Season Preview 2015: Theater
By Matthew J. Palm
Orlando Sentinel
August 23, 2015, 2:18 PM
Listings are subject to change. Please call the venue in advance.
THE ABBEY
The nightspot hosts plays (see Theater listing for Gen Y Productions) and movie screenings and also presents cabaret performances. The venue is at 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: abbeyorlando.com.
Monday Night Cabaret Series
DORIS DEAR, Sept. 21
DAVID KOTARY AND CHRISTINA SIVRICH, Sept. 28
ANDREA CANNY, Oct. 5
MELISSA VASQUEZ, Oct. 26
LAUREN CULVER, Nov. 2
EDDIE COOPER, Nov. 16
ANNIE RUSSELL THEATRE
The theater is on the campus of Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. Second Stage shows are free student productions that take place in the Fred Stone Theatre on campus. Details: rollins.edu/annierussell or 407-646-2145407-646-2145.
Main Stage
REEFER MADNESS, Sept. 25-Oct. 3: A fast-paced musical satire poking fun at a 1930s anti-marijuana propaganda film.
TARTUFFE, Nov. 13-21: Moliere's classic comedy about religion and hypocrisy.
EXPECTING ISABEL, Feb. 12-20: Middle-aged couple Miranda and Nick face the comedic highs and bitter lows of modern marriage as they struggle to have a child.
HELLO, DOLLY!, April 15-23: A meddling, musical matchmaker sets her eyes on a husband for herself in the beloved show by Michael Stewart with music by Jerry Herman.
Second Stage Series
CONFESSIONS FROM BEHIND THE WINDOW, Oct. 21-24: Five improvisers begin with an audience suggestion, then use real-life experiences, to weave a story.
BECKY SHAW, Feb. 3-6: A blind date takes a dark turn as crisis and comedy meet.
DETROIT, April 6-9: Two suburban couples try to add some zing to their lives in this play that deals with addition, affluence and the power of nostalgia.
APOPKA COMMUNITY THEATRE
The AHA players present shows at the Apopka Community Center, 519 South Central Ave, Apopka. Details: ApopkaCommunityTheatre.org.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS, Sept. 18-27: Southern women share life's joys and sorrows in this comic drama made into a film with Sally Field and Julia Roberts.
ATHENS THEATRE
Performances, with one exception noted below, are at 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. Encore series productions feature minimal staging and a more intimate atmosphere. Details: athensdeland.com or 386-736-1500386-736-1500.
Broadway Series
WAIT UNTIL DARK, Oct. 2-18: A thriller about drug dealers, blackmail, murder and betrayal from Frederick Knott, who also wrote "Dial M for Murder."
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL, Dec. 4-20: A little girl and a Macy's Santa star in this holiday classic.
LEND ME A TENOR, Jan. 15-31: Ken Ludwig's farce centers on the crisis that ensues when a famed opera star is thought dead right before a sold-out performance.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST JR., Feb. 19-March 6: This abridged version of the Broadway musical tells the "tale as old as time" from the Disney cartoon.
GYPSY, April 22-May 22: "Everything's Coming Up Roses" in this musical based on the memoirs of burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee and her overbearing mother.
Encore Series
GREATER TUNA, Nov. 14-22: Two actors portray multiple eccentric characters in a small Texas town in this comedy.
INHERIT THE WIND, March 18-April 3: This courtroom drama, about a high-school teacher arrested for teaching evolution, will take place at the Volusia County Courthouse, 101 N. Alabama Ave., DeLand.
BAY STREET PLAYERS
Performances are at the State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. Details: baystreetplayers.org or 352-357-7777352-357-7777.
Main stage
HARVEY, Sept. 4-27: The comic tale of Elwood P. Dowd and his best friend, an invisible white rabbit.
YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, Nov. 13-Dec. 6: The musical follows Charlie and the rest of Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts" gang through a typical day.
CALENDAR GIRLS, Jan. 29-Feb. 21: Based on a true story, this play tells the story of a friendship between two middle-aged women tested by the success of a tastefully nude calendar.
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, April 8-May 1: A musical version of the tale of "The Princess and the Pea."
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: THE MUSICAL, June 17-July 10: Mel Brooks comedy about the grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein and his shenanigans.
Second Stage
THE GIFT OF THE MAGI, Nov. 22-Dec. 9: Heartwarming Christmas romantic comedy, narrated by a group of Christmas carolers.
RACE, Feb. 7-21:. A wealthy white executive is charged with raping a black woman in this racially charged drama.
ALICE AND THE ANGELS, April 17-May 1: Three archangels decide to visit the Purgatory Bar in New Jersey – and then Lucifer and a mortal astrophysicist crash the party. The secrets of the universe are revealed in this world premiere from playwright Jamian Nace.
BECKETT THOMAS PRODUCTIONS
The show is staged at 3 p.m. Sundays at St. Matthew's Tavern, 1300 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. Details: facebook.com/joesnycbar.
JOE'S NYC BAR, Sept. 13-Oct. 18: New version of Christian Kelty's interactive, immersive theatrical work in which colorful characters gather at a local watering hole to talk about life, the universe and everything.
BETH MARSHALL PRESENTS
Productions are staged at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden; The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando; the Lake Howell High School Theater, 4200 Dike Road, Winter Park; and the Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. More information: bethmarshallpresents.com.
PLAY-IN-A-DAY, Sept. 12: More than 100 artists — writers, actors, directors and stage crew — present short plays created in just 24 hours. Students work with professionals on this annual event. At Lake Howell High School.
JULIAN BOND: MUSIC, MAGIC, TRICKS & TREATS, Oct. 2-10: Bond, a local entertainer, presents original music, parody songs and illusions. At Parliament House.
BEATNIK CUBED, Nov. 13: The final installment of Marshall's interactive 1960s-themed celebration of poets, musicians and artists of the flower-power days. At The Venue.
THE WISHING WELL GIRL: Performance art and poetry combine in this socio-political fable about a ghostly girl's quest to right the world's wrongs. Written by Marshall, with music by Bond. Performance details to be announced.
THE WHALE, March 18-April 3: Samuel Hunter's award-winning play about a 600-pound recluse trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter. At Garden Theatre.
TOP TEENS SHOWCASE, April 2: Young people coached by Marshall display their talents and win awards from the audience and a panel of entertainment-industry professionals. At Lake Howell High School.
BREAKTHROUGH THEATRE OF WINTER PARK
Performances are at Breakthrough Theatre, 419A W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park. Details: 407-920-4034407-920-4034 or breakthroughtheatre.com.
NUNSENSE, Through Aug. 31: Silly musical about nuns staging a fundraiser that goes comically wrong.
DIE, MOMMY, DIE, Sept. 4-13: Charles Busch's over-the-top melodrama about a murder plot among the celebrity set.
AS IS, Sept. 18-28: William Hoffman's 1985 drama about two gay men dealing with the AIDS crisis.
SLEEPY HOLLOW: A MUSICAL TALE, Oct. 9-26: Three modern-day children find themselves in the middle of Washington Irving's classic story and confront the Headless Horseman to find their way home.
DOG SEES GOD: CONFESSIONS OF A TEENAGE BLOCKHEAD, Nov. 6-23: Teen angst, including sexual identity, suicide, violence and drugs, among reimagined characters from Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts."
LITTLE WOMEN, Dec. 4-14: Based on Louisa M. Alcott's novel, "Little Women" follows the four March sisters on their path to womanhood.
A BREAKTHROUGH FAMILY CHRISTMAS, Dec. 18-20: Actors who have performed on the Breakthrough stage share holiday songs and stories.
CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS
The organization, which oversees several choirs and orchestras (see Music listings), has instituted a theater program this season. Performances are generally at the Central Florida Community Arts campus, 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando, with exceptions noted below. Details: 407-937-1800407-937-1800 or cfcarts.com.
Concert staging
GUYS AND DOLLS, Sept. 10-11: A gambler falls hard for a missionary in this fun-filled musical. Staged at Northland Church, 430 Dog Track Road, Longwood.
Theater series
INTO THE WOODS, Oct. 2-18: Stephen Sondheim-James Lapine musical about fairy-tale characters whose lives go awry.
THE ODD COUPLE, Nov. 6-22: Mismatched roommates drive each other nuts in this comedy.
THE CRUCIBLE, Jan. 22-Feb. 7: Drama set among the witch hunts of colonial Massachusetts. Staged at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, Feb. 19-March 6: Musical comedy about romantic relationships.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, April 1-17: In the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, a spunky nun becomes governess to a rambunctious group of children in Nazi-occupied Austria.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Resident show at Downtown Disney, Lake Buena Vista. Details: Disneyworld.com/Lanouba or 407-939-7600407-939-7600.
LA NOUBA: Ongoing. High-energy stage show combining performance art, clowning, dance and acrobatics.
CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The center is at 3700 S. Highway 27, Clermont. In addition to the stage shows listed below, concerts and other events also take place at the center (See Music listings). Details: clermontperformingarts.com or 352-394-4800352-394-4800.
DEFENDING THE CAVEMAN, Oct. 7-17: One-man show that humorously looks at how men and women relate to each other – or don't, as the case may be.
MUTTS GONE NUTS, Nov. 7: Scott and Joan Houghton present a comedy thrill show with a variety of canine acts, including Sammie the Talking Dog. Proceeds benefit local animal shelters.
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL, Nov. 13-15: Jeanie Linders' long-running hit features four women at a lingerie sale as they face aging with grace and comedy. The soundtrack features classic songs from the 1960s to the '80s, and a portion of the proceeds goes to fight breast cancer.
MARATHON WOMAN: KATHRINE SWITZER, Nov. 21: Presentation by the USA National Women's Hall of Fame member who caused an uproar in 1967 when she became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon.
KENNY ROGERS PRESENTS THE TOY SHOPPE STARRING ALAN THICKE, Nov. 28: A Broadway-style musical with a family-friendly holiday theme. Thicke, best known as the dad on TV's "Growing Pains," stars as a store owner where the toys come to life.
THE SECOND CITY'S HOLIDAZED & CONFUSED REVUE, Dec. 10: A comic send-up of holiday fare devised by The Second City, the famed Chicago sketch-comedy troupe.
THE BEST OF BROADWAY: THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, Jan. 9: A concert staging of music from the composer, including songs from "Cats," "Evita," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "The Phantom of the Opera" and more.
IN THE MOOD, Jan. 23: A tribute to the spirit of the Swing Era with more than 40 songs performed by a live band, singers and dancers – followed by a post-show dance for the audience.
VINCE: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF VINCE LOMBARDI, Jan. 27-31: This stage portrayal of the legendary Green Bay Packers coach showcases his personal integrity and faith.
NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS, Feb. 27: More than 2,000 years of Chinese circus tradition combine for a show featuring acrobats, jugglers, contortionists and more.
RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH, March 2-20: Explore the life and times of the legendary country singer through his songs in this Broadway musical.
CELTIC NIGHTS, April 8: Music, song, dance and storytelling combine in this look at Irish artistry and culture.
Special events
DARLENE LOVE RED CARPET GALA, Sept. 26: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer launches the center's first season with a party followed by a concert.
CLERMONT COMIC CON, Nov. 22: The center hosts a pop-culture convention featuring comic-book artist Karl Moline of DC Comics and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," as well as Tim Proctor, a makeup artist on TV's "The Walking Dead."
DANGEROUS THEATRE
Theater producer Winnie Wenglewick will return to Orlando this year with two productions. Her venue is not yet established; check dangeroustheatre.com for information.
THE PERFECT GIFT, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: An examination of the commercialization of the holiday season in which a woman learns the best present can't be wrapped.
