonderful’, ‘It’s Not For Me To Say’, ‘Chances Are’, ‘Misty’, and ‘Too Much, Too Little, Too Late’ (recorded with Deniece Williams), among others. Presented by The Artist Series. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 22 at 7:30 pm 3rd Battalion the Royal Regiments of Scotland and the Band of the Scots Guards & The Pipes and Drums of the Black Watch This performance will feature bagpipes, traditional military marches, drum solos, Celtic dancing and beloved songs. The event promises a spectacular evening of pageantry and excitement for the entire family. Tickets starting at $16. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Mar 22 at 8 pm One Night of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen & The Works. Prepare for a nostalgic return to Queen’s heyday as this phenomenal spectacle rock-n-roll show, equipped with dynamic lighting and special effects, pays tribute to one of the greatest bands of all time. More than a tribute band, The Works – led by Gary Mullen – delivers the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of the group responsible for timeless anthems, including ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Another One Bites the Dust’, ‘Fat Bottomed Girls’ and ‘We Are the Champions’. $35 / $63 combo with Get The Led Out. Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 355-2787

Mar 22-24 You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up! After fifteen years of marriage, TV personalities and real-life-married-couple Annabelle Gurwitch (“Dinner and a Movie”, “Fired!”) and Jeff Kahn (“The Ben Stiller Show”, “Forty Year Old Virgin”) have adapted their hilarious and often moving memoir, “You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up!”, for the stage. Their delightfully crazy lifestyle manages to keep their relationship intact, up-ending every idea you ever had about living ‘happily ever after’. The Artist Series, Wilson Center for the Arts, 11901 Beach Boulevard, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 23 at 8 pm America’s Got Talent Live: All Stars Hosted by Jerry Springer, this live show features top fan-favorites, including this year’s champion, The Olate Dogs, jazz vocalist Landau Eugene Murphy, mentalist/mind-reader Eric Dittelman, magician Spencer Horsman, singer/songwriter Tim Hockenberry and comedian/impressionist Dave Burleigh. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Mar 24 at 2 pm Dance Alive Dance Alive National Ballet is a gem of a company. Featuring an international roster of award-winning dancers, the company brings to the stage truly riveting performances. Admission: $30. EMMA Concert Association, Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL www.emmaconcerts.com, (904) 797-2800

Mar 25 at 7:30 pm Faculty Recital, “The Winds of Les Six” Dr. Guy Yehuda, coordinator. Free Admission. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 26 at 7:30 pm Spring Percussion Ensemble Concert Charlotte Mabrey, conductor. Donations are welcomed for the “Percussion Rocks” Scholarship Fund. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Mar 27 at 7:30 pm Ritz Chamber Players Spring Concert Jacoby Symphony Hall, Times-Union Center, 300 Water Street, www.ritzchamberplayers.org

Mar 30 at 7:30 pm Percussion Ensemble Concert Under the Direction of Professor Tony Steve, enjoy exciting new sounds and music from Jacksonville University students and area composers. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 2-7 Rock of Ages In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small-town girl met a big-city rocker and in LA’s most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the 80s. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Apr 4 at 7:30 pm 25th Anniversary Great American Jazz Series presents: Maria Schneider and Donny McCaslin J.B. Scott, Artistic Director. Tickets: $8/$27/$35 (Based on seating.) Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Robinson Theater, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 4-6 Grieg Piano Concerto Dutilleux’s “Metaboles” and Ravel’s “La Valse”. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Apr 5 at 7:30 pm Clarinet Studio Recital Dr. Guy Yehuda, director. Free Admission. UNF’s
Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 5-6 Too Marvelous for Words: The Songs of Johnny Mercer Lee Lessack’s graceful lyric baritone vocals and sophisticated yet endearing persona have made him a shining star of the international concert scene. Billboard Magazine calls his singing, “Cabaret romanticism of a high order.” Touring extensively in the United States and Europe to sold-out performances and releasing seven albums, Lessack has proven himself both as performer and recording artist. Tickets are $35. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Apr 5-7 at 7:30 pm Street Scene, An American Opera Based on the play by Elmer Rice with lyrics by Langston Hughes and music by Kurt Weill, “Street Scene” embodies themes of love, loss and survival in this emotional, moving story about families living in a multi-ethnic tenement in New York City in 1946. The beautiful and lively score full of classical and jazz idioms will be played by the Jacksonville University Orchestra. JU’s Swisher Theater, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 6- 13 The Last Five Years An emotionally powerful musical about a couple who fall in and out of love. St. Marys Little Theatre, 511 Osborne St., St. Marys, GA, www.stmaryslittletheatre.com

