Ruth Eckerd Hall Announces 2005-2006 Season of Variety
CLEARWATER, Fla. (PRWEB) July 13, 2005
Hip, Hot and Attitude. From Jazz legends and rock icons to saucy songsters, Ruth Eckerd Hall spices up the 2005 – 2006 season with a wide variety of offerings for every generation.
Whether young or just young at heart, big names, big talent and big entertainment abound. Crooners, comics, country and Christmas from October to April, are Ruth Eckerd Hall’s latest in a Season of Variety. Side-splitting comedians, violin virtuosos, debuts and encores all add up to one amazing award-winning season.
“Ruth Eckerd Hall is continually evolving, listening to the audience” says Robert Freedman, President & CEO “Our new season reflects this. We are presenting a wide variety of performers from the perennial favorites like Paul Anka and Engelbert Humperdinck to up and comers like Clay Aiken and Hayley Westenra.”
Tickets for the 2005-2006 season go on sale to the general public on Saturday, August 27 at 10am at the Ruth Eckerd Hall Ticket Office as well as http://www.rutheckerdhall.com. Priority ordering for Members will begin when they receive their brochures in early July. Patrons wishing to order early may do so by becoming a member. The Ruth Eckerd Hall Ticket Office hours are Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm.
POP, JAZZ, COUNTRY
TRISHA YEARWOOD
Saturday, October 22, 8 pm
$ 65.00, $ 39.75, $ 34.75
Grammy award winner, Trisha Yearwood, country music’s big-voiced crossover vocalist is celebrating 14 years in the music business, performing at Ruth Eckerd Hall on October 22. 2005. Yearwood is a rare singer with a spectacular voice and she’ll be performing hits like She’s in Love With the Boy, That’s What I Like About You, XXX’s and OOO’s, and Thinkin’ About You.
JETHRO TULL
Monday, October 24, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 55.00, $ 45.00
The unparalleled musical career of Jethro Tull spans almost 30 years. Boasting sales of around 60 million albums and more than 2500 concerts in 40 countries, this incredible progressive group has always been musically ahead of its time. Fans love to remember the concept albums Thick as a Brick and A Passion Play from the early ’70s. Don’t miss hearing Ian Anderson, Martin Barre and other band members in the perfect acoustics of Ruth Eckerd Hall.
LYLE LOVETT, JOHN HIATT, JOE ELY AND GUY CLARK “The Songwriters”
Thursday, November 3, 8 pm
$ 60.00, $ 45.00, $ 38.00
Seldom do you find so much talent on just one stage! Get ready for a star-studded night of classic country, folk, R&B and Rock & Roll music as Lyle Lovett is joined by John Hiatt (It Hasn’t Happened Yet), Joe Ely (Honky Tonk Masquerade) and Guy Clark (Dancin’ Days) for a show that is sure to sell out early.
BUDDY GUY’S BLUESFEST
WITH VERY SPECIAL GUESTS INDIGENOUS AND DAMON FOWLER GROUP
Saturday, November 19, 8 pm
$ 55.00, $ 34.50
Direct from his induction into the rock’ n’ roll Hall of Fame, four-time Grammy Award-winner Buddy Guy brings his explosive and exhilarating guitar style to the stage of Ruth Eckerd Hall for the first time. Widely recognized as a blues guitarist and vocalist, the King of Chicago’s electric blues scene has sold over two million albums. Selections from the innovative, critically acclaimed album Sweet Tea and Grammy-nominated Damn Right, I’ve Got The Blues, and much more will make this an unforgettable evening.
KENNY ROGERS CELEBRATES THE SEASON
Featuring Rebecca Lynn Howard
Tuesday, November 29, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 53.00, $ 48.00
(See Holiday Listing)
JAY BLACK AND THE AMERICANS
LITTLE ANTHONY & THE IMPERIALS
KENNY VANCE & THE PLANOTONES
Friday, December 2, 7:30 pm
$ 75.00, $ 42.00, $ 35.00
Come a Little Bit Closer to This Magic Moment as Jay Black and the Americans are joined for an evening of good time oldies with Little Anthony and the Imperials (Tears On My Pillow) and Doo Wop favorite and Original “American” Kenny Vance & The Planotones (Looking For An Echo).
