2016 - 2017 Season Offerings -...

Season 2016-2017 1

2016 - 2017 Season Offerings

2 Manatee Performing Arts Center Season 2016-2017 3

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 boutique shoppe, 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.

Letter from Executive Director, Janene Amick


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!

Home of the Historic Chandelier from the set of the 1939 Academy Award Winning: Gone with the Wind.


* Theater masks represent family friendly favorites.

Broadway SeriesManatee 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 GroupWhen 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 LadySeptember 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

Beauty and the Beast December 1st - 18th, 2016; Media Producer Herald Tribune Media GroupAn 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 ser-vants, Belle begins to draw the cold-hearted Beast out of his isolation. This is certainly tale as old as time.

The Bridges of Madison CountyFebruary 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

Little Shop of Horrors January 5th - 22nd, 2017This 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

Boynton Beach Club March 16th - April 2nd, 2017; World Premiere Production; Media Producer: Scene MagazineResidents 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 MontyApril 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

AssassinsOctober 27th - November 13th, 2016 Producers: Dr. Ron Lennon and Dr. Randy RentfroIt 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


Studio Series: Action Through ActingDesigned 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)

SylviaSeptember 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 Silvia. This story is about her, the couple that takes her in, and the comedy that results. PG

Children of a Lesser God October 20th – November 6th, 2016In collaboration with Sign Language Interpreters at every performanceStarting 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

It’s a Wonderful Life December 1 – 18, 2016 In collaboration with Toys for Tots Associate Producer: Betty DodtAfter 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 12 – 29, 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

WitFebruary 23 – March 12, 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

* Theater masks represent family friendly favorites.

Peter and the Star Catcher October 27th – November 13th, 2016In 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. The daughter of famous Star catcher Lord Astor, 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


Theater for Young AudiencesOur 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 OzApril 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 & 2:00pmBased 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.

Community Artistic CollaborationsVenue and time may vary depending on entertainment requirements. Call for details.

The Gospel Gathering, Live RecordingSeptember 2nd, 2016: 8:00PMCome 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 EraSeptember 3rd & 4th, 2016: 7:30PMExperience 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 VivaOctober 9th, 2016: 5:30PM“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.comMusicaVivaLinda Bento-Rei

Ann Hobson - Pilot

S A R A S O T A

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

ARTISTIC ADVISOR



A Very Good Year, Frank SinatraNovember 9th, 2016: 2:00PMThis 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 FolliesDecember 14th , 2016: 2:00PMHoliday 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 VivaJanuary 8th, 2017: 5:30PM“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

Rat Pack – Together Again January 11th, 2017: 2:00PMThis 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.Women, Wellness & Wine, Total Life Care

October 18th, 2016: 6:00PMThe 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

Lip SchtickJanuary 23rd & 24th, 2017: 7:30PMWatch 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.

TransformationsJanuary 28th, 2017: 7:30PMConsidered 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: 2:00PMAs 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.

MusicaVivaLinda Bento-Rei

Ann Hobson - Pilot

S A R A S O T A

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

ARTISTIC ADVISOR



Florida Brass Drum and Bugle CorpsMarch 4th, 2017: 8:00PMThe 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 PassionMarch 5th, 2017: 2:00PMSwords 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 GuitaristMarch 22nd, 2017: 2:00PMThomas 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 theater ThomasKochGuitar.com

Baby Boomers March 28th, 2017: 7:30PMIn 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 TonesMarch 29th, 2017: 2:00PMFlorida’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 VivaApril 9th, 2017: 2:00PM“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

DraMature, Spring FlingMay 3rd, 2017: 2:00PMA 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 CompanyMay 13th – May 21st, 2017Anne 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

Neil Diamond TributeFebruary 14th, 2017: 2:00PM & 7:30PMThis 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

MusicaVivaLinda Bento-Rei

Ann Hobson - Pilot

S A R A S O T A

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

ARTISTIC ADVISOR


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 DesignerExperience 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 CanvasDarwin’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.

NEED PHOTO

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’s 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. Indepedant 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


Stone Hall Seating Map

Starting this season we will be offering for our Sunday Matinee performances Brunch and a Show from 11AM – 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

Connect with us!

Available for all Stone Hall Productions

Military Discount Offered in Partnership with The National Initiative for Arts & Health in the Military.

20 Manatee Performing Arts Center

Make an Impact!

502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida 34205 • Tickets 941-748-5875 • ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com

Sponsored by the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Charles Henry Leach II Fund • Tom Sparks • Steve & Sarah Bayard

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.

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