The “Art Heist” cometh to Jacksonville, FL

If you liked the board game “Clue” or were intrigued by the movie “Knives Out”, then you will like the up-close experience of - “ART HEIST”. Can you spot a liar? Become a Detective on a Walking Hunt for a Criminal Mastermind in the All-New Interactive Show Based on the true story of America’s largest art theft! “ART HEIST”. Tickets and dates are still available for this ‘who-done- it’ interactive drama.

Put your NCIS, CSI and Law & Order skills to use and walk off the quarantine poundage to solve a ripped-from-the-walls, real-life master robbery of thirteen works of art, valued at half a billion dollars. Based on a true story of the world’s biggest art caper, “Art Heist” is a true crime walking show where socially distanced groups of 30 -35 will move through five Jacksonville walkable locations to gather clues. The amateur gumshoes interact with a wild group of wily career criminals, slimy con men, rumpled art recovery specialists, a possible inside man, a gentle psychopath, and the larger-than-life but definitely real self-proclaimed Greatest Art Thief of All Time.

The show premiered last September at the Vancouver Fringe Festival. The story is based on the biggest art heist in history and took place on March 18, 1990, when two thieves disguised as police officers entered Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in the middle of the night, telling guards they were investigating a disturbance. Valued at a half a billion dollars, 13 works of art, including paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Manet were stolen. The $500 million pieces as well as the robbers remain at large today.

Actors, through conversation, will reveal clues to the detective audience but then again, a red herring or two might present itself. Sharp sleuths will guess who the liars are and ultimately solve the enigma. No two performances will ever be the same as the actors improvise with every interaction.

"In these times, we're looking to create new opportunities, not only for audiences to enjoy theatre experiences, but also for the actors and crew members out there who have found themselves out of work. It's been a very tough time for our industry and Right Angle is reimagining and repurposing live entertainment to fit today's reality,” said Justin Sudds who along with Alison Spiriti is producing.

Art Heist was conceived as a form of theatre that can work while respecting all COVID-19 safety protocols. Produced by Right Angle Entertainment, this unique show was created by Justin Sudds and written/directed by TJ Dawe and Ming Hudson. The world premiere cast in Vancouver included: Jayson MacDonald, Sara Bynoe, Michael Unger, Arthi Chandra, Nevada Banks, Drew Carlson, Mily Mumford, Rodney Decroo and Stefano Guilanetti. Design Coordination by Erika Conway.

TJ Dawe is a writer, director and performer of new theatre. He co-created internationally The One-Man Star Wars Trilogy, One Woman Sex and the City, and PostSecret: The Show, which have toured internationally. He co-wrote the play Toothpaste and Cigars, which was adapted into the feature film What If, starring Daniel Radcliffe, Zoe Kazan and Adam Driver. He helped Richard Dreyfuss create a multimedia career retrospective stage show titled Richard Dreyfuss: A Diminishing Resource. He teaches a course on solo performance at Langara College. You can find his monologue Medicine on YouTube. Ming Hudson is a physical theatre practitioner, freelance performer, devised theatre creator and teacher. She’s worked with a variety of theatre companies including Bard on the Beach, the Arts Club, Boca Del Lupo, Theatre Replacement, Atomic Vaudeville and The Firehall Arts Centre. She’s an instructor at the Canadian College of Performing Arts.

“COVID-19 has changed the game for everyone in the arts,” said Director TJ Dawe. “Many of the elements we took for granted are gone, or at least on hold for the foreseeable future. Fortunately, there’s nothing like a career as a freelancing artist working in new theatre to cultivate adaptability and openness to innovation. With that mentality, every project is a unique challenge already.”

Guided walking tour groups of 30 -35 will begin at various start times starting outside at the Times-Union Center. Restrooms will be available inside the Times-Union Center prior to the start of each tour. Tours are approximately 90 minutes long.

“Art Heist”
DATES: Week 1: April 13 – 18
    Week 2: April 21 – 25
    Week 3: April 28 – May 2

TIMES: Vary in the p.m.

TICKETS: Start at $45.50 can be purchased online 24/7 HERE.