Apr 7 at 6 pm Pianopalooza Featuring UNF Piano Faculty and Students in an Evening of Multi-Piano Madness. Dr. Erin K. Bennett, coordinator. Donations Welcome. Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 8 Theatreworks Presents: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie A sparkling musical revue based on popular children’s books, including: “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” (by Laura Joffe Numeroff). When a boy shares his snack with a hungry, demanding mouse, he learns a hilarious lesson about cause-and-effect. (Grades K-4) Curriculum Connection: Literature Based – Communication & Language Arts – Music – Multicultural. Florida Theatre, 128 East Forsyth Street, floridatheatre.com, (904) 353-3500

Apr 9-13 Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody Your inner goddess will be laughing out loud with this new imagining of the best-selling book’s characters as they come to life with sharp-witted comedy, musical numbers, and steamy and fun performances from the hunky leading man, plus lots of surprises! The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Apr 10 at 7:30 pm Hair This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time has struck a resonant chord with audiences young and old. HAIR features an extraordinary cast and unforgettable songs, including ‘Aquarius’, ‘Let the Sun Shine In’, ‘Good Morning, Starshine’ and ‘Easy To Be Hard’. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Apr 10 at 7:30 pm Spring Orchestra Concert Dr. Simon Shiao, conductor. Free Admission.
UNF’s Lazzara Performance Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 11 at 7:30 pm Zakir Hussain & Shivkumar Sharma Featuring Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, one of India’s most popular and revered classical musicians, as well as India’s greatest living santoor player. Zakir Hussain is today appreciated both in the field of percussion and in the music world at large as an international phenomenon. A classical tabla virtuoso of the highest order, his consistently brilliant and exciting performances have not only established him as a national treasure in his own country, India, but earned him worldwide fame. Riverside Fine Arts, Church of The Good Shepherd, 1100 Stockton Street, www.riversidefinearts.org

Apr 11 at 7:30 pm JU Chamber Ensembles From saxophones to string quartets, enjoy an evening of chamber music performed by the JU student chamber ensembles, including the Honors chamber ensembles. Pianist Scott Watkins presents a solo recital of virtuoso works by Johann Sebastian Bach (Toccatas in C minor, E minor, and D major, and the Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue) with Johannes Brahms’s epic Third Piano Sonata. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu/ (904) 256-7677

Apr 11 at 7:30 pm Piano Studio Recital Featuring the students of Dr. Erin K. Bennett and Dr. Gary Smart. Free. UNF’s Recital Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 12-May 4 Passing Strange The story of a young musician who travels to Amsterdam and Berlin to find “the real” after being raised in a church-going, middle-class Los Angeles neighborhood. The show was nominated for seven Tony Awards, winning the Tony for Best Book of a Musical. Players by the Sea, 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, www.playersbythesea.org, (904) 249-0289

Apr 13 at 8 pm Neil Sedaka Special guest, one night only. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Apr 13 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Mary L’Engle Ensemble Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

Apr 13 at 7:30 pm Classic Albums Live: Darkside of the Moon Without using the gimmickry of costumes and impersonations, the world-class musicians of Classic Albums Live tackle iconic music, concentrating solely on recreating it as you remember it from the original recording. Tickets start at $15. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Apr 14 at 6 pm Spring Masterworks Concert UNF Chorale and Dr. Cara Tasher, Conductor. Donations Welcome. Church of the Good Shepherd, 1100 Stockton, Riverside, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 15 at 7:30 pm Invitational Band Festival Dr. Gordon Brock, UNF Wind Symphony, conductor Paula Thornton, UNF Concert Band with Special Guests: Rhonda Cassano and Dr. Guy Yehuda perform James Stephenson’s “Double Concerto for Flute, Clarinet, and Wind Ensemble”. Adults: $10/Students Free with ID. Call the box office at (904) 620-2878. UNF’s Lazzara Performance Hall, www.unf.edu/fineartscenter

