Scene Calendar: Pet Detectives, 'Putnam County Spelling Bee' and more
MUSIC
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Pet Detectives will perform ’90s alt-rock covers.
Freedom Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sunday, The Pentacostals, 8105 NW 23rd Ave. Free entry; food for sale. (tinyurl.com/freedomconc24) Fourth of July-themed performance by the music department of The Pentecostals featuring musical specials, praise and worship. Bring a lawn chair.
The Doobie Brothers: 7 p.m. Sunday, Daily's Place Amphitheatre, 1 Daily’s Place, Jacksonville. Tickets: Starting at $59. (dailysplace.com/events, 904-633-2000) The classic rock band will perform with The Robert Cray Band as part of their “The 2024” tour.
THEATER
“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays through July 21, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/the-25th-annual-putnam-county-spelling-bee) Join an eclectic group of six young people who compete in the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Content Advisory: PG-13. Play discusses race, LGBTQ+ themes, and has some profanity and strong language.
ET CETERA
Summer at the Library: Library Pokedex Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through summer, Library Partnership Branch, 912 NE 16th Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Pokémon scavenger hunt. Every week a different Pokémon will be hidden. If you can find the hiding creature, you will earn a badge. Come back each week to earn different badges. Get all 8 badges for a special prize. Materials and prizes will be limited to the first 40 participants.
Summer at the Library: Florida Wildlife Safari Scavenger Hunt: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through summer, Archer Library,13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) Every week throughout the summer, the library will unveil a photo of a Florida bird or animal track for you to identify. These photos will feature QR codes that lead to recordings of the animals' calls.
Mossman Hall First Friday Art Walk: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Mossman Hall, 301 SR 26, Melrose. Free entry; items and food for sale. (bit.ly/mhffawjune24) Monthly event featuring art, music, food, and complimentary wine and beer.
“Florida Skies (Summer)”: 7-8 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 18, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 for adults; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60 and older, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/florida-skies-spring-4) Join James Albury, former co-host of the PBS TV Show “Star Gazers,” as he takes you on a personally guided tour of the night sky using the GOTO Chronos Space Simulator.
4th of July Celebration: 8 a.m. Saturday, Ginnie Springs, 5000 NE 60th Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $25 adults, $5 ages 5-12, free ages 4 and younger. (ginniespringsoutdoors.com) Annual event featuring a firework display and live music by Jamie Davis Band.
Gainesville Cars and Coffee: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free. (tinyurl.com/gccapril24) Family friendly gathering open to all automotive enthusiasts. Get together for a cup of coffee and show off each other’s vehicles regardless of if it’s an import, exotic, classic or jalopy.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 5-13, free for ages 4 and younger; free for members; group rates available. (kanapaha.org) Guided tour of the gardens.
Historic Haile Homestead Tour: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Entrance: $5 ages 12 and older, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) The Historic Haile Homestead is unique in the nation for its "Talking Walls.''
Baturdays of Summer: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Lubee Bat Conservancy, 1309 NW 192nd Ave. Cost: $15-$20. (lubee.org) Visit with the world’s largest bats in a small-event setting. Speak with bat experts, sit in on educational presentations, and explore the Lubee grounds.
Horse Feeding: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses, 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua. Entrance: Bag of carrots. (millcreekfarm.org) The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks.
Red White and Boom/Hot Rodding for Archers Eagles Car Show: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Archer Road, 1.5 miles west of Santa Fe College and Norita Davis Center, Archer. Free. (tinyurl.com/rwab24) Annual event featuring arts and crafts, food, kids’ activities, live music, car show, prizes and fireworks show.
Perspectives in the Parks: Noon-1 p.m. Sunday, Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park, 1500 NW 45th Ave. Free. (facebook.com/GainesvilleFL/events) Monthly program featuring experts in their field sharing information on a variety of topics including science, nature, history and art.
