A week before this issue hit that newsstand near you, I walked into CL Tampa Bay’s new office after six weeks of paternity leave. My eyes—sleepy and refitted with a lens of love for the newborn child I was leaving at home with my wife (who goes back to work in a few weeks herself, mind you)—were ready to be back in front of words about the Bay area’s vibrant creative scene. Two of our writers, Food & Drink editor Jenna Rimensnyder and former-intern-turned-Jane-of-all-trades super-part-timer Kyla Fields immediately plopped this Spring Arts preview in front of me, and all I could see was color.
Whether it was the bold blackness of Kalup Linzy, Justin Cooper’s wild pink contemporary art or the cool blue of glass artist Rick Eggert’s “Aquatic Pursuit,” all I could think about was how dull Tampa Bay would be without artists—who quite often operate under the same bootstrapped conditions that Kyla and Jenna did while I was away—work tirelessly to leave their mark on the place we call home. We hope the next few pages (and this paper, week in and week out) can help you see how much color surrounds you, and we hope it leads you to love your home even more. Bookmark cltampa.com/arts to see even more arts events daily. — Ray Roa
JANUARY/FEBRUARY
“Art of the Stage: Picasso to Hockney” The Museum of Fine Arts’ newest collection “Art of the Stage: Picasso to Hockney” focuses on the work of fine artists who created pieces that were meant for the stage. The exhibition features over 100 studies for scene, costume, curtain, and program designs, as well as maquettes and costumes by noted artists from the 19th century to the present day. MFA St. Petersburg also teams up with the Florida Orchestra to bring some of these pieces back to life, with various musical performances inspired by theater. Jan. 25–May 10. Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE., St. Petersburg. mfastpete.org
Inside the World of Public Art In a city like St. Pete, you can’t turn a corner without running into a mural or a sculpture crafted by a local or international artist. Florida CraftArt stages an exhibit on the way public art enhances the cultural life of the community. Throughout the next few weeks, eight artists host talks, tours, lectures plus glimpses into their studios (studio tours happen on Saturday, Feb. 22, 1 p.m.–4 p.m.) Exhibit runs from Jan. 24–March 7. Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. floridacraftart.org
“Marie and Rosetta” Time for a night out with your theater-loving teen, friend or significant other? The off-Broadway show has made its way to Tampa Bay and you’ll want to experience every second. According to freeFall’s brochure, this play created by George Brant “gives us a fly-on-the-wall seat to the first rehearsal between gospel legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and her protégé Marie Knight, on the eve of the tour that would establish them as one of the most important musical duos in American popular music.” The characters deal with racial prejudice, marital strife and other issues, so plan your date accordingly. Runs through Feb. 16. 2 p.m.-4 p.m. FreeFall Theater, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. freefalltheatre.com
The Florida Orchestra pops concert: Out of This World Conductor Sarah Hicks and retired astronaut Nicole Stott take you on a voyage into stellar music from “Star Trek,” Holst’s “The Planets,” “Star Wars,” “E.T.” and more. The show is tricked out with NASA images and video, which means if you bring the kids, they might sit still for more than 10 minutes. You don’t need to be a SyFy fan to enjoy this concert, but it might help. There aren’t any rules on not dressing in costume, so get creative to celebrate this themed Florida Orchestra pops concert. Friday, Feb. 28, at 8 p.m. at the Straz Center (1010 N. Macinnes Pl., Tampa), with another performance on Saturday, Feb. 29, 8 p.m. at Mahaffey Theater (400 First St. S., St. Petersburg). floridaorchestra.org
“Relations: Discord, Melodrama, and the Intimate in the work of Kalup Linzy” Kalup Linzy (born 1977, Clermont, Florida) is an internationally-recognized video and performance artist whose work examines gender, sexuality, identity politics, and popular culture through the tropes of daytime soap operas and reality television. “Relations: Discord, Melodrama, and the Intimate in the work of Kalup Linzy'' surveys nearly 20 years of the artist’s episodic video works alongside related works on paper, chronicling the ties, conflicts, and drama of the extended Queen Rose family. On view until March 5 on the second floor DLRC at HCC. Performance and panel discussion to begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at Gallery221@HCC, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa. hccfl.edu
“Rigoletto” This classic story of trickery, tragedy, and redemption heads to The Palladium Theater courtesy of St. Pete Opera Company. If you’ve never been to an opera, “Rigoletto” is the perfect one to break you in. Written in the late 16th century, this performance delves into universal themes of love and revenge which anyone can understand and appreciate. There’s a duke, a hunch-backed court jester, and a beautiful princess—don’t you want to know what happens to them? Jan. 24- 28. Palladium Theater, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. stpeteopera.org
