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Central Florida Edition September 2018
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Central Florida Edition September 2018
Hot Bodies “This is the point when real muscle growth takes place - if you're up for the challenge!”
What’s content: • What’s Hot Central Florida • Hot Bodies • Queens We Love • Frivolist
this month’s features: • Miss Florida F.I. Pageant • Broadway in Orlando • Broadway in Tampa
hot shots • Around Tampa Bay with Amy De Milo • Balance Tampa • Southern Nights Orlando • GBar St. Pete
HOT ...everything you need to plan your month
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The 46th anniversary of the Female Impersonator Miss Florida Pageant will be taking place on Sunday, September 30 and Monday, October 1 at the beautiful new home for Miss Florida Pier 66 on the 17th Street Causeway. The pageant is nicknamed “The Social Event of the Season� attracting some of the top named female impersonators, and Movie, TV and Fashion stars from across the USofA and beyond. In the past Miss Florida had celebrity judges including KC and Sunshine Band, Boy George, and Sylvester. Although many pageant systems have started since, they have followed the lead of Miss Florida F.I. Although Miss Florida F.I. is a state title, the system has always been recognized as a national pageant. Former winners have gone onto great careers in TV, movies, and coveted lead roles in shows and cabarets including Las Vegas and P-Town, and have traveled not only across the state of Florida but around the world. The current owners plan to uphold the vision of original owners Keith Landon and Rene Rodriguez include, they are: Alyson Thomas, a seasoned professional in the art form of female impersonation herself for 40 years, brings professionalism, style, stability, and experience to the pageant. She is also known throughout the country as
Kalah Mendoza, Miss Florida F.I. 2017.
< Antonio Edwards, Mr. Florida M.E 2017.
a leading promoter and supporter to many who have gone on to become national title holders and a coach to newcomers. Well respected by everyone in the art form, a hands on owner with an eye for detail, coupled with personality, hospitality and vision. Scott Holland, whose knowledge and experience in the Florida market includes: media and editorial experience, judge to many pageantry systems, a pageant coordinator, public relations, professionalism, and a love for entertainment that cannot be touched. Scott is also Hotspots Media's very own Associate Publisher. Victor Zepka and Gary Santis who have owned the pageant for the last 26 years. They bring 26 years of hands on working knowledge of the system, and the experience that's makes Miss Florida F.I. rich in history, and memories. Victor brings long standing established relationships with sponsors, vendors and local business and community leaders to the pageant. Gary continues to create amazing sets, outrageous productions, state of the art sound and lighting, encompassing a show and a night of entertainment not to be missed. When asked about any new things happening in the Miss Florida System, Alyson Thomas, President, said “We have many exciting plans in the years to come that I think the community is going to love. So far, since resurrecting the Miss Florida system 5 years
ago, we have also brought back the Miss Florida F.I, at Large pageant 3 years ago that we produce at the Parliament House, and this year we are excited to be producing for the second Time, the Mr Florida Male Entertainer pageant that will be held, on Sunday, September 30 also at Pier 66.” I asked Miss Florida F.I. 2017, the talented Kalah Mendoza, why it was so important for her to become Miss Florida F.I and she said: “From the moment I moved to Florida, I knew I wanted to be Miss Florida F.I. I attended in 2014 to do my research, and then started competing in 2015. I was lucky enough to make the top 5 that year, and the following, and on my third try I was fortunate to be crowned Miss Florida 2017/18, and my life changed. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to travel the state and meet so many people and make so many good friends. For my sisterhood, the former Miss Florida's, Thank you for accepting me with open arms. For my successor, I wish a fabulous year filled with love and surprises.”
The Mr. Florida M.E. and Miss Florida F.I. pageant will be held Sunday and Monday, September 30 and October 1 at the beautiful Pier 66 on the 17th street causeway. To reserve your hotel room (which is only $119 per night until SEPTEMBER 13) at book.passkey.com/go/pageantSept2018. To purchase tickets go to MissFloridaFIPageant.com or call Scott at 954-478-4587.
