The Alhambra adds another week for ‘The Music Man’

Judging by the prompt sellout of its current production of the classic, “The Music Man”, the Alhambra Theatre & Dining announced today it is extending the run for an additional week. The show will now close on June 13, 2021.

About the Show: In 1957, the show became a hit on Broadway, winning five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and running for 1,375 performances. The cast album won the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album and spent 245 weeks on the Billboard charts. The show's success led to several revivals, including a long-running 2000 Broadway revival, a popular 1962 film adaptation and a 2003 television adaptation.

The Music Man follows fast-talking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a marching band that he vows to organize – this, despite the fact that he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain's fall.

About the Meal: Executive Chef DeJuan Roy creates a new menu for every Alhambra show, usually borrowing influences from the script to shape his selections and recipes. Thanks to Chef Roy's culinary magic, the Alhambra is now known as much for its exceptional dining as for its theatrical productions. The menu for "The Music Man" features:

First Course (Choice of One) River City Salad - Chopped iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, cheddar cheese, croutons, Brown Derby Old Fashioned French Dressing *GF* without croutons; OR, Billiards Beef & Barley Soup.

Second Course (Choice of One) Chicken Divan - chicken thighs with creamy broccoli & cheddar cheese sauce, sweet peas, mushrooms, white rice; OR, Slow Roasted Pork Brisket with honey barbecue glaze, mac n' cheese, collard greens *GF* without mac n' cheese; OR, Parmesan Crusted Salmon with pesto cream sauce, rice pilaf, roasted asparagus; OR, Cauliflower Wellington - Cauliflower with red pepper sauce, roasted Parmesan tomatoes, mushroom Duxelles wrapped in puff pastry.

Third Course (Choice of One) Honeybun Cake with candied pecans, caramel; OR, Key Lime Crème Brûlée.

“The Music Man”

DATES: May 6 — June 13, 2021

SHOW TIMES: discussed at ticket sales

DRESS: “Business Casual”, or “Sunday Best”. COVID-19 Protocol is discussed HERE.

TICKETS: Prices range from $66 – $73 per person.  Ticket prices include: a three-course meal that changes for each show, a Broadway-style performance and complimentary parking.  Tickets may be purchases on line, or by calling (904) 641-1212.
     **Prices do NOT include gratuity, professional photos, nor orders from the bar**

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
       12000 Beach Blvd.
       Jacksonville, Florida 32246
       (904) 641-1212

‘Lost World Of Dragons’ comes to MOSH

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) today announced the opening date of its newest exhibition, “The Lost World of Dragons”. The exhibition, developed by Stage 9 Exhibits, explores the tales and tails of these ancient mythical beasts. Opening to the public on Saturday, May 29, The Lost World of Dragons is sure to breathe new fire into your imagination.

The exhibition will showcase a unique, custom and interactive experience for guests of all ages. Visitors will be immersed in stories and mythology of dragons –– from the lore and history of nearly every region and culture, spanning from Norway to ancient China. Interactive displays and photo opportunities deeply engage visitors in the amazing world of dragons. The Lost World of Dragons celebrates and explores both the history of and science behind how the dragon myth has grown through ages and cultures.

Adrienne Mayor, a Stanford University scholar, noted author and respected expert, provided consultation for this exhibition. Ms. Mayor has travelled the world and dusty archives to bring fascinating dragon myths and lore to life.

“MOSH is excited to transport Northeast Florida residents and visitors alike into the mythical world of the dragon,” said Bruce Fafard, CEO of MOSH. “We are celebrating our 80th anniversary this year, and we are pleased to continue to build on our mission of inspiring the joy of lifelong learning. This interactive exhibition will thrill the novice and expert alike, and we welcome visitors to explore this one-of-a-kind experience throughout the summer.”

The Lost World of Dragons features several components, including:
 Eight Animatronic dragons from all different regions of the world
 Unique photo opportunities
 Creative interactive stations that inform and engage
 Magnetic puzzles and engraved plate rubbing stations
 A dragon fossil dig
 A shadow puppet theatre
 VR dragon flight experience with HTC Vive
 Custom designed themed scenery environments

To find out more about The Lost World of Dragons and exhibition hours, please visit their website.

MOSH is committed to the safety of all guests during COVID-19. Masks are required for Museum entry for all visitors ages 6+, with single-use masks available for purchase for $1. Social distancing is encouraged, and hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the Museum. High-traffic areas are cleaned and disinfected regularly. Timed ticketing is required to ensure capacity remains at safe levels throughout the day; tickets are available online or at the door.

