Scene Calendar: Holiday music, events and art

The Holiday Homes Tour route includes a stop at the Cushman-Colson House (Sweetwater Branch Inn).
The Holiday Homes Tour route includes a stop at the Cushman-Colson House (Sweetwater Branch Inn).

MUSIC

Teddy Mac Elvis and Friends’ Country Christmas Show: 6-10 p.m. today, 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $11 each night at the gate or $17 both nights if paid in advance. (386-364-1683, musicliveshere.com) Annual event returns post-COVID with a professionally dressed stage where renowned Elvis tribute artist Ted “Teddy Mac Elvis” McMullen and his Legends’ artists will entertain. Today will be the pre-party where performers will perform in normal attire. Saturday will be the main performance with artists professionally attired for the occasion and featuring host Ted McMullen both nights.

Good News — A Christmas Concert: 7:30 p.m. today, The Pentecostals of Gainesville, 8105 NW 23rd Ave. Free; registration required. (bit.ly/goodnews22a)

Jazz on The Green: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Celebration Pointe, Interstate 75 and Archer Road at Celebration Pointe Avenue. Free. (celebrationpointe.com, 333-9333) Live music by Natalie Rella Jazz, food and drinks, lawn games and more.

“The Fab Four — The Ultimate Tribute”: 8 p.m. Saturday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $60.50-$95. (pvconcerthall.com) The Emmy Award-winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles' classics , the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing.

Advent Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Sunday, First Presbyterian Church, 300 SW Second Ave. Free. (1stpcmusic.org) The choirs and congregation of First Presbyterian Church Gainesville celebrate the Advent season with lessons and carols for Advent and Christmas showing the development of the loving purposes of God, as seen through the windows and words of scripture. Prior to the ceremony, the Gainesville Brass Quintet and First Presbyterian Jubilate Ringers will present seasonal music.

Birthday Blues Bash: 5:30 p.m. Sunday, High Dive, 210 SW Second Ave. Tickets: $25 general admission, $10 NCFBS members. (ncfblues.org) The North Central Florida Blues Society is throwing a birthday party for Bridget Kelly Band guitarist Dr. Tim Fik, and it will be a showcase of varying styles of blues with performances by Biscuit Miller, JP Soars, the Bridget Kelly Band, Early Times, and Little Mike and the Tornadoes.

The Outlaws: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $60.50-$95. (pvconcerthall.com) The band will perform its Greengrass and Yuletide Jam.

Eric Gales: 8 p.m. Sunday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39-$125. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Eric Gales is a blues rock firebrand. Over 30 years and 18 albums, his passion for the music and his boundless desire to keep it vital has never waned, even when his light dimmed due to his substance struggles.

Young Annasemble Holiday Concert: 7-8 p.m. Monday, Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. Free. (annasemble.org) Annasemble's New Youth Orchestra will play a holiday tunes.

Chris Isaak: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $49.50-$89.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) The singer will perform as part of his “Everybody Knows It's Christmas” tour.

Mindi Abair: 8 p.m. Wednesday, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A N., Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets: $61-$105.50. (pvconcerthall.com) The Join Mindi Abair and friends Vincent Ingala, Adam Hawley and Lindsey Webster for a magical night of Christmas classics and all of their smooth jazz hits.

THEATER

“Elf: The Musical”: 7 p.m. today-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Buchholz High School, 5510 NW 27th Ave. Tickets: $15 general admission, $12 students, $10 group rate, free for BHS faculty. (buchholzdrama.com) “Elf” is a musical based on the motion picture of the same name, with a score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. The book is adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan from the 2003 film. The musical ran on Broadway and tours annually in the U.S.

“Shrek The Musical”: 8 p.m. today-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $23 general admission, $19 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek …” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.

“A Christmas Story”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 18, High Springs Playhouse, 130 NE First Ave, High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas.

“Some Old Black Man”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 18, Actors’ Warehouse, 2512 NE First Blvd. Tickets: $25 general admission, $20 students and ages 65 and older. (actorswarehouse.org) Calvin moves his 82-year-old doggedly independent, blue-collar, ailing father from Greenwald, Mississippi, into his Harlem penthouse, where an argument over what to eat for breakfast turns into a generational clash over race, opportunity and a decision that Calvin made years ago.

“Murder for Two — Holiday Edition”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays through Dec. 23, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $20-$50. (thehipp.org) One of Hippodrome Theatre’s most popular productions is returning with a festive twist. One actor plays the investigator, the other plays all 13 suspects, and both play the piano throughout! This “whodunit” is the perfect blend of music, mayhem, murder and mistletoe! Don’t miss the return of this killer musical comedy — with a holiday twist!

“A Christmas Carol”: 1 and 4 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17, 7 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 18, 1 and 7 p.m. Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 21, 1 and 4 p.m. Dec. 22, 2 p.m. Dec. 23, Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $20-$50. (thehipp.org) “Bah, humbug!” to dashing through the snow and sleigh rides in Florida. Staying true to the weighty themes of the original novel while delivering a gripping story, cheerful holiday music and genuine laughs for the whole family, “A Christmas Carol” at the Hippodrome Theatre is one of Gainesville’s favorite holiday traditions.

“Baby Shark Live! Christmas Show”: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $29.50-$59.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) Splash along with Baby Shark and Pinkfong as they journey into the sea for the holidays to sing and dance through some favorite tunes.

DANCE

“Cinderella”: 7 p.m. today, 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $15, free children 9 and younger with donation of new, unwrapped toy or book. (bit.ly/cinderella22a) Annual holiday production by Danscompany of Gainesville.

“The Hip Hop Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Monday, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Jacksonville. Tickets: $39.50-$69.50. (floridatheatre.com, 904-355-5661) A holiday mash-up for the whole family, “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” re-imagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. A dozen all-star dancers, an on-stage DJ and an electric violinist bring the traditional “Nutcracker” story to life in contemporary New York City. This evening-length show celebrates love, community and the magic of the holiday season.