GLEN CAMPBELL CHRISTMAS
WITH SPECIAL GUEST DEBBY CAMPBELL
Sunday, December 4, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
(SEE LISTING SUNDAY MATINEES)
DAVE KOZ SMOOTH JAZZ HOLIDAY
WITH DAVID BENOIT, PATTI AUSTIN & JONATHAN BUTLER
Monday, December 5, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 43.00 $ 37.00
(See Holiday Listing)
OTTMAR LIEBERT CHRISTMAS
Tuesday, December 6, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 30.00
(See Holiday Listing)
ANDY WILLIAMS CHRISTMAS SHOW
Tuesday, December 13, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 55.00, $ 45.00
(See Holiday Listing)
PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS
WITH MINDI ABAIR AND RICK BRAUN
Friday, December 16, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 35.00
(See Holiday Listing)
LEE GREENWOOD AND CRYSTAL GAYLE
Sunday, December 18, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
(See Sunday Matinees)
CLAY AIKEN CHRISTMAS
WITH ORCHESTRA AND HOLIDAY CHOIR
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30, 8 PM
$ 85.00, $ 62.50, $ 55.00
Hot on the heels of his American Idol success and his subsequent rise to super stardom, Clay Aiken has legions of devoted fans around the world and in Tampa Bay. His last appearance at Ruth Eckerd Hall sold out immediately. His buoyant stage presence, distinctive style and visibility are a winning combination making his concerts one of the hottest tickets today.
AN EVENING WITH
LIZA MINNELLI
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12, 8 PM
$ 125.00, $ 75.00, $ 70.00, $ 62.00
Winner of Tony Awards, an Oscar, a Golden Globe and an Emmy, Liza Minnelli is one of the world’s most multitalented and popular entertainers. Beloved for her roles in Cabaret, Arthur, Liza with a Z, Minnelli on Minnelli and Victor Victoria, Liza Minnelli brings her tremendous voice, vitality and larger than life stage presence to Ruth Eckerd Hall.
JIM BRICKMAN
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 8 PM
$ 60.00, $ 36.00, $ 30.00
On tour performing hits from his latest chart topping album Grace, Jim Brickman returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall with a fabulous new show! Capturing all the evocative and enduring artistry that has made him among a handful of the great romantic musicians of our time, he’ll tickle the ivories with his hits as Valentine (the smash hit duet he did with Martina McBride), The Gift (a Dove Award winner), and Simple Things.
STEVE LAWRENCE & EYDIE GORME
ONE MORE FOR THE ROAD ENCORE!
Tuesday, February 7, 8 pm
Wednesday, February 8, 8 pm
$ 85.00, $ 59.00, $ 49.00
Steve & Eydie, two of the finest entertainers in show business with a unique chemistry and stage magic return to Ruth Eckerd Hall for an ENCORE! Their marriage of musicianship and comedy make this Emmy and Grammy award-winning couple a Tampa Bay favorite!
AL MARTINO, FRED TRAVALENA AND DICK CONTINO
Sunday, February 12, 2 pm
$ 55.00, $ 35.00, $ 30.00
(See Listing Sunday Matinees)
FRANKIE VALLI AND THE FOUR SEASONS
SPECIAL GUEST GARY PUCKETT
Thursday, February 16, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 45.00, $ 37.50
Back by popular demand, rock’ n’ roll hall of famer Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons return to Ruth Eckerd Hall for another night of classic hits. Sing along to all your favorites Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, The Apple of My Eye, Grease and more. Gary Puckett (Young Girl, Lady WillPower) joins Frankie to fill the evening with even more nostalgic hits.
DONNA SUMMER
BY POPULAR DEMAND!
Tuesday, February 21, 8 pm
$ 100.00, $ 77.00. $ 57.00
The Queen of Disco returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall! Don’t miss the Grammy award-winning diva of disco as when she performs her favorite hits and your, Love to Love You Baby, McArthur Park, Hot Stuff, Bad Girls and more.
ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK
Wednesday, March 1, 8 pm
Thursday, march 2, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 39.50, $ 35.50
This world renowned ladies’ man returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall for a springtime romance serenade. Engelbert Humperdinck with such hits as Release Me, There Goes My Everything, The Last Waltz and many more, returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall with an all new show for two unforgettable nights of amore.
