Festivals/Events
Got Skills? 5 This MC/DJ battle invites all comers to test their skills against the rest and the best of the Bay area's B-boys and B-girls. So if you think your rhymes are so fresh or your cuts so clean, bring it. There's $1000 in cash and prizes for the winners of each element and giveaways all night from the event's sponsors: Urb Magazine, Ecko, Flavor Clothing Ybor and Digital Pimps Studios. Doors open at 9 p.m. Contestants must register by 11:30 p.m., the start time of the event. Fri., Dec. 21. Cover costs $7, $10 for registration. Orpheum, 1902 Eighth Ave. E., Ybor City. 813-248-9500.
Guided hike Grab the bug spray and a few good friends before heading out to Brooker Creek (Tarpon Springs) for a free guided tour of the grounds. Reservations are a must. Saturdays, 9-11 a.m. 813-943-4003.
Kwanzaa Feast Learn the seven principles of Nguza Saba at this celebration to commemorate Kwanzaa. The festivities include special dramatic performances, drumming, dance, make-and-take crafts and a cultural feast. Wed., Dec. 26, 7:30 p.m. $15. Palladium Theater, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3590.
Season's Greetings Garden Tour Horticulturist Bill O'Grady shares his wealth of knowledge about hundreds of beautiful botanical plants in the gardens. The special holiday tour also includes a seasonal gift and refreshments. Dec. 22, 11:30 a.m.; Dec. 29, 11:30 a.m. Admission costs $7 for adults, $5 for ages 55 and up and $3 for ages 3 to 11. Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-551-3100.
Ybor City Fresh Market Inc. The market's up and running every Saturday. Drop by for a free glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice and check out all the produce and other nifty, gifty craft items the market has up for grabs. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Centennial Park, Eighth Avenue and 18th Street, Ybor City.Holiday20th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll Experience the charm of a 19th century holiday at the old Tampa Bay Hotel during the museum's Victorian Christmas Stroll. Antique toys lie scattered about the museum and a lavishly decorated tree stands in every room. Complimentary cookies and cider are served on the veranda every day, and soloists and ensembles perform seasonal music nightly. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Admission costs $8 for adults, $3 for children. The Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813-254-1891.
Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Each of the Mediterranean Revival-style villa's 20 rooms are decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12. Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408.
Cowboy Christmas Get your giddyup on at the In The Breeze Horseback Riding Ranch, celebrating the holidays with a Cowboy Light Spectacular Hayride. The ranch features horseback riding ($15 plus gratuity), pony rides ($2) and lots of baby animals, including goats, llamas and puppies. Dec. 22, 6 p.m.; Dec. 28, 6 p.m.; Dec. 29, 6 p.m. The hayride lasts a half-hour and costs $4 per person or $15 for five tickets. In The Breeze Horseback Riding Ranch, 7514 Gardner Road, Tampa. 813-264-1919.
The Nutcracker on Ice The Florida Orchestra and the Stars of the Russian State Ice Ballet perform this on-ice version of the beloved Tchaikovsky ballet. More than 30 skaters re-create the classic tale of Clara and her magical Nutcracker Prince — with lifts, spins and opera sets — on a professional ice rink. Dec. 22, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 23, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20, $29, $35 and $38 (half-price for children under 12). Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.
An Old-fashioned Christmas Three original Santa Claus stories, written by local author Joe Dunlap, are performed, and at the program's conclusion, the audience may speak with Santa himself, if they so wish. It's been Dunlap's custom to write a Christmas story every year for his children as they were growing up. The stories are meant to both entertain children and express a fondness for simpler times. Dec. 21, 7 p.m.; Dec. 22, 2 p.m. Admission costs $4. Royalty Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 727-441-8868.
A Rockin' Christmas Don't step on Santa's blue suede boots. A Rockin' Christmas is a fun-filled, energetic rock 'n' roll cabaret featuring favorite holiday songs from the '50s and '60s, as well as today's new Christmas classics. Tue.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 4:30 p.m.; Sundays, 4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Tickets cost $20.50 and $24.50. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827. Read a review of this show in this week's Performance column.