BENEFITS 

Christmas on Bridge Street: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Suwannee Hardware and Feed, 10572 Bridge St., White Springs. Free entry; food and items for sale. (suwanneehardware.com) Proceeds will go to a local food bank. Family holiday event featuring food, vendors, crafts, music, Santa and a chili cook-off.

Tyler’s Hope Season of Hope 5K/15K Run: 9 a.m. Saturday, Gainesville Hawthorne Trail, 3400 SE 15th St. Cost: $30-$40. (runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/SeasonofHopeRun) Annual benefit run for the battle against Dystonia and Parkinson’s Disease.

Toy Soldier Run: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Gainesville Harley-Davidson, 4125 NW 97th Blvd. Cost: Spectators bring unwrapped toy, ride participants $10 per person or $15 per couple. (bit.ly/toysoldier22) Christmas party featuring brews from World of Beer, barbecue, live music from Sylinter Band, bounce house, face painting, special guests and more. Benefitting local needy families and children.

The Art Of You(th) Christmas Toy Drive: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, SwampCity Gallery Lounge, 716 N. Main St. Entrance: Unwrapped toy or cash donation. (bit.ly/toydrive22a) Christmas toy drive and pajama party celebrating Christmas, community and creativity with face painting, cake decorating, arts and craft stations, pictures with Santa, fashion show, photo shoots, bubbles, treats, raffle prizes, food, vendors and music.

ET CETERA

High Springs Community Movie Night: 5 p.m. today, High Springs Sports Complex, 19499 NW 238th St., High Springs. Free entry; food and drinks for sale. (bit.ly/hsmovie22) Annual family event featuring the film “Rise of the Guardians.”

Festival of Lights: 5-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 24, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center, 10405 Foster Barnes Drive, White Springs. Tickets: $4, free ages 2 and younger. (stephenfostercso.org) The lights come on at dusk and the last ticket sold nightly will be at 8:30 p.m. Dec. 24 will be a silent night with no activities in the park, but you are welcome to drive through or park and walk under the lights.

Holiday Market and Open House: 5-9 p.m. today, Shoppes at Thornebrook, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free entry; items for sale. (shoppesatthornebrook.com) Annual event featuring Thornebrook Square decorated in winter wonderland attire, music on the outdoor stage, and more than 50 artists and vendors.

Light the Village: 5-9 p.m. today, Haile Village Center, 5100 SW 91st Terrace. Free. (bit.ly/lightvillage22) Annual family holiday event featuring holiday music, train rides, face painting, Santa, hot cocoa and cookies, village restaurants and food trucks.

Christmas on Call Street: 6 p.m. today, 10 a.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. Sunday, downtown Starke. Free entry; food and items for sale. (bit.ly/callst22) Family holiday event featuring a new Christmas tree, Christmas light tours, live entertainment and more.

Christmas Express: 6-10 p.m. today-Saturday plus Dec. 16-23 and Dec. 26, Kirby Family Farm, 19630 NE 30th St., Williston. Tickets: $15.99 ages 10 and older in advance, $20 ages 10 and older at the gate, $10.99 ages 3-9 in advance, $15 ages 3-9 at the gate, free ages 2 and younger. (kirbyfarm.com/the-christmas-express) Annual Christmas train plus rides, a petting zoo, Santa and vendors. The highlight of the evening is a featured train ride through thousands of Christmas lights pulled by an old-fashioned locomotive.

Suwannee Lights: 6-10 p.m. daily through Dec. 31, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak. Tickets: $10 Friday adult tickets purchased online; $12 Friday adult tickets purchased at gate; $12 Saturday adult tickets purchased online; $15 Saturday adult tickets purchased at gate; $8 Sunday-Thursday adult tickets purchased online; $10 Sunday-Thursday adult tickets purchased at gate; $2 ages 4-12. (suwanneelights.com/tickets) Drive or walk through more than 10 million beautiful, colorful lights along with moving displays, Craft Village, Santa’s workshop and more.

UF Astronomy Public Night Observatory: 8:30-10 p.m. today, UF Astronomy Teaching Observatory, 211 Bryant Space Science Center. Free. (astro.ufl.edu) The Department of Astronomy operates an on-campus teaching observatory for educational and public programs.

Chiefland Christmas Festival: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Chiefland Trailhead, 121 S. Main St., Chiefland. Free; donations for parking accepted. (chieflandchamber.com) Annual family holiday event featuring Rudolph Run, Christmas festival, parade, pictures with Santa, tree lighting, bonfire, inflatables and more.

Breakfast with Santa: 8-10 a.m. Saturday-Sunday, Amber Brooke Farms, 3250 NE 140th Ave., Williston. Tickets: $30, free ages 2 and younger. (redwhiteandbluesfarm.myshopify.com) Throughout breakfast, Santa will make his way to each table to share time with all of the good boys and girls, and see him move throughout the cafe, waving hello as music fills the air. Admission to the farm for the day included with breakfast.

Water Lettuce Warrior Work Day: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Ichetucknee Springs State Park, 12087 SW U.S. 27, Fort White. Entrance: Free when signed up as a volunteer. (floridastateparks.org/events/water-lettuce-warriors-workday) A nuisance plant known as water lettuce is on the rise within Ichetucknee Springs State Park and the lower Ichetucknee River system. Teams will be stationed along strategic sections of the river. Some team members will work on the banks while others will be stationed on the river in non-motorized craft or will wade into hard-to-reach locations with hand tools. Wear river-appropriate clothing and sun protection, including river/water slippers, sun hats, sunblock, poison ivy block, and swim gear useful in wading situations. Bring a packed lunch. Drinking water is provided, but bring your own bottle.

Sweetwater Wetlands Tour: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 Williston Road. Tickets: Free with park admission of $5 per car or $2 per person for bicyclists, pedestrians and buses; registration required. (sweetwaterwetlands.org, 393-8437) In-person, socially distant tours. Online pre-registration through Eventbrite is required; only 10 spaces per tour are available. Guests not registered cannot participate in the tour. Masks required.

