Interview: Kathy Ramsberger, CEO of Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts
by Joseph Harrison - April 30, 2023
One of the first things I realized when I moved to Orlando back in 2020 was the extremely active and vibrant arts scene. This came as a real surprise because, as an outsider, I had previously only associated the area with theme parks and tourism. I quickly learned about the wealth of talent, artistic offerings and culture available to us all here in the City Beautiful and of the amazing venues and spaces where art and culture happen here every day and have since had a chance to personally experience so many of those spaces as I review performances there. One of those key spaces, or cultural “hearts” of the city, is the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – a stellar, state of the art venue that houses multiple performance spaces and makes its mission to provide “Arts For Every Life”. To learn more about the Dr. Phillips Center and everything it has to offer today (and for the future), I sat down with CEO Kathy Ramsberger who provided a bit of background on her own journey and discussed the role the center plays bringing arts and culture to the people of Orlando and beyond.
by Joseph Harrison - April 30, 2023
One of the first things I realized when I moved to Orlando back in 2020 was the extremely active and vibrant arts scene. This came as a real surprise because, as an outsider, I had previously only associated the area with theme parks and tourism. I quickly learned about the wealth of talent, artistic offerings and culture available to us all here in the City Beautiful and of the amazing venues and spaces where art and culture happen here every day and have since had a chance to personally experience so many of those spaces as I review performances there. One of those key spaces, or cultural “hearts” of the city, is the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – a stellar, state of the art venue that houses multiple performance spaces and makes its mission to provide “Arts For Every Life”. To learn more about the Dr. Phillips Center and everything it has to offer today (and for the future), I sat down with CEO Kathy Ramsberger who provided a bit of background on her own journey and discussed the role the center plays bringing arts and culture to the people of Orlando and beyond.
THE SORAUREN BOOK CLUB to Play the Orlando Fringe in May
by BWW News Desk - April 29, 2023
The Sorauren Book Club will be produced as part of the 32nd ANNUAL ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL! This is the second production of Lisa Randall's play The Sorauren Book Club, presented by The Universe Over 50.
by BWW News Desk - April 29, 2023
The Sorauren Book Club will be produced as part of the 32nd ANNUAL ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL! This is the second production of Lisa Randall's play The Sorauren Book Club, presented by The Universe Over 50.
Review: URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL at Theatre South Playhouse
by Joseph Harrison - April 29, 2023
URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL may not be the most appealing title for a show, but it has proven over the last 20+ years since its journey to Broadway (scoring ten Tony nominations and three awards) that it can be a real crowd pleaser, despite the unfortunate title (and unique subject matter). With music and lyrics by Mark Hollmann and book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, URINETOWN is that rare breed of musical – a tuneful and entertaining satirical comedy with a deeper commentary on the state of the world. And for Theatre South Playhouse in Dr. Phillips this production is a long time coming – as they were poised to open a production of the show in March 2020. So, just like the characters in URINETOWN, you might say the theatre company has been “holding it” for three years (sorry, I couldn’t resist). And the wait seems totally worth it for this production delivers a funny, entertaining and rollicking good time from beginning to the very last “flush.”
by Joseph Harrison - April 29, 2023
URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL may not be the most appealing title for a show, but it has proven over the last 20+ years since its journey to Broadway (scoring ten Tony nominations and three awards) that it can be a real crowd pleaser, despite the unfortunate title (and unique subject matter). With music and lyrics by Mark Hollmann and book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, URINETOWN is that rare breed of musical – a tuneful and entertaining satirical comedy with a deeper commentary on the state of the world. And for Theatre South Playhouse in Dr. Phillips this production is a long time coming – as they were poised to open a production of the show in March 2020. So, just like the characters in URINETOWN, you might say the theatre company has been “holding it” for three years (sorry, I couldn’t resist). And the wait seems totally worth it for this production delivers a funny, entertaining and rollicking good time from beginning to the very last “flush.”
