2016 - 2017 Season Offerings - Manatee Performing Arts Center

2016 - 2017 Season Offerings
Season 2016-2017
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Letter from Executive Director, Janene Amick
The Manatee Performing Arts Center is proud to provide more than enough exciting and stimulating
performances and events for all audiences in this upcoming season. Our artistic pulse is sensitive to
broadening our horizons and creative vision through communicating and collaborating with community
leaders, businesses, community non-profit organizations, local performers and our patrons.
We are excited about the innovative and out of the box thinking that culminated in making this
upcoming season one that promises something of value to every person entering through the doors
of our state-of-the-art facility. First and foremost, we are proud to continue the successful tradition of
presenting the finest quality in our in-house plays and musicals.
The vision for the Manatee Performing Arts Center is not only to provide outstanding live
entertainment but to engage the community as active participates in the creative process. We are
delighted to explore ways through our outreach and support programs to cultivate new relationships
with local performers and artists as we seek to become a hub for artistic creation within our dynamic
and thriving community. There are education classes in various dance styles and acting techniques
for ages three to 55+ with our renowned DraMature Program. We offer intensive student education
programs which teach life skills through stage skills and theatre etiquette in a workshop
environment.
The Manatee Performing Arts Center boasts two performance venues, an art gallery, a ballroom,
rehearsal spaces, a cabaret bar, full in-house costume and scene shops. We are not just another
beautiful facility. We are here to provide experiences and opportunities to inspire and challenge
others to embrace, celebrate, and savor the creative process. We believe it takes a community
to raise and foster the arts.
Season 2016-2017
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Home of the Historic Chandelier from
the set of the 1939 Academy Award
Winning Film: Gone with the Wind.
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Letter from Producing Artistic Director, Rick Kerby
Community theatre is an easy punch line. When I moved to Florida as a snooty New Yorker over a
decade ago, my only reference point was the parody movie “Waiting for Guffman.” I had a quick and
humbling education as I watched the power of theatre in action.
I watched young actors flourish into professional adults who went on to work on Broadway, in film
or television. I was thrilled as an eighty year old woman found her nerve to go on stage for the first
time. I watched families grow closer as they used our stage as a bonding experience. I witnessed
the healing of uncomfortable adolescents who finally found a safe place for acceptance in the
theatre.
Now I still laugh, but I’m laughing with love in my heart. I have fallen deeply and unapologetically
in love with the ideals of a community that creates and supports live theatre. Your support
doesn’t just insure quality entertainment, you are helping to change lives for the better.
Thank you!
Season 2016-2017
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Broadway Series
Manatee Performing Arts Center is pleased to offer a great selection of favorite Broadway productions
ranging from classics to new shows sure to satisfy all the excitement and theatricality Broadway can bring
to our stage.
Presented in Stone Hall
Wednesday & Thursday: 7:30PM, Friday & Saturday: 8:00PM, Sunday 2:00PM
(Time of performance may vary depending on entertainment requirements)
42nd Street
August 11th - 28th, 2016; Producer: Maintenance Too Paper Company
Media Producer: Herald Tribune Media Group
When Broadway director Julian Marsh falls on hard times with both his health and his
finances, he helms an ambitious musical as a final production before his retirement. His lead
actress Dorothy Brock is torn between two loves- the show’s wealthy backer, Abner Dillon,
and the earnest but penniless actor Pat Denning, while aspiring young performer Peggy
Sawyer waits in the wings, hoping for her big break. G
My Fair Lady
September 22nd - October 9th, 2016
Associate Producers: Sylvia Price & Mary Zabin
Pompous professor Henry Higgins is so sure of his abilities that he takes it upon himself to
transform a Cockney working-class girl into someone who can pass for a cultured member
of high society. His subject turns out to be the lovely Eliza Doolittle, who agrees to speech
lessons to improve her job prospects. Watch as worlds and words collide with the musical
that will have you leaving a true romantic. G
Assassins
October 27th - November 13th, 2016
Producers: Dr. Ron Lennon and Dr. Randy Rentfro
It uses the premise of a murderous carnival game to produce a revue-style portrayal of men
and women who attempted (successfully or not) to assassinate Presidents of the United
States. The music varies to reflect the popular music of the eras depicted. R
* Theater masks represent family friendly favorites.