Trees and Treats: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Prairie Creek Preserve, 7204 SE CR 234. Free; registration required. (info@alachuaconservationtrust.org) Family holiday event featuring planting longleaf pine seedlings and decorating holiday cookies. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Touch a Truck: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Santa Fe College North Field, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free entry; $5 suggested donation per family; some activities cost extra. (gatortouchatruck.com) Family event featuring up-close encounters with large vehicles and a hands-on educational experience with an opportunity to climb into and/or on vehicles and talk with operators. Learn about the vehicles and pedestrian safety around large vehicles.

Christmas Present Hunt: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St., Palatka. Entrance: $5 per vehicle. (bit.ly/presenthunt) Search for more than 100 fake presents in the park. Turn in each fake present found to park staff for a chance to win prizes valued up to $100.

Merry Melrose Christmas Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, State Road 26, from Center Street to State Road 21, Melrose. Free. (melrosefl.com) Annual holiday parade.

Guided Hike on Rim Ramble: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, La Chua Trail Horse Barn, 4801 Camp Ranch Road. Cost: $4 per vehicle. (prairiefriends.org) Rangers from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park will lead adventures through the La Chua Trail. Limited space available to the first 25 people who are present at the time of each event. Heavily suggested items for the trip include hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera, drinking water and field guides. Insect repellent is highly recommended in warmer weather. Future hikes planned for Dec. 17; Dec. 24; Dec. 31; Jan. 7, 2023; Jan. 14, 2023; Jan, 21, 2023; Jan. 28, 2023; Feb. 4, 2023; Feb. 11, 2023; Feb. 18, 2023; Feb. 25, 2023; March 4, 2023; March 11, 2023; March 18, 2023; March 25, 2023; April 1, 2023; April 8, 2023; April 15, 2023; April 22, 2023; and April 30, 2023.

Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation Tour: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, 8528 E. County Road 225. Tickets: $25 adults, $10 ages 2-11, free ages 1 and younger; $45 motorized-vehicle tours. (carsonspringswildlife.org, 468-2827, contact@cswildlife.org) Take a tour — on foot or in a tour vehicle — of Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation with big-cat feeding demonstrations and up-close encounters with the animals.

Santa Visit: 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Ravine Gardens State Park, 1600 Twigg St., Palatka. Tickets: $5 per vehicle plus $3 suggested donation per child; reservations required. (bit.ly/presenthunt) Take your own photos and visit with Santa and friends. Activities will include crafts, games with prizes, music, goodies and more.

Historic Haile Homestead Tour — Holiday Decorations: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 31; closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 Archer Road. Entrance: $5 ages 12 and older, free ages 11 and younger. (hailehomestead.org) The Historic Haile Homestead is unique in the nation for its "Talking Walls.'' This year's holiday theme is “Angels.”

Holiday Bazaar: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, North Central Florida YMCA, 5201 NW 34th Blvd. Free entry; items for sale. (bit.ly/ymcabazaar) Holiday shopping event featuring local crafters, builders and bakers.

Rooterville Animal Sanctuary Self-Guided Tours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Rooterville Animal Sanctuary, 5579 Darwood St., Melrose. Cost: Suggested $15 donation per person or $45 for a family of four. (rooterville.org) Take a map of the sanctuary at the gate to see highlights of Rooterville to help you find your way. Guided tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Christmas Time on the Farm: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Amber Brooke Farms, 3250 NE 140th Ave., Williston. Tickets: $13 in advance, $15 at the door, free ages 2 and younger. (redwhiteandbluesfarm.myshopify.com) The farm is decorated with festive decor and ready for pictures with Santa, holiday arts-and-crafts fair, Christmas-themed photo ops and more.

Keystone Heights Holiday Extravaganza and Parade: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, downtown Keystone Heights. Free entry; food and items for sale. (keystoneheights.us) Annual family holiday event featuring vendor and craft show, food trucks, live music, Kiwanis Christmas parade, and viewing of “Arthur Christmas” at Keystone Beach with free hot cocoa, sugar cookies and popcorn.

Horse Feeding: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses, 20307 NW CR 235A, Alachua. Entrance: Bag of carrots. (millcreekfarm.org) The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, as well as horses retired from government service such as police patrol or state and federal parks.

Micanopy Holiday Stroll: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Micanopy Downtown Historic District, Northeast First Street, Micanopy. Free entry; food and items for sale. (bit.ly/micanopystroll) Annual holiday gathering featuring shopping, cafes, live music, plant sale, plein air artists, museum tours, bake sale, holiday bazaar and caricatures.

Two Hawk Holiday Celebration: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Two Hawk Hammock, 17950 NE 53rd Lane, Williston. Tickets: $10 general admission; $8 seniors, military and first responders; free ages 12 and younger. (bit.ly/3XGTIHE) Family holiday event featuring Dragon Fliers flying trapeze show, equestrian trick riding demonstration by Corey Cheval, live music, dancing, pony rides, wagon rides and more.

Alachua Christmas Parade: 2 p.m. Saturday, Main Street, Alachua. Free. (bit.ly/alachuaparade22) Annual holiday parade.

Holidays on the Prairie: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Visitor Center, 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy. Entrance: $6 per vehicle. (bit.ly/paynesprairie22a) Festive activities inspired by those who lived on Paynes Prairie in the mid-1800s featuring hot cider, roasted pecans, crafts, story time, spin the dreidel and a visit from Saint Nicholas.

Paleontology in the Park: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Depot Park, 870 SE Fourth St. Free. (bit.ly/paleonov21) Complete a fossil-finding expedition with the help of Depot Park Ambassadors while learning about the unique fossils hidden throughout the Blue Grotto.

Music 360: “Let It Snow!”: 3 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 general admission, $6.17 children and seniors. (showpass.com/music-360-let-it-snow) This 30-minute full-dome show features a variety of computer-generated scenery and artistic animation set to the music of the season.

Christmas at Butler: 4-7:15 p.m. Saturday, Butler Town Center, 3217 SW 35th Blvd. Free. (bit.ly/butlerxmas22) Family holiday event featuring food, festivities, visit from Santa and performances from Sun Country and Dance!nk.