KENTUCKY CLAUS AND THE REBEL ELVES, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: Six backwoods brothers trying to create a festive holiday for their youngest sibling accidentally shoot Santa – maybe – in this Christmas-themed comedy.
DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is at 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. Call 844-513-2014 or go to drphillipscenter.org. The center hosts theater, dance and musical performances, as well as speakers, children's programs and other events. For performances by Orlando Ballet, see the Dance listings. For the center's Jazz Series and other musical offerings, see the Music listings. For the center's Celebrity Chefs series, see the Learning listings.
Broadway series
Co-presented with Florida Theatrical Association
CINDERELLA, Nov. 10-15: The familiar fairy tale, with songs by Rodgers and Hammerstein, was reworked with a more contemporary vibe for a Broadway run from 2013 until January of this year. Disney fans should note that this adaptation doesn't feature the cartoon's songs. Among the well-known show tunes in this version are "My Own Little Corner" and "Ten Minutes Ago."
DR. SEUSS' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS, Dec. 8-13: Max the dog narrates the story of how the mean-hearted Grinch schemed to steal the festive holiday from the happy-go-lucky Whos in this cheerful show, which debuted in 1994 in Minneapolis before running on Broadway in 2006 and 2007. All the familiar songs from the 1966 cartoon are featured, including "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Jan. 5-10: The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is touring to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1965 film. In the story, set in Austria on the eve of World War II, plucky nun Maria becomes governess to seven unruly children in the household of their strict, widowed father. The enduring songs include "Do-Re-Mi," "Edelweiss" and "Climb Ev'ry Mountain."
KINKY BOOTS, Feb. 23-28: A high-spirited show with songs written by pop star Cyndi Lauper, this 2013 Tony winner for best musical tells how a struggling British shoe factory finds a new lease on life by creating reinforced footwear for drag queens. Harvey Fierstein adapted the tale, based on actual events, from a 2005 indie film.
DIRTY DANCING: THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE, March 29-April 3: The 1987 Patrick Swayze-Jennifer Grey romance, featuring "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," is re-created on stage as an awkward young woman falls for a sexy dance instructor at a holiday resort.
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING STORY, May 3-8: This musical, which opened on Broadway in 2014, uses well-known songs written by prolific hit-maker King to tell her story. Among the hits: "Will You Love Me Tomorrow," "The Locomotion" and "I Feel the Earth Move."
Additional Broadway show
STOMP, March 23-24: Not part of the series, this percussion extravaganza can be bought separately. The long-running show combines drumming, dancing and visual treats.
Other stage shows
ONE MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY, Oct. 13-18: Charles Ross plays all the characters, re-creates the effects, sings the music, flies the ships and fights both sides of the galaxy in this original work based on the hit film series.
JOHN CLEESE & ERIC IDLE: TOGETHER AGAIN AT LAST … FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME, Oct. 16-17. The irreverent founding members of Monty Python will blend scripted and improvised bits with storytelling, musical numbers, exclusive footage, aquatic juggling and an audience Q&A.
A HAUNTING CABARET, Oct. 26-27: Local professional singers and musicians band together to perform music that inspires the Halloween spirit, including songs from "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "Titanic the Musical," "Corpse Bride" and "Gladiator."
ONE MAN BREAKING BAD, Dec. 26--Jan. 1: Los Angeles actor Miles Allen embodies all the popular TV series' characters.
GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL, Feb. 25-28: Boisterous music and comedy described as "Sex and the City" meets "Mamma Mia!"
DIXIE'S TUPPERWARE PARTY, March 14-27: Dixie Longate (Kris Andersson), a Southern belle from the wrong side of the tracks, throws an old-fashioned Tupperware party, but with modern, raunchy humor.
DANIEL TIGER'S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE, May 21: The legacy of Rollins College alumnus Mister Rogers lives on with this children's program from The Fred Rogers Co.
EMPTY SPACES THEATRE CO(LLABORATION)
Performances will be at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: 407-328-9005407-328-9005.
PHANTASMAGORIA VI: THE DARKNESS RETURNS, Oct. 9-31: All-new spooky stories, told with puppets, dance, music, stage combat, aerial routines and fire performances.
MY DEAR WATSON, Feb. 26-March 6: Jami-Leigh Bartschi's original musical, written in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle estate, follows the exploits and friendship of iconic detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
GARDEN THEATRE
The theater, which also hosts dance performances and presents movies and other community events, is at 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Details: gardentheatre.org or 407-877-4736407-877-4736.
LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, Sept. 25-Oct. 25: Jerry Herman wrote the catchy music for this comedy about the mayhem that ensues when a middle-aged gay couple agrees to hide their relationship from the ultra-conservative parents of their son's fiancée. Complicating matters: They run a successful drag-performer nightclub. If this sounds familiar, you might have seen the Robin Williams-Nathan Lane film adaptation, "The Birdcage."
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, Dec. 4-20: In this play adapted from the beloved Christmas film, 6-year-old Susan has doubts about Santa Claus. But a department-store Santa who believes he's the real deal shows her the real meaning of the season.
HANDS ON A HARDBODY, Jan. 29-Feb. 21: Trey Anastasio of rock band Phish and Amanda Green wrote the tunes for this story of 10 Texans who enter a contest to win a new truck. They have to keep at least one hand on the vehicle, under a scorching sun, until only one contestant remains. The show, which was nominated for three Tony awards, couldn't find an audience on Broadway and closed after just 28 performances. TheatreWorks Florida will produce the show at the Garden.
THE WHALE, March 18-April 3: Playwright Samuel D. Hunter tells of a 600-pound recluse who hides away in his Iowa apartment, eating himself to death. When he reaches out to his long-estranged daughter, he discovers a wildly unhappy teenager. Beth Marshall Presents is producing the play at the Garden.
SINGIN' IN THE RAIN, April 29-May 29: The Garden plans to stage this show, based on the classic Gene Kelly film, using digital-animation techniques like those seen in its production of "Peter Pan." In the song-and-dance extravaganza, Hollywood's transition from silent pictures to "talkies" causes trouble for some memorable characters.
GEN Y PRODUCTIONS
Shows are presented at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: abbeyorlando.com
TOTALLY ELECTRIC, Sept. 10-28: Take a musical trip through 1980s high school with The Syncopated Sensations show choir. Orlando premiere.
BAT BOY, Oct. 15-31: This musical-comedy/horror show, inspired by an actual headline in a supermarket tabloid, centers on a half boy-half bat creature who is discovered in a West Virginia cave.
HUMOR MILL ORLANDO
The sketch-comedy troupe performs its shows at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: thehumormillorlando.com or 407-340-8574407-340-8574.
HOLIDAY SHOW, Dec. 4-5: Seasonal musical parodies and sketch comedy, based on improvisation techniques.
7TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW, Jan. 29-30: The "best of" the troupe's work in sketch comedy and musical parodies.
JEREMY SEGHERS
The theater producer, who has staged shows at the Orlando Fringe Festival, presents two shows this season.
A CLOCKWORK ORANGE, Oct. 15-19: Based on the novel, "A Clockwork Orange" raises questions of human nature and freedom of choice as Alex undergoes experimental treatments to change his violent nature. Presented at Drip, 8747 International Drive, Orlando. Details: ilovedrip.com.
A PUBLIC READING OF AN UNPRODUCED SCREENPLAY ABOUT THE DEATH OF WALT DISNEY, Nov. 20-23: Playwright Lucas Hnath gives a blackly comic, high-energy look at the persona of America's "Uncle Walt." Presented at Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: deathofdisney@gmail.com.
JOSEPH REED HAYES
The veteran playwright and theater producer presents his latest work at the Timucua Arts White House, 2000 S. Summerlin Ave., Orlando. Details: josephreedhayes.com
TOM WAITS FOR NO MAN, Nov. 22: A free, staged concert version of a new work, featuring Cole NeSmith and jazz combo La Lucha. The story centers on Bobby Ace, a third-rate road musician, as he plays the music of Tom Waits in seedy clubs.
MAD COW THEATRE
The company's theaters, the Harriett and the Zehngebot-Stonerock, are at 55 W. Church St., Orlando. Details: madcowtheatre.com or 407-297-8788407-297-8788.
YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU, Oct. 2-25: This 1936 comedy won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in its depiction of an eccentric New York family that values happiness over wealth. It was later adapted for film and won the Oscar for best picture.
MY NAME IS ASHER LEV, Nov. 6-Dec. 6: Aaron Posner wrote this new play, adapted from Chaim Potok's novel, that deals with self-identity and the conflict between tradition and change. In 1950s Brooklyn, a Hasidic Jewish boy becomes interested in art to the displeasure of his family.
THE SECRET GARDEN, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: After Mary Lennox's parents are killed in India by cholera, the girl travels far away to the English moors, where she encounters ghosts, secrets and healing.
ART, Jan. 22-Feb. 21: This Tony-winning play challenges perceptions of beauty, talent and tolerance. In the comedy, friendship is tested when a man buys an odd painting that creates divisive opinions.
OUTSIDE MULLINGAR, Feb. 19-March 20: Irish farmers Anthony and Rosemary are neighbors — but could they be more? John Patrick Shanley ("Doubt: A Parable") premiered this play in 2014.
LONG DAY'S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT, March 18-April 17: Eugene O'Neill's play follows a single day in the life of a 1912 family collapsing under the burden of the mother's drug addiction. The original 1957 Broadway production won both the best-play Tony and the Pulitzer for drama.
AVENUE Q, June 3-July 3: Winner of Tony awards for best musical, best book and best score, this adult puppet show offers comical lessons about love, sex and finding your purpose in life.
THE BROTHERS SIZE, June 10-July 10: In Tarell Alvin McCraney's drama, West African mythology intersects with the realities of life in the Louisiana bayou.
THE BIG MEAL, Aug. 5-28, 2016: This 90-minute comedy by Dan LeFranc captures five generations of one family as seen through important gatherings at suburbia's go-to meeting place: a restaurant.
BUYER & CELLAR, Aug. 12-Sept. 11, 2016: The New York Times called Jonathan Tolins' one-man fantasia on Barbra Streisand "irresistible" as the playwright satirically eyes fame. In the show, an actor takes a job in the pretend shopping mall in Streisand's basement.
Festivals
SCIENCE PLAY FESTIVAL, March 24-26: Readings and discussions of works with scientific content or themes.
ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL, April 22-May 8: Local and national singers perform.
Special Event
BLACK & WHITE BASH, April 24: Annual fundraising gala.
MELON PATCH PLAYERS
Performances are at the Melon Patch Playhouse, 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg. Details: melonpatchplayers.com or 352-787-3013352-787-3013.
PLAY ON!, Sept. 11-27: In this comedy, a theater troupe tries desperately to stage a play despite maddening interference from its haughty author.
THE OCTETTE BRIDGE CLUB, Oct. 16-Nov. 1: Eight sisters meet to play bridge and gossip during the 1930s and '40s in this heartfelt look at times gone by.
THE KING & I, Dec. 4-20: An English governess meets the king of Siam in this classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical.
NORMAN, IS THAT YOU?, Jan. 15-31: A father visits his son in New York and learns that he is gay. This play, originally written in 1970, has been rewritten to reflect more modern times.
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, March 4-20: This musical comedy gently spoofs the musicals of the golden age and those who love them.
BRIGADOON, May 6-22: The Lerner & Loewe musical about a mysterious Scottish town that appears only once every hundred years.
MOONLIGHT PLAYERS
Performances are at the Moonlight Theatre, 735 W. Minneola St., Clermont. Details: moonlightplayers.com or 352-243-5875352-243-5875.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, Sept. 25-Oct. 18: Tevye the milkman tries to protect his daughters and his way of life as the world changes around him in this classic musical.