The Teddy Bear Express A kid-size choo-choo train takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.
Winterland This celebration of lights is a drive-thru luminary park created along a mile-and-a-half route through the southwest corner of the USF-Tampa campus. Animated lights depict holiday scenes, such as Reindeer, Candy Land and The 12 Days of Christmas. Huge Oak trees also bear thousands of lights. And to complement the visual effects, vehicles passing through the park can tune in to Holiday music played over the FM band. More than 20,000 cars visited the site during the course of last year's 40-day event. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 6-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 6-11 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $20 per vehicle. University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Entrance is at Spectrum Boulevard, just north of Fowler Avenue, off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard. 813-974-2323.
Attractions
Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408. Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season. Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places, and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Each of the Mediterranean Revival-style villa's 20 rooms are decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12.
Lectures & Seminars
Antique Firetrucks The museum has 11 antique firetrucks and memorabilia on display as well as a playground facility. Kids can learn fire safety tips, watch a safety video and get some free memorabilia. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. Kid's Firehouse Museum, 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.
Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. Ybor City State Museum, 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.
Sea Hunt The aquarium's latest exhibit includes colorful predators from the world's oceans. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children under 3.
Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.Open MicBeaux Arts Gallery and Folk Coffeehouse Spoken word and music. Beaux Arts' open mic takes place from 8 to 11:30 p.m. every Saturday. Art films are shown at 8 p.m. Friday, and 2:30 and 8 p.m. Sunday. Saturdays, 8-11:30 p.m. A donation of $2 to $5 is suggested at the door, but coffee, tea and cake are free. 2635 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-328-0702.
Boudreaux's Blues jam. This New Orleans-style restaurant presents a Blues Jam with featured performers each week playing an hour set before mixing in all comers. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. 27964 U.S. 19, Clearwater. 727-726-9030.
Brass Mug Open jam. The Mug offers an open jam night every Monday, allowing musicians to take the stage and show off their chops. As extra incentive, all musicians can down 75-cent drafts throughout the evening. A full P.A., sound and drums are provided. Mondays, 9:30 p.m. 1441 Fletcher Ave. E., Tampa. 813-972-8152.
Computer Port Cafe Music and spoken word. This cafe offers Internet access in addition to exotic coffees, tea and an assortment of gourmet baked goods. Every Friday and Saturday night the venue plays host to an open mic for musicians, comedians, poets, etc. Fri., Sat., 7-11 p.m. 432 Poinsettia Ave., Clearwater Beach. 727-441-2667.
Cool Tunes Coffee Bar Music and spoken word. The coolios at Cool Tunes host free open mics every Wednesday and Saturday. Local acts play Fridays (check Soundboard or call for band schedule). Wed., Sat., 8-11:30 p.m. 2551 Drew St., #280, Clearwater. 727-799-3788.
Frankie & Johnny's Open jam. The enigmatic Mike hosts this event every Wednesday night until the last singer has sung. Wednesdays, 9 p.m. 10206 N. 30th St., Tampa. 813-866-0340.
Hollywood Java Coffee House & Bar Music and spoken word. This new hangout is in Bay Street at the International Plaza. Hollywood Java features Open Mic Nite every Wednesday for musicians, poets and comedians. Two mics, a P.A. and a guitar amp are provided. Sign-up begins at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, 8-11 p.m. 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. 813-348-1415.
Insomnia Coffee House Gallery Spoken word. The coffeehouse hosts Words Awake 8 p.m. every Thursday. An open mic for musicians, poets, comedians (anyone) also takes place at 9 p.m. every Tuesday, hosted by Big Rick (sign-up starts at 8 p.m.). Thursdays, 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, 8 p.m. 32884 U.S. 19, Palm Harbor. 727-789-3771.
James Joyce Irish Pub Open jam. Rebekah Pulley and Jerry Provost host this open mic for all musicians every Tuesday night. The pub also offers a variety of live, acoustical music nightly. Tuesdays, 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 1704 1/2 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-1896.
Limey's Pub Open mic. Come share your talent at the Limey's open mics, held every Monday and Tuesday nights. Tuesdays, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.; Mondays, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. 1492 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-895-2049.