Birds and Brews: 5:45-7 p.m. Sunday, First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St. Free. (facebook.com/FirstMagnitudeBrewing/events) Bird walks led by volunteers from the Alachua Audubon Society to identify birds at Depot Park. Some binoculars and bird guides are provided, but feel free to bring any other equipment you wish.
Summer at the Library: Fire Rescue Visit: 11 a.m.-noon Monday, Hawthorne Library, 6640 SE 221st St., Hawthorne. Free. (aclib.us) A crew from the Alachua County Fire Rescue will go over fire safety and safety plans in case of a fire, and do a show-and-tell of a fire truck.
Summer at the Library: Amazing Animal Adaptations Santa Fe Zoo: 4-5 p.m. Monday, Cone Park Library, 2801 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Join zookeepers and meet animals from the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo to learn about the incredible traits animals have to survive in their homes.
Summer Movie Express: 11 a.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road. Tickets: $1. (regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express) “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” and “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie.”
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Tower Road Library, 3020 SW 75th St. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
Summer at the Library: Magic of Sands: 11 a.m.-noon Wednesday, Cone Park Library, 2801 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Discover the magic within books. Let your imagination soar with Dadician Robert Sands as your guide.
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 3 p.m. Wednesday, Archer Library, 13266 SW SR 450, Archer. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
Summer at the Library: Magic of Sands: 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, Library Partnership Branch, 912 NE 16th Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Discover the magic within books. Let your imagination soar with Dadician Robert Sands as your guide.
Summer at the Library: Bats at the Library: 11 a.m.-noon Thursday, Hawthorne Library, 6640 SE 221st St., Hawthorne. Free. (aclib.us) Visit with real, live bats and flying foxes from the Lubee Bat Conservancy.
Summer at the Library: Summer STEAM Time: 3-4 p.m. Thursdays through summer, Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) Play, learn and create with science-, technology-, engineering-, art- and math-inspired fun.
CASTING CALL
Capella Nova: Auditions beginning at 5 p.m. July 23, Abiding Savior, 9700 W. Newberry Road. Free; registration required. (904-535-4779) Singers can audition for the 2024-25 season with the unaffiliated, classically oriented ensemble. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings September through April. No preparation is needed. For those with unavoidable conflicts, additional and later dates may be available.
“Nutcracker”: 12:30-6 p.m. Aug. 24, Pofahl Studios, 1325 NW Second St. Cost: $25. (371-2986, [email protected]) Dance Alive National Ballet welcomes dancers from surrounding counties, studios and gyms. Those auditioning should arrive 30 minutes before the audition in order to complete paperwork and receive their number. For girls: black leotard, pink tights, and appropriate shoes with hair up. For boys: white T-shirt, black tights, shorts or bicycle pants and appropriate shoes. For acrobats: appropriate clothing. Ballet experience required. Audition for Soldiers, Party Children, Franz’ friends, Mice and Next Generation. Pointe work for those roles on pointe. Tumblers must be able to do back handsprings, splits, headstands, front and back walkovers, and aerial tricks.
