A battle for the fate of the universe, right in downtown Tampa

Forces of good and evil will battle over the fate of the universe in Tampa in January. Tickets are on sale now.

“Marvel Universe Live!” returns to Amalie Arena for six shows starting Jan 5. In this incarnation of the stunt-filled multi-media epic, “The Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy and Spider-Man join forces with Doctor Strange, master of the mystic arts, in a race against time to recover the Wand of Watoomb before it falls into Loki’s hands in this all-new, spectacular arena stunt show,” according to publicity material.

The full title of this year’s show is “Marvel Universe Live! Age of Heroes!” Characters making their “Marvel Universe Live!” debut include Star-Lord, Gamora, Rocket, Groot and Drax. Returning characters include Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Panther, Hulk, Black Widow, Wasp and Iron Fist.

Besides all those super-heroes and super-villains, the show promises special effects, aerial maneuvers, pyrotechnics, martial arts, motorcycle stunts and vast 3D video projection.

Details: Jan. 5-7, Amalie Arena. 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 7 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday. $20-$165. 813-301-2500, amaliearena.com.

This story was originally published December 5, 2017 at 3:03 PM with the headline "A battle for the fate of the universe, right in downtown Tampa."