Winter Park Playhouse Presents DESPERATE MEASURES Next Month
by BWW News Desk - April 27, 2023
Closing the highly successful Winter Park Playhouse 20th Anniversary Series, the Off-Broadway hit - Desperate Measures - makes its way to the theatre's Mainstage May 12 - June 11, 2023.
by BWW News Desk - April 27, 2023
Closing the highly successful Winter Park Playhouse 20th Anniversary Series, the Off-Broadway hit - Desperate Measures - makes its way to the theatre's Mainstage May 12 - June 11, 2023.
Creative City Project Reveals Their Upcoming Fall/Winter 2023-2024 Season
by BWW News Desk - April 26, 2023
It’s another season of one-of-a-kind art experiences audiences cannot have anywhere else in the world. Creative City Project announces new, immersive art, theater and music in their Fall/Winter 2023-2024 season.
by BWW News Desk - April 26, 2023
It’s another season of one-of-a-kind art experiences audiences cannot have anywhere else in the world. Creative City Project announces new, immersive art, theater and music in their Fall/Winter 2023-2024 season.
Orlando Gay Chorus Announces Emcees for BroadGAY Spectacular
by BWW News Desk - April 25, 2023
Representative Anna Eskamani and activist Ida Eskamani will emcee for Orlando Gay Chorus’ BroadGAY Spectacular: On Tour! across central Florida. While Rep. Eskamani is known throughout the state, and nation, for her advocacy on behalf of the people as part of the Florida House of Representatives, Eskamani also proudly sits on the Board of Directors for the Orlando Gay Chorus.
by BWW News Desk - April 25, 2023
Representative Anna Eskamani and activist Ida Eskamani will emcee for Orlando Gay Chorus’ BroadGAY Spectacular: On Tour! across central Florida. While Rep. Eskamani is known throughout the state, and nation, for her advocacy on behalf of the people as part of the Florida House of Representatives, Eskamani also proudly sits on the Board of Directors for the Orlando Gay Chorus.
Review: THE SOUND INSIDE at Florida Theatrical Association
by Joseph Harrison - April 24, 2023
The latest offering by Florida Theatrical Association at the newly-opened Orlando Fringe Arts Space in downtown Orlando, is the Central Florida premiere of Adam Rapp’s, THE SOUND INSIDE. This Tony Award nominated play provides audiences with a complex and fascinating journey into an unlikely relationship between a tenured Yale creative writing professor and a brilliant but enigmatic student. A layered story – THE SOUND INSIDE feels at times to be a thriller, at others a love story, but throughout – a mystery.
by Joseph Harrison - April 24, 2023
The latest offering by Florida Theatrical Association at the newly-opened Orlando Fringe Arts Space in downtown Orlando, is the Central Florida premiere of Adam Rapp’s, THE SOUND INSIDE. This Tony Award nominated play provides audiences with a complex and fascinating journey into an unlikely relationship between a tenured Yale creative writing professor and a brilliant but enigmatic student. A layered story – THE SOUND INSIDE feels at times to be a thriller, at others a love story, but throughout – a mystery.
Review: THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME at Athens Theatre
by Joseph Harrison - April 22, 2023
In the world of theatre, there are some shows that simply resonate on a different level. In my experience, this happens when the perfect cast comes together with visionary creatives at the perfect moment in time. And when these puzzle pieces all snap into place, it delivers a performance that just feels different, one that makes the audience feel like they are lucky to be in that moment together. If you have experienced this before, you know, it is truly magical. Typically, this has been, for me, a feeling primarily reserved for popular, highly acclaimed shows, usually on Broadway (but not always). On Thursday night – I experienced that same rush, those same chills, and that same rare feeling sitting in the audience for the first time at the historic Athens Theatre in Deland, Florida – witnessing their latest production of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. As I sat there, I forgot that the amazingly talented cast were all volunteers – brought together by their love for the art and a passion for performance – and reveled as they delivered a stunning piece of musical theatre that was truly wonderous to behold.
