Bob Carr
Civic Theatre
Mark Two Dinner Theatre
Mount Dora Theatre
Melonpatch Players
Orlando Theatre Project
Orlando Shakespeare Festival
Osceola Center for the Arts
Rivertown Players
Sak Theatre
Storybook Theatre
Seminole Community College
Theatre Center, Inc
Theatre Downtown
University of Central Florida
Valencia Character Company
Zoe and Company

Florida Theatres
The Bayfront Center's Mahaffey Theater for the Performing Arts & The St. Petersburg Times Arena & The Coliseum.  (Click)

Caldwell Theatre Company
Florida Studio Theatre
Phoenix Theatre
Seaside Music Theatre

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center

May 2008

May 2008

The Phantom of the Opera, Tues.-Sun., Dec. 8, 2004 - Jan. 2, 2005, Carol Morsani Hall, Performances times and dates vary for the four-week run. Call 813.229.STAR or go to tbpac.org for performance schedule: $17.50 - $75. Single tickets on sale now to Center members and they go on sale to the general public Sept. 20, 2004. With some of the most lavish sets, costumes and special effects ever to have been created for the stage, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, directed by Harold Prince, traces the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young composer shamed by his physical appearance into a shadowy existence beneath the majestic Paris Opera House. Adapted from Gaston Leroux's classic novel of mystery and suspense, this award-winning musical has woven its magical spell over standing room audiences in more than 100 cities worldwide. Phantom now comes to the Tampa Bay area to take your breath away. Approximate running time is two hours and 35 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.

The New Musical DAVID by Danny Hamilton and Gary Richardson, Thurs.-Sun., Jan. 6-23, Jaeb Theater, Thurs. 8 p.m., Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7 p.m.: $35. David is the new musical by Danny Hamilton and Gary Richardson, authors of The Rock & The Rabbi. David tells the amazing story of the shepherd boy who becomes King of Israel. Focusing on the first 10 years of the Biblical narrative, the show begins with the anointing of young David by the prophet Samuel, continues through his persecution at the hands of old King Saul and culminates with the crowning of David as king over all of Israel. The musical features acoustic instruments and some of the strongest voices in theater today. From "The Lord Is My Shepherd" to "The Old Man is Coming" to "Long Live the King" the score of David will thrill your heart. As with The Rock & The Rabbi, David is a musical for all ages.

The Jobsite Theater presents The Complete History of America (abridged), Jobsite Theater Play Series, Fri.-Sun., Jan. 7-23, Shimberg Playhouse, Fri. 10 p.m., Sat. 10 p.m., Sun. 7 p.m.: $18.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. Tampa's own "Bad Boys of Abridgement" return after critically-acclaimed and sold-out engagements of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) and The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged) to give you a 90-minute history lesson that certainly won't be short on laughs! From Washington to Watergate, from the Bering Straits to Baghdad, from The New World to New World Order, Jobsite's three 900-lb cultural guerillas will take you on a rollercoaster ride through the glorious quagmire that is American History. They tackle controversial questions like: Who really discovered America? How many Democrats does it take to screw in a lightbulb? And what the hell is the difference between North Dakota and South Dakota anyway?

Vincent, Fri.-Sun., Jan. 7-16, Shimberg Playhouse, Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m.: $18.50. Back by popular demand, Vincent stars F. Reed Brown as the artistic genius in Leonard Nimoy's original one-man play. Vincent masterfully blends a powerful script with images of Van Gogh's life and work.

Out of the Mist … A Dragon - CANCELLED!, O.S.T., Mon., Jan. 10, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. Journey around the world through the art of traditional folk puppetry. The show uses reproductions of carved masks of Native Americans in the Northwest Coast, Punch and Judy from Europe, and rarely seen shadow puppets from Indonesia, as well as reproductions of the classical and exquisite Japanese style of puppetry known as Bunraku.

Movin' Out, SunTrust Broadway in Tampa Bay Series, Tues.-Sun., Jan. 11-16, Carol Morsani Hall, Tues. 7:30 p.m., Wed. 7:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.: $23 - $71.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members Aug. 9, 2004 and to the general public Nov. 12, 2004. Suggested for Mature Audiences. Five-time Grammy-winner Billy Joel and legendary director/choreographer Twyla Tharp have joined forces to create the spectacular new musical Time magazine declares "The #1 show of the year!" The New York Times calls Movin' Out "a shimmering portrait of an American generation. These tornado-driven dancers and rock musicians propel the audience into delirious ovations." Movin' Out brings 24 Billy Joel classics to electrifying new life as it tells the story of five life-long friends over two turbulent decades. It adds up to one unforgettable Broadway musical. The national tour of Movin' Out is sponsored by Visa. Visa is the only card accepted for single and group tickets for the national tour of Movin' Out. Recommended for mature audiences.