hot shots photos by tony fowler
Balance Tampa Bay Masquerade Gala
what’s hot everything you need to know
to plan your month
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Welcome once again to the What's Hot column, where we keep you in the loop with lots of important nightlife events in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and points in between. We're also your connection to many activities and events organized by local LGBT service organizations and chambers of commerce. Want to know What's Hot this month? Read on! Friday, Aug.31 Southern Nights Orlando's #FlexFridays presents the 2018 White Party with NO COVER before 11pm 21+ (18+ Welcomed). They will feature drag shows at 11pm & 12:30am starring Roxxxy Andrews, Maya Andrews, Sassy Devine & Tasha Long, and music by DJs Ants & Sledge. Saturday, Sept. 1 The Flamingo Resort presents
a “Labor Day Luau Pig Roast” with a DJ, Male Entertainers and hosted by Iman featuring the Blu Theater players. The Parliament house presents international house recording artist Beth Sacks lie in concert. In the Footlight
Theater, since most of the cast will be in Chicago for Continental, Darcel has some very special guests: Jiggly Caliente, Jasmine International, Chevelle Brooks and Mulan Nguyen. Sunday, Sept. 2 The Parliament House presents their annual “Free Pig Roast.” This has become a
P-House tradition on the biggest T-dance of the year. The night will feature the free pig roast and buffet from 69pm, the footlight players at 7pm, 10pm and 12 midnight and DJ Brianna spinning till 3am, with no cover all night! Wednesday, Sept. 5 Southern Nights Tampa presents So You Think You Can Drag Semi FinalsMUSICALS Theme! The night will be hosted by Jade Embers & Gia Banks, and will feature Season 2 Winner Artty! Tonights winner will win $250 Cash Prize, and a booking for #SavageSaturdays!
Thursday, Sept. 6 Don't forget that Thursdays are 80's night at Barcodes Orlando with classic music videos, TV, commercials and a whole lot more. As always, there is no cover at Barcodes and free parking. While you are at Barcodes, check out their store for lots of fun stuff! Friday, Sept. 7 Southern Nights Tampa presents NeiBEARhood Takeover: Catchers & Pitchers, where they invite you to wear Blue if you're a catcher & Red if you're a pitcher. Go and
celebrate as Tampa hosts the Tampa 2018 Gay Softball World Series with thousands of hot men from all over the country! Sports Gear Strongly Encouraged. The night will star Bear P*rn Star Hunter Scott, DJ Walter Winston, and feature a 1am Strike Out Challenge. 21+ Only, and FREE before 10. Starting tonight and going through Sunday, the Orlando Improv (9101 International Drive Suite 2310, Pointe Orlando) presents comedian Lavell Crawford. Lavell gained huge national exposure on NBC's hit reality series "Last Comic Standing." Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at: theimprovorlando.com or by calling (407) 480-5233. Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party bringing the magic closer to
fans than ever before through dynamic and immersive moments that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats. Produced by Feld Entertainment Inc., the worldwide leader in live touring family entertainment, Disney On Ice is once again elevating the ice show experience with brand-new engaging elements that will fascinate both newcomers and seasoned guests alike. The show will play at Orlando's Amway Center from today through the 9, for six performances. Tickets, which start at $17, can be purchased at: Amwaycenter.com. Legendary songwriter, recording artist, and performer, Paul Simon will be bringing his Homeward Bound â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Farewell Tour, to Tampa's Amelie Arena. According to Simon, the Homeward Bound â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The
Farewell Tour is a fitting pinnacle of a performing career that began in the early 1960s and has coincided with his artistic journey as a songwriter and recording artist until the present day. Tickets start at $50 at AmalieArena.com. Paul will also be bring his show to the Amay Center on September 11 with tickets starting at $50 at AmwayCenter.com. Saturday, Sept. 8 The Hope & Help Gala (The Gala) is part of the Healthy Choices campaign and is one of the many ways the community can get involved in the fight to improve community health and quality of life. THE GALA advances Hope & Help's previous signature fundraiser, Headress Ball. They have changed the name and programming of their signature fundraiser to better connect with the current philanthropic community, develop new supporters, and grow as an organization with the public's increased demand for quality health and wellness services. As one of the region's largest and oldest health service not-forprofit organizations, Hope & Help has positioned itself to meet today's health challenges head on. This year, they expanded their service offerings to include a brand new medical clinic with quality, affordable services for youths, adults, and seniors. Additionally, they now offer services in Tampa and St. Petersburg. With your continued financial support, they will accomplish even more! THE GALA will be held at 7:30pm at the Rosen
Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, Orlando. Tickets are $500 for VIP Admission and $250 for General Admission, and can be purchased at: hopeandhelp.org/gala. Murray and Peter present “Crossdresser For Christ – The Musical” starring Ginger Minj from Season 7 of RuPaul's Drag Race on VH1 at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts from today
through September 16. It's an evening of music and outrageous comedy as Ginger takes sinners and saints on a wild ride through the adventures of her life. It's a one-woman drag show – with 2 other actors … and a piano! All ages welcome. Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm. To purchase tickets, which start at $28, go to DragFans.com. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of her GRAMMYwinning, critically acclaimed album Ingénue, k.d. lang brings her live performance of the platinum-selling record to Dr. Phillips Center. Audiences
will experience the album performed live in its entirety, including the Grammy Award–winning hit "Constant Craving"—along with hits from her 2004 Nonesuch debut album, Hymns of the 49th Parallel. Guitar virtuoso Mak Grgić will join her as the opening act. The concert begins at 8pm and tickets, which start at $39.50, can be purchased at DrPhillips.org. Neema's Amor, upscale Latin Night at Stonewall Bar Orlando presents International DJ and Rupaul's Drag Race superstar Nina Flowers live. Doors open at 9pm $10 cover till 10pm, and $15 thereafter. On the main stage outside showtime will be 12am with Kandy Ho, Lineysha Sparx and Cara Cavalli.