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Beauty and the Beast
December 1st - 18th, 2016; Media Producer Herald Tribune Media Group
An arrogant young prince and his castle’s servants fall under the spell of a wicked enchantress, who turns
him into the hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return. The spirited, headstrong village girl
Belle enters the Beast’s castle after he imprisons her father Maurice. With the help of his enchanted servants,
Belle begins to draw the cold-hearted Beast out of his isolation. This is certainly a tale as old as time.
Little Shop of Horrors
January 5th - 22nd, 2017
This dark humor musical is about a meek flower shop assistant Seymour, who pines for co-worker Audrey.
During a total eclipse, he discovers an unusual plant he names Audrey II, which feeds only on human
flesh and blood. The growing plant attracts a great deal of business for the previously struggling store.
After Seymour feeds Audrey’s boyfriend, Orin, to the plant after Orin’s accidental death, he must come
up with more bodies for the increasingly bloodthirsty plant. PG
The Bridges of Madison County
February 9th - 26th, 2017; Media Producer Herald-Tribune Media Group
The unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance
encounter becomes a second chance at so much more. One of the most romantic stories
ever written first captured the nation’s attention as a best-selling novel by Robert James
Waller and now an irresistible, two-time Tony Award Winning Broadway musical. PG-13
Boynton Beach Club
March 16th - April 2nd, 2017; World Premiere Production;
Media Producer: Scene Magazine
Residents of an adult community in Florida turn to one another for support and companionship
after the deaths of their spouses. Lois has a rejuvenating affair with a younger man while acting
as best friend to recently widowed Marilyn. Jack buddies up with Harry for a crash course in solo
survival skills and deals with single gal Sandy’s romantic overtures. PG-13
The Full Monty
April 20th – May 7th, 2017; Media Producer Herald Tribune Media Group
After losing his job at a steel factory, Gaz learns that his wife wants to sue him for missed child
support payments. Desperate for money, Gaz and his friend Dave decide to create their own
male strip-tease act. The two friends recruit four more men, including their former foreman
and a security guard. The group promises that their show will succeed because they are
willing to go “the Full Monty” -- completely naked.. Disclaimer: may contain nudity R
Season 2016-2017
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Studio Series: Action Through Acting
Designed to build community awareness and provide socially relevant issues a voice through live theatrical
productions. Each individual production highlights crucial issues affecting our daily lives. Action through
Acting is supported and enhanced by community forums and non-profit collaborative partners whose
missions are to support, educate and provide aide to our community and surrounding areas.
Presented in Bradenton Kiwanis, Studio Theater
Wednesday & Thursday: 7:30PM, Friday & Saturday: 8:00PM, Sunday 2:00PM
(Time of performance may vary depending on entertainment requirements)
Sylvia
September 15th – October 2nd, 2016
In collaboration with The Humane Society of Manatee County
Associate Producer: PETE and ME
The world of a middle-aged New York couple is turned topsy-turvy when the husband brings
home an exceptionally engaging canine running loose in Central Park. Her name is Sylvia. This
story is about her, the couple that takes her in, and the comedy that results. PG-13
Children of a Lesser God
October 20th – November 6th, 2016
In collaboration with Sign Language Interpreters at every performance
Starting his new job as an instructor at a New England school for the deaf, James Leeds
meets Sarah Norman, a young deaf woman who works at the school as a member of the
custodial staff. A romance slowly develops between the pair in spite of Sarah’s withdrawn
emotional state due in part to her difficult relationship with her mother. PG-13
* Theater masks represent family friendly favorites.
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
It’s a Wonderful Life
December 1st – 18th, 2016
In collaboration with Toys for Tots
Associate Producer: Betty Dodt
After George Bailey wishes he had never been born, an angel is sent to earth to make George’s wish
come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be
different if he was never there. Come enjoy this heartwarming story of learning to enjoy what you already
have and appreciating true friends and family. G
13 The Musical!
January 12th – 29th, 2017
In collaboration with the Manatee Education Foundation
Evan Goldman is about to turn thirteen, and he can’t wait. His life seems full of possibilities -- that
is, until his parents get divorced, and he is forced to move with his mom from big-city New York to
“Podunk” Appleton, Indiana. If Evan can’t get the coolest kids to come to his bar mitzvah, how is he
going to survive the school year, not to mention, the rest of his life? Watch as Evan navigates the
world of cool kids and nerds, jocks and cheerleaders, first kisses and heartbreak. PG-13
Wit
February 23rd – March 12th, 2017
In collaboration with Manatee Memorial Hospital
The action of the play takes place during the final hours of Dr Vivian Bearing, a university
professor of English, dying of ovarian cancer. She recalls the initial diagnosis of Stage IV
metastatic ovarian cancer from her oncologist, Dr Harvey Kelekian. Dr Kelekian then proposes
an experimental chemotherapeutic treatment regimen consisting of eight rounds at full dosage.