“Spirit Lines: Helen Hardin Etchings” Helen Hardin (1943-1984) was a Santa Clara Pueblo artist born to her mother Pablita Velarde (1918-2006), a famed artist herself, and father Herbert Hardin, a government worker. “Spirit Lines” displays the entire set of each of Hardin’s etchings done between 1980-1984, the last years of her life, both with copper plate and first edition of the copper plate etching. This medium stems from a centuries-old printmaking process that involves carving a reversed design into a surface in order to print the desired image and involves several technical steps, described in a vignette of the museum space. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. On view until March 1. thejamesmuseum.org
The Studio@620 Salutes Black History Month The small but mighty gallery Studio@620 hosts a month-long celebration of selected icons in Black History—and highlights local talent. Swing by for art in various mediums including poetry readings, visual, concerts, innovative dance performances and theatrical readings. You don’t want to miss founder Bob Devin Jones directing and starring in a staged reading of “Master Harold… and the Boys” by Athol Fugard on Mon., Feb. 17. The Studio@620, 620 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg. thestudioat620.org
MARCH
46th Annual Tarpon Springs Art Festival on the Bayou Ready to support local artists? Vendors join together for the 46th annual art festival, where they’ll sell their creations ranging in mediums from drawings and pastels to monumental sculptures. You can even snag wearable art, add to your collection at home or grab a gift for a friend. Submerge yourself into the local art community, make new friends, and support creatives. March 14 at 11 a.m.–Mar. 15 at 2 p.m. Craig Park, Tarpon Springs. coastallifestudio.com
Gasparilla Music Festival Gasparilla Music Festival is making a habit of bringing Grammy-winners to headline Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Park, which hosted over 25,000 people in 2019. In 2020, its initial lineup includes Highwoman Brandi Carlile, Portugal. The Man, Curtis Harding and De La Soul. March 7-8, $40 & up. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N. Ashley. Dr., Tampa. gasparillamusic.com
As She Speaks Open Mic The quarterly open mic, entitled: “Mother of Soul” features national spoken word artist Blacqwildflowr. As She Speaks grants local women a platform of support through the power of art. With a specific emphasis on poetry, journal reading, music, and dance, founder Michelle Morton hopes to provide an approachable opportunity to “grow and glow” collectively. Sat., March 14. 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Hooch and Hive, 1001 W. Cass St., Tampa. eventbrite.com
“Conspiracy” The Mize Gallery (stylized "MIZE) is back with another exhibit with a wildly relatable theme—conspiracy. The walls are lined with works of 42 artists capturing a specific conspiracy theory. We smell some heated talks at this opening reception. Some included conspiracies are the Mayan calendar, Men in Black, Titanic, and the 9/11 cover up. Are you ready for this? Wear your tin foil hats. Fri., March 6. 6 p.m.-10 p.m. MIZE Gallery, 689 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N., Unit C, St. Petersburg. chadmize.com
“Doubt: A Parable” Set in 1964, Sister Aloysius, a Bronx parochial school principal, takes matters into her own hands when she suspects the young and popular Father Flynn of improper relations with one of the male students. The mystery unfolds as Sister Aloysius digs deeper to find out the truth on little evidence. Written by John Patrick Shanley and directed by Summer Bohnenkamp. Show runs from March 13-April 5. Jobsite Theater, 1010 N. Macinnes Pl., Tampa. jobsitetheater.org
Gasparilla Festival of the Arts: 50th Anniversary Over 250 visual and performing artists hit the new location at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in downtown Tampa. Children’s activities, live entertainment and a chalk walk are all on tap, too. The event is free, but make sure to bring dough for locally made artwork, as well as food and booze from vendors. Street parking might be a pain, but you can opt for parking in the Poe Garage where a complimentary shuttle will run to and from the park. Sat., Feb. 29 at 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Sun., March 1 at 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, 1001 North Blvd., Tampa. gasparillaarts.com
“Glass in the Gallery” Creative Pinellas hosts "Glass in the Gallery," a group exhibition—curated by artistic director Mary Childs and the Duncan Mcclellan Gallery—of fine glass art by established glass artists in the region and across the country. The event aligns with Sunshine Glass Week, a week-long festival celebrating St. Petersburg’s vibrant glass community. The opening reception includes a meet and greet with many of the artists, along with complimentary light refreshments and beer and wine available for purchase. The reception is free and open to the public. Opening reception Thurs., March 5. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Exhibition on view from March 6- April 19. The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo. eventbrite.com