by Joseph Harrison - April 22, 2023
In the world of theatre, there are some shows that simply resonate on a different level. In my experience, this happens when the perfect cast comes together with visionary creatives at the perfect moment in time. And when these puzzle pieces all snap into place, it delivers a performance that just feels different, one that makes the audience feel like they are lucky to be in that moment together. If you have experienced this before, you know, it is truly magical. Typically, this has been, for me, a feeling primarily reserved for popular, highly acclaimed shows, usually on Broadway (but not always). On Thursday night – I experienced that same rush, those same chills, and that same rare feeling sitting in the audience for the first time at the historic Athens Theatre in Deland, Florida – witnessing their latest production of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME. As I sat there, I forgot that the amazingly talented cast were all volunteers – brought together by their love for the art and a passion for performance – and reveled as they delivered a stunning piece of musical theatre that was truly wonderous to behold.
Riverside Theatre Announces The Return Of THE COMEDY ZONE & LIVE IN THE LOOP
by BWW News Desk - April 21, 2023
The Comedy Zone and Live and Loop return to Riverside Theatre with performances Friday and Saturday evenings most weekends for the remainder of the year.
by BWW News Desk - April 21, 2023
The Comedy Zone and Live and Loop return to Riverside Theatre with performances Friday and Saturday evenings most weekends for the remainder of the year.
MEAN GIRLS, THE CHER SHOW, and More Set For the 2023-2024 Broadway Season at the King Center For The Performing Arts
by BWW News Desk - April 21, 2023
The American Theatre Guild, the largest not-for-profit touring Broadway presenter in the nation, with ASM Global and the King Center unveils its highly anticipated 23–24 Season for the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, FL. Learn more about the lineup here!
by BWW News Desk - April 21, 2023
The American Theatre Guild, the largest not-for-profit touring Broadway presenter in the nation, with ASM Global and the King Center unveils its highly anticipated 23–24 Season for the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, FL. Learn more about the lineup here!
Kylie Thompson Dance to Present FEMMILLENNIAL At Orlando Fringe
by BWW News Desk - April 20, 2023
After a successful premiere at Toronto Fringe Festival, FEMMILLENNIAL will be hitting international stages on its 2023 tour, being the 2023 Orlando Fringe its first stop.
by BWW News Desk - April 20, 2023
After a successful premiere at Toronto Fringe Festival, FEMMILLENNIAL will be hitting international stages on its 2023 tour, being the 2023 Orlando Fringe its first stop.
Interview: Jackson Chase, winner of the 2022 Applause Awards at the Dr. Phillips Center
by Joseph Harrison - April 19, 2023
What happens when you take nearly 300 students representing 52 productions from 33 high schools from across Central Florida and put them onstage at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts? You get the Applause Awards – the annual ceremony, modeled after the Tony Awards which features performances from the winners of “Outstanding Musical” and culminates in the selection of two overall winners who advance to the High School Musical Theatre Awards in New York City (also known as The Jimmy Awards). One of last years winners, Jackson Chase, sat down with me to talk about his experience during last years’ awards, his adventure in New York at the Jimmy Awards, and share advice for all those students hoping for a similar experience this year.
by Joseph Harrison - April 19, 2023
What happens when you take nearly 300 students representing 52 productions from 33 high schools from across Central Florida and put them onstage at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts? You get the Applause Awards – the annual ceremony, modeled after the Tony Awards which features performances from the winners of “Outstanding Musical” and culminates in the selection of two overall winners who advance to the High School Musical Theatre Awards in New York City (also known as The Jimmy Awards). One of last years winners, Jackson Chase, sat down with me to talk about his experience during last years’ awards, his adventure in New York at the Jimmy Awards, and share advice for all those students hoping for a similar experience this year.