Richard Nader’s Original DOO WOP REUNION VI
JOHNNY MAESTRO & THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE, KENNY VANCE & THE PLANOTONES, THE CRESTS FEATURING TOMMY MARA, CHARLIE THOMAS’ DRIFTERS AND IN THEIR FAREWELL TOUR FRED PARRIS & THE FIVE SATINS
Tuesday, March 7, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 46.00, $ 39.00
The Doo Wop Reunion returns to the Hall for its sixth star-studded show. Enjoy all your favorites by Johnny Maestro & The Brooklyn Bridge (16 Candles, The Worst That Could Happen), Kenny Vance & The Planotones (Looking For An Echo), The Crests featuring Tommy Mara (Step By Step, Cara Mia), Fred Parris & The Five Satins (In The Still Of The Nite, To The Aisle), and Charlie Thomas’ Drifters (There Goes My Baby) and special guest stars in their farewell tour.
PAUL ANKA
Wednesday, March 15, 8 pm
$ 80.00, $ 47.50, $ 39.00
One of the country’s most prolific and best-known singer/songwriters, Paul Anka returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall to wow his fans with hit after amazing hit! Performing such classics as My Way, Put Your Head on My Shoulder and Diana, and hears songs from his new CD (Rock Swings) that’s taking the country by storm!
HAYLEY WESTENRA
U.K.’S FASTEST-SELLING CLASSICAL/POP ARTIST OF ALL TIME!
Thursday, March 23, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 30.00, $ 25.00
Her Great Performances PBS special and her multi-platinum first CD, PURE, have made Hayley Westenra a household name. Hot on the heels of her latest CD, this New Zealand songbird brings her eclectic mix of classical, pop and show music to Ruth Eckerd Hall for her debut.
NATALIE COLE
Friday, March 24, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 48.00, $ 39.00
The daughter of pop and jazz legend Nat “King” Cole, Natalie Cole has forged a successful career in two phases, doing R&B/urban contemporary and then jazz based pop. Her 1991 release Unforgettable sold over 10 million copies and garnered numerous Grammy Awards. Other hits include I Miss You Like Crazy, This Will Be, Pink Cadillac, Our Love, I Live For Your Love
“Congo Square”
LINCOLN CENTER JAZZ ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
In Collaboration with Yacub Addy and Odadaa!
Thursday, April 27, 8 pm
$ 65.00, $ 50.00, $ 40.00
Trumpeter extraordinaire Wynton Marsalis leads the Lincoln Center Jazz orchestra in a rollicking musical pilgrimage to the wellspring with a fresh look at the big band sounds of Jim Morgan, Joe Robicheaux and a rediscovered Jelly Roll Morton masterpiece. The journey eases into the soul of Congo Square with a powerful composition by Wynton Marsalis and Ghanian “child of the ancients,” master drummer Yacub Addy, swung and drummed vigorously to life by the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra and Odadaa.
COMEDY
RON WHITE
2 HILLARIOUS SHOWS!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 7 PM & 9:30PM
$ 39.75
Ron White is selling out theaters with his own “Drunk in Public” tour across the United States, recently ranked in the top 50 tours for 2005 in Pollstar magazine. Audiences adore his brash, deadpan routine and he was a smash hit on the hugely successful Blue Collar Comedy Tour. He’s got a brand new TV show “The Ron White Show” on the WB network and you’ll laugh to you cry at Ruth Eckerd Hall when he tells tales of Sluggo, Tater Salad and more. Mature Audiences.
BILL ENGVALL
FROM BLUE COLLAR TV
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 8 PM
$ 45.00, $ 36.00, $ 29.00
An entertainer’s success depends on his ability to connect with an audience. It’s the quality of sharing the humor in everyday situations that has made Bill Engvall one of the top comedians today, and among the busiest. On a break from the WB’s Blue Collar TV, this Texas-born comedian, known for his “Here’s your Sign” jokes, returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall for a night of rip-roaring laughs about family, marriage and hunting.