Realm Coffeehouse Open mics. Outfitted with an outdoor patio for smoking, this coffee hangout offers drawing supplies at the bar and patrons are always welcome to bring musical instruments. Realm's schedule of events features singer-guitarist Chucky Luv on Monday, an open mic for music on Tuesday, an open mic for poetry on Thursday and a Friday drum circle. Mon., Tue., Thur., Fri., 9 p.m.-12 a.m. 937 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-821-5608.
Seabreeze on Sunset Beach Blues jam. This jam night and open mic for blues-oriented singer/songwriters takes place every Wednesday night. Wednesdays, 8 p.m.-12 a.m. 9546 Gulf Blvd. W., Treasure Island. 727-360-1398.
The Tavern on Bayboro Shana's Open Mic Night. Hosted by Pete Gallagher, this open mic for musicians and poets takes place every Wednesday night (except Dec. 19-Jan. 2). A different featured guest plays a 30-minute set each week. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. 121 Seventh Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 727-821-1418.
Yeoman's Road Pub Open jam. Vince Longo hosts an open jam every Wednesday night, featuring an eclectic mix of performers from the Bay's music scene. There's another open mic on Sunday night. All events are free and subject to change when there's a band scheduled. Wed., Sun., 7 p.m. 236 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa. 813-251-2748.
Sports & Recreation
13th Annual Say No To Drugs Holiday Classic With more than 80 races per year in Tampa Bay, the Say No to Drugs Holiday Classic ranks among the top in drawing elite runners. The 2-mile fun run, 5k and 10k runs start at Harborview Center at Coachman Park. The 10k ends at Pier 60 on Clearwater Beach, where shuttle buses return runners to the park for free, made-from-scratch pancakes and the awards ceremony. Sat., Dec. 22, 8 a.m. Coachman Park, 301 Drew St., Clearwater. 727-442-7140.
Christmas Carnage IPW Hardcore Wrestling, Florida's most successful underground wrestling organization, brings you holiday mayhem in the squared circle. The main event is an IPW Heavyweight title match between the champion Billy Fives and former champion Scoot Andrews. The undercard includes a TV match between O.D.D. and Rastaman, a no-disqualifications match between Don Juan Desanto and Dr. Heresy and a last-man-standing match between Sijin Akki and Marvelous Mike Sullivan. Sat., Dec. 22, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Florida WrestlePlex, 4055 35th St. N., Suite 1, St. Petersburg. 727-526-6778.
Coed Volleyball If you want to get your game on without committing to a team or schedule, this is the place. Walk-ins are always welcome at this free, social spike fest. Tuesdays, 7:30-10 p.m. Forest Hills Recreation Center, 724 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. 813-977-0892.
The Miller Lite NFL Tailgate Tour One hardcore, tailgating Tampa Bay Bucs fan is going to win a trip for four to the Ultimate Superbowl Tailgate in New Orleans this year. Fans are going to be judged on enthusiasm, appearance, originality and creativity. Three finalists then get to go on the field during the pre-game festivities and have five attempts to catch punts. The fan who catches the most wins. So who gives a damn if you don't have tickets to the game? Get to Ray Jay early and start knocking back Millers. Sun., Dec. 23, 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-289-6811.
Tampa Bay Lightning The Lightning take on the St. Louis Blues, and if all goes well, Bay area fans won't leave with a case of the blues. Fri., Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $8 to $150. Ice Palace, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-223-1000.
Inline Skating with the Tampa Bay Road Rollers The Rollers meet and skate at sponsored events like the Full Moon Skate at Flatwoods Natural Park, Monday Beginners, Tuesdays on Bayshore, Thursdays in St. Petersburg, Saturdays in Dunedin, Sunday Bladers and Jackson's Monthly Skate. But if you can't skate 9 to 11 miles, you might want to wait until you can. 813-855-7120.
Laser Tag at the Ice Sports Forum The Forum, already a popular ice skating venue, has opened a 3,300-square-foot, space-theme laser tag facility capable of handling up to 40 players at once. Competition levels vary from fun-seekers to experienced, all-out players, with walk-ons and leagues welcome. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sundays, 12-9 p.m. Ice Sports Forum, 10222 Elizabeth Place, Tampa. 813-684-7825.
