“Josh Recommends” for the Week of November 3, 2018 By Josh Garrick 

CONGRATULATIONS to the All-New Orlando CITRUS PARADE (A Televised Event) 
December 29 at 9:30 am – Parade ‘Kick-off’ 
More than living up to its goals, Florida Citrus Sports is a not-for-profit dedicated to promoting community spirit and tourism, stimulating our economy and benefiting charities. Those goals take a great leap forward on December 29 as the all-new Orlando Citrus Parade steps off in Downtown Orlando – and on TV. Tickets are now on sale for the TV Performance Zone at orlandocitrusparade.com, with up-to-date announcements, grand marshals, marching bands, performing groups, and volunteers. This year’s parade supports Give Kids The World Village – an 84-acre, nonprofit “storybook” resort where children with critical illnesses are treated to week-long, cost-free vacations. The parade will air live from 10 am to noon on WFTV, and then air nationally as a one-hour syndicated show during January and February. A special shout-out to Michael Chapman and Jeff Revels who are part of the Parades R Us team as Executive Producers of the event. Visit orlandocitrusparade.com 

FINAL WEEKEND – Broadway in Orlando presents “Jersey Boys”
NOW to Nov 4 at the Dr. Phillips Center 
They had a unique sound their fans couldn’t get enough of, but for these four guys from Jersey their harmonies were perfect onstage, while offstage it was a very different story. In this super popular musical, we get ‘inside’ the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award–winning true-life musical phenomenon, Jersey Boys. From the streets of Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this musical features the legendary hits “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like A Man”, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”, and “Oh What A Night.” For one of Broadway’s great success stories, call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

FINAL WEEKEND - “Young Frankenstein” 
NOW to Nov 4 at the CFC Black Box Theatre
With music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, this stage adaptation of the 1974 cult classic movie by the same name, features the ‘grandson’ of the infamous Victor Frankenstein -- Frederick Frankenstein and his sidekick, Igor. As Frederick works to create his own monster, “Young Frankenstein” is a comic spin-off of the classic novel. Full of songs and surprises, you’ll leave this show laughing and singing your own version of “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” And if the weather is just right, you may even witness a miracle! Visit CFCArts.com or call 407.937.1800. 

THIS WEEKEND -- Orlando Greek Fest
Nov 3 from 11 am to 11 pm; and Nov 4 from 11 am to 6 pm 
Greeks are known for many things – (especially their history), but throughout ALL of history, Greeks have been known for sharing their food, their dancing, and their love of family. All of that and more will be part of the fun for the whole family at the Greek Orthodox Church at 1217 Trinity Woods Lane in Maitland. Absolutely authentic Greek foods (lovingly hand-made by Greek Mamas), dancing, live music, church tours, iconography presentations and more will be offered through the weekend. Admission is $3; children under 12 and active military – FREE. Call 407.331.4687 or visit orlandogreekfest.com 

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Presents “The Planets”
Nov 3 at the Bob Carr Theater
Conductor Eric Jacobsen looks to the heavens 50 years after we landed on the moon in the Philharmonic’s next Classical Series Concert. Beginning with three folk music inspired pieces by Bartok, the evening moves on to Persian composer-performer Kayhan Kalhor’s “Blue as the Turquoise Night of Neyshabur,” a work he recorded with ‘The Silk Road Ensemble’ and for which he will be performing on the kamancheh. Finally, Music Director Eric Jacobsen leads the massive forces of the Orlando Philharmonic in Gustav Holst’s epic masterpiece, The Planets. Call 407.770.0071 or visit orlandophil.org 

Laura Hodos’ Cabaret Stylings
Nov 7 & 8 at the Winter Park Playhouse
One of Orlando’s great singing actresses – Laura Hodos – will debut her new solo cabaret act, “By the Light of the Silvery Screen,” accompanied by Christopher Leavy on piano. Known for her powerhouse vocals and a smile to steal any heart, Laura is ‘equipped’ to take on the songs made famous by Garland, Streisand and others. Laura has been a soloist with The Orlando, Jacksonville, and the Sarasota Orchestras, and recently, Laura was brilliant as Aldonza in “Man Of La Mancha” at The Orlando Shakespeare Festival, where she shared the stage with Davis Gaines. Reservations are recommended. Call 407-645-0145 or visit winterparkplayhouse.org 

Ray LaMontagne: Just Passing Through
Nov 9 at the Dr. Phillips Center 
Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Ray LaMontagne returns to the stage on tour with John Stirratt. The Boston Herald raved, “LaMontagne's voice remains a marvel, quiet and reflective one minute and forceful and impassioned the next. It really is an amazing instrument,” while Rolling Stone calls his work “gorgeous and ambitious,” Ray LaMontagne has released 7 studio albums, 5 of which reached Top 10 on Billboard’s Top Rock Albums chart. Additionally, Ray’s 2010 album God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise won the Grammy for Best Folk Album. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

Benji Brown
Nov 9 at the Bob Carr Theater
Benji Brown has taken over stages and airwaves with his original style of comic relief. He is currently an on-air personality for the syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show. He also appeared on episodes of the TV One sitcom The Rickey Smiley Show in 2014. Witty, human, and hilarious, he is a comedian who is more than just the next household name; he is creating a career that is his own personal genre. Call 844.513.2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

“The Festival of Trees” at the Orlando Museum of Art 
Nov 9 to 18 
Just in time for the holidays, the annual “Festival of Trees” transforms the Orlando Museum of Art into a Holiday wonderland filled with designer-curated Christmas trees of all sizes, holiday vignettes, custom designed wreaths, table décor, and a gingerbread village -- all available for purchase. There are special events and ticketing options, ranging from a glamorous gala night to musical performances and programs for all ages. Together with its sponsors and volunteers, the Council of 101 offers all of us 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. Contestants vie for the quirkiest and most coveted prize in all of public radio: a custom-recorded greeting by any of the cast members for their voicemail. 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 going to be one of those things we’ll eventually talk about as in “remember when.” Through cutting-edge digital technology and extraordinary stagecraft, this first of its kind “live” concert will present Roy Orbison “brought to life on stage” to perform his classic tracks. In 1988 the phenomenal 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. No matter how you feel about this – (and the mind reels at the possibilities) you’ll see Roy Orbison sing his first notes into the microphone and thrill to the realization that you are part of rock and roll history. Here goes – 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

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 will present 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 that challenges those who try to impose limits on the Artistic Community. Mr. Wallis will be joined by the Puerto Rican Artist Maria Ramos whose work is known for showing the true and brutal side of her island's history. Together these two dynamic artists bring a colorful vision to Mills Gallery at 1650 Mills Ave. Visit thegalleryatmillspark.com 

“Nick Cave: Feat” at the Orlando Museum of Art
NOW to Dec. 30
Chicago-based artist Nick Cave’s creations remind us of a Mardi Gras parade -- bursting with colors and textures that are fun for audiences of all ages. But a deeper look at Cave’s work reveals issues of identity, social injustice, race, and violence. His ‘trademark’ human-shaped sculptures began as a response to the beating of Rodney King in Los Angeles over 25 years ago. As an African-American man, Cave felt vulnerable after the incident so he created a type of “armor” protecting him from profiling by concealing his race and gender. Organized by the Frist Art Museum in Nashville, visit omart.org or call 407.896.4231 

Josh Garrick is the Florida Arts Editor for Wandering Educators