Upcoming Events
Merrily We Roll Along
October 30 – November 10
Sondheim’s semi-autobiographical musical turns back the clock on friendship and the high price of success. Spanning three decades in the entertainment business, Merrily We Roll Along charts the turbulent relationship between composer Franklin Shepard and his two lifelong friends—writer Mary and lyricist & playwright Charley. An inventive, cult-classic ahead of its time, Merrily We Roll Along features some of Stephen Sondheim’s most celebrated and personal songs. Rated PG-13
On Golden Pond
November 7 – 17
This is the love story of Ethel and Norman Thayer, who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the forty-eighth year. They are visited by their divorced, middle-aged daughter and her dentist fiancé, who then go off to Europe, leaving his teenage son behind for the summer. A heartwarming and hilarious show about generations of a family learning to communicate and care.
Rated PG-13
This show is sponsored by MCR Health and is part of our Action Through Acting Series. Learn more about MCR Health at their website .
Brand New Day-Tribute to Sting & The Police
Tuesday, November 12 at 2 PM & 7 PM
Brand New Day is a very different type of band. This Sting and The Police tribute band is pulling out all the stops to present a show that you just can’t take your eyes off for fear of missing something! This show recreates the incredibly diverse catalog of both The Police and Sting – from the reggae-tinged new wave of the late 70s to the jazz & pop stylings of Sting’s eclectic solo catalog.
Night of R & B and Jazz with Nu Jazz
November 16 at 7:00 PM
Nu Jazz is a contemporary jazz band from the Sarasota/Bradenton area. We play hits from many artists in the genre such as The Rippingtons, Richard Elliot, Peter White, Spyro Gyra, Boney James and many more.
Nu Jazz is led by Dr. Melvin Price – Saxophone – local Foot & Ankle Surgeon and CEO & President of MCR Health. Along with accomplished musicians Eric Enfield – Keyboards, Bert Simmons – Drums, Gregg Jordan – Guitar, Marcos Diaz – Bass Guitar, Dr. Dedrix Daka – Trombone, Rod Cobb – Trumpet. Nu Jazz brings your favorite R&B tunes to a new level with a jazz twist. Featuring special performances by Henry Lawrence.
Nu Jazz will be joined by group Unique Full Circle Band led by Keith Allen – Percussion/Singer
Winter Wonderland by Arthur Murray Dance Studio
November 23 at 7:30 PM
Winter Wonderland by Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Lakewood Ranch
Step into a world of elegance and enchantment with our Ballroom Dance Holiday Spectacular! This festive season, join us for an unforgettable evening where dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and the magic of the holidays come together on one grand stage. Watch as our talented dancers waltz, tango, and cha-cha their way through timeless holiday classics and sparkling new routines. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast or simply in the mood for some holiday cheer, this show is the perfect way to celebrate the season with grace, joy, and a touch of ballroom glamour!
The Wizard of Oz
December 5 – 15
We’re off to see the wizard! This timeless tale of a Kansas farm girl who travels over the rainbow – only to discover there’s no place like home – has been charming audiences for generations. Follow the yellow brick road all the way to the Emerald City in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s enduring classic. Filled with brains, heart, and courage, and featuring the iconic score from the MGM film, The Wizard of Oz is fun for the whole family
Rated G-Appropriate for the entire family
Matt Stone as Elvis
December 10 at 2 PM & 7 PM
Matt Stone, a nationally-acclaimed Elvis Tribute Artist, who was named by Graceland as one of the top performers on the planet, will be BACK in the building at Manatee Performing Arts Center to recreate these jaw-dropping performances! Each concert will be a different performance so get your tickets for BOTH shows.
A Calyp-Soul Christmas
December 18 at 7:00 PM
A CALYP-SOUL CHRISTMAS kick starts your holiday season… Island style with exciting new takes on some favorite Christmas classics. Steel pan artist JOHN PATTI combines the unmistakable sounds of the islands with jazz and soul music, complimented by the bold, sultry voice and stylings of singer/songwriter CARRIE WELLING, creating unforgettable versions of your Christmas favorites! You’ve never heard holiday music like this!
Classics such as Silent Night, This Christmas and Jingle Bell Rock, take on new life with smooth vocals, funky bass and melodic steel drum. These energetic grooves and new arrangements create a fresh Christmas sound unlike any other.
John Patti is known for bringing the steel pan to the forefront of musical entertainment, expertly showcasing the unique island flair and history of the instrument.
With credentials including performances with Clint Black, Olivia Newton John, The Four Tops, Les Paul, Jerry Jeff Walker, Paul Overstreet, Mac McAnally and more, these world class musicians are guaranteed to give an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.
Pursuant to s. 817.36, Florida Statutes, tickets may not be resold for more than $1.00 over the original admission price
Accessibility
The Manatee Performing Arts Center strives to make its performances and facilities accessible to everyone. We want to ensure every member of our community feels like our space is a space for them and is dedicated to making everyone’s visit comfortable and enjoyable.
We’re here to help. Please contact us at 941-749-1111 or go here for more information.
“Artistic Inspiration for Everyone”
“The mission of the Florida Cultural Group, Inc. is to create, entertain and strengthen an artistic, creative, curious, and thriving community by bringing people together.”