Osprey Bay Kayaks Aside from a variety of classes, Osprey also offers regular outings, including Sunset and Full Moon Paddles, Weekday Get Aways (Clearwater Bay, Caladesi Island, etc.) and fishing trips. Call for a full schedule of events, costs and other information. Osprey Bay Kayaks, 17910 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 727-524-9670.Classical MusicFa La La La La The Tampa Bay Gay Men's Chorus performs in a traditional holiday concert — a mixture of children's favorites and classical pieces — with a guest appearance by the Gulf Coast Gay Men's Chorus from Sarasota. Sat., Dec. 22, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $18 and $25. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.
Comedy
Coconuts Comedy Club-Clearwater Danny Bevins. Cover charge varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations are suggested. Dec. 21, 9:30 p.m.; Dec. 22, 9:30 p.m. 24095 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 727-797-5653.
Coconuts Comedy Club-St. Pete Beach Dow Thomas. Thur.-Sun., 9:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Open mic featuring Danny Bevins. Wed., Dec. 26, 9:30 p.m. Cover charge varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations are suggested. 6100 Gulf Blvd., Howard Johnson, St. Pete Beach. 727-360-5653.
Improv Comedy Theater Tom McTigue. This Los Angeles-based comic is literate and hilarious. He streams together jokes from such odd places as the roof of your mouth, bird feeders and the Pope's bathtub. His engaging personality, coupled with impeccable timing, has landed him more than 50 national TV ads (KFC, Miller, VISA). He's also written for Roseanne, Bill Maher and Gary Shandling. Dec. 19-21, 8 p.m.; Dec. 22, 7 p.m.,9:30 p.m. & 11:30 p.m.; Dec. 23, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $12-$16 depending on the night. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Centro Ybor, Ybor City. 813-864-4000.
Side Splitters Al Romas. Al has a knack for finding humor in just about anything. His wit has a sharp edge that's completely natural for this New York native. Wed., Thur., Sun., 8:30 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Regular admission costs $8-$14 (depending on the night). 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-960-1197.
Museums
Florida Aquarium Sea Hunt. The aquarium's latest exhibit includes colorful predators from the world's oceans. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children 2 and younger. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.
Florida Holocaust Museum On the Edge of the Abyss. This exhibit of 93 drawings by Ella Liebermann-Shiber captures the horrors she witnessed in Nazi captivity. Ella's family was taken from Berlin in 1938, and she eventually ended up in Auschwitz-Birkenau. Her father and brothers were killed, but she and her mother survived due to Ella's artistic ability (she painted portraits for the Germans). Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 12-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 24. Admission is $6 for general, $5 for seniors and college students, $2 for ages 18 and under, and members get in free. 55 Fifth St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-820-0100.
Florida International Museum Heart & Hands: Musical Instrument Makers of America. Eighty-six framed Iris prints by photographer Jake Jacobsen depict craftspeople from 30 states. The portraits are accompanied by research by Trisja Malisoff. The exhibit has been organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services. The following exhibits continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis; The Kennedy Collection; and U2: The Spy Plane. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. All-inclusive day passes cost $12, and annual passes go for $20. 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3693.
Gulf Coast Museum of Art Outside the Box: Eleven International Artists. Works by Carmelo Arden Quin and Volf Roitman are featured in this exhibit, which runs concurrently with an exhibit of Andrew Morgan paintings: Paintings of the '90s. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Admission costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students (free on Thursday). 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo. 727-518-6833.
The Henry B. Plant Museum 20th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll. Experience the charm of a 19th century holiday at the old Tampa Bay Hotel during the museum's Victorian Christmas Stroll . Antique toys lie scattered about the museum and a lavishly decorated tree stands in every room. Complimentary cookies and cider are served on the veranda every day, and soloists and ensembles perform seasonal music nightly. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Admission costs $8 for adults, $3 for children. University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813-254-1891.