Urban Bush Women, O.S.T., Wed., Jan. 12, Ferguson Hall, 10:30 a.m.: $5. Urban Bush Women, a Brooklyn-based performance ensemble, presents bold and life-affirming dance theater based on women's experiences, African-American history and cultural influences of the African Diaspora. New York Newsday says, "There have been dance troupes around anthropological investigations; there have been dance troupes that grew out of political movements. But Urban Bush Women are in a category of themselves. In fact given the breadth and freedom of their art, they defy categorization."

Urban Bush Women, Wed., Jan. 12, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. Urban Bush Women, a Brooklyn-based performance ensemble, presents bold and life-affirming dance theater based on women's experiences and African-American history and culture. "Heart wrenching, soul-searching works that communicate the ecstasy and agony of the human condition." - Dance Magazine

The Center's 10th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute, Sat., Jan. 15, Ferguson Hall, 7 p.m.: Free! Join The Center in honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., with an inspirational program hosted by Fred Johnson and including community youth groups and special guests. Hear the great words of Dr. King and enjoy uplifting music, storytelling and dance that celebrates the remembrance of the leader and man of faith.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Rocky I: Part of the Rock With Rachmaninoff Festival, Masterworks Series, Mon., Jan.17, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Stefan Sanderling conducting and Nikolai Lugansky on piano, The Florida Orchestra presents Ravel's "Rapsodie espagnole," Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto No. 1" and Rachmaninoff's "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

The Battersby Duo, O.S.T., Fri., Jan. 21, Rehearsal Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $3. Through imaginative songs and sketches, Mr. Tim and Ms. Laura demonstrate to students that creative writing is fun, and that readers make better writers. From pseudonyms to palindromes, Dickens to Frost, The Battersbys take their audiences on a journey that is destined to challenge and inspire budding young authors.

The Battersby Duo, AOL for Broadband Wee Folk Series, Sat., Jan. 22, Rehearsal Hall, 10 a.m. and noon: $5.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. Through imaginative songs and sketches, Mr. Tim and Ms. Laura demonstrate that creative writing is fun, and that readers make better writers. From pseudonyms to palindromes, Dickens to Frost, The Battersbys take their audiences on a journey that is destined to challenge and inspire budding young authors.

(¥) Spanish Lyric Theatre presents Can Can, Sat., Jan. 22, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $25, $30. Spanish Lyric Theatre presents Cole Porter's version of how the naughty Can Can took over Paris. This show will be presented in English. For more information, call 813.936.0217.

Leon Redbone, Sun., Jan. 23, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $27.50. Ragtime. Bluegrass. Blues. If there is one common element to Redbone's diverse music, it's his mastery of his constant companion: the acoustic guitar. It's easy to get lost in his stage exploits, which move between vaudeville and performance art. Fingerpicking is delivered with a ragtime bounce, and chords are leaped upon with the grace of a hurdler. This is a rare opportunity to see a musician with a quarter-century of credits in film soundtracks, TV jingles and billboard charts.

MatheMagic!, O.S.T., Mon.-Wed., Jan. 24-26, Ferguson Hall, Mon. 10:15 a.m., Tues. 10:15 and 11:45 a.m., Wed. 10:30 a.m.: $5. The Monday 11:45 a.m. show has been cancelled! MatheMagic! is an exciting magic show all about math! This theatrical magic show includes music, costumes, comedy and illusions. In this fun format, kids (unknowingly) practice math facts and problem solving.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Rocky III: Part of the Rock With Rachmaninoff Festival, Masterworks Series, Mon., Jan. 24, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Stefan Sanderling conducting and Kirill Gerstein on piano, The Florida Orchestra presents Ravel's "Pavane pour une infante defunte," Ravel's "Daphnis et Chloe, Suite No. 2" and Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto No. 3." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

A Midsummer Night's Dream, O.S.T., Fri., Jan. 28, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. GMT Productions makes literature live for its audiences by touching minds and hearts. Prepare yourself for Shakespeare's enchanting comedy of unrequited love, mistaken identities and fairy antics. Read the book, then see the play! Don't forget to submit your students' "From Page to Stage" essays.