$100 in Cash & Prizes. Doors open at 8pm, sign up at 9pm, show time at 12am hosted by Jade Embers & Gia Banks. NO COVER 21+ (18+ Welcomed). Thursday, Sept. 13 She speaks! After a year of national scandal and following a sold-out run of stand-up shows and rave reviews around the globe, Kathy Griffin is returning with the much-anticipated
Sunday, Sept. 9 Murray and Peter present WAR on the Catwalk: the Queens from Season 10
hosted by Miz Cracker and Monet X Change, and starring Vanjie, Vixen, Blair, Dusty and Monique. The event takes place at Plaza Live (425 Bumby Avenue, Orlando) and tickets are on sale at: TicketFly.com Wednesday, Sept. 12 Southern Nights TAMPA presents So You Think You Can Drag WILD CARD. This is the last chance to qualify to enter the grand finale. Win
North American continuation of her “Laugh Your Head Off” World Tour to the Dr. Phillips Center at 8pm. Armed with the story of the now infamous and controversial photo (yes…THAT photo), the fiery redheaded, award-winning, American comedian is bringing the story of the photo heard 'round the world and the fallout that followed, along with breaking down everything in the pop-culture landscape from Trump to the Kardashians. Griffin tells all in this more than 2-hour noholds-barred show in the raw, honest, and engaging way fans have always loved
about her. Tickets, which start at $45, can be purchased at DrPhillips.org. Friday, Sept. 14 Carlos Vives, the two-time Grammy-winning and 11-time Latin Grammy-winning Colombian singer/songwriter who pioneered the integration of the indigenous and vallenato sounds of his country into popular music, hits the road once again in support of his recent album, “Vives.” Produced by Cardenas
Marketing Network (CMN), the Vives Tour U.S.A. 2018 kicks off at Orlando's Amway Center tonight with tickets starting at $61 at Amwaycenter.com. Joe Whitaker & The DILF Party Presents DILF ORLANDO. One of the hottest "daddy jock parties" in the country is coming exclusively to Stonewall Bar! Daddies, Boys, Pups & Men of Orlando join them for a night of hot music, hot fun & hot men in their jocks...that is the dilf
party! Early Bird Tickets online at: theDILFparty.com. Saturday, Sept. 15 What a line up! The biggest names in freestyle music, including multi-platinum recording artist Taylor Dayne, Female Pop Sensation
Expose, The King of Freestyle Stevie B., The Queen of Freestyle Lisa Lisa and Freestyle Legends TKA K7 collaborate to perform their biggest rhythmic dance hits during the “15th Anniversary Freestyle Explosion Concert” at Amalie Arena at 7:30 PM. The tour also includes pop group and R&B group Nu Shooz plus freestyle favorites Company B, Pretty Poison, George Lamond. This lineup influenced the 80's with their style of music which remains widely popular and in rotation with today's hits. Ticket prices are: $35.50, $45.50, $55.50, $65.50, $75.50 and $150.00 (VIP), and can be purchased at AmalieArena.com.
Sunday, Sept. 16 Jasmine Skiies presents the annual Miss St Pete F.I., Miss St Pete F.I. at Large and Mr. St Pete M.E. pageants (all official prelims to the Miss, at Large, and Mister Florida system) at the Flamingo Resort at 8pm (registration at 3pm). Categories include Evening/Formal wear, Q&A, Swimsuit and talent. The night will honor the current reigning court: Candy Cane and Imani Valentino and also star the current Florida
court: Kalah Mendoza, Noel Leon and Antonio Edwards. For more information contact Star at 727-645-2179. Tuesday, Sept. 18 The Starz Center for the Performing Arts says there's never been a better time to experience CHICAGO, Broadway's razzle-dazzle smash. This triumphant hit musical is the recipient of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy, thousands of standing ovations and now the #1 longest-running American
Email WhatsHot@HotspotsMedia.com to have your event considered for “What’s Hot.”