Stitcherotica Get a little frisky at Stitcherotica—a celebration of classic fiber art portrayed in a decidedly non-traditional sense, during Second Saturday ArtWalk. Sixteen artists, including local creators Brandy Stark, Maria Swire, and Alicia Campos, interpret erotic themes, so leave the kids at home because these creations lean toward R- or even X-rated. The creative director, Kristi Capone says: “There may be needlepoint samplers with curse words, or anatomically-correct voodoo dolls present… the element of surprise is one that all of us artists are heartily anticipating on delivering.” Sat., March 14. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. ArtLofts, 10 5th St. N., Studio no. 208, St Petersburg. theartlofts.com
Stuart Malina: Bright Side of Beethoven The Florida Orchestra Coffee Concert features Beethoven classics like “Symphony No. 8,” part of “Piano Concerto No. 4,” and more all conducted by Stuart Malina. Don’t worry about sneaking in snacks; Ruth Eckerd provides free coffee and doughnuts. Slide by an hour early, however, for a pre-concert conversation that dives into Beethoven away from his piano. Thurs., March 26. Pre-coffee conversation is at 10 a.m. Curtain time is 11 a.m. Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater. floridaorchestra.org
“The People Downstairs” American Stage’s cast follows Miles, an aging funeral home custodian who lives with his middle-aged daughter Mabel, who spends her days writing letters to prison inmates. When their home is threatened to be taken, Miles sets his daughter Mabel up with an inept mortician. American Stage’s brochure describes the play as a “comedy about love, loss, loneliness, and the healing power of laughter.” You still might want to bring the tissues. Show runs from March 11- April 5. Raymond James Theatre, 163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg. americanstage.org
APRIL
Beacon 2020 The annual performance of Beacon (stylized “BEACON”) makes its way back to The Palladium in April to celebrate the “the strength and vibrancy of dance—an artistic form that prioritizes the live experience of physical connection—by continuing to focus on collaborations where artists’ powerful voices interconnect, resulting in a moving, spectacular performance.” Time to admire performers who can gracefully bound from one side of the stage to the other, while you sit back with your cocktail and snacks. April 3. 8 p.m. The Palladium, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. mypalladium.org
Contemporary Fiber in Florida 2020 Florida CraftArt put out a bat signal for artists around Florida to submit works incorporating fiber into their work. Anything including wearable art, wall works, free-standing works and mixed media pieces will be on display. The artists were asked to stretch the boundaries of traditional fiber materials and methods, exploring unique and powerful ways to create exciting work that investigates contemporary themes, materials and forms. Runs through May 2. Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. floridacraftart.org
“Footloose” Grab your blanket, lawn chairs, and coolers for American Stage to take over Demens Landing yet again with another stellar performance. You may find yourself making your way to your feet to join in on the dancing and fun, but don’t worry—this is a judgement free zone (that doesn’t keep your gang from taking photos of your antics.) As always, you can grab a brew on-site or bites from the local vendors. Bring the bug spray. Show runs from April 15–May 17. American Stage at Demens Landing Park, Bay Shore Dr. SE, St. Petersburg. americanstage.org
Good Vibes Only Art & Music Festival The free event allows attendees to view student art and music. Good Vibes Only is a joint venture between St. Petersburg College and USF St. Petersburg. See what up-and-coming artists are creating, and get a glimpse at the evolution of what the Tampa Bay scene is going to look like thanks to these young creators. April 25. 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Williams Park, 350 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg. why.spc.edu/festival
PhilFest 2020 The three-day festival is back to celebrate its 25th year anniversary. Make sure to come hungry, as the festival highlights a slew of vendors cooking up traditional Filipino plates. You might want to set a budget before you’re tempted with merchandise you may not find anywhere else. Bring the entire family for live entertainment and competitions like the children’s Tanghalang Pambata Talent Competition, Tawag ng Tanghalan Singing Competition for adults, and the crowning of Ms./Mrs PhilFest 2020. Time to explore, taste and celebrate Filipino heritage. Fri.-Sun., April 3-5. Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc., 14301 Nine Eagles Dr., Tampa. pcfitampa.org
Piano Extravaganza The SPC Music center hosts two pianos stacked with two pianists each—Tabitha Columbare, Yueun Kim, Rebecca Penneys and E-Na Song; all of which are part of the Rebecca Penneys Piano Festival. If you’re into math, that means throughout the evening your ears will be graced with melodies provided by eight hands or better yet 40 incredibly pliable and quick fingers. Prepare to be wowed by the arrangements. April 17. 7:30 p.m. SPC Music Center (Gibbs Campus) 6605 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. spcollege.edu