LOCATION: Times Union Center Performing Arts
      Locally Outside the Moran Theater
      300 West Water St.
      Jacksonville, FL 32202

Jon Pardi and Friends add another performance in JAX

Adams Entertainment, ASM-Global Jacksonville and Bold Events announced today that due to popular demand, a second date has been added to A Night at the Drive-In with Jon Pardi and Friends. In addition to the Saturday, October 10 concert already on-sale, fans now have a second chance to experience Jacksonville’s live Lot J drive-in concert on Friday, October 9. The newly added concert is on sale HERE. Tickets for both shows are available to purchase per car, with a maximum capacity limited to the number of seatbelts per vehicle.

Guests will be allowed to bring chairs, food and drinks to party in their private tailgating zones next to their cars. Parking will be first, come first served within each price level and patrons will be shown to their designated tailgate area where they can park and enjoy the show. Face masks/coverings will be required by all patrons when they are not in their car or designated tailgate area, located adjacent to their driver’s side door. Physical distancing measures will be enforced. For more information, please visit Daily’s Place or Jaxevents.com.

Adams Entertainment, ASM-Global Jacksonville and Bold Events announced that Award-winning singer/songwriter/producer Jon Pardi will headline the first-ever live drive-in concert experience in Jacksonville, with special guests, Jillian Jacqueline and Jordan Fletcher.  The drive-in concert will take place in Lot J, adjacent to TIAA Bank Field and Daily’s Place on Saturday, October 10 at 7:30 p.m.

A multi-faceted entertainer, award-winning artist/songwriter/producer Jon Pardi’s latest album, Heartache Medication, was nominated for ACM Album of the Year and CMA Album of the Year (2020) and produced his #1 single, “Heartache Medication” as well as his current critically acclaimed hit, “Ain’t Always The Cowboy.” Heartache Medication followed Pardi’s Platinum-certified album California Sunrise (Capitol Records Nashville), which dominated the top of the country music charts with consecutive #1 hits including 2x Platinum-selling songs “Dirt On My Boots” and “Head Over Boots,” as well as the platinum-certified hit “Heartache On The Dance Floor.” Called a “hero in the making” (Variety) that “proves Country is still thrillingly alive,” (Rolling Stone) Pardi recently released Rancho Fiesta Sessions-a tribute to legendary artists that inspire him-and will be releasing Heartache Medication, the Deluxe Edition, on October 2nd, timed to his 1-year anniversary headlining shows at Nashville’s famed Ryman Auditorium.

Safety at the Alhambra during COVID-19

It has literally been a month of Sundays since we’ve had a review on “Around Town with Ms. “V” due to the pandemic shutdown in March; nonetheless we thank God that we are alive and well.

Florida has only reached Stage 2 of carefully reopening some businesses with social distancing and having patrons don masks, yet we are proud to report that the “Alhambra Theatre and Dining” has complied to safely protect its patrons and their employees.

Masks are not required during your meal, but you are requested to mask-up when going to the restrooms.  Some people chose to have on their masks during the show’s presentation, but that’s entirely up to you.

Space between tables has been designed so that only you and people who are in your party, are sitting together.  Plexiglass is positioned throughout the showroom in order to separate one layer of tables from the next level of tables.  All servers are protecting you with their facial coverings and gloved hands.

Yes, you can still get your favorite alcoholic beverage brought to your table, and don’t forget to get your professional 5x7 framed photo taken with a themed background to commemorate your visit along with a memorable key chain.

The show “Grease” is fantastic.  When I asked if I should watch the original movie with my Granddaughter, it was suggested that I wait until after viewing the show, and she was so right (but it really didn’t matter).  A couple of the songs were different and of course, some of the scenes have been changed under the excellent production of Mr. Tod Booth.  The actors (some of whom you might have seen before), are seasoned participants as they act, sing and dance with the upmost precision.

The Alhambra Theatre and Dining is a small business that is doing everything that they can do tin order to maintain quality while presenting the best three course meals by Executive Chef DeJuan Roy.  Also, please be kid to your servers because they work hard to give quality service.  Tipping is allowed and recommended.  The only negative of my evening was the coffee that tasted like a weak tea, nevertheless, there’s still a Starbucks still open somewhere on the way home.

“Grease” may be sold out (even with the addition of three extra weeks); but in order for experience live theater, you may want to join the Alhambra’s Royalty Partners.  These Season Ticket holders, who have purchased tickets before the onset of the Coronavirus, get first preference to available seating.  Want to get out and continue to enjoy life?  Get your Alhambra Theatre & Dining tickets today.  Give them a call!