Kid's Firehouse Museum Antique Firetrucks. The museum has 11 antique firetrucks and memorabilia on display as well as a playground facility. Kids can learn fire safety tips, watch a safety video and get some free memorabilia. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.
Museum of Fine Arts Collecting for the Community: 20 Years of Treasures. The museum's comprehensive collection has more than doubled during the 20-year tenure of director Michael Milkovich. This exhibit features major works from the nearly 4,000 objects he helped to acquire. The collection contains significant works by Rembrandt, Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Cezanne and O'Keefe. Milkovich, who recently retired, now holds the title of Director Emeritus. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $6 for adults. 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2667.
Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) The Teddy Bear Express. A kid-size choo-choo train takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.
Salvador Dali Museum Jacqueline Lamba Retrospective. French painter Jacqueline Lamba (1910-93) is best known for inspiring artistic contributions to the surrealist movement. This exhibit brings together 25 of her paintings produced between 1938 and 1988, including a portrait of her husband, the poet and writer Andre Breton, and a number of non-objective surrealist works from the 1940s. Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for students. 1000 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-3767.
Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts War and Peace: World War II. Images loaned by Nicholas Orzio, General Douglas MacArthur's personal photographer, dominate TGPA's new exhibit, a collection of World War II photographs. Orzio, who traveled occupied Japan during 1948 and 1949, has documented the war crimes trials, the people, the earthquakes and volcano activity. His images detail the physical struggle of the Japanese people and provide a glimpse into the moods and emotions of the men, women and children recovering from a devastating war. Fridays, 5-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Free. Old Hyde Park Village, 746 S. Village Circle, Tampa. 813-251-1800.
Tampa Museum of Art A View into Antiquity. This exhibit of pottery, from the collection of William Suddaby and David Meier, consists of 52 examples of ancient Greek and Italian ceramics from the Late Bronze Age to the Classical Period. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 13. Admission ranges from $3 to $5; free 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. 813-274-8130.
Ybor City State Museum Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor. Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.Spoken WordJoffrey's Cybercafe Broad Stroking. Doris Owens Yates hosts this weekly open mic poetry reading at 3 p.m. every Sunday. All poets are welcome. Kelly Green hosts Two for One Tuesday, an open mic for any and all artists, from 8 p.m. to midnight every Tuesday. Tuesdays, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. Continues through May 1. 5165 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-865-0605.
Lloyd's Cajun Cafe Black on Black Rhyme. This intense spoken word event takes place every Tuesday night, featuring the We Take No Prisoners Poetry Troupe. The troupe challenges the spoken word artists to weekly battles on various topics — men versus women, for instance. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Continues through May 1. The cover is $5. 1910 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-242-4364.Theater: OpeningsThe Bridge of Khazad-Dum Time and Again Interactive Entertainment performs this promo for the movie Lord of the Rings, at Parkside RC Cinemas. The group, which specializes in stunt acting, has previously performed live-action promos at the theater for A Knight's Tale, Tomb Raider and The Musketeer. Dec. 21, 7-10 p.m.; Dec. 22, 7-10 p.m. Admission is free with purchase of a movie ticket. Parkside RC Cinemas, Parkside Mall at U.S. 19, Pinellas Park. 727-532-1955.
A Christmas Cannoli: Or a Tale of Two Families The players of Yellow Snow Productions perform this original mob-style Christmas comedy. Full of gats and goombas, the play takes shots at gangster cliches while the spirits try to knock some sense into Ebenezer Scungili, the meanest godfather in the city. Dec. 20, 8 p.m.; Dec. 21, 8 p.m.; Dec. 22, 8 p.m.; Dec. 23, 3 p.m.; Dec. 28, 8 p.m.; Dec. 29, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10. Carrollwood Playhouse, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. 813-265-4000.
Theater: Ongoing'
Tis the Season to Do Folly This Christmas murder mystery by Aubrey Hampton is a comedic whodunnit. Nothing like a little murder and mayhem to put you in the holiday spirit. Thursdays, 7 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. Tickets cost $22, $19 for students and seniors. The Gorilla Theatre, 4419 N. Hubert Ave., Suite D, Tampa. 813-879-2914.