PG-13
Peter and the Star Catcher
April 6th - 23rd, 2017
In collaboration with Guardian Angels of Southwest Florida
In this wickedly imaginative play, we meet a poor orphaned child on the high seas simply
called Boy. His sad and lonely world is turned upside down when he meets Molly. Our
heroine is on a mission to save the world and protect a treasure trunk filled with magical
star stuff from getting into the hands of evil and greedy pirate Black Stache. Molly and
Boy forge an unbreakable bond and learn about love and friendship. PG
Season 2016-2017
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Theater for Young Audiences
Our theatre for young audiences is for children by children We present family favorites on our Stone Hall
stage. Our theatre for young audiences performances are not to be missed!
Beauty and the Beast Jr.
December 10th, 2016, 2:00pm
The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is
really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to
love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. If the
Beast does not learn his lesson, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.
Wizard of Oz
April 29th, 2017, 2:00pm
Like so many girls her age, young Dorothy of Kansas dreams of what lies over the rainbow.
One day a twister hits her farm and carries her away over the rainbow to another world.
Come join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as they travel the
universe of Dorothy’s imagination.
High School Musical Jr.
June 23rd & 24th, 2017, 7:00pm & 2:00pm
Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life in Disney’s High School Musical Jr.
The students of East High must deal with issues of love, friends and family while balancing
their classes and extracurricular activities. The show’s infectious, danceable songs are sure
to engage performers and audiences alike.
Shrek the Musical Jr.
July 21st & 22nd, 2017, 7:00pm & 2:00pm
Based on the Oscar-Winning DreamWorks Animation film and fantastic Broadway musical.
It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek leads a cast of fairytale
misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and
part twisted fairy tale, Shrek the Musical is a hilarious show with a powerful message for the
whole family.
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Community Artistic Collaborations
Venue and time may vary depending on entertainment requirements. Call for details.
The Gospel Gathering, Live Recording
September 2nd, 2016: 8:00PM
Come out and enjoy the uplifting sound of more than 25 melodic voices performing alongside a
six piece band. Original music by Noah Tyson.
Decades Rewind, A Tribute to an Era
September 3rd & 4th, 2016: 7:30PM
Experience the greatest music of the 60s, 70s, and 80s with DECADES – a multimedia musical
extravaganza featuring a LIVE 13-piece band performing medleys of your favorite hits, spanning
30 years!
DecadesRewind.com
Memorable Melodies, Sarasota Musica Viva
October 9th, 2016: 5:30PM
aViva
MLindausicBento-Rei
SARASOTA
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
“Memorable Melodies” is an enjoyable program of classical favorites presented in
an intimate and relaxed atmosphere in which memorable quips about each piece is
discussed during the performance. Diverse and fun for all!
SarasotaMusicaViva.com
Ann Hobson - Pilot
ARTISTIC ADVISOR
Season 2016-2017
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Community Artistic Collaborations
Venue and time may vary depending on entertainment requirements. Call for details.
Women, Wellness & Wine, Total Life Care
October 18th, 2016: 6:00PM
The inside scoop to more money, time, freedom and fun! Network with influential movers
and shakers as you learn why thoughts, diet and blood flow can make or break your life.
Free relaxing sessions for increased blood flow available from 3pm – 5:30pm and after 7pm
A Very Good Year, Frank Sinatra
November 9th, 2016: 2:00PM
This one of a kind musical tribute to the late Frank Sinatra, starring Tony Sands, is a musical
journey about life and times of Sinatra singing all of his best love songs. It’s like Frank walked
off the screen and on to the stage to perform just for you.
TonySands.com
DraMature, Holiday Follies
December 14th , 2016: 2:00PM
Holiday Follies showcases the varied talents of our resident senior theatre troupe, DraMature.