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

Come or go with an Alhambra meal

Experience the magic of the “Cinderella” menu in the comfort of your own home!  Take a look at the takeout menu options for Fri., June 12 – Sun., June 14.

Takeout Hours: Fri.: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Sat. – Sun: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Family-Style Meal: Fri., June 12 – Sun., June 14 (4 servings).  Grilled Pork Chops - center cut pork chops, barbecue glaze, corn pudding, zucchini & squash medley, with dessert of Mini Dip & Roll - cake skewers with caramel, chocolate, brown sugar, whipped cream.  $55

Entrée Options for Fri., June 12 – Sun., June 14 (1 serving/each) Slow Roasted Tri-Tip Sirloin with natural jus, pan-roasted rosemary potatoes, roasted asparagus, cherry tomatoes, with dessert of Mini Dip & Roll - cake skewers with caramel, chocolate, brown sugar, whipped cream *GF* without dessert.  OR Glazed Salmon - glazed with garlic, honey & soy sauce, brown rice gratin, almonds, roasted wax beans, with dessert of Mini Dip & Roll - cake skewers with caramel, chocolate, brown sugar, whipped cream *GF* without dessert.  OR Grilled Pork Chops - center cut pork chops, barbecue glaze, corn pudding, zucchini & squash medley, with dessert of Mini Dip & Roll - cake skewers with caramel, chocolate, brown sugar, whipped cream.  OR Summer Barbecue Bowl - barbecue jackfruit, roasted corn, zucchini & squash, barbecue baked beans, topped with Brussels sprout slaw and fried corn chips, with dessert of Mini Dip & Roll - cake skewers with caramel, chocolate, brown sugar, whipped cream *GF* without dessert.  $20 each.

Click curbside-to-go dining-program or call the box office at 904.641.1212 to place your order and let us take care of dinner!

Price includes tax.  Gratuity not included – but much appreciated.  Orders may be placed until 11 a.m. on day of pick-up.  Quantities are limited.  Available while supplies last.

“Cinderella”

DATES: June 11 through July 20, 2020

SHOW TIMES: Please note, to accommodate the many young families attending this show, doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for evening shows and dinner will start at 6 p.m.

TICKETS: Prices range from $40 – $68.  Children 12 and under are $38 + tax.  Ticket prices include: a plated three-course meal that changes for each show, and is served directly to your table; a Broadway-style performance and complimentary parking.  Tickets may be purchases by calling (904) 641-1212.
     **Prices do NOT include gratuity, professional photos, or orders from the bar**

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

‘Cinderella’ - first show since Feb.20th

The Alhambra Theatre & Dining announced it will open its doors on June 11 with Rogers & Hammerstein’s classic, “Cinderella.” With social distancing guidelines strictly enforced and capacity restricted to 50% occupancy, the Alhambra will continue its run as America’s longest-running dinner theater.  The re-opening plan took some juggling of seating charts and schedules, not to mention the patience of more than 10,000 guests who already had tickets for the remainder of the year, but the curtain will rise on June 11, the originally-scheduled dates for the Alhambra’s run of “Cinderella.“ The show is scheduled to close on July 26.  Patrons are asked to wear a mask except during mealtime.

Because of the social distancing guidelines related to COVID-19, the Alhambra will only be able to sell limited number of additional tickets.  The show was already 70% sold out when it suspended sales in late April.  Following the math of only allowing 50% capacity, the Alhambra actually added several matinee dates to accommodate the overage.

“We are thrilled to roll with whatever punches we need to open for our family of guests and staff,” said Alhambra Managing Partner Craig Smith.  He continued, “Our job is to provide the community a break from the day-to-day and give folks a place to go to make some memories. We’re grateful we get to do our job again and that our guests and staff are so accommodating.”

Adding the additional dates not allow the Alhambra to sell more tickets.  It simply gave them the opportunity to seat existing ticket holders, some who were asked to switch dates and tables.  “Our guests were ready, willing and able to work with us.  Our staff was willing to switch from days to nights when called upon.  Our kitchen staff was happy to add day time hours to an already-busy schedule.  It was really a great demonstration of being in this thing together,” said Smith.

Smith recounted that the most challenging part was figuring out what to do with the remaining shows on the calendar, including the nearly-sold out, “Grease.”  To do that, the Alhambra is moving its run of The Music Man to 2021 and replacing it with “Grease” from July 30 to September 20.  This adds two weeks to the original run of “Grease,” allowing for the Alhambra to accommodate its current ticket holders as-well-as take more reservations.