Central Florida Community Arts Reveals Cast For DISNEY'S BEAUTY & THE BEAST: IN CONCERT
by BWW News Desk - April 19, 2023
Central Florida Community Arts has announced the principal cast for Disney's Beauty & The Beast: In Concert, a collaborative performance that will bring together members from across the organization to tell the classic story. The show will feature the innovative inclusion of CFCArts members to represent each of the organization's program areas.
by BWW News Desk - April 19, 2023
Central Florida Community Arts has announced the principal cast for Disney's Beauty & The Beast: In Concert, a collaborative performance that will bring together members from across the organization to tell the classic story. The show will feature the innovative inclusion of CFCArts members to represent each of the organization's program areas.
Review: KINKY BOOTS at Orlando Shakes
by Joseph Harrison - April 17, 2023
Some theatrical productions just come around at the perfect moment in time. And here today, in Florida, with self-expression and, specifically, drag queens, under fire seemingly every day, a show like KINKY BOOTS – conveying the importance of acceptance and walking a mile in someone else shoes (or high-heeled boots) is just what our weary hearts need. And in the closing production of its 2022 – 2023 season, Orlando Shakes provides a joyful, exuberant, colorful, and highly entertaining show that conveys a message we all need to hear.
by Joseph Harrison - April 17, 2023
Some theatrical productions just come around at the perfect moment in time. And here today, in Florida, with self-expression and, specifically, drag queens, under fire seemingly every day, a show like KINKY BOOTS – conveying the importance of acceptance and walking a mile in someone else shoes (or high-heeled boots) is just what our weary hearts need. And in the closing production of its 2022 – 2023 season, Orlando Shakes provides a joyful, exuberant, colorful, and highly entertaining show that conveys a message we all need to hear.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS Comes To Osceola Arts This Month
by BWW News Desk - April 14, 2023
Osceola Arts is thrilled to bring Steel Magnolias back to the stage. Beginning Friday, April 21st and running through Sunday, May 7th, the Osceola Arts Main stage will host this classic play, written by Robert Harling.
by BWW News Desk - April 14, 2023
Osceola Arts is thrilled to bring Steel Magnolias back to the stage. Beginning Friday, April 21st and running through Sunday, May 7th, the Osceola Arts Main stage will host this classic play, written by Robert Harling.
Opera Orlando Presents THE DAUGHTER OF THE REGIMENT
by BWW News Desk - April 13, 2023
Opera Orlando's Opera Everlasting MainStage series comes to an end in just one week's time as Donizetti's comedic and heartwarming The Daughter of the Regiment opens in Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
by BWW News Desk - April 13, 2023
Opera Orlando's Opera Everlasting MainStage series comes to an end in just one week's time as Donizetti's comedic and heartwarming The Daughter of the Regiment opens in Steinmetz Hall at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Unearth The Impossible As Central Florida Vocal Arts Presents THE SECRET GARDEN
by BWW News Desk - April 12, 2023
Central Florida Vocal Arts concludes its decade anniversary season with Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman's masterpiece musical, The Secret Garden. Performances will take place May 5-7, 2023 in the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center in Downtown Orlando.
by BWW News Desk - April 12, 2023
Central Florida Vocal Arts concludes its decade anniversary season with Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman's masterpiece musical, The Secret Garden. Performances will take place May 5-7, 2023 in the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center in Downtown Orlando.
7th Annual iDance Orlando Festival to Take Place This Month
by BWW News Desk - April 10, 2023
iDance Orlando Festival will unite the professional dance companies of Central Florida for an annual showcase of unique and expressive pieces.
by BWW News Desk - April 10, 2023
iDance Orlando Festival will unite the professional dance companies of Central Florida for an annual showcase of unique and expressive pieces.
Review: INTO THE WOODS at Titusville Playhouse
by Joseph Harrison - April 09, 2023
In the skilled and creative hands of Titusville Playhouse, INTO THE WOODS is fresh and fantastic – with all the familiar elements, yes – but with a current sensibility and a unique aesthetic that made me feel like I was seeing this show for the first time again.
by Joseph Harrison - April 09, 2023
In the skilled and creative hands of Titusville Playhouse, INTO THE WOODS is fresh and fantastic – with all the familiar elements, yes – but with a current sensibility and a unique aesthetic that made me feel like I was seeing this show for the first time again.