musical in Broadway history. CHICAGO has everything that makes Broadway great: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz; one showstopping song after another; and the most astonishing dancing you've ever seen. Intended for mature audiences. Chicago will be playing from today through September 23, with tickets starting at $31 at StrazCenter.org. Saturday, Sept. 29 Space Coast Pride is excited to be celebrating their
11thannual Festival & Parade from 1-7pm. Space Coast Pride represents the central, east coast of Florida and all communities and residents of Brevard County and beyond by celebrating the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and all other individuals (LGBTQ+). They are proud to announce an expanded festival layout that is 35% larger, is sold out with over 130 vendors, and a larger family fun zone area. They have also expanded their week of events that include: a Rainbow Run 5K, Community Beach Day, Pride Painting Night, Social Kick-off Party, and more. This geographic area has been ignited with growth and their Pride will continue to be a FREE event thanks to all of the amazing companies that have sponsored it this year.
For more information go to their website at: spacecoastpride.org. HOT STUFF Cristoph's in Tampa (2606 Armenia Ave.) has really been taking off, and is one of the hot places to be. This month they have tons of
theme parties, they are: Sept 1 – Decadence Glow Party; Sept 2 – After Glow; Sept 3 – World Series Jock Party; Sept 4 – World Series Superstar Karaoke; Sept 7 – Leather and Levi's, and Sept 8 – 3rd Base- Farewell GWSSB.
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Hamilton will headline the 2018–2019 FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando series at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. In addition to Hamilton the season includes the six-time 2017 Tony and 2018 Grammy Award winning Best Musical Dear Evan Hansen and the 2017 Tony Award-winning Best Revival Hello, Dolly! starring Broadway legend Betty Buckley.
18/19 FAIRWINDS Broadway in Orlando series: • Hello, Dolly! — November 27–December 2, 2018 • Irving Berlin's White Christmas The Musical — December 18–December 23, 2018 • Hamilton — January 22, 2019-February 10, 2019 • Fiddler on the Roof — March 5 –March 10, 2019 • Dear Evan Hansen — April 16 –April 21, 2019 • Anastasia — May 14–19, 2019 • Come From Away — June 11–16, 2019 The season will also feature the return of audience favorite as a Season Option: • Jersey Boys — October 30–November 4, 2018 “This will be a stand-out season on so many levels,” said Dr. Phillips Center President and
CEO Kathy Ramsberger. “Hamilton has become a theatrical phenomenon, and three of the seven shows made their debut on Broadway just last year, so the content is fresh and relevant. “We are proud to partner with Dr. Phillips Center and Florida Theatrical Association for what is sure to be a recordbreaking season in Orlando! This is going to be an unforgettable season of the best that Broadway has to offer,” said Susie Krajsa, EVP of Presenting for Broadway Across America.
The Shows: Jersey Boys October 30–November 4, 2018 Season Add-On They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just
couldn't get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story — a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony-winning true-life musical phenomenon, Jersey Boys. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that's just too good to be true. Featuring the legendary top ten hits: “Sherry” “Big Girls Don't Cry” “Walk Like A Man” “Can't Take My Eyes Off You” “December, 1963 (Oh What A Night)” Hello, Dolly! starring Betty Buckley November 27– December 2, 2018 Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Betty Buckley stars in Hello, Dolly! – the universally acclaimed smash that NPR calls “the best show of the year!” Winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, director Jerry Zaks' “gorgeous” new production (Vogue) is “making people crazy happy!” (The Washington Post). Breaking box office records week after week and receiving thunderous
“Making people crazy happy!” —The Washington Post
raves on Broadway, this Hello, Dolly! pays tribute to the original work of legendary director/choreographer Gower Champion – hailed both then and now as one of the greatest stagings in musical theater history. Rolling Stone calls it “a must-see event. A
musical comedy dream. If you're lucky enough to score a ticket, you'll be seeing something historic. Wow, wow, wow, indeed!” Irving Berlin's White Christmas The Musical December 18–December 23, 2018 This holiday season, discover the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Start with a timeless tale of joy and goodwill, fill it with classic Irving Berlin songs, top it off with glorious
“Put on your wish list” —The New York Times
dancing and lots of snow and come see Irving Berlin's White Christmas! It's a must-see classic in a lavish new musical that the New York Times says to “put on your wish list.” Irving Berlin's White Christmas tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. The show is full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written. The gift everyone is dreaming of is this merry and bright holiday musical. Hamilton January 22, 2019–February 10, 2019 Hamilton is the story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington's right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation's first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton is the story of America
Broadway in Orlando
Photo by Joan Marcus
acclaimed Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter, based on the original staging by Jerome Robbins. A wonderful cast and a lavish orchestra tell this heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and the timeless traditions that define faith and family. Featuring the Broadway classics “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “To Life,” Fiddler on the Roof will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! To love! To life! then, as told by America now. With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow's biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Fiddler On The Roof March 5–March 10, 2019 Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher and the team behind South Pacific, The King and I and 2017 Tony-winning Best Play Oslo, bring a fresh and authentic vision to this beloved theatrical masterpiece from Tony winner Joseph Stein and Pulitzer Prize winners Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick. The original production won 10 Tony Awards, including a special Tony for becoming the longest-running Broadway musical of all time. You'll be there when the sun rises on this new production, with stunning movement and dance from
Dear Evan Hansen April 16 – April 21, 2019 Dear Evan Hansen is the winner of six 2017 Tony Awards including Best Musical and the 2018 Grammy award for Best Musical Theater Album.