 The Museum of Science and History (MOSH)
 1025 Museum Circle
 Jacksonville, FL 32207
 (904) 396-MOSH (6674)

Molly Hatchet returns to the Florida Theatre

The Florida Theatre is pleased to announce that Southern Rock Band and Jacksonville natives Molly Hatchet return to the Florida Theatre. Molly Hatchet firmly cemented their place in music history in the late seventies. They stood alongside other iconic Southern rock bands out of Jacksonville, Florida, such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers. A perfect mixture of English invasion rock, blues, country, and gospel remains the unique sound of Molly Hatchet.

They were the hardest hitting of the Southern rock bands at the time when, in 1978, Epic Records released Molly Hatchet’s self-titled debut album.  It reached multi-platinum status, and the band established their reputation of working hard, playing tough and living fast through intense touring. During this time, they were on the road with Aerosmith, Bob Seger, The Rolling Stones, and many others.

In 2021, Molly Hatchet continues their worldwide tour, performing classic hits such as: “Flirtin’ with Disaster,” “Devil’s Canyon,” “Gator Country,” “Whiskey Man,” and “Dreams I’ll Never See.”

The band’s current lineup consists of long-time members Bobby Ingram on lead guitar and John Galvin on keyboards, as well as Tim Lindsey on bass guitar and Shawn Beamer on drums, with Jimmy Elkins on vocals.  Molly Hatchet continues to honor the legacies of those members who passed away (including Danny Joe Brown, David Hlubek, and Phil McCormack) by keeping the music alive, performing across the United States, and throughout the world.

After forty plus years Molly Hatchet is still workin’ hard, playin’ tough, livin’ fast, and Flirtin’ with Disaster!

This will be a socially-distanced event with health and safety protocols in place. Patrons can visit floridatheatre.com/home/breaking-news for the most up to date information on The Florida Theatre’s safety protocols and general updates. Additionally, ticket purchasers will be notified by email of specific safety requirements prior to the event.

The historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre is sponsored by Community First Credit Union. For a complete list of upcoming events or to buy tickets visit the Theatre's official website

“Molly Hatchet”
DATE: Friday, May 28, 2021
TIME: 8 p.m.
TICKETS: $39.50 – $49.50

LOCATION: The Florida Theatre
      128 East Forsyth Street.
      Jacksonville, FL 32202
      (904) 355-2787

‘Players by the Sea’ open to the public once again

Photos: Chelsea Black

Players by the Sea Community Theatre is bringing their New Voices Program back to the stage. Created in 2016 and inspired by new play development programs across the country, New Voices aims to develop the next wave of American voices right here in Jacksonville. In previous years, the program selected 1-2 established OR aspiring playwrights to embark on a yearlong developmental journey and pairs them with mentors who help guide the process from conception to final draft. The program culminates in a fully mounted production of their new play.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continued to take center stage, Players by the Sea reimagined New Voices and pivoted to a virtual process. This year’s theme is Voices Unheard. They selected 3 playwrights through a blind submission process and began a 12-week development and writing journey. Through mentorship, workshopping, and writing sessions, two of their selected playwrights are now ready to rehearse and showcase their 45-minute short plays that uplift and highlight the voices of the unheard.

The Space Between is written by Chelsea Black.
Nina is a young woman who just wants her mother Maria to accept her. When they find out her brother Kenneth’s spinal injury may be cured by a new medical breakthrough, Maria takes the opportunity to talk to her daughter about her weight. Mother and daughter must navigate their fraught relationship while also being there for Kenneth.

God's God written by Ken Pedersen.
Do you sometimes wonder about what really happens once you die? What if you arrived in the afterlife and you discovered that God himself was praying for a better life? That is the situation we encounter in "God's God." GG delivers an avantgarde exploration of what might happen once we ‘meet our maker.’ Its world is populated with a passive agnostic, a prickly non-believer, a deity overwhelmed by his day-today responsibilities, and the angels that run the place. God’s God examines the role of hope, belief, and purpose in a 30-minute package that seeks to get its audience to reconsider how their choices here on earth might best bring out the divinity in all us.

The third selection will be released later this Summer as a special presentation!

COVID-19 protocol is in place to secure the health and welfare of their patrons. Social distancing will be adhered to, masks will be required and hand sanitizing will be available according to the CDC guidelines.

New Voices Program: Voices Unheard
DATES/TIMES: May 15, 2021 8 p.m.
        May 16, 2 p.m. Matinee

TICKETS: Tickets are $20 and are available online at or by calling (904)-249-0289.