THE CRUCIBLE, Nov. 13-29: Arthur Miller's drama fueled by accusations of witchcraft in colonial New England.
THE STAR-SPANGLED GIRL, Jan. 22-Feb. 14: Neil Simon comedy about two earnest young men and the female Olympic swimmer who becomes their neighbor.
MY FAIR LADY, March 11-April 3: Lerner & Loewe musical about a condescending professor who tries to make a proper lady out of cockney flower-seller Eliza Doolittle.
LEADING LADIES, April 29-May 15: Two down-on-their-luck actors try to pass themselves off as women to collect an inheritance in this Ken Ludwig farce.
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: THE MUSICAL, June 10-July 3: Mel Brooks comedy about the grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein and his shenanigans.
SULLIVAN & GILBERT, July 29-Aug. 21: The feuding composers are forced to work together again when Queen Victoria commands a performance of their hits in this musical comedy, the second Ken Ludwig work of the Moonlight season.
OCALA CIVIC THEATRE
Performances are at the Appleton Cultural Center, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Details: 352-236-2274352-236-2274 or ocalacivictheatre.com
Signature series
MARY POPPINS, Sept. 3-Oct. 4: Musical inspired by the books about the practically perfect nanny and the Disney movie.
THE KITCHEN WITCHES, Nov. 5-29: Rival cable-access cooking-show hostesses battle in this comedy by Caroline Smith.
BLOOD BROTHERS, Feb. 11-March 6: A musical tragedy about twin boys separated at birth who grow up very differently.
FOX ON THE FAIRWAY, March 24-April 17: In this Ken Ludwig farce, rival country-club owners spar over a golf tournament.
SISTER ACT, May 19-June 12: Based on the Whoopi Goldberg movie, this musical tells of a nightclub singer forced to hide out in a convent after she witnesses a murder.
Ovation Series
ROUNDING THIRD, Oct. 8-18: Comedy centered on Little League baseball.
HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE, Jan. 14-24: Paula Vogel's Pulitzer-winning drama about a complicated relationship between a woman and her uncle.
QUARTET: March 31-April 11: A bittersweet drama about life in a retirement home for musicians.
ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL
The annual festival will take place around the Ivanhoe Village neighborhood. Venues include the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Orlando Museum of Art and The Venue. Performances in the Fringe Year Round series take place in the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando, except where noted below. The Fringe's Movies Out Loud series take place at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: orlandofringe.org or 407-648-0077407-648-0077.
Fringe Year Round
OBSESSED, Sept. 4: One-man comedy about obsessions with vampires, God and being gay.
AUTOBAHN, Sept. 4: Darkly comic and serious short stories from Neil Labute, all set in an automobile.
SEX, DRUGS, ROCK & ROLL, Sept. 5: David Lee delivers Eric Bogosian's intense monologues dealing with the issues of modern life.
MASSAGE A TROIS, Sept. 5: John Connon presents an absurd take on our ongoing battles with self-esteem in three vignettes exploring our relationships with food, beauty and the occasional awkward massage.
ONCE I LAUGHED, Sept. 6: The Central Florida Community Arts original musical tells the story of the Andrews Sisters through their music.
BUBBLE GUM PARTY, Sept. 6: In this song-filled parody of wholesome entertainment, a family singing group celebrates "real American values." As the show's tagline says: Not suitable for children.
MY DAD'S DEATHS, Oct. 15 and Oct. 18: Australian performer Jon Bennett tells the highly comical yet supremely moving story of a father and son trying to connect.
PRETENDING THINGS ARE A COCK, Oct. 16: Jon Bennett offers cultural insights mixed with stand-up as he leads the audience through a slideshow of items resembling male genitalia.
FIRE IN THE METH LAB, Oct. 17: Jon Bennett finds humor and pathos in this real-life examination of his relationship with his brother, a convicted criminal.
6 GUITARS, Nov. 18: Chase Padgett's tour-de-force mixes comedy, music and poignancy as six musicians explore the genres they love — from classical to hard rock. Staged at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
NASHVILLE HURRICANE, Nov. 19: Through story and song, Chase Padgett spins the tale of an unlikely and reluctant country-music star. Staged at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
ORLANDO FRINGE HOLIDAY CABARET, Dec. 14: A Fringe-inspired celebration of Christmas and other seasonal holidays.
BUTT KAPINSKI, Jan. 1-3: An eccentric private eye leads the audience through a comic, adult-themed murder mystery.
MOONLIGHT AFTER MIDNIGHT, Feb. 5-6: The winner of the Critics Pick award for best show at the 2014 Fringe, "Moonlight" follows a mysterious man and beautiful woman who meet in a hotel room filled with love and loss, memories and intrigue. Performed by Martin Dockery and Vanessa Quesnelle.
THE PIT, Feb. 7: Martin Dockery and Vanessa Quesnelle star in this quick-witted and surreal send-up of domestic bliss in which a giant pit opens in a married couple's home and threatens to engulf them both.
ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL LOCAL PREVIEW SHOW, April 18: Watch 2-minute snippets of the local performers' acts planned for the 2016 festival. All-ages previews start at 7 p.m., with adults-only previews beginning at 9 p.m.
Movies Out Loud
TO WONG FOO, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING, JULIE NEWMAR, Sept. 9: Addison Taylor and Gidget Galore provide comic commentary as the Patrick Swayze-Wesley Snipes comedy plays.
LEPRACHAUN IN THE HOOD, Oct. 14: Jeff Jones and Logan Donahoo riff on the comically awful horror film.
Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival
THE 25th FRINGE: May 18-30: The oldest Fringe in the United States features more than 90 short comedies, dramas, musicals, magic acts and other shows performed in and around Loch Haven Park, augmented with a visual-art exhibition, free outdoor musical performances and free children's activities on weekends.
ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE
Performances of shows designed for children and their families are in the theater's complex at 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. Details: Orlandorep.com or 407-896-7365407-896-7365.
Series
FANCY NANCY: THE MUSICAL, Sept. 8-Oct. 11: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the first Fancy Nancy book by Jane O'Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser. In this stage adaptation, young Nancy yearns to be the prima ballerina in her first dance recital — but gets stuck playing a tree.
ORPHIE AND THE BOOK OF HEROES, Oct. 12-Nov. 8: A young girl in ancient Greece sets out to rescue Homer and meets Zeus, Atlas and other mythological bigwigs in this musical comedy from the creators of past Rep hit "Junior Claus."
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER, Nov. 9-Dec. 27: Songs such as "Silver and Gold," "A Holly Jolly Christmas" and the title track help bring the TV special to life.
TALES OF A FOURTH GRADE NOTHING, Jan. 25-Feb. 21: In Judy Blume's classic story, fourth-grader Peter is driven to distraction by his attention-seeking toddler brother, known as Fudge.
SKIPPYJON JONES, Feb. 22-April 3: From a book by Judy Schachner, "Skippyjon Jones" jumps into the imagination of a Siamese kitten who daydreams of being a swashbuckling Chihuahua in Mexico.
JUNIE B. JONES: THE MUSICAL, April 4-May 16: First grade is busy for scrappy little Junie. She makes a new friend, she might need glasses and there's a big kickball tournament to worry about.
Special Events
MR. RICHARD & THE POUND HOUNDS HALLOWEEN CONCERT, Oct. 30-31: Costumes, treats and music.
HOLIDAY FAMILY GALA, Dec. 13: Dinner, Santa visits and children's activities, plus an exclusive showing of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer."
PIP-SQUEAK: AN ANTI-BULLYING MAGIC SHOW, Jan. 11-16: Tony Brent uses magic, comedy and juggling to gently help children recognize and cope with bullying.
ORLANDO SHAKESPEARE THEATER
Performances are at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: Orlandoshakes.org or 407-447-1700407-447-1700.
Signature series
SPAMALOT, Sept. 11-Oct. 11: Musical take on the film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," a spoof of King Arthur and his knights of the round table.
BAKERSFIELD MIST, Oct. 16-Nov. 15: Playwright Stephen Sachs looks at what makes art — and people — authentic. A down-on-her-luck woman buys a painting she thinks is by Jackson Pollock and worth millions. When a renowned art expert arrives at her trailer-park home to authenticate the work, cultures and social classes collide.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, Dec. 4-Jan. 3: This fanciful tale uses imaginative staging to explain the origin of Peter Pan.
DANCING LESSONS. Jan. 8-Feb. 7: A socially awkward professor is instructed by an injured Broadway performer in this modern love story that explores the reality of disabilities and Asperger's syndrome.
THE TEMPEST, Feb. 12-March 27: A man and his daughter are stranded on a mystical island in one of Shakespeare's best-known works.
PERICLES, Feb. 26-March 26: An adventurous Shakespeare tale of a prince's odyssey involving riches and a lost princess. This will be the first time the theater has staged this Shakespeare work.
VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE, April 1-May 1: Adult siblings' quiet, rural life is disrupted by their movie-star sister and her boy-toy. Sibling rivalry and regret take center stage in Christopher Durang's off-kilter comedy.
Children's Series
A GHOST TALE FOR MR. DICKENS, Oct. 22-Nov. 20: Jack and Annie inspire the writer of "A Christmas Carol" in this tale from Mary Pope Osborne's Magic Tree House series.
ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE'S WE ARE IN A PLAY!, April 7-May 7: A new musical based on children's book characters.
Festival
PLAYFEST, Nov. 5-8. New works are read and discussed in the annual festival.
Special Events
SEASON-OPENING GALA, Sept. 20: Food, drink, performances in conjunction with "Spamalot."
MOCK TRIAL, March 15: Comic court proceedings themed to one of the troupe's plays.
OSCEOLA ARTS
Performances are at Osceola Arts, 2411 U.S. Highway 192, Kissimmee. Details: OsceolaArts.com or 407-846-6257407-846-6257.
Broadway Series
WEST SIDE STORY, Sept. 18-Oct. 4: The musical tale of star-crossed love plays out against rival New York gangs, the Jets and the Sharks.
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Oct. 23-Nov. 8: The musical about a talking – and murderous – plant that changes the life of a nerdy florist.
FOOLS, Jan. 15-Jan. 31: Neil Simon's comic fable concerns a teacher who falls for his pupil in a Ukrainian town suffering from a curse that makes its residents stupid.
GYPSY, Feb. 19-March 6: An ambitious stage mother alienates her daughters in this musical, based on the life of burlesque queen Gypsy Rose Lee.
HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES, April 1-17: In this Alan Ayckbourn comedy, three couples share tangled relationships.
THE PRODUCERS, May 6-22: In this Mel Brooks musical comedy, two Broadway producers set out to stage a flop.
SHREK THE MUSICAL, Jul. 22-Aug. 7: The cartoon ogre's story presented on stage.
Stage Left Series
TRUE WEST, Oct. 3-12: Sam Shepard drama about two very different brothers.
THE GRADUATE, Jan. 30-Feb. 8: Mrs. Robinson attracts a much a younger man in this tale immortalized on film in the Dustin Hoffman-Anne Bancroft movie.
DOUBT, Feb. 27-March 7: A novice nun is torn when shocking accusations are made against a parish priest.
THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR, June 11-20: Romantic comedy, battle of the sexes style, by William Shakespeare.
OUT OF THE BOX THEATRE
Productions are staged at the Franklin Pearce Jr. Auditorium, 17404 Sixth St., Montverde. Details: Outside.The.Box.FL@gmail.com or 321-663-2608321-663-2608.
A BOOK CAN TAKE YOU ANYWHERE, Through Aug. 30: Aimed at children, this is a musical journey through different world cultures.