“One of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history.” —The Washington Post.
A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he's always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Dear Evan Hansen is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it.
enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family. Anastasia features a book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally, a lush new score by Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) with direction by Tony winner Darko Tresnjak. Come From Away June 11–16, 2019 On 9/11, the world stopped. On 9/12, their stories moved us all. Broadway's Come From Away has won Best Musical all across North America. The New York Times Critics' Pick takes you into the
Photo by Matthew Murphy
The New York Times calls Dear Evan Hansen “a gut-punching, breathtaking knockout of a musical” and NBC News says the musical is “an inspiring anthem resonating on Broadway and beyond.” Dear Evan Hansen features a book by Tony winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy, Tony and Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by four-time Tony nominee Michael Greif (Rent, Next to Normal). The Original Broadway Cast Recording of Dear Evan Hansen, produced by Atlantic Records, made an extraordinary debut on the Billboard 200 when released and entered the chart at #8 – the highest charting debut position for an original cast album since 1961. A special edition coffee table book authored by Levenson, Pasek, and Paul, Dear Evan Hansen: through the window (Grand Central Publishing / Melcher) is now available, offering an indepth, all-access look at the musical, including never-before-seen production photos and cast portraits, behind-the-scenes stories, and a fully annotated script by the authors. Anastasia May 14–19, 2019 From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s,
Photo by Matthew Murphy
heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. Don't miss this breathtaking new musical written by Tony nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and helmed by this year's Tonywinning Best Director, Christopher Ashley. Newsweek cheers, “It takes you to a place you never want to leave!”
as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya
For more information and to renew a subscription for the 2018–2019 season and Broadway in Orlando, visit OrlandoBroadway.com.
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The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is proud to announce the Broadway musical, Hamilton will play its premiere Tampa engagement, Feb. 12-March 10, 2019, and anchor the 2018-2019 Bank of America Broadway at The Straz season. The Broadway series is also headlined by the 2017 Tony Award-winning Best Musical Dear Evan Hansen. Also on the 2018-2019 slate is the 2017 Tony Award-winning Best Revival of a Musical Hello, Dolly! along with productions of The Play That Goes Wrong, A Bronx Tale, Anastasia and Come From Away. The series also includes a yet-to-be-determined production in the Straz Center's intimate Jaeb Theater. In addition to the eight-show Broadway series and back by popular demand, Les Misérables will return for a limited engagement. “Each season we bring the best of Broadway to Tampa, and every so often we land a season like this one: perfect in every way,” said Judy Lisi, president and CEO of the Straz Center. From Hello, Dolly! to Hamilton, we have a classic of the Golden Age and the most extraordinary musicals onstage now—including Come From Away, a heroic look at a remote hamlet who welcomed the majority of re-routed planes on 9/11 and Dear Evan Hansen, the phenomenon that won the
2017 Tony for Best Musical. Our capstone this season is, of course Hamilton, which will be an experience for the ages.”
The season features: The Play That Goes Wrong Oct. 16-21, 2018 What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You'd get The Play That Goes Wrong, Broadway and London's award-winning smash comedy! Called “a gut-busting hit” (The New York Times) and “the funniest play Broadway has ever seen” (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering “a riotous explosion of comedy” (Daily Beast). Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly
going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can't play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it's “tons of fun for all ages” (HuffPost) and “comic gold” (Variety) – sure to bring down the house! Hello, Dolly! Dec. 4-9, 2018 Winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, Broadway's most beloved musical is back where it belongs! Directed by Tony winner Jerry Zaks and featuring choreography by Tony winner Warren Carlyle,
Chazz Palminteri's story that The New York Times hails as “A Critics' Pick! The kind of tale that makes you laugh and cry.” Hamilton Feb. 12-March 10, 2019 Hamilton is the story of America's Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington's right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation's first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton is the story of America then, as told by America now.