Brian Regan, Fri., Jan. 28, Ferguson Hall, 7 p.m.: $35.50. Brian Regan has a unique comedy style that bridges the continental divides of age, sex, and race. All people, young and old, male and female, and from every corner of the earth, enjoy tapping into the universality of his show. A lifelong fan of Johnny Carson and Steve Martin, his peculiar observations from things seemingly simple keep fans coming back time and time again for updates from Brian's unique comedy world. As seen on Showtime, Comedy Central, Conan O'Brien, David Letterman and as the opener for Jerry Seinfeld.

David Copperfield, Fri.-Sat., Jan. 28-29, Carol Morsani Hall, Fri. 5:30 and 8:30 p.m., Sat. 1, 4 and 8 p.m.: $27.50, $42.50, $47.50. David Copperfield: An Intimate Evening of Grand Illusion is an affecting, life-changing event that reaches into the audiences' minds and hearts and takes them on a feast of wish fulfillment. Displaying his off-the-cuff brand of humor, Copperfield breaks new ground in Grand Illusion and takes his art to a grand yet intimate, personal yet universal dimension for an evening of wonders that will never be forgotten.

The Second City 45th Anniversary Tour, Sat., Jan. 29, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $25.50. The Second City Touring Company takes its act on the road, performing hilarious "Best of Second City" revues that feature some of the greatest scenes, songs and improvisations from its vast archives. Enjoy the phenomenal comedy talents of the stars of tomorrow today!

Cirkus Inferno, AOL for Broadband Kid Time Series, Sun., Jan. 30, Ferguson Hall, 2 p.m.: $6.50, $8.50, $10.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. When Lucky and Lady, the world's most dangerous clowns, show up at the Daredevil Opera Company's Cirkus Inferno, the big show of thrills gets cancelled and a whole new one gets put on by this loveable pair of troublemakers. Cirkus Inferno is a hilarious slapstick adventure on a circus stage featuring pyrotechnic effects and unbelievable sight gags. The New York Times calls it " One Slam-Bang Show (Literally)."

Cirkus Inferno, O.S.T., Mon., Jan. 31, Ferguson Hall, 10:30 a.m.: $5. When Lucky and Lady, the world's most dangerous clowns, show up at the Daredevil Opera Company's Cirkus Inferno, the big show of thrills gets cancelled and a whole new one gets put on by this loveable pair of troublemakers. Cirkus Inferno is a hilarious slapstick adventure on a circus stage featuring pyrotechnic effects and unbelievable sight gags. The New York Times calls it " One Slam-Bang Show (Literally)."

May 2008

Hairspray, SunTrust Broadway in Tampa Bay Series, Tues.-Sun., Feb. 1-13, Carol Morsani Hall, Tues. 7:30 p.m., Wed. 7:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.: $27 - $80. Single tickets go on sale to Center members Aug. 16, 2004 and to the general public Nov. 26, 2004. Broadway's Tony Award®-winning musical-comedy phenomenon takes you back to 1962 Baltimore, as 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad sets out to dance her way onto TV's most popular show. Can a big girl with big dreams - and even bigger hair! - change the world and still have time to win the boy she loves? This mega-hit is piled bouffant-high with laughter and romance - and enough deliriously tuneful new songs to fill a nonstop platter party. It's the winner of eight 2003 Tony Awards®, including Best Musical. As The New York Times says, "If life were everything it should be, it would be more like Hairspray. It's irresistible!"

The Franzini Family Math/Science Circus, O.S.T., Tues., Feb. 1, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. The Franzini Family Circus will startle, amaze and amuse you as Professor Franzini and her assistant Lippo the Clown explore the ins and outs of mathematics and the ups and downs of science. You'll see unicycling, juggling, balancing, magic tricks, mime, hula-hooping, the celebrated geometrical canine and much more. Learning has never been this much fun!

Amici Forever, The Opera Band, Wed., Feb. 2, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. Combining the charisma of a pop band with classical training, five young opera singers from around the globe have joined forces and voices to create the world's first opera band. Expect a bit of opera, a bit of classical and a bit of pop - it's "popera!"

Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Thurs., Feb. 3, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. Back by popular demand, New Orleans' own Preservation Hall Jazz Band brings the sweet, joyous sounds of Bourbon Street back to The Center. The San Francisco Examiner called PHJB the "best jazz band in the land."

City Mouse, Country Mouse, O.S.T., Fri., Feb. 4, Rehearsal Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $3. City Mouse and Country Mouse arrive at the Mousehole Auditorium for a concert and tell the story of their adventure searching for treasure together. Live music, audience participation and lessons in diversity fill this updated musical version of Aesop's fable.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Larry Elgart: Hooked on Swing, Raymond James Super Pops Series, Fri., Feb. 4, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. Join King of Swing Larry Elgart, for a night of such hits as "Take the 'A' Train," "Puttin' on the Ritz," "In the Mood," "Just in Time," "Cheek to Cheek," "Harlem Nocturne," "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," "Night and Day," "Satin Doll" and many more. For more information, call 813.286.1170.

City Mouse, Country Mouse, AOL for Broadband Wee Folk Series, Sat., Feb. 5, Rehearsal Hall, 10 a.m. and noon: $5.50. City Mouse and Country Mouse arrive at the Mousehole Auditorium for a concert and tell the story of their adventure searching for treasure together. Live music, audience participation and lessons in diversity fill this updated musical version of Aesop's fable.

Faustwork Mask Theater's The Mask Messenger, AOL for Broadband Kid Time Series, Sun., Feb. 6, Ferguson Hall, 2 p.m.: $6.50, $8.50, $10.50. The Mask Messenger is an engaging mix of monologue, physical comedy and theater - a tour de force solo performance that explores the artistic, cultural and psychological use of masks throughout history. This menagerie of nearly 20 characters - at times outlandish, at times tender - cuts to the heart of human matters. "These creations tickle some sort of primal funny bone ... deftly walking the line between adult and children's entertainment so that both are entertained." - The New York Times.

Faustwork Mask Theater's The Mask Messenger, O.S.T., Mon., Feb. 7, Ferguson Hall, 10:30 a.m.: $5. The Mask Messenger is an engaging mix of monologue, physical comedy and theater - a tour de force solo performance that explores the artistic, cultural and psychological use of masks throughout history. This menagerie of nearly 20 characters - at times outlandish, at times tender - cuts to the heart of human matters. "These creations tickle some sort of primal funny bone ... deftly walking the line between adult and children's entertainment so that both are entertained." - The New York Times.

Opera Tampa presents The Mikado, Homes by Helen Opera Series, Sat.-Sun., Feb. 12-13, Ferguson Hall, Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.: $24.50, $39.50, $49.50, $59.50, $75. Following their 1999 sold-out engagement of The Pirates of Penzance, the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players return with a dazzling production of The Mikado, a hilarious satire of human nature and political hypocrisy. In The Mikado, a wandering minstrel searches exotic Japan for his true love, a beautiful girl named Yum-Yum. The light-hearted story, sprinkled with hidden identities and fake executions, coupled with witty lyrics and a tuneful score have made The Mikado one of the world's most beloved operettas.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Beethoven's Eroica, Masterworks Series, Mon., Feb. 14, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Stefan Sanderling conducting and Demarre McGill on flute, The Florida Orchestra presents Corigliano's "Pied Piper Fantasy, Concerto for Flute and Orchestra" and Beethoven's "Symphony No. 3, Eroica." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Mali to Memphis With Guy Davis and Habib Koité, Wed., Feb. 16, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. Steel guitarist Guy Davis teams with African music-maker Habib Koité for an inspired musical journey that explores the evolution of the blues - from Mali, Africa, to Memphis, Tenn.

Wilco, Wed., Feb. 16, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $25. Wilco has developed from a solid alt-country outfit to a much bolder experimental band, finding success on its own terms. Along the way, the group has built up an equally passionate and devoted following, which earned the band sell-outs all over the country. Wilco has transcended their college and public radio base as they have rocked their way into rock station playlists nationwide with their 2004 megahit release "A Ghost is Born."