Apr 17 at 7:30 pm Electronic Music Concert This concert will feature a selection of electronic classics using various electronic music methods, plus original pieces by some of Jacksonville University’s most talented composers. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 17 at 12:30 pm Symphony 101 – Harp X Two Kayo Ishimaru and Richard (Dickie) Fleisher. Fun Fact: Kayo and Dickie have an impressive harp collection, one of which is a prized harp that belonged to Harpo Marx and was featured in his movies. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Apr 18-20 at 7:30 pm Spring Dance Concert Jacksonville University Dance will present an evening of classic concert dance. Dance faculty and guest artists will choreograph thrilling, high energy dance ranging in style from classical ballet to commercial dance. Contemporary dance themes highlight the versatility of our student talent and will transport you to an evening of entertainment. JU’s Swisher Theater, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 19 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Music and Poetry Explore music’s fascinating poetic inspirations, featuring the poetry of Maya Angelou, Rita Dove, CK Williams and Mallarmé. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Apr 19 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Gia Sastre, flute & Katherine Roberts, piano. Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

Apr 19-May 4 Tea and Sympathy This is a play about a lonely, misunderstood boarding school student. This groundbreaking drama explores a sensitive young man’s coming-of-age amid the taunts and suspicions of his classmates and teachers at a private boy’s academy. Only a sympathetic act of compassion by the wife of the headmaster gives young Tom the courage to grow into a man. Theatre Jacksonville, 2032 San Marco Boulevard, www.theatrejax.com, (904) 396-4425

Apr 19-May 12 ‘Til Beth Do Us Part In this farce, Gibby Hayden is not putting the effort into his 27-year marriage that his career-driven wife Suzannah expects. Suzannah finally hires an assistant named Beth who whips their household into Southern-style shape, causing a rift between the married couple while she’s at it. Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Apr 20 at 7:30 pm A Lamb Chop Celebration Join Mallory Lewis (daughter of Shari Lewis) and Lamb Chop for a musical trip down memory lane! Filled with videos, songs, laughter and audience participation… perfect for all ages! Mallory shares clips and light-hearted stories about her mother, and Lamb Chop is still her spunky, funny self, engaging kids young and old throughout this musical magical hour! Share your childhood favorite with your children. Tickets start at $11. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

Apr 20 at 8 pm Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra – Viva Florida With this program the orchestra salutes Viva Florida 500. Admission: $30 EMMA Concert Association, Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL, www.emmaconcerts.com, (904) 797-2800

Apr 21 at 4 pm R. Carlos Nakai, William Eaton, Will Chapman In his third appearance for BFAS, the world’s premier performer on Native American flute, R. Carlos Nakai, brings his Wilde Boys Trio for a special afternoon of mesmerizing music. Beaches Fine Arts Series, St. Pauls by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, www.beachesfinearts.org, (904) 270-1771

Apr 21 at 3 pm JU Wind Ensemble The Wind Ensemble will feature a concerto soloist and works from the standard and contemporary wind band repertoire. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 21 at 4 pm Ritz Chamber Players Presents: David Berry, piano Free and open to the public! Suggested Donation $10. Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.ritzchamberplayers.org

Apr 23 at 7:30 pm Spring Concert The JU Orchestra wraps up the season with an evening of thrilling orchestral works, including Brahms’s heroic Symphony No. 1 and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, featuring Dr. Scott Watkins at the piano. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 25 at 7:30 pm An Evening with Anthony Bourdain For one night only, internationally renowned chef, author, and television host Anthony Bourdain will spend the evening sharing candid, often hysterical insights about his life’s work and travels, including an open question and answer session with the audience. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

April 25 at 7 pm Four Centuries of Keyboard Music Pianist Rosalind Elson performs baroque, classic, romantic and modern works of Frescobaldi, Mozart, Grieg and Kabalevsky. Free. Florida State College Jacksonville, South Campus, Bldg N Music Auditorium, 11910 Beach Blvd, 646-2004.