Hello, Dolly! is “the best show of the year” (NPR). Breaking box office records week after week and receiving thunderous critical raves on Broadway, this “gorgeous” new production (Vogue) pays tribute to the original work of legendary director/choreographer Gower Champion – hailed both then and now as one of the greatest stagings in musical theater history. Rolling Stone calls it “a must-see event. A musical comedy dream. If you're lucky enough to score a ticket, you'll be seeing something historic. Wow, wow, wow indeed!” A Bronx Tale Jan. 29-Feb. 3, 2019 Broadway's hit crowd-pleaser takes you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he'd love to be. Bursting with high-energy dance numbers and original doo-wop tunes from the songwriter of Beauty and the Beast, A Bronx Tale is an unforgettable story of loyalty and family. Academy Award winner Robert De Niro and Tony winner Jerry Zaks direct this streetwise musical – based on Academy Award nominee
With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow's biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Dear Evan Hansen April 9-14, 2019 Winner of six 2017 Tony Awards including Best Musical!
Broadway in Tampa
A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he's always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Dear Evan Hansen is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. “One of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history,” says The Washington Post. Rolling Stone calls Dear Evan Hansen, “a game-changer that hits you like a shot in the heart” and NBC News calls the musical “an inspiring anthem resonating on Broadway and beyond.” Dear Evan Hansen features a book by Tony Award winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy, Tony and Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by fourtime Tony Award nominee Michael Greif (Rent, Next to Normal). The original Broadway cast recording of Dear Evan Hansen, produced by Atlantic Records, made an extraordinary debut at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 – the highest charting debut position for an original cast album since 1961 – and went on to win the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. A special edition coffee table book authored by Levenson, Pasek and Paul, Dear Evan Hansen: through the window (Grand Central Publishing/Melcher) is now available, offering an in-depth, all-access look at the musical, including never-before-seen production photos and cast portraits, behind-the-scenes stories, and a fully annotated script by the authors.
Anastasia May 7-12, 2019 Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical Anastasia is on a journey to Tampa at last! From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
“...this dazzling show transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s.”
Anastasia features a book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally, a lush new score by Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) with direction by Tony Award winner Darko Tresnjak. Come From Away June 4-9, 2019 The true story of the small town that welcomed the world.
The New York Times Critics' Pick takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.
musicals in theatrical history. With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has left both audiences and critics awestruck. “Les Miz is born again!” (Ny1).
“It takes you to a place you never want to leave!” —Newsweek
Don't miss this breathtaking new musical written by Tony nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and helmed by 2017's Tonywinning Best Director, Christopher Ashley. Newsweek cheers, “It takes you to a place you never want to leave!” On 9/11, the world stopped. On 9/12, their stories moved us all.
Broadway Encore: Les Misérables Jan. 15-20, 2019 Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables, direct from an acclaimed two-and-a-half-year return to Broadway. Set against the backdrop of 19thcentury France, Les Misérables tells an unforgettable story of heartbreak, passion and the resilience of the human spirit. Featuring the beloved songs “I Dreamed A Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More” and many more, this epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated
Tap Dogs Mar 29 - 31, 2019 The global dance sensation Tap Dogs hits the road on an international tour of jaw-dropping new surprises. Experience the thrill of a revitalized genre of dance. For seventy-five action-packed minutes of part theater, part dance, part rock concert and part construction site, an adrenaline-pumped cast turns traditional tap dancing upside-down and into the ultimate night out. Tap Dogs premiered at the Sydney Theatre Festival and success quickly followed with seasons in London, New York, Tokyo, Paris, Berlin, Shanghai and around the world. Created by Oliver Award-winning choreographer Dein Perry, and originally directed by Nigel Triffitt, with music by Andrew Wilkie and lighting by Gavin Norris. Tap Dogs is set to electrify the stage as they jump through scaffold, tap upside down, grind steel and tap on water in Tampa.
the music of iconic bands such as Styx, Poison, Twisted Sister and Whitesnake among many others, this tenth anniversary production features a dynamic new cast revisiting the larger-than-life characters and exhilarating story that turned Rock of Ages into a global phenomenon.