SOUTHERN COMFORTS, Oct. 9-26: A taciturn Yankee widower and a vivacious grandmother from Tennessee unexpectedly find a second chance at love in this sweetly comic romance.
RADIO T.B.S. (TRAILER PARK BROADCASTING SCANDALS), Dec. 4-20: In this comedy, Vesta Poteet and Dixie Mandrell comment on the shenanigans at the Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Empire, where residents are preparing a drive-by Nativity scene featuring Jesus and Elvis.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS, Feb. 19-March 6: Comedy featuring a slice of Southern life, set in Truvy's beauty salon where female friends share their ups and downs.
ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID, April 8-24: In this comedy, four friends strive to keep a promise made decades ago when they were high-school chums: To always be in each other's weddings.
PARLIAMENT HOUSE
Performances are in the resort's Footlight Theatre, at 401 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. Details: Parliamenthouse.com and wanzie.com
BATHHOUSE: THE MUSICAL, Oct. 23-Nov. 22: Tim Evanicki and Esther Daack's musical comedy about the goings-on in a gay bathhouse.
WANZIE'S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL LIVING NATIVITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR, Nov. 28-Dec. 19: Comedy ensues when Gidget Galore and retired lady of ill repute Taffy Pinkerbox (Doug Ba'aser) plan a living Nativity.
PB&J THEATRE FACTORY
The troupe performs at the Fred Stone Theatre on the campus of Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. Details: pbjtickets.com.
SLEIGH, Dec. 17-27: Holiday high jinks and merry mayhem from this troupe that specializes in comedy that is dialogue-free.
PLAYWRIGHTS' ROUND TABLE
The group holds monthly public play readings, as well as staged productions. Staged shows are at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: theprt.com or 407-761-2683407-761-2683.
LAUNCH 2016, Jan. 15-21: Seven original short plays by PRT members.
PREMIERE SERIES, April 8-17: World-premiere of a full-length play.
RS&C Productions
The production company's traditional holiday show returns to the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. The $35 ticket includes Christmas treats and steaming spiced tea. Details: 407-222-7669407-222-7669 or OrlandoatPlay.com.
DICKENS BY CANDLELIGHT: A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Dec. 11-22: Three storytellers share Charles Dickens' tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, ghosts and redemption in an immersive and imaginative environment.
SAK COMEDY LAB
The comedy troupe, which presents an ongoing schedule of improv nights, stages shows at CityArts Factory, 29 S. Orange Ave., Orlando. Details: sakcomedylab.com or 407-648-0001407-648-0001.
INVASION! CHRISTMAS CAROL, Dec. 11-25. Charles Dickens' classic tale provides the framework for the comedy, which results from an unexpected character such as Batman or Dracula "invading" the story.
YULE OF FOOLS, Dec. 12-26: The SAK comics square off in an improv-comedy competition inspired by the seasonal holidays in this family-friendly show.
SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE FINE ARTS THEATRE
The theater is on the campus of Seminole State College, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford. Details: seminolestate.edu/arts or 407-708-2040407-708-2040.
SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN AUTHOR, Oct. 2-11: Six fictional characters interrupt a play rehearsal hoping someone will finish their story in this exploration of illusion and reality.
MAN OF LA MANCHA, Nov. 13-22: Prisoners Miguel de Cervantes and his servant take refuge in their alter egos – Don Quixote and Sancho Panza – as they await their fate in this musical known for "The Impossible Dream."
ROMEO AND JULIET, Feb. 12-21: Shakespeare's tragedy of star-crossed lovers.
LIVES OF THE SAINTS, April 8-17: Seven short poignant and comic works by playwright David Ives.
SPRING INTO DANCE, April 29-May 1: Annual dance showcase.
SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE
The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse is at 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. Details: icehousetheatre.com or 352-383-4616352-383-4616.
AND THEN THERE WERE NONE, Sept. 18-Oct. 11: Ten strangers, trapped on a remote island, are murdered one by one in this classic Agatha Christie thriller.
GUYS & DOLLS, Nov. 20-Dec. 13: A gambler falls for a missionary in this musical featuring "Luck Be a Lady," "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat" and more.
FUNNY MONEY, Jan. 22-Feb. 14: When Henry Perkins finds a briefcase full of money, things quickly spiral out of control in this Ray Cooney farce.
GYPSY, March 18-April 10: Mama Rose is determined her daughter will become a Vaudeville star in this musical based on the life of burlesque queen Gypsy Rose Lee.
BECKY'S NEW CAR, May 20-June 12: Becky Foster feels stuck in her job and marriage in this play by Steven Dietz. Will an encounter with a grief-stricken millionaire change her life?
SOUTHERN WINDS THEATRE
The group tours productions and holds special events throughout the region. Details: southernwindstheatre.com or 407-341-3495407-341-3495.
WOMEN PLAYING HAMLET, Sept. 11-20: In William Missouri Downs' comedy, a woman struggles when cast in an all-female production of Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Presented at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
BY DICKENS, Nov. 11: On a cold London night, Charles Dickens meets a mysterious woman who tries to help him finish his last novel, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood." The play, written by David A. McElroy, explores Dickens' most popular books. Suitable for middle-schoolers and older, "By Dickens" will be presented at the Lake Miona Regional Recreation Center, 1526 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages.
ONE-MAN 'A CHRISTMAS CAROL,' Dec. 4 and 7: David A. McElroy's adaptation of the Dickens novel, in which he performs 37 different characters. Presented at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
A TUNA CHRISTMAS, Dec. 12-20: Two actors portray multiple colorful characters in this affectionately comic look at small-town life during the holidays. Presented at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
THEATER AT THE J
Performances are at the Roth Family JCC of Greater Orlando, 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland. Details: 407-645-5933407-645-5933 or orlandojcc.org/theater.
A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, Oct. 17-25: Silly Stephen Sondheim musical set in ancient Rome.
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF MUSIC: HAROLD ARLEN, Dec. 17-20: Celebration of the composer of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," "Come Rain or Come Shine" and many more.
THE FABULOUS LIPITONES, April 2-10: In this musical comedy, a barbershop quartet rushes to find a new member before a big competition.
THEATRE DOWNTOWN
After losing its lease this year, the theater has not yet determined the venue for its holiday tradition; check theatredowntown.net or 407-841-0083407-841-0083.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Nov. 27-Dec. 22: Told with music, dance and acting, the Theatre Downtown production is a traditional staging of Charles Dickens' holiday classic.
THEATRE UCF
Performances are at the university's theater complex on the University of Central Florida campus in east Orange County, except where noted. Details: theatre.ucf.edu or 407-823-1500407-823-1500.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Through Aug. 30: Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners full of mistaken identities and larger-than-life characters.
THE UNDERSTUDY, Sept. 17-Oct. 4: Theresa Rebeck's biting comedy about show business backstage.
THE DIVINE SISTER, Sept. 24-Oct. 3: Charles Busch's raucous comedy paying homage to Hollywood films involving nuns.
HAIR, Oct. 15-25: The counterculture musical, set during the Vietnam War era, known for "Age of Aquarius" and "Let the Sun Shine In."
MAN AND SUPERMAN, Nov. 12-22: George Bernard Shaw's romantic comedy underscores a witty philosophical debate.
SPUNK, Jan. 21-31: UCF celebrates the 125th birthday of Eatonville author Zora Neale Hurston with her play that uses story and song to retell her acclaimed short story of the same name.
REELING, Feb. 18-28: A young man faces life in the city and looks for love in this play that doesn't contain a single word of dialogue. Music heightens the emotion, reminiscent of a vintage film.
SHE LOVES ME, March 17-26: In this musical, two feuding perfume clerks have no idea they are falling in love through a newspaper's lonely-hearts ads.
Festival
UCF CELEBRATES THE ARTS, April 7-17: Students and faculty from the University of Central Florida's programs in music, visual arts, dance and theater stage multiple performances and installations throughout the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando.
VALENCIA COLLEGE THEATER
Performances are in the Performing Arts Center at Valencia College's East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, except where noted. Details: valenciacollege.edu/arts or 407-582-2900407-582-2900.
SWEET CHARITY, Oct. 23-Nov. 1: A working girl looks for love and happiness in this musical famous for "Hey, Big Spender."
RUINED, Feb. 17-22: Winner of the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for drama, Lynn Nottage's play looks at the plight of women in war-torn Congo.
THE BOURGEOIS GENTLEMAN, April 1-10: Moliere's comedy pokes fun at social climbing, pretenses and snobbery.
STUDENT-DIRECTED ONE-ACT FESTIVAL, April 22-23: The students take charge for this free festival staged at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando.
RATTLESNAKES and TALK ABOUT THE PASSION, June 10-19: Two dark plays by Graham Farrow. In the first, angry husbands confront the man who slept with their wives. In the second, a father deals with unspeakable tragedy.
WANZIE PRESENTS
Performances will be at the Footlight Theatre at the Parliament House resort, 410. N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. Details: wanzie.com
WANZIE'S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL LIVING NATIVITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR, Nov. 28-Dec. 19: Comedy ensues when Gidget Galore and retired lady of ill repute Taffy Pinkerbox (Doug Ba'aser) plan a living Nativity.
WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The arts center, at 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford, also hosts touring concerts (see Music listings) and other productions. Details: 407-321-8111407-321-8111 or wdpac.com.
ALL SHOOK UP, Sept. 18-27: A guitar-playing roustabout shakes up a small 1950s town in this musical based on the songs of Elvis Presley.
BRING IT ON, March 4-13: Inspired by the hit film about a cheerleading competition, this musical features an original story by Tony winner Jeff Whitty ("Avenue Q") and songs by Tony winners Lin-Manuel Miranda ("In the Heights") and Tom Kitt ("Next to Normal").
WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE
The theater is at 711-C Orange Ave., Winter Park. Details: winterparkplayhouse.org or 407-645-1045407-645-1045.
THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES, Sept. 11-Oct. 10: This off-Broadway musical takes theatergoers to a 1958 high-school prom, where they meet the Wonderettes, an all-girl singing group. The show features familiar hits of the 1950s and '60s including "Lollipop," "Dream Lover," "Stupid Cupid," "It's My Party" and more.
FOREVER PLAID: PLAID TIDINGS, Nov. 13-22 and Dec. 3-19: The clean-cut guys of the Plaids, a fictitious 1950s boy band, return to Earth and bring harmony to the holiday season. Fans of the original "Forever Plaid" will recall that the singers were tragically killed in their prime, but are able to reincarnate to perform pop standards.
I LEFT MY HEART: A SALUTE TO THE MUSIC OF TONY BENNETT, Jan. 22-Feb. 27: This show is a stroll down memory lane with 40 standards recorded by Bennett. Three tenors pay tribute to the legendary singer through tunes such as "Stranger In Paradise," "The Best Is Yet to Come," "Rags to Riches" and "I Left My Heart in San Francisco."
I LOVE MY WIFE, March 18-19, and March 31-April 23: Cy Coleman wrote the tunes for this Tony award-winning musical comedy. Set in suburban New Jersey during the sexual revolution of the 1970s, two married couples consider spicing up their romantic lives.
THE FANTASTICKS, May 13-22 and June 2-11: This off-Broadway musical is famous for running more than 40 years in its original New York production. In the story, two meddling fathers try to set their children on the path to love. Among the well-loved songs is "Try to Remember."
Spotlight Cabaret series
LAURA HODOS, Sept. 16-17.
NED WILKINSON, Nov. 18-19.
CAMI MILLER, Dec. 9-10.
By Matthew J. Palm
Orlando Sentinel
August 23, 2015, 2:18 PM
Listings are subject to change. Please call the venue in advance.