Apr 25 at 7:30 pm Spring Choral Concert Featuring the Florida premiere of a new work for mixed voices, percussion and soprano soloist by Donald Mc-Cullough, commissioned by the Jacksonville University Singers. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

Apr 25-26 Dvorak’s New World Symphony Beaser’s Ground 0, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 “From the New World”. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

Apr 28 at 3 pm First Coast Wind Ensemble This Family Concert will feature the winner of the 3rd annual FCWE Concerto Competition for High School Musicians. JU’s Terry Concert Hall, http://arts.ju.edu, (904) 256-7677

May 1 at 10:15 am Steve Trash Blending With ecological lessons and green-themed magic tricks, this high-energy musical will show the audience the connection between the natural environment and the world around them. Tickets $8. Connection to academic areas: Science. Suggested audience: kindergarten – grade 6. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

May 2 at 7:30 pm Celtic Woman This spectacular musical experience features Celtic Woman performing classic Irish tunes, timeless pop anthems, and inspirational songs, all with the signature Celtic Woman sound. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

May 3 at 11 am Annual Spring Concert with the Friday Musicale Chorus Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

May 4 at 8 pm Chris Botti One night only–In the Moran Theater Chris Botti has broken through musical barriers with a distinctive style that blends the verve of jazz improvisation with the sounds of pop and classical music. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 5 at 2 pm Free Concert – Peter & Helen Morin, Piano & Violin Duo Peter Morin serves as Director of Music and Organist at St. Anastasia Catholic Church, St. Augustine. Helen Morin earned a Master of Music in Violin Performance with Lucia Lin at Boston University and holds a Bachelor of Music in Violin from Trinity College of Music, London, where she studied with John Crawford. EMMA Concert Association, Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL www.emmaconcerts.com, (904) 797-2800

May 5 at 8 pm Picnic and Pops The Palm Coast Arts Foundation welcomes the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 8-Jun 9 Murder Among Friends In this play starring Loretta Swit of M*A*S*H, a set of lovers plan to murder a man during a complicated robbery, but it turns out, the man has a scheme of his own. Alhambra Theatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Boulevard, www.alhambrajax.com, (904) 641-1212

May 10 7:30 pm Friday Musicale Presents: Scholarship Laureates in Concert Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

May 10-11 John Williams Spectacular Michael Krajewski conducts The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra as it performs blockbuster scores from E.T., Jaws, Star Wars, Harry Potter and more! Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 10-26 A Streetcar Named Desire In this seminal work by Tennessee Williams, Blanche du Bois, emotionally fragile and with a hidden, sordid past, moves in with her sister and her sister’s husband after her family plantation is lost. Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL, www.abettheatre.com, (904) 249-7177

May 11 at 7:30 pm Ricky Nelson Remembered This is a fond look back at the life of America’s original “teen idol” as Ricky Nelson’s twin sons, Matthew and Gunnar, recreate their dad’s chart-busters including ‘Hello Mary Lou’, ‘Travelin’ Man’, ‘Garden Party’, ‘Lonesome Town’, ‘Stood Up’ and many more! Tickets start at $15. Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts, 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL, www.thcenter.org, (904) 276-6815

May 14-15 American Idiot The New York Times calls AMERICAN IDIOT, “thrilling and emotionally charged, as moving as anything on Broadway!” Based on Green Day’s groundbreaking rock opera of the same name, this daring new musical tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia, and features the smash hits ‘Boulevard of Broken Dreams’, ‘Holiday’ and ‘21 Guns’. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

May 16 at 7:30 pm A Gilbert & Sullivan Evening This is an evening of your favorite songs in a cabaret setting. Advance Tickets: $25, $30 at the door. Student with ID are $10. Wine/Beer cash bar. Open seating. First Coast Opera, The Riverview Club, 790 Christina Drive, St. Augustine Shores, www.firstcoastopera.com, (904) 417-5555