Kinky Boots May 17-19, 2019 Winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Choreography, Kinky Boots, Broadway's huge-hearted, highheeled hit returns to the Straz Center. With songs by Grammy and Tony award-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots takes you from a gentlemen's shoe factory in Northampton to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Take a step in the right direction and discover that sometimes the best way to fit in is to stand out!
And this important bit of info, the 2018-2019 Broadway season tickets are sold out. Single ticket on-sale dates for Hamilton and Dear Evan Hanson have not yet been announced. To be notified of on-sale dates, sign up for the Straz Center's email newsletter, follow the Straz Center on social media or download the Straz To Go app for your mobile device.
Rock of Ages June 11 - 16, 2019 It's 1987 on Hollywood's Sunset Strip when a small-town girl meets a big city rocker. As they fall in love in L.A.'s most famous rock club, Rock of Ages allows fans to rock out once again to their favorite hits from the '80s. Featuring
New season ticket orders will be limited and will be handled in the order they are received. For more information, email the Straz Center at tickets@strazcenter.org or call the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office at 813.229.STAR (7827) or outside the Tampa Bay area at 800.955.1045 or visit www.strazcenter.org. Individual show tickets will go on sale at a later date(s), to be announced.
Broadway in Tampa
hot bodies By Tom Bonanti
Forced Repetitions for Surefire Gains!
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Just when you think that you can hardly lift another pound for one more rep of your last set, this is when you need to give it just a little more. This is the point when real muscle growth takes place- if you're up for the challenge! This is the concept behind forced repetitions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the best ways to power through a plateau and make massive gains. The best way to perform forced repetitions is to grab a workout buddy or personal trainer who can help you summon up that little something extra to get you through the set. While one guy does the lifting, his partner places his hands in the proper position to help him finish one or two more reps he couldn't have completed on his own. Try forced
above the forehead, pause then return to starting position. For your last set, have a partner stand over you and help you raise and lower the bar for 2 more reps.
Biceps Partial Curls: Grasp an EZ curl bar with arms bent at 90degree angles. Curl up until biceps meet forearms, pause, then lower to starting position. For your last set have a partner face you and help you curl 2 more reps. You can also do alternating forced rep dumbbell curls, Try these seated for a great effect.
Barbell Bench Press: reps with each muscle group a couple of times per month for maximum gains. Using this strategy with every workout is too much and may result in overtraining and injuries like tendonitis. Here's an example of a forced reps exercise for each muscle group.
Barbell Squats: Grasp a barbell on the upper back, with feet shoulder width apart. Lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground, pause, and then rise to starting position. At the end of your last set, have a partner stand behind you with hands around your torso and have him assist you in completing 2 more reps. Squats are one of the most effective exercises for the lower body, but make sure to keep you back straight and your toes pointed outward as you squat down.
Lie face up and grasp a barbell with arms bent at 90degree angles. Press it overhead, pause, and then return to starting position. At the end of your last set have your partner stand over you and help raise and lower the bar for one or two more reps. If you're uneasy about heavy barbell chest presses you can do forced rep flat bench dumbbell chest presses as an alternate exercise.
Pull Ups for Shoulders, Back: Grasp and overhead pull up bar and pull yourself up so that your chin is at or above the bar, pause, then lower yourself. At the end of your last set have your partner grasp your feet and help you do just a couple more reps.
Triceps Skull Crushers: Lie on a bench and grasp an EZ curl bar at arms length over the chest. Lower it to just
Tom Bonanti is a certified fitness trainer and licensed massage therapist with his own gym and studio, Pump'n Inc. (pumpnincgym.com), in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact Tom at trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to schedule a free consultation.