Main Street Alachua Holiday Nights: 4-8 p.m. Saturday and Dec. 17, Main Street, Alachua. Free; food and items for sale. (holidaynightsonmain.com) Annual holiday event featuring live music, horse-and-carriage rides and shopping.

Movie in the Park: 5 p.m. Saturday, 25420 W. Newberry Road, Newberry. Free. (bit.ly/newberrymoviedec22) Monthly event featuring a family friendly film.

Music 360: “Gustav Holst's ‘The Planets’ ”: 5 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 general admission, $6.17 children and seniors. (showpass.com/music-360-gustav-holsts-the-planets) An immersive journey of sight and sound as you experience the majesty of Gustav Holst’s orchestral suite “The Planets” while visiting the planets of our Solar System.

An Old Fashion Christmas In The Park: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Worthington Springs Park, State Road 121, Worthington Springs. Free entry; food and items for sale. (bit.ly/parkxmas22) Annual family holiday event featuring games, food, shopping, Santa, gifts for all of the kids, Christmas carols and more.

Holiday Homes Tour: 5-8:30 p.m. Saturday, beginning at Matheson History Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Tickets: $15. (bit.ly/holidayhomes22) The total tour length will be approximately 90 minutes. A new group will depart every 15 minutes. Proceeds will benefit the Matheson History Museum.

Christmas in the Quarry: 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17-18, Dec. 20-21 and Dec. 23, Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, 4990 NE 180th Ave., Williston. Tickets: $10 general admission, $5 ages 6-13, free ages 5 and younger. (cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com) Explore a 20-acre botanical garden filled with twinkling lighted pathways, a cookie and cocoa station, a kid’s craft station, and Santa.

High Springs Candy Cane Christmas Parade: 6 p.m. Saturday, Main Street, downtown High Springs. Free. (bit.ly/highspringsparade) Annual holiday parade.

Haile Equestrian Center Movie Nights: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Haile Equestrian Center, 7680 SW 46th Blvd. Cost: Free for Haile Equestrian members, $40 for non-members. (haileequestrian.com) From classic horse movies to current films, these movie nights are all about horses. Popcorn and drinks provided, bring other movie snacks if you wish and a comfy blanket to watch with.

Holiday Open House: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park ,18700 S. CR 325, Cross Creek. Free. (marjoriekinnanrawlings.org) Annual holiday event featuring music, house decorations and lighting evoking the firing of an orange grove during a freeze.

Mayhem Ranch Winter Festival: 6-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday plus Dec. 16-18 and Dec. 21-23, Mayhem Ranch, 17830 SE 40th St., Morriston. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at the gate, free ages 2 and younger. (mayhemranchfl.com) Family holiday event featuring Santa and live reindeer, lighted hayride through the forest, Christmas carolers, live music, Santa’s workshops, live nativity, petting farm, outdoor movie theatre, farm train and more.

“Mars One Thousand One”: 7 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium at Santa Fe College, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7.19 ages 13-59; $6.17 ages 4-12, ages 60-plus, UF affiliates, military and first responders. (showpass.com/mars-1001) An immersive cinematic experience that follows an international crew of astronauts that is about to embark on the first interplanetary journey in history — the first manned mission to the surface of Mars.

Music 360: “Horizons of The Future”: 8 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 17, Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $7. (showpass.com/music360-horizons-of-the-future) This comfortable, elevating fulldome work winds through endless immersive landscapes and constantly evolving scenery accompanied by downtempo (pulsing, relaxing and ambient) music.

Felasco Family Winter Fest: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, 13900 Tech City Circle, Alachua. Free entry; food for sale. (bit.ly/felascowinter) Family holiday event featuring bounce house, food trucks, winter photo shoot, face painting, police vehicles, winter-themed hayride and more.

Black Santa Jax Visits Gainesville: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, 2153 SE Hawthorne Road. Tickets: $60-$90. (mtepublishing.biz/event-details) Black Santa Jax rides his sleigh into Gainesville. Kids will write a special letter to Santa, take a photo and have their name added to Santa's "Nice List.”

Alachua Conservation Trust Holiday Mingle: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Prairie Creek Lodge, 7204 SE County Road 234. Free; donations welcomed in support of ACT's conservation efforts. (alachuaconservationtrust.org) Outdoor celebration of this year's conservation victories with light food, drinks and live musical performance.

Light Up Tioga: 4-8 p.m. Sunday, Tioga Town Center, 13085 SW First Lane, Newberry. Free entry; food for sale. (bit.ly/lighttioga22) Annual event featuring tree lighting, Santa visit, live performances, food trucks, teddy bear mobile, train rides, pony rides, games and prizes, balloon artist, face painting, kettle corn, dance performances, festive activities, surprise appearances, arts and crafts, local vendors and more.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park Wednesday Bird Walks: 8:30-10 a.m. Wednesdays through May 31, 2023, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Road. Admission: $5 per vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, vans and bikes. (alachuaaudubon.org) Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida's premier birding hotspots during a two- to three-hour guided walking tour. Birders of all levels welcome. Walks are led by volunteers from Alachua Audubon Society with assistance from Sweetwater Wetlands Park rangers.

Barnyard Buddies: 3-4 p.m. Wednesdays through May 31, 2023, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/barnbuds) Weekly program where youngsters, with an adult, can meet and greet farm animals by helping staff with afternoon feeding. Animals love donations of carrots, squash, apples, sweet potatoes and melons.

Christmas Cantata and Live Nativity: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. Cost: $15 per person for dinner. (trinitygnv.org) A special performance from Trinity’s choir, hot chocolate before and after service, and a live Nativity.