The Jobsite Theater presents The Boys Next Door, Jobsite Theater Play Series, Thurs.-Sun., Feb. 17 - March 6, Shimberg Playhouse, Thurs. 8 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m.: $16.50, $19.50, $21.50. In a communal residence in a New England city, four mentally handicapped men live under the supervision of an earnest, but increasingly "burned out" young social worker named Jack. Norman, who works in a doughnut shop and is unable to resist the lure of the sweet pastries, takes great pride in the huge bundle of keys which dangles from his waist; Lucien P. Smith has the mind of a 5-year-old, but imagines that he is able to read and comprehend the weighty books he lugs about; Arnold is the hyperactive ringleader and compulsive chatterer, who suffers from deep-seated insecurities and a persecution complex; while Barry, a brilliant schizophrenic who is devastated by the unfeeling rejection of his brutal father, fantasizes that he is a golf pro. Mingled with scenes from the daily lives of these four, where "little things" sometimes become momentous (and often very funny), are moments of great poignancy when we are reminded with touching effectiveness that the handicapped, like the rest of us, want only to love and laugh and find some meaning and purpose in the brief time which they, like their more fortunate brothers, are allotted on this earth.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Marvin Hamlisch, Raymond James Super Pops Series, Fri., Feb. 18, Carol Morsani Hall, 8 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. Perhaps the only thing Marvin Hamlisch has more of than a host of Oscars, Grammy's Emmy's and Tony's is hit songs and rave reviews. The New York Times calls his performances "brilliant … clever … had everyone in stitches." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Noche Flamenca, Sat., Feb. 19, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $45.50. Following its completely sold-out March 2004 performance, one of Spain's most successful flamenco companies, Noche Flamenca, returns! Don't be left out - buy your tickets early!

Patel Conservatory's Tampa Bay Youth Orchestra and The Florida Orchestra Side by Side, Tues., Feb. 22, Carol Morsani Hall, 7 p.m.: Free. A description of this event is forthcoming.

Koresh Dance Company, Tues., Feb. 22, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. "If you like your dancing hard, fast and intense, the Koresh Dance Company is for you!" The Philadelphia Inquirer said of this spellbinding contemporary troupe.

Koresh Dance Company, O.S.T., Wed., Feb. 23, Ferguson Hall, 10:30 a.m.: $5. Renowned for their powerful stage presence and high-energy style, Philadelphia's Koresh Dance Company has been hailed as an extraordinary newcomer to the national stage. Founded in 1991 by Israeli born Choreographer and Artistic Director Ronen Koresh, this troupe presents its audiences with an exciting and emotional blend of ballet, modern and jazz molded into a style of choreography that is both eloquent and explosive. The "in your face" style of the company keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, and the dancers' intensity draws audience members into their fantastic world.

Juanes, Wed., Feb. 23, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $15.50 - $47.50. Juanes is unquestionably the biggest success story in Latin music for 2003, with the Los Angeles Times declaring that: "[Juanes] has emerged as the single most important figure on the Latin music scene." Juanes' landmark album Un Dia Normal is the No. 1 selling Spanish-language album of the year, and has set the record for the longest Top-10 chart run of any Latin album in history. Juanes topped six separate year-end Billboard Latin charts, including No. 1 album, No. 1 singles artist and No. 1 songwriter, resulting in his selection for the cover of Billboard's year-end special issue.

MARCH 2005

The Jobsite Theater presents The Boys Next Door, Jobsite Theater Play Series, Thurs.-Sun., Feb. 17 - March 6, Shimberg Playhouse, Thurs. 8 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 4 p.m.: $16.50, $19.50, $21.50. In a communal residence in a New England city, four mentally handicapped men live under the supervision of an earnest, but increasingly "burned out" young social worker named Jack. Norman, who works in a doughnut shop and is unable to resist the lure of the sweet pastries, takes great pride in the huge bundle of keys which dangles from his waist; Lucien P. Smith has the mind of a 5-year-old, but imagines that he is able to read and comprehend the weighty books he lugs about; Arnold is the hyperactive ringleader and compulsive chatterer, who suffers from deep-seated insecurities and a persecution complex; while Barry, a brilliant schizophrenic who is devastated by the unfeeling rejection of his brutal father, fantasizes that he is a golf pro. Mingled with scenes from the daily lives of these four, where "little things" sometimes become momentous (and often very funny), are moments of great poignancy when we are reminded with touching effectiveness that the handicapped, like the rest of us, want only to love and laugh and find some meaning and purpose in the brief time which they, like their more fortunate brothers, are allotted on this earth.