LARRY THE CABLE GUY
FROM BLUE COLLAR TV
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 & 18, 7PM & 9:30 PM
$ 41.75
With his cry of “Git-Er-Done!” and “What the hell is this, Russia?”, Larry the Cable Guy begins his daily radio commentaries in cities around the country. You might not think a cable installer could be hilariously funny – until you see “Larry The Cable Guy”, the church-going, strip bar-going redneck know-it-all comedian on comedy club stages, theatres and arenas across the land.
STEVEN WRIGHT
SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 8 PM
$ 40.00, $ 35.00, $ 29.75
Comedian and Oscar winner Steven Wright uses his monotone and deadpan style to entertain audiences around the world. This one of a kind comedian who has appeared in such films as Natural Born Killers, Reservoir Dogs and Half Baked, returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall to enlighten fans with his one liners and ask life’s ponderous questions. Be on hand for this side-splitting performance.
DAME EDNA
BACK WITH A VENGEANCE!
MARCH 8 – 12, 2006
$ 67.00, $ 57.00, $ 47.00, $ 37.00
(SEE BROADWAY LISTING)
WHOOPI!
NOVEMBER 5, 8PM
$ 90.00 $ 59.00, $ 49.00
(SEE BROADWAY LISTING)
BILL MAHER
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 8 PM
$ 50.00, $ 32.50
If political satirist Bill Maher has something to say, it’s guaranteed that no one is going to stop him! The host of Politically Incorrect and Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO, Maher is unflinchingly honest, committed to never pulling a punch and one of the most politically astute humorists in America today. Love this Emmy nominee or hate him, Bill Maher is one funny lobbyist.
CLASSIC CONCERTS
MUNICH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
PHILIPPE ENTREMONT, CONDUCTOR & PIANO SOLOIST
Thursday, November 17, 8 pm
$ 48.00, $ 40.00, $ 35.00
Making its U.S. debut, the Munich Symphony Orchestra will thrill concertgoers with Mozart’s trailblazing Piano Concerto K 466 (Beethoven was so smitten with this piece he played it in concert himself). Rounding out the program is “The Great C Major,” the final symphony composed by Romantic-era master Schubert, and the sextet from Capriccio, the 1942 opera by Strauss. The orchestra is under the direction of charismatic conductor/pianist Philippe Entremont, acclaimed for the elegance and virtuosity of his playing, as well as his outstanding interpretive abilities on the podium.
SOFIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS AND BALLET ARABESK PRESENT
CARMINA BURANA / RAVEL’S “BOLERO”
Saturday, January 14, 8 pm
$ 48.00, $ 40.00, $ 35.00
This one-of-a-kind musical theater experience features a dynamic double-bill combining culture and spectacle. Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, a collection of medieval poems set to haunting and pulsating music, is enhanced by fantastical sets, beautiful costumes, the full Sofia Symphony Orchestra, a chorus of 50, international soloists and 15 dancers from the Russian National Ballet Theatre. An ensemble of 15 dancers join the Sofia Symphony Orchestra to present Maurice Ravel’s famous ballet for orchestra, Bolero.
ALEXANDER KOBRIN, VAN CLIBURN GOLD MEDALIST
Saturday, February 4, 8 pm
$ 35.00, $ 30.00
Once every four years, a select group of the world’s finest young pianists test their considerable talents in the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, named by the Chicago Tribune as “the most prestigious classical piano contest in the world.” You’ll relish the profound virtuosity of this year’s winner, Alexander Kobrin, who represents the finest from a field of 147 contestants from 33 countries.
ITZHAK PERLMAN, VIOLIN
ROHAN DE SILVA, PIANO
Saturday, February 11, 8 pm
$ 100.00, $ 55.00, $ 45.00
Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Beloved for his charm and humanity, as well as his talent, he is treasured by audiences worldwide who respond not only to his remarkable artistry, but also to the irrepressible joy of making music which he communicates. Pianist Rohan De Silva joins Perlman for this, his 10th visit to Ruth Eckerd Hall. Get your tickets early!
BRANDENBURG ENSEMBLE
FRIDAY, MARCH 3, 8 PM
$ 40.00, $ 35.00, $ 30.00
One would be hard pressed to find an evening of more gorgeous music than this performance by the incomparable Brandenburg Ensemble, which plays only for a select number of audiences each year. The program features two of the six famous Brandenburg Concertos written by J.S. Bach, as well as Bach’s Suite No. 3: Air and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Conducted by violinist Jamie Laredo, admired for his passionate and polished performances, the ensemble offers a truly special treat for Ruth Eckerd Hall audiences. This is beautiful music performed by some of the country’s finest musicians.