May 17-18 at 8 pm Choral Spectacular Fabio Mechetti, conductor. Grant Cooper, conductor, chamber orchestra. Barbara Shirvis, soprano. Stanford Olsen, tenor. Timothy LeFebvre, baritone. Jacksonville Symphony Chorus. Jacksonville Children’s Chorus with the BRITTEN War Requiem. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 17-Jun 8 The Trip To Bountiful This is a poignant, American classic presented in collaboration with Hallie Foote & The Horton Foote Legacy and written by two-time Oscar winner Horton Foote. Carrie Watts lives with her son and daughter-in-law in a small Houston flat, desperate to return to her childhood home in Bountiful, Texas. If she can, Carrie knows she will reclaim her dignity, her peace of mind, and her sense of self. This 1953 Broadway drama that became an award-winning film is a moving and riveting story of acceptance and coming home.
Players by the Sea, 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, www.playersbythesea.org, (904) 249-0289

May 18 at 11 am & 7:30 pm Granpa’s Cough Medicine Friday Musicale, 645 Oak Street, www.fridaymusicale.com, (904) 355-7584

May 19 at 5 pm Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring Concert Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra Spring is put to music with the JSYO. Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 21 at 7:30 pm Dreamgirls Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, the sensational production tells the story of an up-and-coming 1960s girl singing group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

May 23 at 7 pm Let Freedom Ring: ARIAS Concert The music of freedom rings in Fernandina Beach! Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, 300 Water Street, www.jaxsymphony.org, (904) 354-5479

May 31-Jun 30 Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up? It’s Catholic school in the 1950s, and Eddie Ryan is navigating his school years and beyond while dealing with puppy love, patron saints, and sex education in this musical comedy. Some Adult Content. Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Jun 1 at 8 pm An Evening with Cesar Millan: Dog Whisperer! The world’s most renowned dog behavior specialist, Cesar Millan, will share his secrets on how to transform dogs and their owners in this unique and new live event. Fans and dog-lovers alike will be inspired by the simplicity of “Cesar’s Way” as he reveals that the secret to happier, healthier relationships between humans and their canine companions starts with transforming ourselves. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Jun 7-22 9 to 5: The Musical This is the hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era! To save their jobs, three unlikely friends conspire to take control of their company, and in the process, learn there’s nothing they can’t do – even in a man’s world. Theatre Jacksonville, 2032 San Marco Boulevard, www.theatrejax.com, (904) 396-4425

Jun 9 at 2 pm Scooby Doo Live – Musical Mysteries Jeepers! A trouble-making ghost is haunting a local theater, and the gang are on their way in the Mystery Machine to help solve it! This hilarious, live theater show brings everyone’s favorite animated series to life. The Artist Series, Times-Union Center, www.artistseriesjax.org, 1-888-860-BWAY

Jun 12 at 7:30 pm Finale Concert The Ritz Chamber Players will bring a close to its 2012-2013 concert season by featuring the work of a great composer’s music, based on beautiful tonal themes. Our departing musical gift will express extraordinary musical combinations that will take you on a breathtaking sonic journey. Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, 300 Water Street, www.ritzchamberplayers.org

Jun 12-Aug 4 Summer Surpise Vote for the show you want at the Alhambra. See website for details! AlhambraTheatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Blvd., www.alhambrajax.com, (904) 641-1212

Jun 14-29 Anything Goes Music and lyrics are by Cole Porter. Aboard the SS American, an unusual group of passengers are traveling from New York to England. There is love, escape from the law, the effort to maintain social status within a group of socialistes, gangsters and businessment. Ticket price is $20. Orange Park Community Theatre, 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL, www.opct.org, (904) 276-2599

Jul 12-Aug 3 Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson Hot new musical! Political bite, raucous rock score! Players by the Sea, 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL, www.playersbythesea.org, (904) 249-0289

Jul 16-Aug 4 The Last Romance Two strangers in their golden years meet on their daily visits to the dog park. Their playful banter leads them to common ground, and a charming relationship develops. Bonding over distant dreams and the fear of ending up alone, they make plans to take their romance out into the real world. Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, FL, www.limelight-theatre.org, (904) 825-1164

Aug 7-Sept 15 Dixie Swim Club Five Southern women become friends when they’re on the swim team at Pemberton College. The play follows them through the years in this touching and hilarious comedy. AlhambraTheatre & Dining, 12000 Beach Blvd., www.alhambrajax.com, (904) 641-1212