Oliver!, SunTrust Broadway in Tampa Bay Series, Tues.-Sun., March 1-6, Carol Morsani Hall, Tues. 7:30 p.m., Wed. 7:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.: $20 - $66.50. Single tickets are on sale to Center members now and to the general public Jan. 9, 2005. Dickens' greatest characters (Oliver, Fagin, Nancy, Bill Sikes, The Artful Dodger and Bumble) spring to life once again in this celebrated musical. Oliver's magical spell has everyone "asking for more!" The show's unforgettable songs include "Food, Glorious Food," "Consider Yourself," "Where is Love?," "You've Got to Pick a Pocket or Two," "I'd Do Anything," "Oom Pah Pah," "As Long As He Needs Me" and many more!

The Mystical Arts of Tibet, Fri., March 4, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $19.50, $32.50. Brought to Tampa from the farthest corner of the world, Buddhist lamas from Tibet, robed in magnificent costumes, play traditional long horns, trumpets and bells to promote world healing in a fascinating overview of an ancient and glorious culture.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents A Family Affair With Stefan and Michael Sanderling, Masterworks Series, Mon., March 7, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Stefan Sanderling conducting and Michael Sanderling on cello, The Florida Orchestra presents Beethoven's "Coriolan Overture," Shostakovich's "Cello Concerto No. 2" and Dvorak's "Symphony No. 7 in D minor." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Two Gentlemen of Verona, Wed., March 9, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $19.50, $24.50, $29.50. The Acting Company, America's only nationally touring classical repertory theater company, returns with Shakespeare's comedy about two young gentlemen and the woman who comes between them.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra present With a Song in My Heart, Coffee Concert, Fri., March 11, Ferguson Hall, 11 a.m.: $17.50, $21.50, $25.50, $28.50. For more information, call 813.286.1170.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Music of the Islands, Raymond James Super Pops Series, Fri., March 11, Carol Morsani Hall, 8 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Richard Kaufman conducting and Principal Percussionist John Shaw and The Tampa Bay Steel Orchestra, The Florida Orchestra presents the seaside sounds of Hawaii, Jamaica, Tahiti, Cuba and other exotic locales … with music from South Pacific and the films Mutiny on the Bounty and Hawaii, along with the Hawaii Five-O theme, "Fly Me to the Moon" and many more. For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Natalie MacMaster, Fri., March 11, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $25.50, $35.50. Don't miss Celtic fiddling virtuoso Natalie MacMaster! The Irish Post says MacMaster is "Canada's finest fiddler," while the Los Angeles Times calls her "a ball of fire, performing jogs and reels with unstoppable, foot-tapping energy and ballads with irresistible, keening passion."

Opera Tampa presents Jessye Norman, Homes by Helen Opera Series, Sat., March 12, Carol Morsani Hall, 8 p.m.: $24.50, $39.50, $49.50, $59.50, $75. The glorious soprano Jessye Norman brings her sumptuous sound, joy of singing and spontaneous passion to recital performances, operatic portrayals and appearances with symphony orchestras and chamber music collaborators to audiences around the world. In this intimate concert, Norman will perform a wide range of pieces showcasing the shear size, power and luster of her voice. Her thoughtful music-making, innovative programming of the classics and fervent advocacy of contemporary music brought one reporter to declare, "[she is] one of those once-in-a-generation singers who is not simply following in the footsteps of others, but is staking out her own niche in the history of singing."

Off the Wall and Onto the Stage, Tues., March 15, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $25, $40. Choreographer William Starrett explores the dynamics and inner meanings of Jonathan Green's extraordinary and energetic paintings, bringing to the contemporary stage a visionary return to classical ballet's blending of dance, music and fine art.

Carrollwood Day School presents Getting to Know … The King and I, Thurs., March 17, Ferguson Hall, 7 p.m.: $11. Carrollwood Day School presents its annual Middle School musical.