ART

A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center: 4:30 p.m. Saturday event featuring “Student Art Exhibition and Youth Showcase.” Students from A Quinn Jones Center will share their works featuring their vision of art and community. From landscapes to portraits and works with acrylics and oil paintings, the afternoon will feature local youths showcasing their talents in music, dance, spoken word and more. Special visit from local celebrities. 1013 NW Seventh Ave. (955-6840)

Artisans' Guild Gallery: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday Second Sunday Art Market featuring local artists and makers, food trucks and live music. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 224 NW Second Ave. (378-1383, artisansguildgallery.com)

Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention: “Wandering the Milky Way,” a tour of the solar system, on display through Jan. 1, 2023; “Voyages,” a trip through space and time, on display through Jan. 1, 2023; “Animationland” on display through Jan. 3, 2023. Tickets: $12.50, $10 seniors and college students, $7.50 ages 5-17, free ages 4 and younger. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. 811 N. Main St. (371-8001, cademuseum.org)

Cedar Key Arts Center: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. today open studio for Plein Air/Sketch and Play with Clay; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday open studio for Play with Clay; 9 a.m. Wednesday Boat Builders; 2:30-5 p.m. Wednesday Shark Sewing Club; “Fiber Show” and “Still Painting After All These Years” by Bill Roberts on display. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 457 Second St., Cedar Key. (543-5801, cedarkeyartscenter.org)

Florida Museum of Natural History: Standing exhibits include the “Our Changing Climate: Past and Present,” “Butterfly Rainforest,” “Florida Fossils: Evolution of Life & Land,” “Northwest Florida: Waterways & Wildlife,” “South Florida People & Environments,” “Exploring Our World,” “Fossil Plant Garden” and “Florida Wildflower & Butterfly Garden.” All standing exhibits are free, but regular admission fees apply to enter the “Butterfly Rainforest” exhibit: $14 for adults ($12 for Florida residents and seniors) and $7 for ages 3-17. Admission is free for museum members and UF students with a valid Gator 1 card. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3215 Hull Road. (floridamuseum.ufl.edu, 846-2000)

Gainesville Fine Arts Association Gallery: “2022 Winter Showcase” on display through Dec. 22. Gallery hours are 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 1314 S. Main St. (gainesvillefinearts.org, info@gainsevillefinearts.org)

Harn Museum of Art: “Speechless: Text & Image in Global Culture,” a fascinating look at how words, aesthetics and materials have supported religious, political and socio-cultural agendas for millennia, on display through Dec. 30; “Global Perspectives: Highlights from the Contemporary Collection,” a celebration of global interconnectedness, on display through Oct. 1, 2023; “She/Her/Hers: Women in the Arts of China,” which unravels the intersecting roles women played as subjects, artists and consumers of art in traditional, modern and contemporary China, on display through March 24, 2024; “AWE-some : time :: materiality :: meaning” on display Nov. 22-May 14, 2023. “AWE-some” celebrates new photographs recently bought for, or donated to, the Harn’s permanent collection. Its theme is recognition of several brilliant, dedicated photographers, their time, their actual prints (not on a screen), and why they made them. “AWE-some” spawns self-reflection and an appreciation for the vision and artistry of 15 fine-art photographers; “Posing Beauty in African American Culture” on display Jan. 31, 2023–June 4, 2023. “Posing Beauty” explores the contested ways in which African and African American beauty have been represented in historical and contemporary contexts through a diverse range of media, including photography, video, fashion and advertising. This exhibit challenges the relationship between beauty and art by examining the representation of beauty and different attitudes about aesthetics through the themes of “Constructing a Pose,” “Body and Image” and “Modeling Beauty and Beauty Contests”; “Under the Spell of the Palm Tree: The Rice Collection of Cuban Art” on display July 11, 2023–Jan. 7, 2024. “Under the Spell of the Palm Tree” is drawn exclusively from the collection of Susie and Mitchell Rice, and offers a glimpse into the complexity of culture and history that has inspired Cuban art throughout the 20th century and into the 21st century. Guest curators Gabriela Azcuy and David Horta will utilize the work of a broad range of artists in the Rice Collection to display an inclusive view of Cuban art, reflecting on its current dynamic and the existence of new geographies as an essential part of its reality. Through more than 70 works representing 53 artists, the exhibition will present the narrative of a “crossing” — a virtual crossing of the seas as well as a crossing of generations, of artists living or having lived both in Cuba and in the Diaspora; “Gateway to Himalayan Art” on display Feb. 6, 2024-July 2024. “Gateway to Himalayan Art” provides an entry point into understanding the art of Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Mongol and the surrounding regions, and its cultural connections to other parts of Asia. The exhibition features about 80 works of art in the Rubin Museum of Art collection, including sculptures, paintings, manuscripts and ritual implements. It further integrates first-person Himalayan, Tibetan and Inner Asian voices and commissions from contemporary artists working in traditional forms. This exhibition aims to acquaint visitors with the fundamental visual language and meanings of Himalayan art, the materials and techniques used and the purposes for the objects' creation. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 3259 Hull Road. (392-9826)

Hippodrome Gallery: “Hipp Holiday Art Show,” an exhibition by Hipp staff, friends and family, on display through December. Gallery hours are noon-10 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Hippodrome Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. (thehipp.org)

Matheson History Museum: “Return to Forever: Gainesville’s Great Southern Music Hall,” showcasing dozens of John Moran‘s performance photos from his two years as the Great Southern Music Hall house photographer. Also featured is a display of Bo Diddley artifacts, including one of Bo’s signature square box guitars. Written by music journalist Bill DeYoung and designed by historian Rick Kilby, this unique exhibit celebrates a golden age in the University City’s musical history, the likes of which may never be seen again; “We're Tired of Asking: Black Thursday and Civil Rights at the University of Florida,” which follows one slice of African American history in Gainesville, currently on display online and in person; “When Johnny Came Marching Home: Some Gave All – All Gave Some,” remembering those who came home from war with both physical and mental wounds, on display outside. Gallery hours are 1 to 4 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280, mathesonmuseum.org)

Melrose Bay Art Gallery: Gallery Special Pre-Holiday Gifts Show held through Dec. 31. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday or by appointment. 103 State Road 26, Melrose. (475-3866, melrosebayartgallery.com)

Santa Fe College’s Blount Hall: A large art collection from local collector Hector Puigon display. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Corner of West University Avenue and North Sixth Street.