THE ABBEY
The nightspot hosts plays (see Theater listing for Gen Y Productions) and movie screenings and also presents cabaret performances. The venue is at 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: abbeyorlando.com.
Monday Night Cabaret Series
DORIS DEAR, Sept. 21
DAVID KOTARY AND CHRISTINA SIVRICH, Sept. 28
ANDREA CANNY, Oct. 5
MELISSA VASQUEZ, Oct. 26
LAUREN CULVER, Nov. 2
EDDIE COOPER, Nov. 16
ANNIE RUSSELL THEATRE
The theater is on the campus of Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. Second Stage shows are free student productions that take place in the Fred Stone Theatre on campus. Details: rollins.edu/annierussell or 407-646-2145407-646-2145.
Main Stage
REEFER MADNESS, Sept. 25-Oct. 3: A fast-paced musical satire poking fun at a 1930s anti-marijuana propaganda film.
TARTUFFE, Nov. 13-21: Moliere's classic comedy about religion and hypocrisy.
EXPECTING ISABEL, Feb. 12-20: Middle-aged couple Miranda and Nick face the comedic highs and bitter lows of modern marriage as they struggle to have a child.
HELLO, DOLLY!, April 15-23: A meddling, musical matchmaker sets her eyes on a husband for herself in the beloved show by Michael Stewart with music by Jerry Herman.
Second Stage Series
CONFESSIONS FROM BEHIND THE WINDOW, Oct. 21-24: Five improvisers begin with an audience suggestion, then use real-life experiences, to weave a story.
BECKY SHAW, Feb. 3-6: A blind date takes a dark turn as crisis and comedy meet.
DETROIT, April 6-9: Two suburban couples try to add some zing to their lives in this play that deals with addition, affluence and the power of nostalgia.
APOPKA COMMUNITY THEATRE
The AHA players present shows at the Apopka Community Center, 519 South Central Ave, Apopka. Details: ApopkaCommunityTheatre.org.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS, Sept. 18-27: Southern women share life's joys and sorrows in this comic drama made into a film with Sally Field and Julia Roberts.
ATHENS THEATRE
Performances, with one exception noted below, are at 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. Encore series productions feature minimal staging and a more intimate atmosphere. Details: athensdeland.com or 386-736-1500386-736-1500.
Broadway Series
WAIT UNTIL DARK, Oct. 2-18: A thriller about drug dealers, blackmail, murder and betrayal from Frederick Knott, who also wrote "Dial M for Murder."
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: THE MUSICAL, Dec. 4-20: A little girl and a Macy's Santa star in this holiday classic.
LEND ME A TENOR, Jan. 15-31: Ken Ludwig's farce centers on the crisis that ensues when a famed opera star is thought dead right before a sold-out performance.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST JR., Feb. 19-March 6: This abridged version of the Broadway musical tells the "tale as old as time" from the Disney cartoon.
GYPSY, April 22-May 22: "Everything's Coming Up Roses" in this musical based on the memoirs of burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee and her overbearing mother.
Encore Series
GREATER TUNA, Nov. 14-22: Two actors portray multiple eccentric characters in a small Texas town in this comedy.
INHERIT THE WIND, March 18-April 3: This courtroom drama, about a high-school teacher arrested for teaching evolution, will take place at the Volusia County Courthouse, 101 N. Alabama Ave., DeLand.
BAY STREET PLAYERS
Performances are at the State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St., Eustis. Details: baystreetplayers.org or 352-357-7777352-357-7777.
Main stage
HARVEY, Sept. 4-27: The comic tale of Elwood P. Dowd and his best friend, an invisible white rabbit.
YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, Nov. 13-Dec. 6: The musical follows Charlie and the rest of Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts" gang through a typical day.
CALENDAR GIRLS, Jan. 29-Feb. 21: Based on a true story, this play tells the story of a friendship between two middle-aged women tested by the success of a tastefully nude calendar.
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, April 8-May 1: A musical version of the tale of "The Princess and the Pea."
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: THE MUSICAL, June 17-July 10: Mel Brooks comedy about the grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein and his shenanigans.
Second Stage
THE GIFT OF THE MAGI, Nov. 22-Dec. 9: Heartwarming Christmas romantic comedy, narrated by a group of Christmas carolers.
RACE, Feb. 7-21:. A wealthy white executive is charged with raping a black woman in this racially charged drama.
ALICE AND THE ANGELS, April 17-May 1: Three archangels decide to visit the Purgatory Bar in New Jersey – and then Lucifer and a mortal astrophysicist crash the party. The secrets of the universe are revealed in this world premiere from playwright Jamian Nace.
BECKETT THOMAS PRODUCTIONS
The show is staged at 3 p.m. Sundays at St. Matthew's Tavern, 1300 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. Details: facebook.com/joesnycbar.
JOE'S NYC BAR, Sept. 13-Oct. 18: New version of Christian Kelty's interactive, immersive theatrical work in which colorful characters gather at a local watering hole to talk about life, the universe and everything.
BETH MARSHALL PRESENTS
Productions are staged at the Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden; The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando; the Lake Howell High School Theater, 4200 Dike Road, Winter Park; and the Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. More information: bethmarshallpresents.com.
PLAY-IN-A-DAY, Sept. 12: More than 100 artists — writers, actors, directors and stage crew — present short plays created in just 24 hours. Students work with professionals on this annual event. At Lake Howell High School.
JULIAN BOND: MUSIC, MAGIC, TRICKS & TREATS, Oct. 2-10: Bond, a local entertainer, presents original music, parody songs and illusions. At Parliament House.
BEATNIK CUBED, Nov. 13: The final installment of Marshall's interactive 1960s-themed celebration of poets, musicians and artists of the flower-power days. At The Venue.
THE WISHING WELL GIRL: Performance art and poetry combine in this socio-political fable about a ghostly girl's quest to right the world's wrongs. Written by Marshall, with music by Bond. Performance details to be announced.
THE WHALE, March 18-April 3: Samuel Hunter's award-winning play about a 600-pound recluse trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter. At Garden Theatre.
TOP TEENS SHOWCASE, April 2: Young people coached by Marshall display their talents and win awards from the audience and a panel of entertainment-industry professionals. At Lake Howell High School.
BREAKTHROUGH THEATRE OF WINTER PARK
Performances are at Breakthrough Theatre, 419A W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park. Details: 407-920-4034407-920-4034 or breakthroughtheatre.com.
NUNSENSE, Through Aug. 31: Silly musical about nuns staging a fundraiser that goes comically wrong.
DIE, MOMMY, DIE, Sept. 4-13: Charles Busch's over-the-top melodrama about a murder plot among the celebrity set.
AS IS, Sept. 18-28: William Hoffman's 1985 drama about two gay men dealing with the AIDS crisis.
SLEEPY HOLLOW: A MUSICAL TALE, Oct. 9-26: Three modern-day children find themselves in the middle of Washington Irving's classic story and confront the Headless Horseman to find their way home.
DOG SEES GOD: CONFESSIONS OF A TEENAGE BLOCKHEAD, Nov. 6-23: Teen angst, including sexual identity, suicide, violence and drugs, among reimagined characters from Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts."
LITTLE WOMEN, Dec. 4-14: Based on Louisa M. Alcott's novel, "Little Women" follows the four March sisters on their path to womanhood.
A BREAKTHROUGH FAMILY CHRISTMAS, Dec. 18-20: Actors who have performed on the Breakthrough stage share holiday songs and stories.
CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS
The organization, which oversees several choirs and orchestras (see Music listings), has instituted a theater program this season. Performances are generally at the Central Florida Community Arts campus, 250 SW Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando, with exceptions noted below. Details: 407-937-1800407-937-1800 or cfcarts.com.
Concert staging
GUYS AND DOLLS, Sept. 10-11: A gambler falls hard for a missionary in this fun-filled musical. Staged at Northland Church, 430 Dog Track Road, Longwood.
Theater series
INTO THE WOODS, Oct. 2-18: Stephen Sondheim-James Lapine musical about fairy-tale characters whose lives go awry.
THE ODD COUPLE, Nov. 6-22: Mismatched roommates drive each other nuts in this comedy.
THE CRUCIBLE, Jan. 22-Feb. 7: Drama set among the witch hunts of colonial Massachusetts. Staged at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, Feb. 19-March 6: Musical comedy about romantic relationships.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, April 1-17: In the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, a spunky nun becomes governess to a rambunctious group of children in Nazi-occupied Austria.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Resident show at Downtown Disney, Lake Buena Vista. Details: Disneyworld.com/Lanouba or 407-939-7600407-939-7600.
LA NOUBA: Ongoing. High-energy stage show combining performance art, clowning, dance and acrobatics.
CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The center is at 3700 S. Highway 27, Clermont. In addition to the stage shows listed below, concerts and other events also take place at the center (See Music listings). Details: clermontperformingarts.com or 352-394-4800352-394-4800.
DEFENDING THE CAVEMAN, Oct. 7-17: One-man show that humorously looks at how men and women relate to each other – or don't, as the case may be.
MUTTS GONE NUTS, Nov. 7: Scott and Joan Houghton present a comedy thrill show with a variety of canine acts, including Sammie the Talking Dog. Proceeds benefit local animal shelters.
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL, Nov. 13-15: Jeanie Linders' long-running hit features four women at a lingerie sale as they face aging with grace and comedy. The soundtrack features classic songs from the 1960s to the '80s, and a portion of the proceeds goes to fight breast cancer.
MARATHON WOMAN: KATHRINE SWITZER, Nov. 21: Presentation by the USA National Women's Hall of Fame member who caused an uproar in 1967 when she became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon.
KENNY ROGERS PRESENTS THE TOY SHOPPE STARRING ALAN THICKE, Nov. 28: A Broadway-style musical with a family-friendly holiday theme. Thicke, best known as the dad on TV's "Growing Pains," stars as a store owner where the toys come to life.
THE SECOND CITY'S HOLIDAZED & CONFUSED REVUE, Dec. 10: A comic send-up of holiday fare devised by The Second City, the famed Chicago sketch-comedy troupe.
THE BEST OF BROADWAY: THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, Jan. 9: A concert staging of music from the composer, including songs from "Cats," "Evita," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "The Phantom of the Opera" and more.
IN THE MOOD, Jan. 23: A tribute to the spirit of the Swing Era with more than 40 songs performed by a live band, singers and dancers – followed by a post-show dance for the audience.
VINCE: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF VINCE LOMBARDI, Jan. 27-31: This stage portrayal of the legendary Green Bay Packers coach showcases his personal integrity and faith.
NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS, Feb. 27: More than 2,000 years of Chinese circus tradition combine for a show featuring acrobats, jugglers, contortionists and more.
RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH, March 2-20: Explore the life and times of the legendary country singer through his songs in this Broadway musical.
CELTIC NIGHTS, April 8: Music, song, dance and storytelling combine in this look at Irish artistry and culture.
Special events
DARLENE LOVE RED CARPET GALA, Sept. 26: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer launches the center's first season with a party followed by a concert.
CLERMONT COMIC CON, Nov. 22: The center hosts a pop-culture convention featuring comic-book artist Karl Moline of DC Comics and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," as well as Tim Proctor, a makeup artist on TV's "The Walking Dead."
DANGEROUS THEATRE
Theater producer Winnie Wenglewick will return to Orlando this year with two productions. Her venue is not yet established; check dangeroustheatre.com for information.
THE PERFECT GIFT, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: An examination of the commercialization of the holiday season in which a woman learns the best present can't be wrapped.
KENTUCKY CLAUS AND THE REBEL ELVES, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: Six backwoods brothers trying to create a festive holiday for their youngest sibling accidentally shoot Santa – maybe – in this Christmas-themed comedy.
DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is at 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando. Call 844-513-2014 or go to drphillipscenter.org. The center hosts theater, dance and musical performances, as well as speakers, children's programs and other events. For performances by Orlando Ballet, see the Dance listings. For the center's Jazz Series and other musical offerings, see the Music listings. For the center's Celebrity Chefs series, see the Learning listings.
Broadway series
Co-presented with Florida Theatrical Association
CINDERELLA, Nov. 10-15: The familiar fairy tale, with songs by Rodgers and Hammerstein, was reworked with a more contemporary vibe for a Broadway run from 2013 until January of this year. Disney fans should note that this adaptation doesn't feature the cartoon's songs. Among the well-known show tunes in this version are "My Own Little Corner" and "Ten Minutes Ago."
DR. SEUSS' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS, Dec. 8-13: Max the dog narrates the story of how the mean-hearted Grinch schemed to steal the festive holiday from the happy-go-lucky Whos in this cheerful show, which debuted in 1994 in Minneapolis before running on Broadway in 2006 and 2007. All the familiar songs from the 1966 cartoon are featured, including "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, Jan. 5-10: The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is touring to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1965 film. In the story, set in Austria on the eve of World War II, plucky nun Maria becomes governess to seven unruly children in the household of their strict, widowed father. The enduring songs include "Do-Re-Mi," "Edelweiss" and "Climb Ev'ry Mountain."
KINKY BOOTS, Feb. 23-28: A high-spirited show with songs written by pop star Cyndi Lauper, this 2013 Tony winner for best musical tells how a struggling British shoe factory finds a new lease on life by creating reinforced footwear for drag queens. Harvey Fierstein adapted the tale, based on actual events, from a 2005 indie film.
DIRTY DANCING: THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE, March 29-April 3: The 1987 Patrick Swayze-Jennifer Grey romance, featuring "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," is re-created on stage as an awkward young woman falls for a sexy dance instructor at a holiday resort.
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING STORY, May 3-8: This musical, which opened on Broadway in 2014, uses well-known songs written by prolific hit-maker King to tell her story. Among the hits: "Will You Love Me Tomorrow," "The Locomotion" and "I Feel the Earth Move."
Additional Broadway show
STOMP, March 23-24: Not part of the series, this percussion extravaganza can be bought separately. The long-running show combines drumming, dancing and visual treats.
Other stage shows
ONE MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY, Oct. 13-18: Charles Ross plays all the characters, re-creates the effects, sings the music, flies the ships and fights both sides of the galaxy in this original work based on the hit film series.
JOHN CLEESE & ERIC IDLE: TOGETHER AGAIN AT LAST … FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME, Oct. 16-17. The irreverent founding members of Monty Python will blend scripted and improvised bits with storytelling, musical numbers, exclusive footage, aquatic juggling and an audience Q&A.
A HAUNTING CABARET, Oct. 26-27: Local professional singers and musicians band together to perform music that inspires the Halloween spirit, including songs from "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "Titanic the Musical," "Corpse Bride" and "Gladiator."
ONE MAN BREAKING BAD, Dec. 26--Jan. 1: Los Angeles actor Miles Allen embodies all the popular TV series' characters.
GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL, Feb. 25-28: Boisterous music and comedy described as "Sex and the City" meets "Mamma Mia!"
DIXIE'S TUPPERWARE PARTY, March 14-27: Dixie Longate (Kris Andersson), a Southern belle from the wrong side of the tracks, throws an old-fashioned Tupperware party, but with modern, raunchy humor.
DANIEL TIGER'S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE, May 21: The legacy of Rollins College alumnus Mister Rogers lives on with this children's program from The Fred Rogers Co.
EMPTY SPACES THEATRE CO(LLABORATION)
Performances will be at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: 407-328-9005407-328-9005.
PHANTASMAGORIA VI: THE DARKNESS RETURNS, Oct. 9-31: All-new spooky stories, told with puppets, dance, music, stage combat, aerial routines and fire performances.
MY DEAR WATSON, Feb. 26-March 6: Jami-Leigh Bartschi's original musical, written in collaboration with the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle estate, follows the exploits and friendship of iconic detective Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
GARDEN THEATRE
The theater, which also hosts dance performances and presents movies and other community events, is at 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden. Details: gardentheatre.org or 407-877-4736407-877-4736.
LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, Sept. 25-Oct. 25: Jerry Herman wrote the catchy music for this comedy about the mayhem that ensues when a middle-aged gay couple agrees to hide their relationship from the ultra-conservative parents of their son's fiancée. Complicating matters: They run a successful drag-performer nightclub. If this sounds familiar, you might have seen the Robin Williams-Nathan Lane film adaptation, "The Birdcage."
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, Dec. 4-20: In this play adapted from the beloved Christmas film, 6-year-old Susan has doubts about Santa Claus. But a department-store Santa who believes he's the real deal shows her the real meaning of the season.
HANDS ON A HARDBODY, Jan. 29-Feb. 21: Trey Anastasio of rock band Phish and Amanda Green wrote the tunes for this story of 10 Texans who enter a contest to win a new truck. They have to keep at least one hand on the vehicle, under a scorching sun, until only one contestant remains. The show, which was nominated for three Tony awards, couldn't find an audience on Broadway and closed after just 28 performances. TheatreWorks Florida will produce the show at the Garden.
THE WHALE, March 18-April 3: Playwright Samuel D. Hunter tells of a 600-pound recluse who hides away in his Iowa apartment, eating himself to death. When he reaches out to his long-estranged daughter, he discovers a wildly unhappy teenager. Beth Marshall Presents is producing the play at the Garden.
SINGIN' IN THE RAIN, April 29-May 29: The Garden plans to stage this show, based on the classic Gene Kelly film, using digital-animation techniques like those seen in its production of "Peter Pan." In the song-and-dance extravaganza, Hollywood's transition from silent pictures to "talkies" causes trouble for some memorable characters.
GEN Y PRODUCTIONS
Shows are presented at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: abbeyorlando.com
TOTALLY ELECTRIC, Sept. 10-28: Take a musical trip through 1980s high school with The Syncopated Sensations show choir. Orlando premiere.
BAT BOY, Oct. 15-31: This musical-comedy/horror show, inspired by an actual headline in a supermarket tabloid, centers on a half boy-half bat creature who is discovered in a West Virginia cave.
HUMOR MILL ORLANDO
The sketch-comedy troupe performs its shows at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: thehumormillorlando.com or 407-340-8574407-340-8574.
HOLIDAY SHOW, Dec. 4-5: Seasonal musical parodies and sketch comedy, based on improvisation techniques.
7TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW, Jan. 29-30: The "best of" the troupe's work in sketch comedy and musical parodies.
JEREMY SEGHERS
The theater producer, who has staged shows at the Orlando Fringe Festival, presents two shows this season.
A CLOCKWORK ORANGE, Oct. 15-19: Based on the novel, "A Clockwork Orange" raises questions of human nature and freedom of choice as Alex undergoes experimental treatments to change his violent nature. Presented at Drip, 8747 International Drive, Orlando. Details: ilovedrip.com.
A PUBLIC READING OF AN UNPRODUCED SCREENPLAY ABOUT THE DEATH OF WALT DISNEY, Nov. 20-23: Playwright Lucas Hnath gives a blackly comic, high-energy look at the persona of America's "Uncle Walt." Presented at Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: deathofdisney@gmail.com.
JOSEPH REED HAYES
The veteran playwright and theater producer presents his latest work at the Timucua Arts White House, 2000 S. Summerlin Ave., Orlando. Details: josephreedhayes.com
TOM WAITS FOR NO MAN, Nov. 22: A free, staged concert version of a new work, featuring Cole NeSmith and jazz combo La Lucha. The story centers on Bobby Ace, a third-rate road musician, as he plays the music of Tom Waits in seedy clubs.
MAD COW THEATRE
The company's theaters, the Harriett and the Zehngebot-Stonerock, are at 55 W. Church St., Orlando. Details: madcowtheatre.com or 407-297-8788407-297-8788.
YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU, Oct. 2-25: This 1936 comedy won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in its depiction of an eccentric New York family that values happiness over wealth. It was later adapted for film and won the Oscar for best picture.
MY NAME IS ASHER LEV, Nov. 6-Dec. 6: Aaron Posner wrote this new play, adapted from Chaim Potok's novel, that deals with self-identity and the conflict between tradition and change. In 1950s Brooklyn, a Hasidic Jewish boy becomes interested in art to the displeasure of his family.
THE SECRET GARDEN, Nov. 20-Dec. 20: After Mary Lennox's parents are killed in India by cholera, the girl travels far away to the English moors, where she encounters ghosts, secrets and healing.
ART, Jan. 22-Feb. 21: This Tony-winning play challenges perceptions of beauty, talent and tolerance. In the comedy, friendship is tested when a man buys an odd painting that creates divisive opinions.
OUTSIDE MULLINGAR, Feb. 19-March 20: Irish farmers Anthony and Rosemary are neighbors — but could they be more? John Patrick Shanley ("Doubt: A Parable") premiered this play in 2014.
LONG DAY'S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT, March 18-April 17: Eugene O'Neill's play follows a single day in the life of a 1912 family collapsing under the burden of the mother's drug addiction. The original 1957 Broadway production won both the best-play Tony and the Pulitzer for drama.
AVENUE Q, June 3-July 3: Winner of Tony awards for best musical, best book and best score, this adult puppet show offers comical lessons about love, sex and finding your purpose in life.
THE BROTHERS SIZE, June 10-July 10: In Tarell Alvin McCraney's drama, West African mythology intersects with the realities of life in the Louisiana bayou.
THE BIG MEAL, Aug. 5-28, 2016: This 90-minute comedy by Dan LeFranc captures five generations of one family as seen through important gatherings at suburbia's go-to meeting place: a restaurant.
BUYER & CELLAR, Aug. 12-Sept. 11, 2016: The New York Times called Jonathan Tolins' one-man fantasia on Barbra Streisand "irresistible" as the playwright satirically eyes fame. In the show, an actor takes a job in the pretend shopping mall in Streisand's basement.
Festivals
SCIENCE PLAY FESTIVAL, March 24-26: Readings and discussions of works with scientific content or themes.
ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL, April 22-May 8: Local and national singers perform.
Special Event
BLACK & WHITE BASH, April 24: Annual fundraising gala.
MELON PATCH PLAYERS
Performances are at the Melon Patch Playhouse, 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg. Details: melonpatchplayers.com or 352-787-3013352-787-3013.
PLAY ON!, Sept. 11-27: In this comedy, a theater troupe tries desperately to stage a play despite maddening interference from its haughty author.
THE OCTETTE BRIDGE CLUB, Oct. 16-Nov. 1: Eight sisters meet to play bridge and gossip during the 1930s and '40s in this heartfelt look at times gone by.
THE KING & I, Dec. 4-20: An English governess meets the king of Siam in this classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical.
NORMAN, IS THAT YOU?, Jan. 15-31: A father visits his son in New York and learns that he is gay. This play, originally written in 1970, has been rewritten to reflect more modern times.
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, March 4-20: This musical comedy gently spoofs the musicals of the golden age and those who love them.
BRIGADOON, May 6-22: The Lerner & Loewe musical about a mysterious Scottish town that appears only once every hundred years.
MOONLIGHT PLAYERS
Performances are at the Moonlight Theatre, 735 W. Minneola St., Clermont. Details: moonlightplayers.com or 352-243-5875352-243-5875.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, Sept. 25-Oct. 18: Tevye the milkman tries to protect his daughters and his way of life as the world changes around him in this classic musical.
