“Josh Recommends” for the Week of November 10, 2018 By Josh Garrick 

“The Festival of Trees” at the Orlando Museum of Art 
Nov 9 to 18 
The annual “Festival of Trees” transforms the normally ‘stark’ Orlando Museum of Art into a Holiday wonderland filled with designer-curated Christmas trees of all sizes, holiday vignettes, hand designed wreaths, table décor, and a gingerbread village -- all available for purchase. There are special events and ticketing options, ranging from Santa visits to musical performances for all ages. Thanks to the Council of 101, we have a magical opportunity to experience the joy of the season while supporting the Orlando Museum of Art. Call 407.896.4231 x254 or by email councilof101[at]omart.org 

Vince Gill
November 10 at the Dr. Phillips Center 
One of the most popular singers in the world, Vince Gill is famous for his award-winning songwriting, world-class guitar playing and warm tenor voice, all wrapped up in a quick, easy wit. Gill’s big break came in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” won both the Country Music Association’s Single and Song of the Year awards as well as a Grammy. Since then Gill has won 18 CMA Awards, including Song of the Year four times – making him the most awarded artist in that category in history along with 21 GRAMMY Awards. In 2012, Gill was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and has made guest appearances on more than 500 albums including albums by Barbra Streisand, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton among so many others. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

“ELF – the Musical” at Orlando Rep 
Nov 12 to Dec 30 
This modern holiday classic is sure to have children of all ages embracing their inner elf. “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear,” says Buddy the Elf, who has spent his entire life at the North Pole. When he discovers he’s not really an elf, he sets off for New York City to find his true identity. Faced with the mind-bending reality that his ‘real father’ is on the naughty list (!!!) and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the Magic of Christmas. Visit orlandorep.com or call 407 896.7365 

NPR presents “Wait, Wait... Don't Tell Me!”
November 15 at 7:30 pm 
Now in its 20th season, “Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me!” is National Public Radio’s Peabody Award-winning quiz show. Host Peter Sagal leads a rotating panel of comedians, humorists and journalists, listener contestants and celebrity guests through a comic review of the week’s news – both real and fake. Contestants vie for the quirkiest prize in all of public radio: a custom-recorded greeting for their voicemail. AND -- your ticket purchase helps support WMFE. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

In Dreams: Roy Orbison in Concert -- The Hologram Tour
November 16 at 8 pm
This is one of those things we’ll eventually talk about as in “remember when.” Through cutting-edge technology and stagecraft, this first of its kind “live” concert will present Roy Orbison “brought to life on stage.” In 1988 Roy Orbison passed away, leaving behind a legacy of beloved songs. Since then the only access to his voice has been through his recordings… UNTIL NOW. On November 16, "In Dreams - Roy Orbison in Concert” we will “see” the man himself take the stage via HOLOGRAM, accompanied by a LIVE orchestra. While your mind reels at the possibilities, you will SEE Roy Orbison sing his first notes into the microphone and thrill to the realization that you are part of rock and roll history – another FIRST in a world where there was a time we didn’t have cell phones. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

“A Very Broadway Christmas”
Presented by CFCArts Youth Theatre
Nov 16 at 6:30 pm and Nov 17 at 11 am 
What could possibly get you in the Holiday Spirit more than the phenomenally talented children of the CFCArts Youth Theatre Companies offering Christmas cheer in “A Very Broadway Christmas?” This festive revue features tunes from Broadway musicals and classics like “White Christmas” and “A Christmas Carol” to hits like “Frozen” and “Elf.” Classics like “We Need a Little Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” will delight audiences of all ages, as the CFC students (ages 3 to 18) wish YOU and yours … A Very Broadway Christmas!
Visit CFCArts.com or call 407.937.1800 