Sweetwater Print Cooperative: "Holiday Art Market," an annual holiday show and sale, on display through Jan. 25, 2023. Gallery hours: By appointment. 117 S. Main St. (514-3838)

UPCOMING CONCERTS

Voices Rising Community Chorus: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, 3 p.m. Dec. 17, First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. Tickets: $10-$20 suggested donation. (vrccgainesville.org) Holiday concert featuring music for Christmas, Hanukkah and Winter Solstice.

“Holiday Harmonies IX — It's Party Time”: 2 and 4:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1521 NW 34th St. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 students and children. (gainesvillechorus.com, barbergators.com) Together again for their ninth holiday concert, Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus (women) and Barbergators Chorus (men) unite to share four-part and eight-part harmonies. This concert will feature both choruses, quartets and a combined chorus.

Live and Local Concert Series: 7-9 p.m. Jan. 6, Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E. University Ave. Free. (bit.ly/3XAGCvF) Folk and country showcase with Clay Dixon and the Piccadillies, The Front Porch Backsteppers and Kris Lane.

Concerto Budapest Symphony Orchestra: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$60 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Concerto Budapest is one of the most progressive and versatile symphonic orchestras in the world. The young musicians are characterized by the passion, energy and commitment they bring to the stage. Their repertoire traverses well-loved masterpieces to newly composed works of the 21st century.

International Guitar Night XXIII: 7 and 9 p.m. Jan. 20, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) The intercontinental super-group of four acoustic guitarists has returned for its 23rd year of touring with Stephanie Jones (Australia), Olli Soikkeli (Finland), Jocelyn Gould (Canada) and Jesús Guerrero (Spain). The guitar greats take the stage displaying their individual diverse styles and then perform together, mesmerizing audiences with an evening of grandeur.

Bobby Rush: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) With special guest Jontavious Willis. Thanks to Bobby Rush’s long memory and quick wit, he’s hailed as one of the blues’ best storytellers, which shines through during his live shows. The two-time Grammy-winning legend and Blues Hall of Famer incorporates humor, prolific guitar and harmonica playing into his stunning performances.

Interpreti Veneziani: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) When Interpreti Veneziani takes center stage, prepare for remarkable interpretations of Vivaldi, Bach and other Baroque composers. The ensemble has gained a reputation for its exuberance and Italian brio characterizing their performances.

Isaiah Sharkey: 7 and 9 p.m. Jan. 28, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Isaiah Sharkey and his band fuse their background in rock, gospel, jazz, R&B, blues and funk to create an original sound with an unmistakable dose of soul. Sharkey toured as lead guitarist with D’Angelo and John Mayer.

Viano String Quartet: 2 p.m. Feb. 5, 2023, Squitieri Studio Theatre in the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Viano String Quartet performs chamber with a lust for life that few can rival. Formed in 2015 at the prestigious Colburn Conservatory of Music in Los Angeles, the quartet has built a career on touring the globe and winning top prizes at international competitions, including the coveted First Prize at the 2019 Banff International String Quartet Competition.

Delfeayo Marsalis: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 9, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) For Delfeayo Marsalis, music runs in his family, and it’s in his blood! Marsalis is a Grammy award-winning trombonist, composer and producer who has toured internationally with jazz icons such as Ray Charles, Art Blakey, Max Roach, Elvin Jones and Slide Hampton, as well as leading his own group.

Kings Return: 7 and 9 p.m. Feb. 24, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Kings Return’s tagline is simple: “We sing in stairwells.” The unique, harmonizing group turned Internet sensation captures the essence of an old-school a cappella quartet with sounds inspired by gospel and R&B, and has a reputation for performing diverse arrangements from “Ave Maria” to “How Deep is Your Love” and “God Bless America.” Kings Return has been featured on NPR and has performed on stages (and stairwells) nationwide.

Academy of St. Martin in the Fields: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$60 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Renowned for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the greatest orchestral music, the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields has gained an enviable reputation for its distinctive, polished and refined sound. Combine this world-class orchestra with Johannes Moser, who is a passionate and fiercely graceful artist, and you’ll experience a performance like never before.

Jessica Vosk: 7 and 9 p.m. March 2, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Jessica Vosk is a celebrated singer and actress known for her starring role on Broadway and in the national tour of “Wicked.” Her strengths are in her stage presence and in her natural humor. She draws audiences in with her unique voice and by sharing real-life stories about her pandemic experience, journey to Broadway, her love life and her formative years.

Itzhak Perlman and Rohan De Silva: 7:30 p.m. March 6, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Beyond his technical mastery, legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman is known for his musical eloquence. Performing with Perlman is grandmaster pianist Rohan De Silva.

Stacey Kent: 7 and 9 p.m. March 9, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) When talking about Stacey Kent, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the accolades she’s earned during her 20-plus years as a jazz vocalist. The Gold, Double Gold and Platinum-selling artist has released hit records on legendary jazz label Blue Note, garnered a global following of diehard fans and received endless praise from critics along the way.

“Celebrating Elvis Presley’s Records from Sun Studio”: 7 and 9 p.m. March 10, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by Tyler Hilton with the Hot Club of Cowtown. Known for its legendary music collection, including the early albums of Elvis Presley, Sun Studio left an indelible mark on the history of rock ’n’ roll. In 2005, Hilton was cast to play the legendary rock star in the blockbuster biopic “Walk the Line” (starring Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash). Now, he has teamed up with hot jazz and Western swing trio Hot Club of Cowtown to bring Elvis’ greatest hits from the Sun Studio years to life on the stage.

The Kingdom Choir: 7:30 p.m. March 20, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) London’s The Kingdom Choir were catapulted to worldwide fame after their show-stopping performance of “Stand By Me” at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Since that day, the choir’s infectious joy and spirit, matched only by their raw gospel spiritual style, has taken them around the world performing soulful renditions of traditional gospel classics and popular contemporary hits.