GREAT PERFORMANCES
THE ROYAL CARL ROSA OPERA’S INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION OF GILBERT & SULLIVAN’S CLASSIC HMS PINAFORE
Saturday, March 4, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 35.00
Come aboard the HMS Pinafore, a classic comic opera about love, hypocrisy and mistaken identity. This sea-faring smash hit show, directed by acclaimed British actor Timothy West and performed by Carl Rosa’s superb cast and orchestra, is fresh off a sell-out U.K. tour.
THE PIPES, DRUMS AND HIGHLAND DANCERS OF 1ST BATTALION
THE BLACK WATCH & THE BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS
Thursday, March 16, 8 p.m.
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 35.00
Bagpipes. Drum solos. Celtic dancers. When it comes to original, entertaining shows, it’s hard to beat Scotland’s Black Watch and The Regimental Band of the Welsh Guards. A celebration of music and culture from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, the show features pageantry, dance and song – including Amazing Grace and Scotland the Brave. A spectacular evening of pageantry and excitement for the entire family.
DANCE
PILOBOLUS
Saturday, January 21, 8 pm
$ 42.00, $ 37.00
This unusual dance company occupies that artistic territory where dance, humor and physics collide. For 33 years, Pilobolus has offered jaw-dropping performances in which apparently impossible feats of weight balancing and contortion are made possible. Returning for the fourth time to Ruth Eckerd Hall, Pilobolus offers a unique and unforgettable night of dance. “If you’ve never seen Pilobolus, it’s safe to say you’ve never seen anything remotely like them. For many repeaters in the audience, their visit is an uncategorizable season highlight.” – Philadelphia Inquirer
TCHAIKOVSKY’S “SLEEPING BEAUTY” BALLET
PRESENTED BY THE TCHAIKOVSKY BALLET & ORCHESTRA
Thursday, February 23, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 30.00
The public has never fallen out of love with Sleeping Beauty. The sheer artistry and entertainment value of its solos, processions and adagios is as overwhelming today as it was a hundred years ago. And now one of Russia’s most distinguished companies brings Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet to Ruth Eckerd Hall for an enchanted evening of beauty, music and dance. Don’t miss Tchaikovsky danced as only the Russians can. ” Â
one of the year’s indispensable ballet experiences.” – L.A. Times
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
JUDITH JAMISON ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, MASAZUMI CHAYA ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 8 PM
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 32.00
Marvel at the inimitable style, energy and athletic grace of one of the most respected and beloved dance companies in the world. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returnS to Ruth Eckerd Hall for an energized night of pure, unadulterated dance, Ailey style! Don’t miss this performance which will feature exciting new works as well as important works of the past.
THE CHOCOLATE NUTCRACKER
December 9 – 11
(See Holiday Shows)
George Balanchine’s
THE NUTCRACKER
December 22-24
(See Holiday Shows)
OPERA
STRAUSS’ OPERA “DIE FLEDERMAUS”
PRESENTED BY TEATRO LIRICO D’EUROPA
IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE CZECH OPERA
IN GERMAN WITH ENGLISH SUPERTITLES
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 8 PM
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 35.00
Don’t miss out on the hilarious, melodious romp Die Fledermaus as presented by Teatro Lirico D’Europa and featuring soloists from the Czech Opera. Sparkling Strauss waltzes and a memorable champagne-drenched party scene are all part of the fun in this wonderful operetta where love conquers all – eventually. Beautiful music, merry mischief and romantic misadventures abound in Die Fledermaus (the bat), this rollicking and romantic comedy.
DONIZETTI’S OPERA “LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR”
PRESENTED BY TEATRO LIRICO DE EUROPA
In Italian with English supertitles
Saturday, March 18, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 39.00, $ 35.00
Teatro Lirico de Europa returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall for a traditional version of the Donizetti opera, Lucia di Lammermoor. A beautiful, gothic opera featuring a number of bel canto arias for soprano (the 1960s stage version rocketed Joan Sutherland to fame), it centers on Lucia, a woman driven to madness and murder after her selfish brother arranges a marriage for her with a man she does not love.