'Twas the Night Before Christmas American Stage celebrates the holiday season with its Theater for Families production of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, a premiere musical based on the timeless Christmas poem. This original work explores the legend of Santa Claus, from Santa's boyhood to his present job as Father Christmas. No performances Dec. 24 or 25. Sat., Sun., 3 p.m.; Wed.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Dec. 21, 10 p.m.; Dec. 28, 3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $7 for children 12 and under. American Stage, 211 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529.
Visual Arts: Ongoing
Art House Heavenly Harlots. Meet New York artist Dino Kotopoulis, an award-winning animation director, designer and character sketcher for companies such as Universal Studios, Disney and several major advertising agencies, including Leo Burnett. He's since turned his artistic talents to making whimsical bas-relief caricatures of real people into furniture he calls Egos. Currently he's creating cut metal sculptures, including the Heavenly Harlots series. Call for hours. Dec. 14-30. 233 Second St. S., Safety Harbor. 727-724-0122.
Artists Unlimited Life in Stone. The exhibit consists of more than two dozen hand-carved sculptures by artists of Zimbabwe, Africa. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. 223 N. 12th St., Tampa. 813-229-5958.
Baisden Gallery A New Wave of Glass II. This exhibit, featuring works by six young glass artists, is the gallery's second annual show highlighting artists who're gaining attention for their glass work. The artists are Jeanne Brennan, Nancy Callan, Mark Morris, Amy Rueffert, Ross Richmond and David Walters. Wed., Fri., 1-5 p.m.; Tue., Thur., Sat., 12-4 p.m. Continues through Feb. 3. 442 Grand Central Ave., Suite 100, Tampa. 813-250-1511.
Clayton Galleries Small Works: A Holiday Group Show. Twenty gallery artists display works in a wide range of media. All the works are smaller than 25 inches. Among the works are ornaments displayed on the gallery's Christmas tree. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 4105 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa. 813-831-3753.
Covivant Gallery See You, See Me. The large gallery features works by three Vienna-based artists: Maria Hahnenkamp, Fiona Rukschcio and Klaus Pamminger. All three artists deal with the theme of perception. In the small gallery is Red Meat, a team exhibit by two recent graduates from Blake Magnet High School, Melissa Roll and Sarah Loveland. The exhibit features mixed media and photography. Sat., Sun., 12-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. 4906 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. 813-232-3283.
Davidson Fine Art The Beat Generation. This collection of works by notable beat writers includes original art, manuscripts, letters and books by Kerouac, Burroughs, Ginsberg, Corso, Ferlinghetti, Baraka, Creely, Rivers and Bukowski. The show's producer and collection owner, Dr. William Plumley, is a published author himself (most recently in The Chicago Review), and has edited five anthologies of folklore, poetry and fiction. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 10. 725 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-827-1888.
Dunedin Fine Art Center Wheels: Artists and Automobiles. Wheels examines the American obsession with automobiles, as well as the artistry, mystique and cultural impact of wheels. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Continues through March 30. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin. 727-298-3322.
Florida Craftsmen Gallery Season of Lights. The gallery is stocked throughout with fine contemporary crafts designed for gift giving, including an installation of handsome, handmade cups and mugs. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-821-7391.
The Gallery of Owen Sweet Design Language of the Heart. This exhibit consists of pop art-influenced oil and acrylic paintings by local artist Dragoslav Milic. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 28. 16701 Gulf Blvd. N., Redington Beach. 727-392-6936.
HCC-Ybor Gallery Blake High School Senior Masters Exhibit. This juried exhibit consists of the best works by Blake High School's senior art students. The exhibit includes various media — painting, photography, glass, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture. Mon., Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tuesdays, 12-8 p.m. Continues through Jan. 3. In the HCC Performing Arts Building, at Palm Avenue and 15th Street, Ybor City. 813-253-7674.
Hyde Park Fine Arts Winter Salon. This multimedia, salon-style exhibit features the work of more than 20 artists, most of whom are new to the gallery. These new artists include folk painter Kathleen Deasey, ceramist Linda Chumley, and painters Bruce Minney and Marlene London. Returning gallery favorites include Lynn Whipple, Margaret Steward, Jack Barrett and Bask. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 937 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. 813-258-8883.