LOCATION:

Players By The Sea Theatre
      106 6th Street North
      Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
      (904) 249-0289

J. Wayne Weaver investment in the Museum of Science & History

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) today announced that J. Wayne Weaver has committed a significant contribution to the MOSH Genesis capital campaign. Weaver, a celebrated business leader and philanthropist, owns the shoe store chains Shoe Carnival and Nine West, and was the first owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League (NFL) from 1993 to 2011

Weaver made his commitment after meeting with Museum leaders to learn more about plans to relocate to the Northbank of Downtown Jacksonville.

“I’m impressed by the energetic vision behind MOSH Genesis, and feel the project is exactly what Downtown needs at this moment,” said Weaver. “My gift is not just an investment in the Museum, though. It’s an investment in our community’s future. Every child in Jacksonville deserves the very best educational opportunities, both in the classroom and through community treasures like MOSH.”

The Museum announced the launch of its capital campaign in March 2019, with the goal of raising $20 million in community support from individuals, businesses and corporations, foundations and other community stakeholders. To date, the campaign has secured more than 35 percent of the estimated total project cost of $85 million.

“We are honored to have J. Wayne Weaver’s support as we reimagine new ways to serve the broader Jacksonville community through a new museum,” said Bruce Fafard, CEO of MOSH.

About MOSH: The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for youth, students, active and retired military and seniors. There is no admission fee for children two and under or Museum members. Learn more at themosh.org.

Museum funding is provided in part by the City of Jacksonville and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Inc.; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts; Historic Museums Grants-in-Aid Program assistance provided by the Bureau of Historical Museums, Division of Historical Resources, Florida Department of State, Secretary of State.

Florida Theatre is having a virtual benefit party

The Florida Theatre is pleased to announce that this year’s annual benefit party goes virtual with Front Row From Home: A Florida Theatre Virtual Benefit Presented by Dex Imaging. Get Cozy At Home and Stream the Event Live at FrontRowFromHome.com on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at 7:30 p.m.

Front Row From Home is a live one-hour virtual fundraiser that you can support from the best seat in the house – your couch! Hosts Ken Amaro, Catalina Alers-Alers and Steve Smith will showcase the best of Jacksonville’s talent and performers while you learn more about the Florida Theatre and have fun bidding on exciting auction items in their online auction.

The event features live performances from Jacksonville’s own Billy Buchanan, The Band Be Easy, Honey Hounds, Chris Thomas Band and Akia Uwanda, as well as celebrity guest appearances by Judy Collins, 38 Special, Dave Koz, Mindi Abair and more to be announced.

Front Row from Home is the major benefit for the nonprofit Florida Theatre this year. The night supports the Florida Theatre’s mission as a nonprofit organization to enhance the North Florida community’s quality of life by bringing diverse and memorable arts and entertainment experiences to our community, and by preserving a unique historic Jacksonville landmark.

Though the event is free to stream at FrontRowFromHome.com, the Florida Theatre invites viewers to kick back and get cozy at home with one of the Front Row From Home VIP Experiences:

Individual Ticket: An individual ticket to Front Row From Home comes with access to an exclusive VIP pre-show event, including a virtual cocktail tasting and a party kit for 1 person delivered to your doorstep before the event.

The Party Kit Includes:
Manifest Distilling Cocktail Box for 1
Florida Theatre Merchandise for 1

Host Party Sponsorship: The Host Party Sponsorship Package gives your party access to an exclusive VIP pre-show event, including a virtual cocktail tasting and a party kit for 4 people delivered to your doorstep before the event. In addition, Host Sponsors will be listed as a sponsor in various promotions before and during the event.

The Host Party Kit Includes:
Wine and Cheese Basket for 4 Curated by Grater Goods
Florida Theatre Merchandise for 4
Manifest Distilling Cocktail Box for 4
Custom Cutting Board from A&A Wood Creations.

Auction: The Front Row From Home auction began on Thursday, April 29 and will feature a variety of rare and unique treasures. The Theatre will periodically reveal the auction items on social media in the weeks leading up to the event. Bidding ends when Front Row From Home finishes streaming at 8:30 p.m. on May 13, 2021.

To inquire about sponsorship opportunities for this event, contact Director of Development Michelle Adams at michelle@floridatheatre.com or (904) 562-5973.

The historic, nonprofit Florida Theatre is sponsored by Community First Credit Union. For a complete list of upcoming events or to buy tickets visit the Theatre’s official website, floridatheatre.com.

SHOW: Front Row From Home: A Florida Theatre Virtual Benefit Presented by Dex Imaging
SHOW DATE: Thursday, May 13, 2021
SHOW TIME: 7:30 p.m.
PRICES: $130 for an Individual Ticket, $2500 for the Host Party Sponsorship Package
STREAMING AT: FrontRowFromHome.com