ART
Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Turning Tides: Save the Ocean Through Invention!” The museum is staying green and going blue. The ocean blankets the planet, covering a staggering 70% of its surface. As humanity brainstorms ways to keep our home-sweet-home happy and healthy, visionaries are no longer looking to the stars, but to the sea for solutions. Embark on a journey through inventions that are fostering a planetary partnership toward a greener future and bluer planet; “Rube Goldberg: The World of Hilarious Invention!” Created by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in partnership with the Heirs of Rube Goldberg, the exhibition showcases Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist and inventor Rube Goldberg’s iconic contraptions and celebrates his humorous storytelling and inventive cartoons. Inspired by Goldberg’s original illustrations, the exhibit contains a collection of new 3-D, life-size machines and hands-on, interactive components that connect Goldberg’s iconic cartoon contraptions to the way things work in the physical world; “Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers.” This exhibit explores the joys, pains and creative awakenings that Gainesville native Tom Petty experienced while pouring his soul into his second solo studio album, “Wildflowers” (1994). Featuring artifacts previously on display at the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame, the exhibit allows guests to listen to first-hand accounts from Petty and the Wildflowers team about the album’s spirited creation. On display through Oct. 20. Tickets: $12.50, $10 seniors and college students, $7.50 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. 811 N. Main St. (371-8001, cademuseum.org)
Cotton Club Museum: “Unapologetic Vol. 2, The Censorship of Blackness,” exhibiting the works of artist Yvonne Ferguson as a sequel to her “Unapologetic!” exhibit from 2022. On display through August. Hours are 11 a.m-4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. 837 SE Seventh Ave. (cottonclubmuseum.com)
Florida Museum of Natural History: “Science Up Close: Incredible Insects” exhibit on display through summer. Visitors will have opportunities to interact with live bugs from Florida, view a busy ant colony at work and learn all about the insects that live among us. Tickets: $10 adults; $9 Florida residents, seniors and non-UF college students; $7 ages 3-17; free museum members and ages 2 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3215 Hull Road. (floridamuseum.ufl.edu, 846-2000)
Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery: “Summer Showcase 2024” on display through July 20; “Hair” on display July 23-Aug. 24; “Biennial National Juried Exhibition — Heat” on display Aug. 27-Oct. 19; “Nostalgia” on display Oct. 22-Nov. 23; “Winter Showcase 2024” on display Nov. 26-Dec. 20. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 1314 S. Main St. (gainesvillefinearts.org, [email protected])
Harn Museum of Art: “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display through July; “Windows and Mirrors,” staff selections from the photography collection, on display through Nov. 3; “Metamorphosis: Reshaping Contemporary Art,” featuring artists who are rethinking traditional materials and techniques to create innovative works of art, on display through Oct. 26, 2025; “Kaleidoscope of Colors in Asian Art,” introducing a fresh perspective for visitors’ exploration and appreciation of Asian art through the prism of colors, on display through April 26, 2026. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3259 Hull Road. (392-9826)
Matheson History Museum: “Voices and Votes: Alachua County,” which focuses on the local history of elections, civil rights, and more, on display through early 2025; “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” traveling exhibition on display July 20-Sept. 7 with a grand opening on July 20; “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum,” an all-encompassing view of the Matheson’s history and its origins; “When Johnny Came Marching Home: Some Gave All – All Gave Some,” remembering those who came home from war with both physical and mental wounds, on display outside. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280, mathesonmuseum.org)
Melrose Bay Art Gallery: Gainesville Modern Quilters on display through July 28, with Artwalk reception 6-9 p.m. Friday. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday or by appointment. 103 State Road 26, Melrose. (475-3866, melrosebayartgallery.com)
Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall: A large art collection from local collector Hector Puig on display. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Corner of West University Avenue and North Sixth Street.
UPCOMING CONCERTS
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 12, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The ox Showcase featuring Short Stack, Cooper and Wiley Gaby.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. July 13, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 19, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Gainesville Big Band will perform jazz/swing.
Community Choral Singing: 5:30-7:30 p.m. July 26, Oakview Community Center, 810 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/choralsingingsum24) Come together to enjoy singing madrigals, anthems, spirituals, pop, jazz and holiday classics.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. July 26, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) MusicGNV Showcase: Tribute to Gainesville Bands.
Playlist at the Pointe: 7-9 p.m. July 26, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Southern Burn will perform. Food will be available from area restaurants.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 2 Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 9, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Stereo Vudu will perform rock, blues and funk.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 10, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Swing Theory will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 16, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) D.R. Band and Soul Fire will perform R&B, neo-soul and funk.
Community Choral Singing: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 23, Oakview Community Center, 810 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (tinyurl.com/choralsingingsum24) Come together to enjoy singing madrigals, anthems, spirituals, pop, jazz and holiday classics.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 23, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) PULP Arts Showcase.
Playlist at the Pointe: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 23, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream will perform. Food will be available from area restaurants.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Aug. 30, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) The Lions of Jah will perform reggae.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 6, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) FEST 22 Showcase.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 13, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) TBD.