SUNDAY MATINEES
GLEN CAMPBELL CHRISTMAS
WITH SPECIAL GUEST DEBBY CAMPBELL
Sunday, December 4, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
Glen Campbell – a living legend in country and pop music with a long list of timeless classics to his credit – returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall to delight fans with an afternoon of his hits and holiday favorites. The songs speak for themselves: By The Time I Get To Phoenix, Wichita Lineman, Gentle On My Mind, Galveston. With his easygoing Rhinestone Cowboy manner that belies his superstar status, Campbell always delivers a memorable show.
LEE GREENWOOD AND CRYSTAL GAYLE
“TENNESSEE CRYSTAL CHRISTMAS”
Sunday, December 18, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
In a magical pairing of superstars, Lee Greenwood and Crystal Gayle provide a night of hits and seasonal favorites. Greenwood has been a household name since 1983′s God Bless The USA rocketed him to stardom. Gayle has long been a superstar in country music, with hits like I’ll Get Over You and Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue. Celebrate the holidays with two musical giants.
ITALIAN AMERICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL
STARRING AL MARTINO, FRED TRAVALENA AND DICK CONTINO
Sunday, February 12, 2pm
$ 55.00, $ 35.00, $ 30.00
No strangers to Ruth Eckerd Hall, Al Martino, Fred Travalena and Dick Contino return for an afternoon of Italian divertimento. Charming vocalist Martino, is known for chart topping hits Volare, Painted-Tainted Rose & Daddy’s Little Girl. The man of a thousand voices, singer and impressionist Fred Travalena adds to the festivities with impressions of famous Italians that include Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Robert Deniro, Joe Pesci and others. Dick Contino captivates audiences with his magnificent showmanship and stellar accordion.
ED MCMAHON’S MEMORIES OF THE TONIGHT SHOW
Sunday, February 19, 2 pm
$ 55.00, $ 35.00, $ 30.00
Walk down “television history lane” with Johnny Carson’s buddy, Ed McMahon, as he reveals many unheard accounts from his Tonight Show experiences. His rich memories include behind the scenes occurrences during episodes from Tiny Tim’s wedding to the appearance of Richard Nixon. Don’t miss hearing about all the magical moments. Watch the bloopers on the big screen and everything in between.
HOLIDAY
KENNY ROGERS CELEBRATES THE SEASON
Featuring Rebecca Lynn Howard
Tuesday, November 29, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 53.00, $ 48.00
Usher in the holiday season with an American icon who has recorded 61 albums, selling more than 105 million records worldwide. Winner of three Grammy awards, Kenny Rogers will blow you away with hits like Lucille, Lady and We’ve got Tonight! Whether he’s singing his hits or seasonal favorites The Gambler is sure to entertain you.
DEBBIE BOONE’S HOLIDAY TRIBUTE TO ROSEMARY CLOONEY
Thursday, December 1, 1 pm
$ 15.00
(See Adults at Leisure Listing)
GLEN CAMPBELL CHRISTMAS
Sunday, December 4, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
(See Listing Sunday Matinees)
DAVE KOZ SMOOTH JAZZ HOLIDAY
WITH DAVID BENOIT, PATTI AUSTIN & JONATHAN BUTLER
Monday, December 5, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 43.00 $ 37.00
‘Tis the season for an all-star line-up. World renowned saxophone player Dave Koz celebrates the holidays with fellow jazz greats David Benoit, Patti Austin & Jonathan Butler. Always a sell-out, you’ll hear lots of holiday tunes as well as their hits!
OTTMAR LIEBERT CHRISTMAS
Tuesday, December 6, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 30.00
From Rumba to Bossa Nova to Christmas Tunes and Lullabies, Guitarist Ottmar Liebert puts his unique spin on them all! Popular with smooth jazz and new age enthusiasts, German born Ottmar Liebert has a flair for memorable melodies and bright flamenco guitar. His Christmas hits are so listenable that you will be tempted to play them all year! The Grammy-nominated, platinum selling guitarist returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall for a show packed with his hits and holiday favorites!
THE CHOCOLATE NUTCRACKER
December 9 – 11
$ 19.50, $ 14.50
8TH YEAR AT RUTH ECKERD HALL!