San Salvador: 7 and 9 p.m. April 13, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) The members of San Salvador have made it their mission to search for what they call “universal folklore,” rooted in their region’s deep troubadour traditions yet oscillating between cultures and musical genres. Singing in Occitan­ — a language that is spoken primarily in southern France — this group of six singers composes hypnotic vocal harmonies cascading over shifting patterns of compelling polyrhythmic percussion.

Love Canon: 7 and 9 p.m. April 14, 2023, UpStage at the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $50 for 7 p.m. showing, $35 for 9 p.m. showing, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Love Canon takes you back in time. The group’s performances reimagine pop hits of the ’80s and ’90s. Additionally, they deliver a fresh take on classics, crossing genres to recount music from the likes of Peter Gabriel, Billy Joel, Depeche Mode and Paul Simon.

Risa Hokamura: 2 p.m. April 16, 2023, Squitieri Studio Theatre in the Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) At just 22 years old, Risa Hokamura is on the short-list of the world’s great violinists. She picked up the instrument at the age of 3 and by 10, Hokamura was already capturing top prizes at competitions in her native Japan.

Angélique Kidjo: 2:30 p.m. April 18, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$60 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Five-time Grammy Award winner Angélique Kidjo is one of the greatest artists in international music today — a creative force with 16 albums to her name. Her striking voice, stage presence, and fluency have cross-pollinated West African traditions of her childhood in Benin, with elements of American R&B, funk and jazz, as well as influences from Europe and Latin America.

UPCOMING EVENTS

High Springs Art Walk: Noon-5 p.m. Dec. 17, downtown High Springs. Free entry. (facebook.com/HighSpringsDowntownMerchants) Seasonal monthly event featuring local artists gracing sidewalks and storefronts with some locations featuring live painting and demonstrations.

“The Nutcracker”: 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17-18, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$50. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by Dance Alive National Ballet. The all-time family favorite returns. Clara saves the nutcracker prince, and to thank her, he brings her on a magical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy puts on a regal show.

Class With Clara: 4 p.m. Dec. 17-18, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25; free for spectators. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Presented by Dance Alive National Ballet. Join the charming Clara, heroine of “The Nutcracker,” for a princess-style ballet class onstage in the Kingdom of the Sweets. Training not required. Street shoes acceptable, but you can dance in your socks or ballet shoes. Company dancers will be available to help children as well, so they will have the most possible attention given.

Sunday Assembly: 11 a.m. Dec. 18, Pride Center located in the Liberty Center, 3131 NW 13th St. Free. (SundayAssembly32601@gmail.com, sagainesville.weebly.com) Sunday Assembly will host guest speaker Dr. Abby Powell, an avian ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey. The title of her talk will be “Masters of Migration: Amazing Shorebird Journeys.” Music will be provided by Sunday Assembly musicians with the opportunity to sing along. Vaccinations, boosters and face masks are recommended and encouraged. It also is possible to attend via Zoom.

Birds and Brews: 4:15 p.m. Jan. 1, 2023, First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St. Free. (facebook.com/FirstMagnitudeBrewing/events) Bird walks. Meet in front of the metal Maggie sign by the entrance to The Source. The group, led by volunteers from the Alachua Audubon Society, will identify birds at Depot Park. Some binoculars and bird guides provided, but feel free to bring any other equipment you wish.

Shen Yun: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3-4, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $84-$184. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Exquisite beauty from the heavens, profound wisdom from dynasties past, timeless legends and ethnic traditions all spring to life through classical Chinese dance, enchanting live orchestral music, authentic costumes and patented interactive backdrops. Revisit a time when scholars and artists sought harmony with the Tao, or the “Way” of the universe, and when divine beings walked upon the earth to inspire humanity.

“Romeo And Juliet”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays Jan. 22-Feb. 12, 2023, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $23 general admission, $19 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) An age-old vendetta between two powerful families erupts into bloodshed. A group of masked Montagues risk further conflict by gatecrashing a Capulet party. A young, lovesick Romeo Montague falls instantly in love with Juliet Capulet, who is due to marry her father’s choice, the County Paris.

“Stomp”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 3, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75 general admission, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) “Stomp” is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty and utterly unique — an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments — matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps — to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.

“You Can’t Take It With You”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 3-26, 2023, High Springs Playhouse, 130 NE First Ave, High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) At first the Sycamores seem mad, but it is not long before we realize that if they are mad, the rest of the world is madder. In contrast to these delightful people are the unhappy Kirbys. The plot shows how Tony, attractive young son of the Kirbys, falls in love with Alice Sycamore and brings his parents to dine at the Sycamore home on the wrong evening. The shock sustained by the Kirbys, who are invited to eat cheap food, shows Alice that marriage with Tony is out of the question. The Sycamores, however, though sympathetic to Alice, find it hard to realize her point of view. Meantime, Tony, who knows the Sycamores are right and his own people wrong, will not give her up, and in the end Mr. Kirby is converted to the happy madness of the Sycamores, particularly since he happens in during a visit by an ex-Grand Duchess earning her living as a waitress. No mention has as yet been made of the strange activities of certain members of the household engaged in the manufacture of fireworks; nor of the printing press set up in the parlor; nor of Rheba the maid and her friend Donald; nor of Grandpa’s interview with the tax collector when he tells him he doesn’t believe in the income tax.

“Alice”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $25-$45 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Travel down the rabbit hole MOMIX-style with their newest creation, “Alice,” inspired by the classic story “Alice in Wonderland.” As Alice’s body grows and shrinks and grows again, dancers extend themselves by means of props, ropes and other dancers.

Demetri Martin: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Demetri Martin is one of the most recognizable comedic voices in a generation. Blending cerebral and fanciful jokes with hilarious songs and inventive illustrations, Martin has toured the world and released four one hour-long standup comedy specials, including his latest for Netflix, “The Overthinker.”

“Women Playing Hamlet”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 17-March 5, 2023, Actors’ Warehouse, 2512 NE First Blvd. Tickets: $25 general admission, $20 students and ages 65 and older. (actorswarehouse.org) Show description TBA.