Peter DiStefano (of Porno For Pyros) and Mike Baggetta (of mssv): 8 p.m. Sept. 20, The Atlantic, 19 W. University Ave. Tickets: $15. (tinyurl.com/pdmg24, [email protected]) Setting forth as a guitar duo unlike any other, this very first Punk Jazz tour across the U.S. finds Peter DiStefano (of Porno for Pyros) and Mike Baggetta (of mssv) exploring no-boundaries improvised music, informed by their lives and songs, with just two electric guitars, electronics and maybe some vocals.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Brazil Side B will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 20, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Morningbell will perform psychedelic rock and soul.
“Free Fridays” Concert: 7-9 p.m. Sept. 27, Bo Diddley Plaza amphitheater, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series) Savants of Soul will perform soul.
Suwannee Roots Revival: All day Oct. 10-13, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $160-$275. (suwanneerootsrevival.com/tickets) Artists include Old Crow Medicine Show, Yonder Mountain String Band, Donna the Buffalo, Peter Rowan Band, Della Mae, Henhouse Prowlers, The Ain’t Sisters, Kaleta and Super Yamba Band, Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, Snake Oil Medicine Show, Grandpa’s Cough Medicine, Sloppy Joe, Quartermoon and Magic Moon Traveling Circus.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Oct. 12, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Marty Liquori Jazztet will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Bob Mould: 8 p.m. Oct. 18, The Wooly, 20 N. Main St. Tickets: $25-$39. (bobmould.com/tour) The past year has seen Mould receive recognition for his outstanding career that started in 1979 fronting the seminal punk band Hüsker Dü, with Spin Magazine naming him among their “100 Greatest Rock Stars" and Rolling Stone including him in their “Greatest Guitarists of All Time.”
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Ed Roth Trio will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
Jazz on the Green: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 14, Celebration Pointe, Celebration Pointe Avenue off of Interstate 75 and Archer Road. Free. (celebrationpointe.com) Natalie Rella Jazz will perform on the stage in the promenade, food and drinks, lawn games and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
GFAA Artist Studio Tour Party: 6-9 p.m. July 12, GFAA Gallery, 1314 S. Main St. Free. (gfaastudiotour.org) Many tour artists will be in attendance, and the “Summer Showcase” exhibit will be on display in the gallery featuring a variety of local artists across different mediums.
GFAA Artist Studio Tour: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 13-14, multiple locations; see website and map for more information. Free. (gfaastudiotour.org) Annual arts event featuring impromptu demonstrations and examples of the artistic process in various stages plus conversation and learning at each stop.
Water Park Community Days: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. July 14, Kulaqua River Ranch, 23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs. Cost: $18, free ages 3 and younger. (kulaqua.com) Annual discounted swimming days. Operators request that modest swimsuits be worn. Also, feel free to bring food and coolers, but no glass containers or alcoholic beverages are permitted in the water park.
Summer Movie Express: 11 a.m. July 16-17, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road. Tickets: $1. (regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express) “Clifford the Big Red Dog” and “Sonic The Hedgehog.”
24|25 Season Preview: 7 p.m. July 16, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Free. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Attendees will get a sneak peek of more than 40 performances by Grammy award-winning and world-renowned artists slated for the upcoming season. Director Brian Jose will introduce artists through a presentation in which he shares his excitement about season highlights.
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 11 a.m. July 17, Hawthorne Library, 6640 SE 221st St., Hawthorne. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
Summer at the Library: Science Surprises: 3 p.m. July 17, Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. Free. (aclib.us) The Florida Museum of Natural History presents Science Surprises. In this program, participants will explore natural phenomena and how they occur by understanding the nature of science. Attendees will become better observers and problem solvers while also learning to use their creativity and communication skills. Maximum of 20 attendees.
“In The Heights”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 19-Aug. 11, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $24 general admission, $20 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) “In the Heights,” created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood — a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can decide which traditions you take with you and which ones you leave behind.