THE CRUCIBLE, Nov. 13-29: Arthur Miller's drama fueled by accusations of witchcraft in colonial New England.
THE STAR-SPANGLED GIRL, Jan. 22-Feb. 14: Neil Simon comedy about two earnest young men and the female Olympic swimmer who becomes their neighbor.
MY FAIR LADY, March 11-April 3: Lerner & Loewe musical about a condescending professor who tries to make a proper lady out of cockney flower-seller Eliza Doolittle.
LEADING LADIES, April 29-May 15: Two down-on-their-luck actors try to pass themselves off as women to collect an inheritance in this Ken Ludwig farce.
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: THE MUSICAL, June 10-July 3: Mel Brooks comedy about the grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein and his shenanigans.
SULLIVAN & GILBERT, July 29-Aug. 21: The feuding composers are forced to work together again when Queen Victoria commands a performance of their hits in this musical comedy, the second Ken Ludwig work of the Moonlight season.
OCALA CIVIC THEATRE
Performances are at the Appleton Cultural Center, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Details: 352-236-2274352-236-2274 or ocalacivictheatre.com
Signature series
MARY POPPINS, Sept. 3-Oct. 4: Musical inspired by the books about the practically perfect nanny and the Disney movie.
THE KITCHEN WITCHES, Nov. 5-29: Rival cable-access cooking-show hostesses battle in this comedy by Caroline Smith.
BLOOD BROTHERS, Feb. 11-March 6: A musical tragedy about twin boys separated at birth who grow up very differently.
FOX ON THE FAIRWAY, March 24-April 17: In this Ken Ludwig farce, rival country-club owners spar over a golf tournament.
SISTER ACT, May 19-June 12: Based on the Whoopi Goldberg movie, this musical tells of a nightclub singer forced to hide out in a convent after she witnesses a murder.
Ovation Series
ROUNDING THIRD, Oct. 8-18: Comedy centered on Little League baseball.
HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE, Jan. 14-24: Paula Vogel's Pulitzer-winning drama about a complicated relationship between a woman and her uncle.
QUARTET: March 31-April 11: A bittersweet drama about life in a retirement home for musicians.
ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL
The annual festival will take place around the Ivanhoe Village neighborhood. Venues include the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Orlando Museum of Art and The Venue. Performances in the Fringe Year Round series take place in the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando, except where noted below. The Fringe's Movies Out Loud series take place at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando. Details: orlandofringe.org or 407-648-0077407-648-0077.
Fringe Year Round
OBSESSED, Sept. 4: One-man comedy about obsessions with vampires, God and being gay.
AUTOBAHN, Sept. 4: Darkly comic and serious short stories from Neil Labute, all set in an automobile.
SEX, DRUGS, ROCK & ROLL, Sept. 5: David Lee delivers Eric Bogosian's intense monologues dealing with the issues of modern life.
MASSAGE A TROIS, Sept. 5: John Connon presents an absurd take on our ongoing battles with self-esteem in three vignettes exploring our relationships with food, beauty and the occasional awkward massage.
ONCE I LAUGHED, Sept. 6: The Central Florida Community Arts original musical tells the story of the Andrews Sisters through their music.
BUBBLE GUM PARTY, Sept. 6: In this song-filled parody of wholesome entertainment, a family singing group celebrates "real American values." As the show's tagline says: Not suitable for children.
MY DAD'S DEATHS, Oct. 15 and Oct. 18: Australian performer Jon Bennett tells the highly comical yet supremely moving story of a father and son trying to connect.
PRETENDING THINGS ARE A COCK, Oct. 16: Jon Bennett offers cultural insights mixed with stand-up as he leads the audience through a slideshow of items resembling male genitalia.
FIRE IN THE METH LAB, Oct. 17: Jon Bennett finds humor and pathos in this real-life examination of his relationship with his brother, a convicted criminal.
6 GUITARS, Nov. 18: Chase Padgett's tour-de-force mixes comedy, music and poignancy as six musicians explore the genres they love — from classical to hard rock. Staged at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
NASHVILLE HURRICANE, Nov. 19: Through story and song, Chase Padgett spins the tale of an unlikely and reluctant country-music star. Staged at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
ORLANDO FRINGE HOLIDAY CABARET, Dec. 14: A Fringe-inspired celebration of Christmas and other seasonal holidays.
BUTT KAPINSKI, Jan. 1-3: An eccentric private eye leads the audience through a comic, adult-themed murder mystery.
MOONLIGHT AFTER MIDNIGHT, Feb. 5-6: The winner of the Critics Pick award for best show at the 2014 Fringe, "Moonlight" follows a mysterious man and beautiful woman who meet in a hotel room filled with love and loss, memories and intrigue. Performed by Martin Dockery and Vanessa Quesnelle.
THE PIT, Feb. 7: Martin Dockery and Vanessa Quesnelle star in this quick-witted and surreal send-up of domestic bliss in which a giant pit opens in a married couple's home and threatens to engulf them both.
ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL LOCAL PREVIEW SHOW, April 18: Watch 2-minute snippets of the local performers' acts planned for the 2016 festival. All-ages previews start at 7 p.m., with adults-only previews beginning at 9 p.m.
Movies Out Loud
TO WONG FOO, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING, JULIE NEWMAR, Sept. 9: Addison Taylor and Gidget Galore provide comic commentary as the Patrick Swayze-Wesley Snipes comedy plays.
LEPRACHAUN IN THE HOOD, Oct. 14: Jeff Jones and Logan Donahoo riff on the comically awful horror film.
Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival
THE 25th FRINGE: May 18-30: The oldest Fringe in the United States features more than 90 short comedies, dramas, musicals, magic acts and other shows performed in and around Loch Haven Park, augmented with a visual-art exhibition, free outdoor musical performances and free children's activities on weekends.
ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE
Performances of shows designed for children and their families are in the theater's complex at 1001 E. Princeton St., Orlando. Details: Orlandorep.com or 407-896-7365407-896-7365.
Series
FANCY NANCY: THE MUSICAL, Sept. 8-Oct. 11: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the first Fancy Nancy book by Jane O'Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser. In this stage adaptation, young Nancy yearns to be the prima ballerina in her first dance recital — but gets stuck playing a tree.
ORPHIE AND THE BOOK OF HEROES, Oct. 12-Nov. 8: A young girl in ancient Greece sets out to rescue Homer and meets Zeus, Atlas and other mythological bigwigs in this musical comedy from the creators of past Rep hit "Junior Claus."
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER, Nov. 9-Dec. 27: Songs such as "Silver and Gold," "A Holly Jolly Christmas" and the title track help bring the TV special to life.
TALES OF A FOURTH GRADE NOTHING, Jan. 25-Feb. 21: In Judy Blume's classic story, fourth-grader Peter is driven to distraction by his attention-seeking toddler brother, known as Fudge.
SKIPPYJON JONES, Feb. 22-April 3: From a book by Judy Schachner, "Skippyjon Jones" jumps into the imagination of a Siamese kitten who daydreams of being a swashbuckling Chihuahua in Mexico.
JUNIE B. JONES: THE MUSICAL, April 4-May 16: First grade is busy for scrappy little Junie. She makes a new friend, she might need glasses and there's a big kickball tournament to worry about.
Special Events
MR. RICHARD & THE POUND HOUNDS HALLOWEEN CONCERT, Oct. 30-31: Costumes, treats and music.
HOLIDAY FAMILY GALA, Dec. 13: Dinner, Santa visits and children's activities, plus an exclusive showing of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer."
PIP-SQUEAK: AN ANTI-BULLYING MAGIC SHOW, Jan. 11-16: Tony Brent uses magic, comedy and juggling to gently help children recognize and cope with bullying.
ORLANDO SHAKESPEARE THEATER
Performances are at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: Orlandoshakes.org or 407-447-1700407-447-1700.
Signature series
SPAMALOT, Sept. 11-Oct. 11: Musical take on the film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," a spoof of King Arthur and his knights of the round table.
BAKERSFIELD MIST, Oct. 16-Nov. 15: Playwright Stephen Sachs looks at what makes art — and people — authentic. A down-on-her-luck woman buys a painting she thinks is by Jackson Pollock and worth millions. When a renowned art expert arrives at her trailer-park home to authenticate the work, cultures and social classes collide.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, Dec. 4-Jan. 3: This fanciful tale uses imaginative staging to explain the origin of Peter Pan.
DANCING LESSONS. Jan. 8-Feb. 7: A socially awkward professor is instructed by an injured Broadway performer in this modern love story that explores the reality of disabilities and Asperger's syndrome.
THE TEMPEST, Feb. 12-March 27: A man and his daughter are stranded on a mystical island in one of Shakespeare's best-known works.
PERICLES, Feb. 26-March 26: An adventurous Shakespeare tale of a prince's odyssey involving riches and a lost princess. This will be the first time the theater has staged this Shakespeare work.
VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE, April 1-May 1: Adult siblings' quiet, rural life is disrupted by their movie-star sister and her boy-toy. Sibling rivalry and regret take center stage in Christopher Durang's off-kilter comedy.
Children's Series
A GHOST TALE FOR MR. DICKENS, Oct. 22-Nov. 20: Jack and Annie inspire the writer of "A Christmas Carol" in this tale from Mary Pope Osborne's Magic Tree House series.
ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE'S WE ARE IN A PLAY!, April 7-May 7: A new musical based on children's book characters.
Festival
PLAYFEST, Nov. 5-8. New works are read and discussed in the annual festival.
Special Events
SEASON-OPENING GALA, Sept. 20: Food, drink, performances in conjunction with "Spamalot."
MOCK TRIAL, March 15: Comic court proceedings themed to one of the troupe's plays.
OSCEOLA ARTS
Performances are at Osceola Arts, 2411 U.S. Highway 192, Kissimmee. Details: OsceolaArts.com or 407-846-6257407-846-6257.
Broadway Series
WEST SIDE STORY, Sept. 18-Oct. 4: The musical tale of star-crossed love plays out against rival New York gangs, the Jets and the Sharks.
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Oct. 23-Nov. 8: The musical about a talking – and murderous – plant that changes the life of a nerdy florist.
FOOLS, Jan. 15-Jan. 31: Neil Simon's comic fable concerns a teacher who falls for his pupil in a Ukrainian town suffering from a curse that makes its residents stupid.
GYPSY, Feb. 19-March 6: An ambitious stage mother alienates her daughters in this musical, based on the life of burlesque queen Gypsy Rose Lee.
HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES, April 1-17: In this Alan Ayckbourn comedy, three couples share tangled relationships.
THE PRODUCERS, May 6-22: In this Mel Brooks musical comedy, two Broadway producers set out to stage a flop.
SHREK THE MUSICAL, Jul. 22-Aug. 7: The cartoon ogre's story presented on stage.
Stage Left Series
TRUE WEST, Oct. 3-12: Sam Shepard drama about two very different brothers.
THE GRADUATE, Jan. 30-Feb. 8: Mrs. Robinson attracts a much a younger man in this tale immortalized on film in the Dustin Hoffman-Anne Bancroft movie.
DOUBT, Feb. 27-March 7: A novice nun is torn when shocking accusations are made against a parish priest.
THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR, June 11-20: Romantic comedy, battle of the sexes style, by William Shakespeare.
OUT OF THE BOX THEATRE
Productions are staged at the Franklin Pearce Jr. Auditorium, 17404 Sixth St., Montverde. Details: Outside.The.Box.FL@gmail.com or 321-663-2608321-663-2608.
A BOOK CAN TAKE YOU ANYWHERE, Through Aug. 30: Aimed at children, this is a musical journey through different world cultures.