queens we by scott holland
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The state of Florida has been killing it the last few years in the National Drag pageantry scene and our latest winner is the beautiful Amanda D'Rhod, your new National Showgirl. Therefore, I thought it appropriate to sit down with one of Central Florida's finest for this interview: What was the first drag show you saw and tell me about the experience? The first time I saw a Drag Show was in a club name Faces in Hormigeros Puerto Rico. The performer was Luis Madonna and she performed a Madonna mix in a shower getting wet on stage. I was so excited and also shocked by the performances that I fell in love with Drag. When did you decide you wanted to do drag and when did you realize it would be a profession? After seeing my Drag mother getting in drag for Halloween I told her that I wanted to try Drag, so she invited me to perform in a thanksgiving show, and I did it. After that I was determined to become a professional drag queen. Many years later, after I moved to Orlando Florida and after working at
Amanda Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rhod
Parliament House's Latin night, I started getting bookings in bars like Revolution and Valentine's in Tampa and it became my profession. Who is your drag mother and who is your favorite queen other than your drag mother and why? My Drag mother is a Puerto Rican diva named Wilary D'Rhod and I get a lot of inspiration from Esme Russell who I also call my drag mother for everything that she has helped me and guided me in my career. Both of these entertainers have helped mold Amanda to what you see today! What's your favorite number to perform and why? I don't have just one song that I love, but I do love everything from Jennifer Lopez and BeyoncĂŠ. I'm a high energy dancing diva and those two entertainers inspired me on stage. What's the best thing that has happened to you in drag? About 6 weeks ago, I won my first national title in Daytona Florida. I am very excited about being National showgirl 2018 and traveling the nation. I have always wanted to be a national title holder and finally I get to reign! What differentiates you from other Queens (Makes you Unique)? I have love and passion for this art. I work hard, I challenge myself to be better and everywhere I go, I give you 100% Amanda D'Rhod. What does the future hold? I'm excited to start promoting my new title: National Showgirl, make the system grow and bring my Latin community closer to it. I am going to represent my brand at every national walk this year. I also love working at Hamburger Marys in Brandon Florida, so come out and enjoy us there and also at Honey Pot in Tampa. I'm very blessed to have 2 home bars. Maybe I will get to return to my island, Puerto Rico, and perform there for all my friend and family.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am very excited about being National showgirl 2018 and traveling the nation. I have always wanted to be a national title holder and finally I get to reign!â&#x20AC;?
hot shots photos by tony fowler
G-bar St. Pete Grand Opening
frivolist By Mikey Rox
When a relationship ends, tensions run high – and the first thing many of us do to satisfy our anger and sadness is to toss or burn the photos, letters and other mementos our partners have given us. This act of aggression won't solve anything, and, in fact, will only serve to hurt you more later. Quell the temptation to pitch your ex-relationships' physical reminders with these five reasons to hold onto them.
Throwing the mementos out won't get back at them If you think tossing out the tangible remnants of your relationship is somehow “getting back” at your ex for whatever he or she did, you're wrong. If you're angry enough to go to those lengths, it's safe to assume that you're the one scorned while you partner may be eager to move on. If that's the case, it's doubtful that they care what you do with those possessions. So, in fact, you're not affecting them but rather hurting yourself in the long run by destroying the evidence. Before you do what can't be undone, stop, think about this decision and find something more productive to do. If you need the mementos out of your sight stat, find a box, tape it up and put it away until you're ready to reminisce.
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The negative feelings you have right now won't last forever
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Breakups suck. They hurt; leave us depressed, lonely and insecure. But like other painful situations in life, this too will pass – eventually – and once the skies clear again for you, you may reflect fondly on the relationship. When you do, you'll be glad you have the reminders that once upon a time you had a good thing, and though it didn't work out, you were able to successfully move on and make peace with the fact that everything happens for a reason.
You may reconcile one day Real talk: It's hard to find someone to whom you're attracted who will put up with your bullsh*t – so when I find that person, I'm committed to the relationship and making it work. Everybody argues, and sometimes it's easy to call it quits to hurt your partner's feelings when that's not what you really mean. You might even “break up” a few times along the way – but if you know deep down that there's a chance of reconciliation, concentrate on that (and the work you'll both need to put in to make a go of it again) instead of being destructive.
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You'll regret it if they die My first relationship with a guy didn't last long – about six months when I was a sophomore in college. We dated long-distance for the entirety of the relationship, and to keep in touch we sent letters and cards to each other regularly. When we broke up, I was crushed – mostly because it was my fault – but that didn't stop me from throwing out everything he ever sent or gave me. He's dead now, and there are few things I wouldn't give to have those letters.
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That relationship is part of your story – embrace it I see my relationships as sort of like getting a tattoo: While there's no physical representation on my body, the relationship still leaves an indelible mark. I have many tattoos, and I haven't always been happy with the end result. As I've gotten older I realize that I just have to accept the things I can't change – despite that I'm an absolute control freak. I recognize now that these “mistakes” on my body and, similarly, in my personal life are all part of my story, my learning experience, and all of it informs the future decisions I make so I (hopefully) don't make the same mistakes again.
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Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been published in more than 100 outlets across the world. He spends his time writing from the beach with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on Instagram @mikeyrox.
A Place to Reflect. A Place to Learn. A Place to Honor.
Visit the Pulse Interim Memorial 1912 S. Orange Avenue, Orlando Open 7 Days - 6 a.m. - Midnight
For more information about the Pulse Interim Memorial or to donate to onePULSE Foundation please visit www.onepulsefoundation.org