Black Business Expo: Time TBA July 20, Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free entry; registration requested. (GBPinc.org) Event dedicated to celebrating and promoting the achievements of Black-owned businesses in the community.
Sunday Assembly: 11 a.m. July 21, Pride Center located in the Springhill Professional Center, 3850 NW 83rd St., Suite 201. Free. ([email protected], sagainesville.weebly.com) Sunday Assembly will host Dr. Tony Delisle, the executive director of the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida. Delisle has a long history of creating, implementing and sustaining impactful, community-based programs to address the needs of people with all kinds of disabilities. The title of his talk will be “Unity through Disability.” Music will be provided by Sunday Assembly musicians with the opportunity to sing along. There will be a potluck lunch following the talk and program. It also is possible to attend via Zoom.
Summer Movie Express: 11 a.m. July 23-24, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road. Tickets: $1. (regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express) “Trolls Band Together” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 2.”
“The Wizard of Oz — Youth Edition”: 7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 25-Aug. 4, High Springs Playhouse, 23416 NW 186 Ave., High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a scarecrow with no brain, a tin man with no heart, and a lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness — and self-awareness — is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.
Summer Movie Express: 11 a.m. July 30-31, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road. Tickets: $1. (regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express) “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” and “Kung Fu Panda 3.”
Baturdays of Summer: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 3, Lubee Bat Conservancy, 1309 NW 192nd Ave. Cost: $15-$20. (lubee.org) Visit with the world’s largest bats in a small-event setting. Speak with bat experts, sit in on educational presentations, and explore the Lubee grounds.
Summer Movie Express: 11 a.m. Aug. 6-7, Regal Royal Park, 3702 W. Newberry Road. Tickets: $1. (regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express) “Minions: The Rise of Gru” and “Sing 2.”
Brew at the Zoo: 4-7 p.m. Aug. 24, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 Northwest 83rd St. Tickets: $60, $25 for non-drinkers. (showpass.com/brewatthezoo2024) For ages 21 and older. All ticket sales include admission to the zoo, animal encounters, beer and food tastings, live entertainment, food trucks, games and commemorative souvenir cup. All funds raised will directly support the zoo and its mission to educate, inspire and secure a future for wildlife. Held rain or shine.
“Perfect Arrangement”: Previews Aug. 28-29, then 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays Aug. 30-Sept. 22, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/perfect-arrangement) “Perfect Arrangement” seamlessly merges sitcom laughs with stirring drama to tell the story of two closeted State Department employees struggling to not blow their cover during the Red Scare. Laugh until you cry in this comedy inspired by true stories of the early American gay rights movement. This play discusses LGBTQ+ and adult themes, and strong language is used.
Zach Williams and Tim Tebow: 7 p.m. Sept. 5, O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Drive. Ticket prices vary; see website for more information. (tinyurl.com/williamstebow) An evening of worship and inspiration, with a message of love, hope and God’s grace highlighting the importance of persevering in Christ through life’s challenges.
“What the Constitution Means to Me”: Preview 7 p.m. Oct. 9, then 8 p.m. Oct. 11 and Oct. 25, 2 p.m. Oct. 13 and Oct. 27, 7 p.m. Oct. 17 and Oct. 23-24, 2 and 8 p.m. Oct. 19, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/what-the-constitution-means-to-me) A Pulitzer Prize finalist and nominated for two Tony Awards, this hilarious, hopeful and achingly human play breathes new life into the Constitution and imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans. As a 15-year-old, Heidi Schreck won debate competitions defending the Constitution across the country. As an adult, she resurrects her teenage self to investigate its profound effect on four generations of women in her family and ask what the U.S. Constitution truly means. This show is intended for audiences ages 14 and older. It contains strong language, mature themes, and references to physical and sexual violence and abortion.