“Horse of a Different Color”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $27-$49. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by Dance Alive National Ballet. A contemporary performance showcasing the thrill and excitement of change set to music by Stella Sung.

“Disney’s Winnie the Pooh”: 2 p.m. Feb. 19, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$75 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger come to life in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation. Featuring the Sherman Brothers’ classic Grammy Award-winning music with further songs by A.A. Milne, this beautifully fresh stage variation is told with stunning life-sized puppetry through the eyes of the characters in a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood.

“Dreamgirls”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays March 24-April 16, 2023, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $23 general admission, $19 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) A young female singing trio from Chicago get their big break at an amateur competition and begin singing backup vocals for James “Thunder” Early. However, things begin to spin out of control when their agent, Curtis Taylor Jr., makes Deena, and not Effie, the star of what will become known as “The Dreams.” Through gospel, R&B, smooth pop, disco and more,”Dreamgirls” explores themes of ambition, hope and betrayal, all set in the glamorous and competitive world of the entertainment industry.

“Swan Lake”: 7:30 p.m. March 25, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $35-$70. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by Dance Alive National Ballet. “Swan Lake” is the story of a prince whose fiancee has been transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer. With guest artists Oksana Maslova and Sterling Baca from Philadelphia Ballet, this performance transforms the stage into a world of beauty and artistry.

“Carmen”: 7:30 p.m. March 31-April 1, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by UF Opera Theatre and UF Symphony Orchestra. Set in 1830 Spain, “Carmen” is a roller-coaster ride of desire, passion and the relentless hand of fate.

“My Fair Lady”: 7:30 p.m. April 3, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $45-$75 general admission, $20 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live,” “My Fair Lady” tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But, who is really being transformed?

“Death by Chocolate”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, April 7-30, 2023, High Springs Playhouse, 130 NE First Ave, High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) Members of the newly renovated Meadowbrook Health Resort are dropping like flies, including famed chef Edith Chiles! On the eve of the grand re-opening, this is not the best advertisement. It’s up to John Stone, the manager, to find the cause and the murderer. Delightfully sarcastic and cynical, Stone finds himself teaming up with Ed Parlor, mystery writer and amateur sleuth, in a wacky race against time. The clues point to a sinister box of chocolates, and the suspects include all the outlandish characters working for the resort. Could it be Lady Riverdale, owner of the resort and a woman with dark secrets? Or Ralph Deadwood, gym instructor and all around cad? Dick Simmering, the aerobics instructor? Anne, the panic-stricken nurse? Or could it be “Sweet Pea” Meadowbrook, overweight and grieving daughter of the recently deceased founder of the resort? Death by Chocolate combines all of the elements of classic murder mysteries with a scathing satire of today’s health crazes.

“Āhuti”: 7:30 p.m. April 22, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $20-$40 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Performed by The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble in collaboration with The Chitrasena Dance Company. Nrityagram is a thriving community of artists dedicated to the practice of Odissi, a 2,000-year-old classical dance of India. The village is home to a school inspired by the Gurukula, an ancient teaching paradigm, and an internationally renowned dance ensemble. The mission is to nurture dance professionals through the gurukula system, perform on a global stage, and forge a community through outreach.

Alan Cumming: 7:30 p.m. April 23, 2023, Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Road. Tickets: $30-$60 general admission, $10 UF students. (performingarts.ufl.edu) Alan Cumming is not acting his age. Hailed by Time Magazine as one of the three most fun people in show business, the Tony and Olivier award-winning theatre actor equally enjoys the stage and the big screen. However, he prefers center stage, which allows him to connect with audiences. Join Cumming for a hilarious night of storytelling, music and hijinks. This performance includes adult content.

“Clue”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays May 26-June 11, 2023, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $23 general admission, $19 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie that was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, “Clue” is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. The tale begins at a remote mansion where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party with murder and blackmail on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Led by the butler, Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up. “Clue” is the comedy whodunit that will leave both cult-fans and newcomers in stitches as they try to figure out … who did it, where and with what!

“Nunsense: The Musical”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, June 2-25, 2023, High Springs Playhouse, 130 NE First Ave, High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) The show is a fundraiser put on by the Little Sisters of Hoboken to raise money to bury sisters accidently poisoned by the convent cook, Sister Julia (Child of God). Updated with new jokes, additional lyrics, two new arrangements and a brand new song, this madcap musical was recorded for television starring Rue McClanahan as the Mother Superior.

“Kinky Boots”: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays July 21-Aug. 13, 2023, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $23 general admission, $19 seniors, $12 students. (gcplayhouse.org) Based on the Miramax motion picture of the same name, written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth. Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited his father’s shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy. Trying to live up to his father’s legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos. As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair find that they have more in common than they realized … and discover that, when you change your mind, you can change your whole world. With a little compassion and a lot of understanding, this unexpected pair learns to embrace their differences and creates a line of sturdy stilettos unlike any the world has ever seen! But in the end, their most sensational achievement is their friendship.

“The Wind in The Willows”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, July 27-Aug. 7, 2023, High Springs Playhouse, 130 NE First Ave, High Springs. Tickets: $15 general admission, $10 students and ages 65 and older. (highspringsplayhouse.com) The famous English gentlemen, Mr. Toad of Toad Hall, sees his first motor car and promptly falls uncontrollably in love with motoring, so he buys a car that he then crashes. Another car is bought, followed by another crash and another — and another! For once at the throttle, Toad in his goggles and duster is a man possessed. Soon he is ruled off the road. Then he steals a car. For this he’s sent to jail for 20 years. While there, he learns that weasels have taken over his old family home and all of his friends have been thrown out. But the jailor’s daughter adores Toad for his charm and dash, and she helps him escape. In an exciting climax, Toad, Ratty, Badger and Mole retake Toad Hall by storm.

“Lungs”: 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, July 28-Aug. 13, 2023, Actors’ Warehouse, 2512 NE First Blvd. Tickets: $25 general admission, $20 students and ages 65 and older. (actorswarehouse.org) Show description TBA.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Scene Calendar: Holiday music, events and art set for this week