The Chocolate Nutcracker is an exhilarating, foot-stomping journey from uptown Harlem to the pulsating country of West Africa that features more than 250 local students performing side by side with professional dancers & learning from some of the best choreographers around. This unique show is truly a community project.
ANDY WILLIAMS CHRISTMAS SHOW
Tuesday, December 13, 8 pm
$ 75.00, $ 55.00, $ 45.00
Since his singing debut at the age of eight, Andy Williams has become one of America’s most beloved entertainers and the “Emperor of Cool.” In this rare concert appearance, Andy’s first at Ruth Eckerd Hall in over 15 years, he will croon Christmas favorites along with his hits like Moon River, Can’t Get Used to Losing You and The Hawaiian Wedding Song. Don’t miss Andy’s special night of holiday musical magic!
IRISH ROVERS CHRISTMAS
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1 PM
$ 15.00
(See Adults at Leisure Listing)
PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS
WITH MINDI ABAIR AND RICK BRAUN
Friday, December 16, 8 pm
$ 45.00, $ 35.00
Jazz guitarist Peter White will be up to his usual merrymaking when he is joined by saxophonist Mindi Abair and trumpeter Rick Braun for a jammin’ evening at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Kicking the holiday cheer up a notch, these three jazz greats play soulful versions of seasonal classics as well as their best known hits.
LEE GREENWOOD AND CRYSTAL GAYLE
Sunday, December 18, 2 pm
$ 50.00, $ 37.50, $ 33.50
(See Sunday Matinees)
MY SINATRA CHRISTMAS
THE SONGS & STORIES
Starring CARY HOFFMAN
Monday, December 19, 1pm
$ 15.00
(See Adults at Leisure Listing)
Miami City Ballet and The Florida Orchestra Present
GEORGE BALANCHINE’S THE NUTCRACKER Â
December 22 – 24
$ 45.00, $ 37.00, $ 29.00
Join us in celebrating the season with this holiday favorite! Tchaikovsky’s mesmerizing score fuses with George Balanchine’s masterful choreography, creating a fanciful playground of sight and sound. In one magical night, giant mice duel with toy soldiers, vibrant flowers dance and a Sugar Plum Fairy rules the enchanted land of sweets. This unique production blends a cast of professional dancers with an outstanding group of local children. Undoubtedly a joyful performance for all who attend, so reserve your seats early for this annual sell-out!
SALUTE TO VIENNA
Saturday, December 31, New Year’s Eve, 8 pm
$ 55.00, $ 45.00, $ 39.00
Celebrate the New Year – Viennese style!
Reserve your place at the World’s Greatest New Year’s Concert when Salute to Vienna returns to Clearwater with a brand new cast and a new program for another magnificent live performance. Be swept away to Vienna by waltzes, polkas and songs of Johann Strauss Jr. and his contemporaries, performed by over 75 musicians, singers and dancers. Salute to Vienna – A delightful feast for the senses! “Salute to Vienna outshines even Viennese” – Chicago Tribune
SPEND ST. PATRICK’S DAY WITH
TONY KENNY’S IRELAND
Friday, March 17, 1 pm
$ 15.00
(See Adults at Leisure Listing)
ADULTS AT LEISURE
Only $ 15.00 Per Show or purchase a package of Ten Adults at Leisure Shows for just $ 99.
DEBBY BOONE’S HOLIDAY TRIBUTE TO ROSEMARY CLOONEY
Thursday, December 1, 1 pm
$ 15.00
Debby Boone (You Light Up My Life) pays loving tribute to her mother-in-law, Rosemary Clooney, in her new Concords Records release Reflections of Rosemary. Debby’s new recording is a beautiful musical portrait of Rosemary; one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. Debby will perform several songs from her new CD in addition to some holiday favorites.
IRISH ROVERS CHRISTMAS
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1 PM
$ 15.00
You can’t help but clap, sing along and enjoy yourself at an Irish Rovers concert. These international ambassadors of Irish music enchant crowds with rollicking, rousing stage shows and their hit songs like The Unicorn, Wasn’t That A Party and Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer. If anyone knows how to party, it’s the Irish Rovers. Get your tickets early for this special evening of holiday cheer!