Come laugh along as they celebrate by performing skits, songs and comedy improv.
Trio d’amore, Sarasota Musica Viva
January 8th, 2017: 5:30PM
aViva
MLindausicBento-Rei
SARASOTA
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
“Trio d’amore” is an exotic mix of flute, oboe (and English Horn) accompanied by piano. This
luscious mix of musical sounds and styles will leave you thoroughly entertained and joyfully
sated! Illuminating footnotes will be presented by the performers.
SarasotaMusicaViva.com
Ann Hobson - Pilot
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ARTISTIC ADVISOR
Manatee Performing Arts Center
Rat Pack – Together Again
January 11th, 2017: 2:00PM
This show features everything from the individual hits of their early days to the memorable music created
when these three singing sensations united. Not only performing the best of the Rat Pack songs, they will
also sing some of the more intimate numbers that their fans have come to know and love.
Lip Schtick
January 23rd & 24th, 2017: 7:30PM
Watch as one man makes his way through seven characters and eleven costume changes without
ever leaving the stage. This hilarious performance includes lip-sync and live vocals that are almost
too flawless to notice the difference. Enjoy this spontaneous and comedic production and watch
David Scarbie Mitchell as he transforms before your eyes.
Transformations
January 28th, 2017: 7:30PM
Considered one of the most versatile, interesting, and talented performers of the 21st century,
Tahja’s one-woman international variety show of rousing music, song, dance, magic and comedy will
leave you spellbound! Expect the unexpected with Tahja!
Suncoast Mummers and String Band
February 15th, 2017: 2:00PM
As one of the oldest most unique bands in Florida, “The Suncoast Mummers String Band”
has been bringing the “Happy Sound” of string band music to a new audience who may
never have heard this kind of music or know what a “Strutter” is.
Season 2016-2017
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Community Artistic Collaborations
Venue and time may vary depending on entertainment requirements. Call for details.
Neil Diamond Tribute
February 14th, 2017: 2:00PM & 7:30PM
This Broadway style production performed by Neil Diamond impersonator Keith Allynn,
unveils the story of Diamond’s life and career through his songs. This is a must see for
audiences of all ages.
ANeilDiamondTribute.com
Florida Brass Drum and Bugle Corps
March 4th, 2017: 8:00PM
The Florida Brass Drum and Bugle Corps was organized in 2003 in Lakeland, Florida with
seven members. In ten years the corps has now grown to be one of the best musical
groups in the state of Florida. Their music is written and played in the key of “G” which
varies from a Latin drum corps style beat to music from the opera… Done with class and
a flair that only The Florida Brass knows how to do.
FloridaBrass.com
Whirling Passion
March 5th, 2017: 2:00PM
Swords flashing, veils flowing, lavish costumes. World renowned Tahja brings you her
fabulous stage production of belly dancing at it’s finest with song and more as we visit
several “Mediterranean Ports of Call” with their enchanting live music and exquisitely
choreographed dances. You’ll be amazed with the variety and beauty of this ancient
dance form.
Thomas Koch, Classical Guitarist
March 22nd, 2017: 2:00PM
Thomas Koch was born in Germany, where he studied the classical guitar. He later continued
his studies at the Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris, France. Thomas will be presenting an
un-plugged style performance in our intimate Kiwanis-Bradenton Stuido Theater.
ThomasKochGuitar.com
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Baby Boomers
March 28th, 2017: 7:30PM
In this hilarious comedy, fellow baby boomers discuss all the problems they are dealing with
including family, kids, work, dieting, aging and much more. Watch them bring light to these dreaded
topics through this comedic production.
The Gold Tones
March 29th, 2017: 2:00PM
Florida’s hottest Doo-Wop/Oldies Group singing all of your favorites from the 50s and 60s. Nostalgic
Street corner harmonies, just the way you remember them.
TheGoldTones.com
The Book of Goddesses, Sarasota Musica Viva
April 9th, 2017: 2:00PM
aViva
MLindausicBento-Rei
SARASOTA
“The Book of Goddesses” is an exciting and joyful program written for flute, harp and world
percussion with dance. The lavish and exotic style of each Goddess is drawn from India, China,
Greece, Ireland, North America and Cuba. Brilliantly performed and masterfully choreographed,
this program promises to be a feast for your senses.