Get Ready To Rock With The Music Of Bon Jovi At The Athens Theatre!
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2023
It was a time when hair was more than just a fashion statement. If you grew up during the 1980's & 90's, it's fairly likely that Bon Jovi's music filled the air of your teenage bedroom, the school gymnasium, and the local pizza joint on a Friday night.
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2023
It was a time when hair was more than just a fashion statement. If you grew up during the 1980's & 90's, it's fairly likely that Bon Jovi's music filled the air of your teenage bedroom, the school gymnasium, and the local pizza joint on a Friday night.
New Orlando Theater Venue is Set to Open Soon
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2023
The White Elephant Theatre Company has announced the upcoming opening of the White Elephant Cabaret Theatre at 1123 W. Fairbanks Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
by BWW News Desk - April 07, 2023
The White Elephant Theatre Company has announced the upcoming opening of the White Elephant Cabaret Theatre at 1123 W. Fairbanks Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
Victory Productions Presents SOMETHING ROTTEN! At The Garden Theatre
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
Victory Productions, a full-service entertainment company, is back at the Garden Theatre presenting another smash Broadway hit: 'Something Rotten!' following a successful run and extension with 'Rock of Ages.'
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
Victory Productions, a full-service entertainment company, is back at the Garden Theatre presenting another smash Broadway hit: 'Something Rotten!' following a successful run and extension with 'Rock of Ages.'
Photos: First Look at INTO THE WOODS at The Titusville Playhouse
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
Take your first look INTO THE WOODS at the Titusville Playhouse! The show opens Friday, April 7 and runs through Sunday, April 30! Check out photos below!
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
Take your first look INTO THE WOODS at the Titusville Playhouse! The show opens Friday, April 7 and runs through Sunday, April 30! Check out photos below!
INTO THE WOODS Comes to the Titusville Playhouse This Week
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
INTO THE WOODS comes to the Titusville Playhouse this week. The show opens Friday, April 7 and runs through Sunday, April 30.
by BWW News Desk - April 06, 2023
INTO THE WOODS comes to the Titusville Playhouse this week. The show opens Friday, April 7 and runs through Sunday, April 30.
CFCArts Celebrates 100 Years Of Disney Music With ONCE UPON A DREAM
by BWW News Desk - April 03, 2023
Central Florida Community Arts (CFCArts) has announced its production of Once Upon A Dream: 100 Years of Musical Magic. Featuring 300 members, this immersive extravaganza will be a musical revue of Disney animated and live-action films from the last century.
by BWW News Desk - April 03, 2023
Central Florida Community Arts (CFCArts) has announced its production of Once Upon A Dream: 100 Years of Musical Magic. Featuring 300 members, this immersive extravaganza will be a musical revue of Disney animated and live-action films from the last century.
Videos
 |
2nd Annual Jingles and Jammies
Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center (12/19 - 12/21) | |
 |
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage
Orlando Family Stage (11/24 - 12/23) HOLIDAY SHOW | |
|
& Juliet
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (1/6 - 1/11) | |
|
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical (Non-Equity)
Peabody Auditorium (2/18 - 2/18) | |
|
Romeo and Juliet
Orlando Shakes (1/14 - 2/8) | |
|
SIX (Boleyn Tour)
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (6/2 - 6/7) | |
|
Henry VI, Part 3: The Rise of Richard
Orlando Shakes (4/1 - 4/19) | |
|
TINA - The Tina Turner Musical
King Center (2/24 - 2/25) | |
|
The Merry Widow
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (4/24 - 4/26) | |
| VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW | ||
Get Orlando's #1 Theatre Newsletter
All the show news & discounts for Orlando & beyond.