Best of Tampa Bay, Sat., March 19, Carol Morsani Hall and Ferguson Hall, 7 p.m.: Tickets are on sale now. Don't miss the 20th Anniversary of the Bay area's premier food event, Best of Tampa Bay, hosted by The Producers Volunteer Group as a benefit for The Center. Enjoy live entertainment and sample food and drinks from the Tampa Bay area's best restaurants and caterers, while strolling along the Riverwalk and through the Morsani Hall and Ferguson Hall lobbies.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Bruckner's Symphony No. 7, Masterworks Series, Mon., March 21, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Stefan Sanderling conducting and Amy Schwartz Moretti on violin, The Florida Orchestra presents Mozart's "Violin Concerto No. 3" and Bruckner's "Symphony No. 7." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Big River, SunTrust Broadway in Tampa Bay Series, Tues.-Sun., March 29 - April 3, Carol Morsani Hall, Tues. 7:30 p.m., Wed. 7:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.: $30.50 - $66.50. Single tickets are on sale to Center members now and will go on sale to the general public Feb. 18, 2005. The most critically lauded event of the last Broadway season is now primed to spread its magic all across America! BIG RIVER, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, with music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winner Roger Miller, includes deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing actors performing each role in a synchronized ballet of speaking and signing. Spoken English and American Sign Language (ASL) are interwoven with music, dance, and storytelling techniques from both hearing and deaf cultures into a "third language" creating a unique theatrical event - the adventure of a lifetime! The thrilling score is a mix of Cajun, gospel, folk, country and blues songs. Winner of six L.A. Ovation Awards and five L.A. Drama Critics' Circle Awards, including Best Musical from both, Big River is a slice of pure Americana!

APRIL 2005

Big River, SunTrust Broadway in Tampa Bay Series, Tues.-Sun., March 29 - April 3, Carol Morsani Hall, Tues. 7:30 p.m., Wed. 7:30 p.m., Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.: $30.50 - $66.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members now and go on sale to the general public Feb. 18, 2005. The most critically lauded event of the last Broadway season is now primed to spread its magic all across America! BIG RIVER, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, with music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winner Roger Miller, includes deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing actors performing each role in a synchronized ballet of speaking and signing. Spoken English and American Sign Language (ASL) are interwoven with music, dance, and storytelling techniques from both hearing and deaf cultures into a "third language" creating a unique theatrical event - the adventure of a lifetime! The thrilling score is a mix of Cajun, gospel, folk, country and blues songs. Winner of six L.A. Ovation Awards and five L.A. Drama Critics' Circle Awards, including Best Musical from both, Big River is a slice of pure Americana!

The Princess and The Pea, O.S.T., Mon., April 4, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. The Monday 11:45 a.m. show has been cancelled! Prince Erik and Princess Astrid have announced their plans to marry. But the Queen tells Princess Astrid that she must first pass a crucial test before the wedding can take place. What follows is an engaging story involving 20 mattresses, 20 feathery quilts and a tiny pea. Read the book, then see the play! Don't forget to submit your students' "From Page to Stage" essays.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Grieg's Piano Concerto, Masterworks Series, Mon., April 4, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Jahja Ling conducting and Arnaldo Cohen on piano, The Florida Orchestra presents Mendelsson's "The Hebrides Overture," Grieg's "Piano Concerto" and Prokofiev's "Symphony No. 5." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Patel Conservatory's Tampa Bay Youth Orchestras Young People's Concert, AOL for Broadband Kid Time Series, Sun., April 10, Ferguson Hall, 2 p.m.: $6.50, $8.50, $10.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. In the spirit of the Young People's Concerts made popular by Leonard Bernstein, TBYO introduces young people to the magic of orchestral music by performing dynamic classical pieces and favorite scores from stage and screen. TBYO student musicians will host an "instrument petting zoo" in the Ferguson Hall lobby before the concert.

Claudia Calderon, Part of Arte 2005, Tampa Bay's Festival of the Americas, Fri., April 13, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $10.50 - $25.50. Based on traditional harp music, Claudia Calderon's folkloric piano music preserves and promotes the ethnic music of the mountains, plains and coasts of Venezuela and Colombia.

Sonaranda, Part of Arte 2005, Tampa Bay's Festival of the Americas, Sun., April 14, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $15, $25.

Monica Salmaso, Part of Arte 2005, Tampa Bay's Festival of the Americas, Sat., April 15, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $10.50 - $25.50. The 1999 winner of the El Dorado prize for Best Singer in Brazil, Monica Salmaso has a strong passion for the incredible richness of Brazilian music. The New York Times says, "Monica Salmaso has a gorgeous, quintessentially Brazilian voice: quietly lustrous and sustained, suffusing each liquid note with languid secrets."