Lemon Studios and Gallery Trajectories. Chicago artist Carrie Shield displays works that pay homage to Piet Mondrian. Shield, who recieved her MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle, works primarily in oil on linen. Saturdays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 1601 N. Marion St., Tampa. 813-805-7487.
Merrick Gallery Glass/Painting Exhibit. Merrick's latest exhibit features glass by Florida glass blower Duncan McClellan and new works by Antonio Caparello, who worked for pop art master James Rosenquist as a painter and studio assistant for 10 years. McClellan has created some new pieces with his graal-and-overlay technique. Caparello, a billboard artist for many years, has recently switched his focus to smaller works of oil on canvas. Wed., Thur., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 330 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2787.
New Heights Gallery Romantic Realists. This two-woman show introduces artists Lou Lair Harton and Beverly Barris to the Tampa Bay area. Harton is a recent arrival from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, and Barris is from New York City. Harton's oil paintings are accomplished treatments of Brazilian women, adorned with tropical fruits and flowers. Barris, whose influences gravitate toward Rembrandt, creates atmospheric and figurative charcoals and pastels. Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Continues through Feb. 16. 6310 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. 813-234-9758.
Octagon Arts Center Whimsical Winter Scenes and Frosted Fantasies. All of the works in this show are somehow related to winter, be it in color, content, subject or allusion. The show includes works by mixed-media artists Lee Edgar and Karen Ann Westby, metal sculptor Brandy Stark, landscape/dreamscape painter Boo Ehrsam and photographer Kevin Peters. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 9. 2470 Nursery Road, Clearwater. 727-531-7704.
Old Hyde Park Art Center Cherubim, Seraphim and Other Celestial Beings. This exhibit is a juried, all-media, open competition. Tue.-Sun., 12-3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 21. 705 Swann Ave., Tampa. 813-251-3780.
The Packinghouse Gallery The Essence of Nature. Barb Collins of St. Petersburg exhibits her fine nature photography. Wed., Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Thur., Fri., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Jan. 15. 10900 Oakhurst Road, Largo. 727-596-7822.
Plainsmen Gallery Holiday & Gift Show. The exhibit features wildlife, western and Florida artworks, including oils and clayboard engravings by Grant Hacking, and bronzes by Michael Storey. Tue., Thur., Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 22. 2450 Sunset Point Road, Suite A, Clearwater. 727-726-5100.
Realty Executives Confident Art. An exhibit of paintings by Ludner Confident, a Haitian-born artist/anesthesiologist, hangs in this unlikeliest of galleries. The artist, known as Ludy, paints female portraits enmeshed in such themes as love, sports, the tropics and music. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 2861 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-867-9600.
St. Pete Beach Art Institute Reflections. This three-woman show features works by painter Gayle Woodley, multimedia painter Gay Womack and potter Ann Sackett. Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 727-367-3818.
Susan Benjamin Glass Etc. All the Glitter of Glass. Fine glass works by artists from across the country are on display in this holiday collection, which includes perfume bottles, paperweights, glass flowers and handblown Christmas ornaments. Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.
Syd Entel Galleries Spirits of the Holidays. Atlanta-based oil painter Thomas Arvid is quickly gaining a national reputation as today's premier painter of fine wine images. This exhibit of new works can be appreciated by wine connoisseurs and art collectors alike. Wine Spectator (Nov. 2000) showcased Arvid's work in a handsome profile and U.S. Art Gallery named him one of 25 Artists You Should Know (Aug. 2001). Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.
Synthesis Fine Arts Lure of Color. Recent works by Yvette Galliher are on display in the mezzanine, and a group show of paintings and sculptures by more than a dozen local artists is on display in the lobby. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 12. Tampa City Center, 201 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 877-796-8437.
TECO Public Art Gallery Landscapes/Portraits. Ruth T. Nienhaus exhibits 20 watercolors of landscapes and various portraits. Nienhaus has studied painting at the University of Georgia, and traveled throughout Florida, the Caribbean and Central America. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 704 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 813-251-3688.