Said Smith, “We knew when we scheduled it that “Grease” would be a big seller for us.  We had the opportunity to accommodate the 12,000 “Grease” ticket holders and honoring our commitment to “The Music Man” by simply moving it to next season.”  The Alhambra will allow anyone unable to use their current tickets in their new seats and date as a credit for a future show.  “Love, Sex and IRS,” will run as planned in late September, and with matinees added to create more seating for what Smith expects to be a strong seller.

In compliance with local, state and federal guidelines for COVID-19, the Alhambra will heighten its usual high safety standards.  Staff will undergo training in safe service practices as well as what to look for regarding symptoms.  All staff will be wearing masks and gloves.  They have also been instructed to stay home if there is even a hint of a related symptom.  In an email to ticket holders, the Alhambra has asked customers to take the same precautions, and has offered to waive the “day of” transfer fee to those needing to change dates at the last minute.

In addition, the Alhambra will suspend for “Cinderella” and “Grease” its Opening Night Gala pre- and post-show celebrations in the lobby of the Theatre.  “We take for granted our usual processes because we’ve been at this for so long, so we’re having to review and change every contact point from food delivery to pens our guests use to sign their credit card receipt.  It’s been a good exercise for us in terms of efficiency.” Said Smith.  Complimentary Champagne and Hors d'oeuvres served at your table before dinner, on Gala evening.

Reconfiguring process is not new to the Alhambra, which had successfully pivoted at the beginning of the business closing period by switching from seated dining for 375 people to take-away and curbside delivery.  They later added dine-in options once the options were allowed.  The Alhambra will continue its curbside to-go dining program.

“Cinderella”

DATES: June 11 through July 20, 2020

SHOW TIMES: Please note, to accommodate the many young families attending this show, doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for evening shows and dinner will start at 6 p.m.  Adult and Children’s Menu can be viewed HERE.

TICKETS: Prices range from $40 – $68.  Children 12 and under are $38 + tax.  Ticket prices include: a plated three-course meal that changes for each show, and is served directly to your table; a Broadway-style performance and complimentary parking.  Tickets may be purchases by calling (904) 641-1212.
     **Prices do NOT include gratuity, professional photos, or orders from the bar**

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

One more takeout week at the Alhambra

Stay tuned for the next exciting post from the Alhambra Theatre & Dining here at “Around Town With Ms. “V”.  You won't want to miss it!

Take a look at the takeout menu options for Friday, June 5 – Sunday, June 7, 2020.  Takeout Hours: Fri. - Sun.: 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Family-Style Meal: Fri., June 5 - Sun., June 7 (4 servings).  Chef DeJuan's Famous Shrimp & Grits served with caesar salad, and dessert of Chef's kitchen sink cookies.  $55

Entrée Options for Fri., June 5 (1 serving/each) Herb & Crumb Crusted Cod with lemon beurre blanc, rice casserole, zucchini and squash medley, and dessert of chocolate peanut butter pie. OR Braised Pork Cheeks with natural pork jus, buttermilk mashed potatoes, squash medley, fried onions, and dessert of chocolate peanut butter pie.  $20 each.

Entrée Options for Sat., June 6 (1 serving/each) Aunt Mae's Fried Chicken with country chicken gravy, white rice, creamed peas, and dessert of blueberry crème brûlée with sugar cookies.  OR Spaghetti with Housemade Giant Meatballs, garlic bread, green beans, and dessert of blueberry crème brûlée with sugar cookies.  $20 each.

Entrée Options for Sun., June 7 (1 serving/each) Creamy Chicken Pasta with angel hair, artichokes, mushrooms, peas, tomatoes and pesto cream sauce, and dessert of white chocolate bread pudding.  OR Smothered Pork Chops with gravy, yellow rice, succotash, and dessert of white chocolate bread pudding.  $20 each.

Price includes tax. Gratuity not included - but much appreciated.  Orders may be placed until 12 p.m. on day of pick-up. Quantities are limited.  Available while supplies last.

To place your order, CLICK HERE or call the Box Office at (904) 641–1212 to order.

Separate orders required for each day. Menu subject to change, based on availability.  Photos are not exact representation of meal.  Question?  Please give them a call! They are there to help.

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