SOUTHERN COMFORTS, Oct. 9-26: A taciturn Yankee widower and a vivacious grandmother from Tennessee unexpectedly find a second chance at love in this sweetly comic romance.
RADIO T.B.S. (TRAILER PARK BROADCASTING SCANDALS), Dec. 4-20: In this comedy, Vesta Poteet and Dixie Mandrell comment on the shenanigans at the Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Empire, where residents are preparing a drive-by Nativity scene featuring Jesus and Elvis.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS, Feb. 19-March 6: Comedy featuring a slice of Southern life, set in Truvy's beauty salon where female friends share their ups and downs.
ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID, April 8-24: In this comedy, four friends strive to keep a promise made decades ago when they were high-school chums: To always be in each other's weddings.
PARLIAMENT HOUSE
Performances are in the resort's Footlight Theatre, at 401 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. Details: Parliamenthouse.com and wanzie.com
BATHHOUSE: THE MUSICAL, Oct. 23-Nov. 22: Tim Evanicki and Esther Daack's musical comedy about the goings-on in a gay bathhouse.
WANZIE'S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL LIVING NATIVITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR, Nov. 28-Dec. 19: Comedy ensues when Gidget Galore and retired lady of ill repute Taffy Pinkerbox (Doug Ba'aser) plan a living Nativity.
PB&J THEATRE FACTORY
The troupe performs at the Fred Stone Theatre on the campus of Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park. Details: pbjtickets.com.
SLEIGH, Dec. 17-27: Holiday high jinks and merry mayhem from this troupe that specializes in comedy that is dialogue-free.
PLAYWRIGHTS' ROUND TABLE
The group holds monthly public play readings, as well as staged productions. Staged shows are at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. Details: theprt.com or 407-761-2683407-761-2683.
LAUNCH 2016, Jan. 15-21: Seven original short plays by PRT members.
PREMIERE SERIES, April 8-17: World-premiere of a full-length play.
RS&C Productions
The production company's traditional holiday show returns to the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando. The $35 ticket includes Christmas treats and steaming spiced tea. Details: 407-222-7669407-222-7669 or OrlandoatPlay.com.
DICKENS BY CANDLELIGHT: A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Dec. 11-22: Three storytellers share Charles Dickens' tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, ghosts and redemption in an immersive and imaginative environment.
SAK COMEDY LAB
The comedy troupe, which presents an ongoing schedule of improv nights, stages shows at CityArts Factory, 29 S. Orange Ave., Orlando. Details: sakcomedylab.com or 407-648-0001407-648-0001.
INVASION! CHRISTMAS CAROL, Dec. 11-25. Charles Dickens' classic tale provides the framework for the comedy, which results from an unexpected character such as Batman or Dracula "invading" the story.
YULE OF FOOLS, Dec. 12-26: The SAK comics square off in an improv-comedy competition inspired by the seasonal holidays in this family-friendly show.
SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE FINE ARTS THEATRE
The theater is on the campus of Seminole State College, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford. Details: seminolestate.edu/arts or 407-708-2040407-708-2040.
SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN AUTHOR, Oct. 2-11: Six fictional characters interrupt a play rehearsal hoping someone will finish their story in this exploration of illusion and reality.
MAN OF LA MANCHA, Nov. 13-22: Prisoners Miguel de Cervantes and his servant take refuge in their alter egos – Don Quixote and Sancho Panza – as they await their fate in this musical known for "The Impossible Dream."
ROMEO AND JULIET, Feb. 12-21: Shakespeare's tragedy of star-crossed lovers.
LIVES OF THE SAINTS, April 8-17: Seven short poignant and comic works by playwright David Ives.
SPRING INTO DANCE, April 29-May 1: Annual dance showcase.
SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE
The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse is at 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora. Details: icehousetheatre.com or 352-383-4616352-383-4616.
AND THEN THERE WERE NONE, Sept. 18-Oct. 11: Ten strangers, trapped on a remote island, are murdered one by one in this classic Agatha Christie thriller.
GUYS & DOLLS, Nov. 20-Dec. 13: A gambler falls for a missionary in this musical featuring "Luck Be a Lady," "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat" and more.
FUNNY MONEY, Jan. 22-Feb. 14: When Henry Perkins finds a briefcase full of money, things quickly spiral out of control in this Ray Cooney farce.
GYPSY, March 18-April 10: Mama Rose is determined her daughter will become a Vaudeville star in this musical based on the life of burlesque queen Gypsy Rose Lee.
BECKY'S NEW CAR, May 20-June 12: Becky Foster feels stuck in her job and marriage in this play by Steven Dietz. Will an encounter with a grief-stricken millionaire change her life?
SOUTHERN WINDS THEATRE
The group tours productions and holds special events throughout the region. Details: southernwindstheatre.com or 407-341-3495407-341-3495.
WOMEN PLAYING HAMLET, Sept. 11-20: In William Missouri Downs' comedy, a woman struggles when cast in an all-female production of Shakespeare's "Hamlet." Presented at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
BY DICKENS, Nov. 11: On a cold London night, Charles Dickens meets a mysterious woman who tries to help him finish his last novel, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood." The play, written by David A. McElroy, explores Dickens' most popular books. Suitable for middle-schoolers and older, "By Dickens" will be presented at the Lake Miona Regional Recreation Center, 1526 Buena Vista Blvd., The Villages.
ONE-MAN 'A CHRISTMAS CAROL,' Dec. 4 and 7: David A. McElroy's adaptation of the Dickens novel, in which he performs 37 different characters. Presented at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive, Orlando.
A TUNA CHRISTMAS, Dec. 12-20: Two actors portray multiple colorful characters in this affectionately comic look at small-town life during the holidays. Presented at The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive, Orlando.
THEATER AT THE J
Performances are at the Roth Family JCC of Greater Orlando, 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland. Details: 407-645-5933407-645-5933 or orlandojcc.org/theater.
A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, Oct. 17-25: Silly Stephen Sondheim musical set in ancient Rome.
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF MUSIC: HAROLD ARLEN, Dec. 17-20: Celebration of the composer of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," "Come Rain or Come Shine" and many more.
THE FABULOUS LIPITONES, April 2-10: In this musical comedy, a barbershop quartet rushes to find a new member before a big competition.
THEATRE DOWNTOWN
After losing its lease this year, the theater has not yet determined the venue for its holiday tradition; check theatredowntown.net or 407-841-0083407-841-0083.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Nov. 27-Dec. 22: Told with music, dance and acting, the Theatre Downtown production is a traditional staging of Charles Dickens' holiday classic.
THEATRE UCF
Performances are at the university's theater complex on the University of Central Florida campus in east Orange County, except where noted. Details: theatre.ucf.edu or 407-823-1500407-823-1500.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Through Aug. 30: Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners full of mistaken identities and larger-than-life characters.
THE UNDERSTUDY, Sept. 17-Oct. 4: Theresa Rebeck's biting comedy about show business backstage.
THE DIVINE SISTER, Sept. 24-Oct. 3: Charles Busch's raucous comedy paying homage to Hollywood films involving nuns.
HAIR, Oct. 15-25: The counterculture musical, set during the Vietnam War era, known for "Age of Aquarius" and "Let the Sun Shine In."
MAN AND SUPERMAN, Nov. 12-22: George Bernard Shaw's romantic comedy underscores a witty philosophical debate.
SPUNK, Jan. 21-31: UCF celebrates the 125th birthday of Eatonville author Zora Neale Hurston with her play that uses story and song to retell her acclaimed short story of the same name.
REELING, Feb. 18-28: A young man faces life in the city and looks for love in this play that doesn't contain a single word of dialogue. Music heightens the emotion, reminiscent of a vintage film.
SHE LOVES ME, March 17-26: In this musical, two feuding perfume clerks have no idea they are falling in love through a newspaper's lonely-hearts ads.
Festival
UCF CELEBRATES THE ARTS, April 7-17: Students and faculty from the University of Central Florida's programs in music, visual arts, dance and theater stage multiple performances and installations throughout the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando.
VALENCIA COLLEGE THEATER
Performances are in the Performing Arts Center at Valencia College's East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, except where noted. Details: valenciacollege.edu/arts or 407-582-2900407-582-2900.
SWEET CHARITY, Oct. 23-Nov. 1: A working girl looks for love and happiness in this musical famous for "Hey, Big Spender."
RUINED, Feb. 17-22: Winner of the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for drama, Lynn Nottage's play looks at the plight of women in war-torn Congo.
THE BOURGEOIS GENTLEMAN, April 1-10: Moliere's comedy pokes fun at social climbing, pretenses and snobbery.
STUDENT-DIRECTED ONE-ACT FESTIVAL, April 22-23: The students take charge for this free festival staged at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St., Orlando.
RATTLESNAKES and TALK ABOUT THE PASSION, June 10-19: Two dark plays by Graham Farrow. In the first, angry husbands confront the man who slept with their wives. In the second, a father deals with unspeakable tragedy.
WANZIE PRESENTS
Performances will be at the Footlight Theatre at the Parliament House resort, 410. N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando. Details: wanzie.com
WANZIE'S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRAIL LIVING NATIVITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR, Nov. 28-Dec. 19: Comedy ensues when Gidget Galore and retired lady of ill repute Taffy Pinkerbox (Doug Ba'aser) plan a living Nativity.
WAYNE DENSCH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The arts center, at 201 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford, also hosts touring concerts (see Music listings) and other productions. Details: 407-321-8111407-321-8111 or wdpac.com.
ALL SHOOK UP, Sept. 18-27: A guitar-playing roustabout shakes up a small 1950s town in this musical based on the songs of Elvis Presley.
BRING IT ON, March 4-13: Inspired by the hit film about a cheerleading competition, this musical features an original story by Tony winner Jeff Whitty ("Avenue Q") and songs by Tony winners Lin-Manuel Miranda ("In the Heights") and Tom Kitt ("Next to Normal").
WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE
The theater is at 711-C Orange Ave., Winter Park. Details: winterparkplayhouse.org or 407-645-1045407-645-1045.
THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES, Sept. 11-Oct. 10: This off-Broadway musical takes theatergoers to a 1958 high-school prom, where they meet the Wonderettes, an all-girl singing group. The show features familiar hits of the 1950s and '60s including "Lollipop," "Dream Lover," "Stupid Cupid," "It's My Party" and more.
FOREVER PLAID: PLAID TIDINGS, Nov. 13-22 and Dec. 3-19: The clean-cut guys of the Plaids, a fictitious 1950s boy band, return to Earth and bring harmony to the holiday season. Fans of the original "Forever Plaid" will recall that the singers were tragically killed in their prime, but are able to reincarnate to perform pop standards.
I LEFT MY HEART: A SALUTE TO THE MUSIC OF TONY BENNETT, Jan. 22-Feb. 27: This show is a stroll down memory lane with 40 standards recorded by Bennett. Three tenors pay tribute to the legendary singer through tunes such as "Stranger In Paradise," "The Best Is Yet to Come," "Rags to Riches" and "I Left My Heart in San Francisco."
I LOVE MY WIFE, March 18-19, and March 31-April 23: Cy Coleman wrote the tunes for this Tony award-winning musical comedy. Set in suburban New Jersey during the sexual revolution of the 1970s, two married couples consider spicing up their romantic lives.
THE FANTASTICKS, May 13-22 and June 2-11: This off-Broadway musical is famous for running more than 40 years in its original New York production. In the story, two meddling fathers try to set their children on the path to love. Among the well-loved songs is "Try to Remember."
Spotlight Cabaret series
LAURA HODOS, Sept. 16-17.
NED WILKINSON, Nov. 18-19.
CAMI MILLER, Dec. 9-10.