“Every Brilliant Thing”: Preview Oct. 10, then 2 and 8 p.m. Oct. 12 and Oct. 26, 7 p.m. Oct. 16 and Oct. 24, 8 p.m. Oct. 18 and Oct. 25, 2 p.m. Oct. 20, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/every-brilliant-thing) Could you name 100 things that make life wonderful? A thousand? A million? Beginning with “ice cream” and “laughing so hard you shoot milk out your nose,” a boy’s handwritten list to cheer up his despondent mom becomes a surprisingly funny and poignant ode to humanity. “Every Brilliant Thing” takes audiences on a transcendent and tender coming-of-age journey that reminds us to pay attention to life’s smallest joys — and to each other. A play that celebrates life and underscores the importance of human connection. Audience participation. “Every Brilliant Thing” contains descriptions of depression, self-harm and suicide. The show briefly describes a character’s attempted suicides and her death by suicide, and includes the specific means that were used.
“Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular”: 8 p.m. Nov. 29-30, Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14, Dec. 20-21 and Dec. 23; 2 p.m. Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 15 and Dec. 22; 7 p.m. Dec. 4-5, Dec. 10-12 and Dec. 18-19; 1 p.m. Dec. 11, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/honky-tonk-angels-holiday-spectacular) Get ready to twirl your tinsel, because “The Honky Tonk Angels Holiday Spectacular” is here to lasso your heartstrings with a boot-scootin’, yuletide extravaganza! Join three sassy country gals as they saddle up for a festive reunion at “The Hillbilly Heaven Club” in Nashville. But hold onto your cowboy hats, because this year, they’re getting a little extra sparkle — a psychic, gospel soul sister is hitchin’ a ride to spread some holiday cheer! So, grab your candy canes and get ready to two-step into the Christmas spirit with a show that’s as sweet as pecan pie and as lively as a barn dance under the mistletoe! Yeehaw! This live production features special effects including fog, haze, minor strobe light and moving lights. This show has some mild profanity.
“A Christmas Carol”: 1 and 4 p.m. Saturdays, 7 p.m. Sundays Nov. 30-Dec. 22 plus 7 p.m. Dec. 17, 2 p.m. Dec. 20, and 1 and 4 p.m. Dec. 23, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/a-christmas-carol-2024) Bah, humbug to dashing through the snow in Florida; join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption through music, dancing and haunting storytelling. This family friendly live production features special effects including fog, haze, minor strobe light and moving lights.
“Laughs in Spanish”: Previews Jan. 22-23, 2025, then 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays Jan. 24-Feb. 16, 2025, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/laughs-in-spanish) Step into the colorful and chaotic world of Miami’s art scene with “Laughs in Spanish” by Alexis Scheer! As Art Basel looms, Mariana finds herself in a sticky situation: her gallery is a crime scene! But fear not, because with her quirky support crew — including her intern Carolina, the charming police officer Juan, and her flamboyant mother Estella — a plan is brewing to save the day. This uproarious blend of who-done-it and telenovela guarantees non-stop laughter while grooving in your seat to the rhythm of this vibrant, stylish new play taking the country by storm. Contains language, sexuality, and drug and alcohol use. Strobe lighting effects, e-cigarettes and stage fog are used. Recommended for ages 16 and older.
“Clyde’s”: Previews March 26-27, 2025, then 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays March 28-April 20, 2025, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org/clydes) Step into the heart of Clyde’s, where a truck stop sandwich shop becomes the stage for redemption and resilience. Led by an enigmatic chef who believes in the transformative power of the perfect sandwich, a diverse cast of formerly incarcerated kitchen staff find hope and purpose amidst the challenges of their pasts and the pressures of their callous owner. This Tony Award-nominated masterpiece serves up a hilarious and poignant exploration of radical imagination, restorative justice and the healing bonds of food, reminding us that sometimes heroes emerge from the most unexpected places. Strong adult language and discussion of mature topics, including sex, substance abuse and illegal activities. “Clyde’s” is suitable for older teenage and adult audiences only.
The Hipp’s Summer Musical — To Be Announced: Times TBD May 28-June 16, 2025, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $10-$30. (thehipp.org) Information TBA.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Scene Calendar: Freedom Concert, Summer at the Library and more