“Josh Recommends” for the Week of August 23, 2019 By Josh Garrick 

 “Ragtime the Musical” in Winter Garden
August 23 to September 15
Based on the novel “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow, we find ourselves at the dawn of the new century – 1900 -- where in the ‘melting-pot’ of New York City anything seems possible. An upper-class wife, a Jewish immigrant, and a young Harlem musician are brought together by the promise of the future and by interlocked stories of compassion, courage, AND some historical figures – an inspirational ‘portrait’ of America. With some mild violence, and racial slurs, please use your judgment as to your child’s attending. Call 407.877.4736 or visit gardentheatre.org 

 “Art After Dark” at the Downtown Arts District 
August 24 beginning at 7 pm
“Art After Dark” is the Downtown Orlando Arts District’s new program created to introduce young professionals to DAD and its mission. Guests enjoy the celebration in the unique setting of CityArts' six different galleries (all under one roof) with interactive art, meet & greet with guest artists, live music, photo ops, a silent auction, craft cocktails, and gourmet ‘lite-bites’ Tickets: $35 and $40; Attire: Semi-formal/cocktail for ages 21 and up, with Parking at the Plaza Parking Garage. Proceeds support DAD’s mission to stimulate the development of a vibrant and innovative arts district that enhances all of downtown Orlando. 

“How to Marry a Divorced Man” at the Winter Park Playhouse 
FINAL WEEKEND -- NOW to August 25 
In this World Premiere musical production, developed at the Playhouse’s Festival of New Musicals, the hilarity follows Layla Diamond who attempts to settle down with a divorced man. Setting her sights on a charming sports agent with two obnoxious children (of course), she makes one miscalculation after another, turning her marital quest into a hilarious farce. Based on the book by Leslie Fram, visit winterparkplayhouse.com or call 407.645.0145. 

George Bernard Shaw’s ‘Heartbreak House’ at Mad Cow Theatre 
NOW to Sept 1
England is on the brink of massive change in 1914, but in the English countryside estate of Captain Shotover an extraordinary assemblage of guests gather to re-unite. Affairs begin, engagements end, and hearts and minds become irreparably ensnared in a young woman’s dilemma – whether to marry for love or for money. George Bernard Shaw, master of wit and social comment, chronicles the demise of the leisure class in his favorite play. Call 407.297.8788 or visit madcowtheatre.com 

“My Brother, My Brother and Me”
September 1 beginning at 7 pm
If there is a true “hipster” podcast in 2019, it’s created by Justin, Travis, and Griffin McElroy who make up “My Brother, My Brother and Me.” Now the Dr. Phillips Center is offering the wise three-some in a LIVE podcast billed as an “advice show for the modern era.” They take your questions and turn your questions into wisdom, right before your eyes.” Launched as a TV series on NBC, the first story arc (“Adventure Zone”) was adapted into a graphic novel and hit #1 on the New York Times Bestsellers Paperback list. O yee seekers of wisdom, Thou mayest find something worth quoting on September 1. 

“Tuck Everlasting” (Young Audiences Edition) at Orlando Rep 
 Sept 3 to Sept 29
Young Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure, but not until she becomes entwined with the Tuck Family does she get more than she imagined. As the adventure unfolds, Winnie faces the impossible choice of returning to her ‘normal’ life, or continuing with the Tucks on their magical journey. Based on the best-selling novel by Natalie Babbitt, “Tuck Everlasting” has enthralled readers for over 40 years and NOW Orlando Rep presents this classic story with MUSIC! Recommended for ages 9 and above, visit OrlandoRed.com or call 407.896.7365 

Evita at Orlando Shakes ! 
Sept 4 to Oct 6 
If Shakespeare had been able to see into the future, he would have written Evita, the ‘rags-to-riches’ tale of Eva Duarte Peron and her rise from being an illegitimate child from the slums to becoming Argentina’s First Lady and the most powerful woman in the world – before her body (her health) brought her down. This is SUPER HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Visit orlandoshakes.com or call 407.447.1700 x1 

Shin Lim, Sleight of Hand Artist 
September 7 at 2pm and 7 pm
Winner of America’s Got Talent Season 13, Shin Lim is a self-proclaimed "Sleight of Hand Artist,” while admitting that he is NOT a magician and has NO intention of lying to the audience. Instead, he performs carefully choreographed routines that defy the laws of physics. Combining dexterity with precision, his mind-boggling finger moves are so masterful the audience is left to wonder if what they have seen is even possible. This event is selling so well the 2 pm show is “added.” VIP tickets are available for both shows. 

Winter Park Wine & Dine 
October 9 from 6 pm to 10 pm 
One of our favorite “foodie” events each year is the “Winter Park Wine & Dine” – always held at the perfect time of year for an event that is mostly outside with signature beverages and desserts “inside.” Offering tastings from over 40 food and drink options plus live music, a percentage of proceeds benefit Caring By Sharing United. Restaurants and Beverage partners include: Seasons 52 Altamont, Bolay, Dubsdread Catering, Hamilton's Kitchen at The Alfond Inn, Bulla Gastrobar, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, and so many more. Held at the Winter Park Farmers’ Market at 200 West New England Ave, tickets run from $39 to $69. Visit Eventbrite.

Alison Krauss at the Dr. Phillips Center
Oct 19 at 8 pm 
Having sold 12 million records to date – and honored with 27 Grammys – Alison Krauss became a member of the Grand Ole Opry at age 21. See this penultimate country singer LIVE at the Dr. Phillips Center on October 19. Call 844.513,2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org 

The Tony Award Winning Musical Phenomenon, “Les Miserables”
October 22 to 27, 2019
Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune called “Les Miz” one of the greatest musicals ever created,” and I completely agree. Single tickets are now on sale at the Dr. Phillips Center. Visit drphillipscenter.org or call 844.513.2014 

Josh Garrick is the Florida Arts Editor for Wandering Educators