Avenue Q at Rollins College 
Nov 16 to Dec 1 
Depending on your familiarity with this odd-ball, Broadway Tony winner, just as you settle in to see a show that looks like the Muppets, those on-stage PUPPETS open their “potty mouths” and don’t stop till it’s over. Ave Q tells the story of a recent college grad who moves into a low-rent NYC apartment where he and his 20-something friends struggle to find jobs, love, and a “purpose in life.” With truly funny lyrics and a bouncy score, Ave Q won the Tonys for Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book in 2004, but remember – this is NOT for kids. Treading that fine line between fuzzy cute and profanity is a special challenge for the Director. Fortunately Rollins has brought in one of the most intelligent actor/directors in Central Florida -- Tim Williams, so I can happily RECOMMEND the show. Visit rollins.edu/annie or call 407.646.2145

The Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center presents “Motown in O-Town”
November 16 & 17 at 8 pm 
Featuring the music of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and more, the Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center, led by world-renowned jazz bassist and Mack Ave recording artist Rodney Whitaker, returns to the stage for an unforgettable performance featuring a tribute to Motown. Enjoy an evening of jazz music accentuated “with RESPECT” for the Artists who crafted the trademark "Motown Sound". Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

GOOGOOSH: Live In Concert
November 17 at 8:30 pm at the Dr. Phillips Center 
Iranian singer and actress Faegheh Atashin, also known by her stage name Googoosh, is known for her contributions to Iranian pop music, but also as a Star in a variety of movies. Having achieved the pinnacle of her fame in the 1970’s, her contributions to Persian and Azerbaijani pop-music earned her the title of most iconic female pop-singer from those regions. She has recorded songs in Persian, Azerbaijani, Turkish, Arabic, English, French, Tajiki, Italian and Spanish, and now she will perform LIVE at the Dr. Phillips Center. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Presents “Home for the Holidays!”
November 24 at 2 pm and 8 pm at the Bob Carr Theater
Join Conductor Albert George Schram for the Orlando Philharmonic’s annual musical celebration of community spirit in a concert so popular they perform it twice. One of Central Florida’s most popular holiday concerts, and a perennial audience-favorite, the Conductor leads the Philharmonic, choirs, and guest artists through tuneful traditions and delightful surprises. Ring in the season with your family and friends – there’s no place like home for the holidays! At the Bob Carr Theater, call 407.770.0071 or visit orlandophil.org 

… and On-going … 

Rapture, Blister, Burn at the Mad Cow Theatre 
NOW to Nov 18
A 2013 Pulitzer Prize Finalist new play by Gina Gionfriddo, this comedy takes a probing look at family, career, romance, and the decisions that define one’s life. After grad school, Catherine pursued a career as a rock-star feminist academic, while Gwen built a home with her husband and children. Twenty years later – unfulfilled in opposite ways – each woman envies the other’s achievements and questions her own life choices. With searing insights, the NY Daily News called the play, “A smart, funny, and lightning-paced look at feminism.” Call 407.297.8788 or visit madcowtheatre.com 

“The Mystery of Irma Vep” at Orlando Shakespeare 
NOW to Nov 18 
This fall-out-of-your-seat-laughing comedy was a vehicle for playwright Charles Ludlam to ‘prove’ that a hilarious murder-mystery could be played on a tiny stage with two actors (who are also quick-change artists). Now Orlando Shakes is presenting this “Gothic horror” with actor Chris Crawford playing FOUR characters while his fellow thespian Brad DePlanche also plays FOUR roles. Throw in werewolves and the resurrection of an Egyptian princess in Gothic England as you laugh along with this deliriously melodramatic comedy. Directed by Jim Helsinger (who never misses a comic possibility), call 407.447.1700 x1 or visit orlandoshakes.org 
 
Leopoldo Wallis and Maria Ramos at Mills Gallery 
NOW to Dec 27
At 88-years-young, Venezuelan artist Leopoldo Wallis presents his first exhibit in the United States. Having immigrated to the U.S. Wallis’ unique pointillist work has been described as a celebration of color, light and visual space. Mr. Wallis is joined by the Puerto Rican Artist Maria Ramos whose work is known for showing the true and brutal side of her island's history. I attended the Opening and both Artists more than fulfilled expectations. Add to that the charm and joy in life these Artists share with the world, and I’m happy to HIGHLY RECOMMEND this exhibit at the Mills Gallery at 1650 Mills Ave. Visit thegalleryatmillspark.com 

Josh Garrick is the Florida Arts Editor for Wandering Educators