SarasotaMusicaViva.com
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Ann Hobson - Pilot
ARTISTIC ADVISOR
DraMature, Spring Fling
May 3rd, 2017: 2:00PM
A variety show, like no other. Featuring the talents of the Manatee Performing Arts Center’s
resident theatre troupe DraMature. This program is sure to hit your funny bone.
The Diary of Anne Frank, Sarasota Ballet Company
May 13th – May 21st, 2017
Anne Frank the Ballet is a personal interpretation of the well-known story taken from the
pages of a young girl’s diary during the tragic events that befell her family during World
War II. The Diary of Anne Frank translated into choreography is endeavored to show
interpersonal relationships inside the Secret Annex.
SarasotaBallet.org
Season 2016-2017
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Gallery Glimpse
We are proud to showcase artists of various mediums in our lobby throughout the season. Below are a few
of the artists you can look forward to experiencing and enjoying this season.
Barbara Banks: Photographer
New York-based Knot magazine has added Barbara Banks to it’s acclaimed “Best of” list of
featured photographers on Florida’s West Coast. Renowned photographer Barbara Banks
been collaborating with the internationally acclaimed Sarasota Ballet to produce a series
of limited edition photographs of the dancers, we are proud to be displaying these finely
curated images in our gallery in conjuction with our collaboration with the Sarasota Ballet,
Anne Frank the Ballet.
Becky Evans: Resident Costume Designer
Experience the costumes you’ve enjoyed on stage come to life again with a closer look
at the finer details of each intricate piece. Highlights include costumes from acclaimed
productions such as Cats, My Fair Lady, Phantom and more.
Darwin Leon: Oil and Canvas
Darwin’s work is fresh and alive, and the colors are radiant with a dominant style of
surrealism, abstract-expressionism, and a mix of classical chiaroscuro. His brilliant use of
messages hidden and obvious leaves the admirer wondering while constantly discovering
something new.
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
An on going collaboration supporting and featuring local, regional and national talent.
A concert series that will feature local and regional bands from the Tampa Bay area. It is Independent
Jones’ mission is to continue the renaissance of the downtown Bradenton area’s music scene.
Independent Jones is providing the bar alternative, focusing on live music and entertainment for
all ages and tastes. Independent Jones’ goal is to be a major catalyst in stimulating the economy
through live music and entertainment focusing on a previously underserved population in the area,
the millennial generation.
The partners in this venture, Morgan Bettes and Wade Hamilton have a proven track record of
successful music and art-based events in the Bradenton area. Through Independent Jones, we
intend to provide a platform through which we will partner with up and coming musicians and
artists. We will support and feature local talent, as well as bring in regional and national acts to
Manatee Performing Arts Center.
Upcoming performances include:
August 6th, 2016, November 25th, 2016, December 30th, 2016, February 4th, 2017 and May
27th, 2017.
Please call the Box Office (941.748.5875) for upcoming performances or check our website:
ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com
Photo Credit: Ed Miller/Sarasota Music Scene
Season 2016-2017
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NEED PHOTO
Stone Hall Seating Map
Stone Hall
Available for all
Stone Hall Productions
Bradenton
Kiwanis Theatre
Festival Style Seating
Available for all Bradenton
Kiwanis Theatre Productions
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Manatee Performing Arts Center
Sunday Brunch
Starting this season we will be offering for our Sunday Matinee performances Brunch and a Show
from 11:00AM – 1:30PM buffet style in our Kiwanis Ballroom. Featuring Mimosas and Bloody Marys
all catered by Pier 22. Please contact the Box Office for booking and more informations.
Reservations suggested but not required.
Ticketing Information:
Box Office: 941.748.5875 • ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com
Military Discount Offered in Partnership with The National Initiative for Arts & Health in the Military.
Connect with us!
Season 2016-2017
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Make an Impact!
We are committed to being the community’s premier theater and the region’s
center for cultural, educational and artistic expression. Our team works
tirelessly to ensure that we deliver engaging excellence for all ages, through
the talent we present, the services we offer and the experiences we create.
Our goal is not just to entertain you… we want to inspire you.
502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida 34205 • Tickets 941-748-5875 • ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com
Sponsored by the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Sara & Steve Bayard • Charles Henry Leach II Fund • Tom Sparks
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Manatee Performing Arts Center