MY SINATRA CHRISTMAS
THE SONGS & STORIES
STARRING CARY HOFFMAN
Monday, December 19, 1 pm
$ 15.00
Ol’ Blue Eyes. The Chairman of the Board. The Voice. No matter how you remember Sinatra, you will never forget this brilliant tribute to the greatest entertainer of all time! Cary Hoffman’s critically-acclaimed performance was the subject of a recent PBS Special and brings to life the incredible artistic qualities that made Sinatra greatÂ
the honesty, intelligence, humanity and, of course, the romance!
THE WORLD FAMOUS GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
MUSICAL DIRECTOR, LARRY O’BRIEN
Tuesday, January 17, 1 pm
$ 15.00
This legendary musical ensemble has set toes tapping since the late 1930s. Under the direction of trombonist Larry O’Brien, this show promises holiday tunes plus beloved hits like In The Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo and Pennsylvania 6-5000.
IN THE MOOD
TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 1PM
$ 15.00
Much more than a concert, In the Mood takes a retro look at the life and time of America’s greatest generation, a generation that was listening and dancing to the same kind of music. With music and dance that combined up-tempo big band rhythms to mellow intimate ballads, the mood was set to inspire a future filled with hope, promise and prosperity.
SING! SING! SING!
A TRIBUTE TO BENNY GOODMAN’S FAMOUS 1938 CARNEGIE HALL CONCERT
Starring Ken Peplowski, Clarinet Conducting The Kingdom Swing Band
Tuesday, January 31, 1 pm
$ 15.00
Benny Goodman’s 1938 Carnegie Hall Concert opened the door for jazz to be appreciated as a true American art form. Revisiting this famous concert – with original charts – Ken Peplowski and The Kingdom of Swing Big Band (which features a number of Benny Goodman Orchestra alumni as well as a female singer) will perform such hits as One O’clock Jump, Stompin’ at the Savoy, Don’t Be That Way, and the climactic finale – Sing, Sing, Sing.
OUR SINATRA
A MUSICAL CELEBRATION ENCORE TOUR
Wednesday, February 22, 1 pm
$ 15.00
A fully integrated, scripted and directed show, Our Sinatra celebrates the songs and music made famous by Frank Sinatra. The show will feature three rising stars from Broadway, backed by an eleven-piece big band, and will include over sixty songs recorded by Sinatra – New York, New York, Come Fly With Me, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Fly Me To The Moon, Strangers in the Night, All The Way, One For My Baby, Night and Day and many more.
AN AFTERNOON WITH
JACK KLUGMAN
Monday, February 27, 1 pm
$ 15.00
An Afternoon with Jack Klugman offers an intimate conversation with the three-time Emmy Award-winner as he shares stories from his over half century in show business, from gambling on the ponies, to winning his battle with cancer. Mr. Klugman’s frank insights and candid observations He’ll share behind the scenes stories about such stars as Henry Fonda, Humphrey Bogart, Ethel Merman, Walter Matthau, Jackie Gleason, Judy Garland, Tony Randall and many others.
SPEND ST. PATRICK’S DAY WITH
TONY KENNY’S IRELAND
FRIDAY, MARCH 17, 1PM
$ 15.00
On this special St. Patrick’s Day, “Ireland’s Premier Entertainer” Tony Kenny returns to Ruth Eckerd hall for a celebration of all that it means to be Irish. This cabaret show includes the award-winning Dublin City Dancers, hilarious comedian George Casey and Mac & O, “the dynamic duo of laughter and song.” Audience members of all ages will find themselves singing & tapping along and laughing out loud!
AN AFTERNOON WITH
PAT BOONE
TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 1PM
$ 15.00
Pat Boone sold more records in the ’50′s than any other artist except one – Elvis Presley. He has sold more than 45 million records, and has charted sixty songs, with 18 hitting the Top 10. Pat is one of the top three Top 40 Recording Artists of the Rock ‘n’ Roll era. His Platinum recording Love Letters in the Sand stayed on the charts for 34 consecutive weeks. Also a very accomplished movie actor, Pat starred in 15 films, including “State Fair” and “April Love”.
All dates and times are subject to change. For further information, media outlets may contact Sandra McKenna, Media Relations/Publicist at (727) 712-2713 or Lex Poppens, Director of Marketing and Communications (727) 712-2724.
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