Pride & Passion The Tampa Museum of Art—in partnership with Metro Inclusive Health—gears up to host the 15th annual Pride & Passion event, which celebrates diversity and inclusion in the Tampa Bay community. This year’s theme is Neon Jungle. Bring a date to experience the live entertainment, smack on some elevated hors d’oeuvres and take advantage of the open bar. More than 600 guests are expected to attend, the dress code is evening wear with pops of neon “inspired by the animal within.” Saturday, April 18. 8 p.m.-midnight. Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. tampamuseum.org
“The Fairy Queen” If you’re trying to get a feel for what the younger thespian community has to offer, now’s the time. The HCC Ybor Mainstage Theatre hosts three shows of “The Fairy Queen,” a semi-opera based on William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Let’s see what these youngbloods’ got, you might just leave impressed. The show runs from April 2-4. HCC Ybor Mainstage Theatre, 2112 N. 15th St., Tampa. hccfl.edu
MAY
“Anna in the Tropics” The Pulitzer Prize-winning show is all about love and betrayal in Ybor City. A local theater doing a locally-based play? Gotta love it. “Anna in the Tropics” is a play about the power of literature and its effect on our lives. “Passions are ignited, affairs are consummated, and gunshots are fired.” Grab the popcorn. A good love story always involves death in the plot; find out firsthand if this Stageworks rendition delivers, we have faith it’ll do Tampa Bay justice. May 1-17. Stageworks Theater, 120 E. Kennedy Blvd. Suite #151, Tampa. stageworkstheatre.org
Irrational Technology: From the Ridiculous to the Sublime Every year, The Dalí Museum hosts an exhibit that showcases work by middle and high school students exploring ideas and visions similar to those of Salvador Dalí and other surrealists. This year’s exhibit, named Irrational Technology: From the Ridiculous to the Sublime, explores the function of technology in our everyday lives—the constant creation of technological tools has always been intrinsic to humans. Middle and high school students are to create pieces of work that tackle the intersection of surrealism and technology, in this exhibit that runs through late summer. May 16–Aug. 23. The Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. thedali.org
Justin Cooper Late last year we talked about the surge of Tampa Bay garage galleries holding it down when it comes to showing contemporary art in the area. Parallelogram is still going strong with showing local, national and internationally-based artists like Justin Cooper—an artist and a performer based out of Brooklyn, New York who is currently represented by the Monique Meloche Gallery in Chicago. Cooper is set to do a one night only performance at Parallelogram, and you won’t want to miss it. In Cooper’s statement, he explains his practice of seeking unstable relationships that hover between the comedic and the disturbing according to circumstance. Things might get a little weird. As if a live performance isn’t enough, the night will double as an opening reception for an exhibition featuring Austin-based painter, Biff Bolen, who specializes in abstract formalism with a concentration in color. May 2, time is TBD. Bolen exhibition runs from May 2- May 23. 806 W. Hollywood St., Tampa. parallelogramgallery.com
“La Fille du Regiment” The St. Pete Opera promises that its rendition of Donizetti’s opéra comique will warm even the coldest of hearts. Marie, the canteen girl for the 21st Regiment of the French army, becomes infatuated with Tonio (a civilian), but is set to marry the Duke of Crakentorp. Can she escape her fate of an arranged marriage and live happily ever after with her true love? “La Fille du Regiment” is a classic story of forbidden love and inevitable heartbreak, and it’s predicted to make the audience shed at least one crocodile tear. May 29-June 7. St. Pete Opera, 2145 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. stpeteopera.org
Lindsay Oesterritter Month-to-month, the Morean Center for Clay highlights a sculpture with a solo exhibition. In May, ceramicist Lindsay Oesterritter takes over to show off her handmade work inspired by the inseparable relationship between time and place, form and surface. Get a glimpse of Oesterritter’s pieces—which can double as kitchenware, decor, jewelry and much more—while taking a tour around the Morean Center for Clay where hundreds of other pieces by local artists, from mugs to blown glass, are also on view. You’re in for a treat. May 1-31. Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg. moreanartscenter.org
“The Resistible Rise Of Arturo Ui” Nothing like a modern, midwestern spin on the rise of Hitler’s totalitarianism, right? Jobsite Theater’s rendition of “The Resistible Rise Of Arturo Ui” is set in 1930s Chicago, and depicts the rise and fall of the infamous mobster Arturo Ui as he tries to control the city’s cauliflower trade by heartlessly disposing of the opposition. This work gives Nazi dictaroship a renewed significance in 2020 America, something that we might not know we needed until it’s presented to us. The Resistible Rise Of Arturo Ui was written in 1941, but its themes remain as relevant as ever. May 13–June 7. Jobsite Theater, 1010 N. Macinnes Pl., Tampa. jobsitetheater.org
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This article appears in Jan 23-30, 2020.