Teatro Negro de Barlovento, Part of Arte 2005, Tampa Bay's Festival of the Americas, Sun., April 16, Ferguson Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $15, $25. Formed in 1975 by Victor Palacios, Teatro Negro de Barlovento performs Afro-Venezuelan dance with percussion, instrumentals and vocals, helping to preserve abd develop the Afro-Latino artistic traditions that have become an essential part of the Barlovento area of Venezuela.

The Mischievous Adventures of Peter Rabbit, O.S.T., Fri., April 15, Rehearsal Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $3. Dapper, young Peter Rabbit believes he knows better than Mama Rabbit and ignores her warnings about Farmer McGregor's forbidden garden. Peter learns about the perils of trespassing, just managing to save his own tail. When he faces Mama Rabbit, he admits he's learned a valuable lesson

The Mischievous Adventures of Peter Rabbit, AOL for Broadband Wee Folk Series, Sat., April 16, Rehearsal Hall, 10 a.m. and noon: $5.50. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. Dapper, young Peter Rabbit believes he knows better than Mama Rabbit and ignores her warnings about Farmer McGregor's forbidden garden. Peter learns about the perils of trespassing, just managing to save his own tail. When he faces Mama Rabbit, he admits he's learned a valuable lesson.

Ballet Florida presents Dracula, Sat.-Sun., April 16-17, Carol Morsani Hall, Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.: $17.50, $35.50, $48.50, $75.50. The New York Times hailed Ben Stevenson's ballet as "a Dracula beyond [Bram] Stoker's darkest dreams." A reinvention of the classic tale of good versus evil, this Dracula is brimming with thrilling theatricality and stunning choreography, danced by dazzling Ballet Florida.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, Masterworks Series, Mon., April 18, Carol Morsani Hall, 7:30 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With Jahja Ling conducting and Robert McDuffie on violin, The Florida Orchestra presents Dvorak's "Carnival Overture," Bernstein's "Serenade" and Tchaikovsky's "Suite from Swan Lake." For more information, call 813.286.1170.

(¥) The Florida Orchestra presents Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to The Beatles, Raymond James Super Pops Series, Fri., April 22, Ferguson Hall, 8 p.m.: $22.50, $35.50, $42.50, $50.50. With members of the acclaimed Broadway sensation, Beatlemania, it's a night of Beatles hits … "Penny Lane," "Yesterday," "Eleanor Rigby," "Hey Jude," "Strawberry Fields Forever," "I Saw Her Standing There" and other favorites. For more information, call 813.286.1170.

Ravi Shankar and Anoushka Shankar, Sat., April 23, Carol Morsani Hall, 8 p.m.: $15.50, $25.50, $45.50, $55.50. Ravi Shankar, the legendary sitarist and composer and India's most esteemed musical ambassador, performs a joyous evening of music with daughter Anoushka, a sitarist who was trained by her father and has experienced extraordinary success on her own.

Cinderella, O.S.T., Mon., April 25, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. A proven family musical favorite, Cinderella bursts with excitement, fantasy and song. Join Cinderella and her new friend Mortimer Mouse as they sing and dance their way from her step-mother's kitchen to Prince Charming's Ball. Read the book, then see the play! Don't forget to submit your students' "From Page to Stage" essays.

Everybody's Hero: The Jackie Robinson Story, O.S.T., Tues., April 26, Ferguson Hall, 10:15 and 11:45 a.m.: $5. At the start of the summer of 1947, television was new, the sound barrier had never been broken and baseball was a white man's game. By the time fall arrived, all that had changed. This new play shows the events that shaped Jackie Robinson's character, his struggle to gain acceptance and the tremendous obstacles he overcame on his way to changing the face of our nation.

Opera Tampa presents Aida, Homes by Helen Opera Series, Fri. and Sun., April 29 and May 1, Carol Morsani Hall, Fri. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.: $24.50, $39.50, $49.50, $59.50, $75. Single tickets go on sale to Center members June 28, 2004 and to the general public Aug. 2, 2004. Opera Tampa and Orlando Opera collaborate to produce Giuseppe Verdi's compelling Aida, a grand spectacle set in ancient Egypt. This tumultuous love story features the beautiful slave Aida and the young officer Radames, who betrays king and country for love. Anton Coppola conducts this magnificent production that features a full orchestra and superb costumes, spectacular sets and live animals. Aida will be sung in Italian with English lyrics projected above the stage.