It's that time again. Season. Area stages are filled with dancing cats and lions, while a wide range of musical acts make a stop in our area. This is by no means a comprehensive list. There are so many things planned from now until April, we thought arts lovers might enjoy a critical helping hand.
Stage
"Allegro Brillante and The Two Pigeons," 8 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1-2, Sarasota Ballet of Florida; $19-$74
Why: This program features the ballets of two great 20th century choreographers - George Balanchine and Sir Frederick Ashton. See Balanchine's "Allegro Brillante" performed to music of Tchaikovsky. Ballet fans will also enjoy "The Two Pigeons," which is inspired by a Jean de la Fontaine fable and is rarely performed in the United States.
"The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," various times Dec. 26-30, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall; $55-$75
Why: If you didn't see this show when it came through Tampa last year, don't miss the opportunity to see this hilariously fun spelling bunch when the show comes to Sarasota.
Bill Cosby, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 17, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall; $45-$55
Why: He's one of the biggest entertainers in show business, and he's got the comic skills to prove it.
"Equus," various times March 28-May 4, Asolo Repertory Theatre; $18-$56
Why: Peter Shaffer's controversial play had the world talking when "Harry Potter" star Daniel Radcliffe performed the lead role in the London production of the show earlier this year. The award-winning play is about a young man who is sent to a psychiatrist after he commits a sinful act at the horse stable where he works.
"Rent," April 18, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall; $50-$60
Why: This energetic Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize musical is all about the struggles of life, love and the will to survive. Set to an outstanding musical score, you will laugh, then cry, as the show follows a group of young adults trying to make ends meet.
"Disney's The Lion King," various times May 8-June 22, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center; $48-$133
Why: This wonderful show, returning to the Tampa Bay area, is a must-see retelling of the beloved Disney movie, complete with an amazing musical score and stunning scenic work.
Music
Yamato, 8 p.m. Nov. 16, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota; $30-$40
Percussion ensemble Yamato has brought the sounds of the traditional Japanese wadaiko drums to audiences worldwide for nearly a decade.
An Evening with Roseanne Cash & Mark O'Connor, 8 p.m. March 2, Ferguson Hall, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Tampa; $29.50/$39.50
Why: Journeyman violinist/composer O'Connor helps Roseanne Cash pay tribute to her late father with a two-part program that includes new music from O'Connor's Edgeffect Ensemble, as well as Cash's reinterpretations of selected tunes by The Man in Black.
The 28th Annual Sarasota Jazz Festival, March 2-9, Various times and venues, Sarasota
Why: The whole lineup hasn't even been announced yet, but you don't need us to tell you this is THE yearly event for local music fans. Chuck Mangione, The Billy Taylor Trio, The Chenille Sisters and returning favorite Chris Botti are among the featured performers. Check www.jazzclubsarasota.com for more information.
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