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Friday, October 30, 2015

An Era Exploding! See the Opening Number of the New Ragtime Tour (Video)

A new touring revival of the award-winning musical Ragtime — helmed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who received a Tony nomination for her work on the 2009 revival — hit the road Oct. 22. Here's a look at the show's opening number.
The non-AEA tour, intended to be "much in the spirit" of the Tony-nominated 2009 production, is presented by Phoenix Entertainment. - See more at: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/an-era-exploding-see-the-opening-number-of-the-new-ragtime-tour-video-369201#sthash.qmjIJ2br.VbQzirwu.dpuf
A new touring revival of the award-winning musical Ragtime — helmed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who received a Tony nomination for her work on the 2009 revival — hit the road Oct. 22. Here's a look at the show's opening number.
The non-AEA tour, intended to be "much in the spirit" of the Tony-nominated 2009 production, is presented by Phoenix Entertainment. - See more at: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/an-era-exploding-see-the-opening-number-of-the-new-ragtime-tour-video-369201#sthash.qmjIJ2br.VbQzirwu.dpuf

A new touring revival of the award-winning musical Ragtime — helmed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who received a Tony nomination for her work on the 2009 revival — hit the road Oct. 22. Click on the link for a look at the show's opening number.

 

A new touring revival of the award-winning musical Ragtime — helmed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who received a Tony nomination for her work on the 2009 revival — hit the road Oct. 22. Here's a look at the show's opening number. - See more at: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/an-era-exploding-see-the-opening-number-of-the-new-ragtime-tour-video-369201#sthash.qmjIJ2br.VbQzirwu.dpuf
A new touring revival of the award-winning musical Ragtime — helmed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge, who received a Tony nomination for her work on the 2009 revival — hit the road Oct. 22. Here's a look at the show's opening number.
The non-AEA tour, intended to be "much in the spirit" of the Tony-nominated 2009 production, is presented by Phoenix Entertainment. - See more at: http://www.playbill.com/news/article/an-era-exploding-see-the-opening-number-of-the-new-ragtime-tour-video-369201#sthash.qmjIJ2br.VbQzirwu.dpuf

An Era Exploding! See the Opening Number of the New Ragtime Tour (Video)


Ragtime features a Tony Award-winning score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and a Tony-winning book by Terrence McNally

 

The original production opened in January 1998 at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts.

 

For more information, visit RagtimeOnTour.com.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

PLANNING YOUR DREAM WEDDING

He proposed. The man of your dreams proposed. It was a bit of a surprise, but you had a feeling it was coming. The relationship has been pretty perfect lately and it would be a perfect time for the both of you to take the plunge.
At the end of dinner, he suddenly got down on his knees and pulled out the ring. With tears running down your cheeks, you said yes! He staged it perfectly and you loved him even more at that moment. You were both beaming with delight while envisioning your life together.
While talking a mile a minute, a light bulb goes off. It’s time to plan your dream wedding though you have no idea where to start. No one is going to tell you it’s easy to plan, but many have walked (or danced) down the aisle before you and had a fabulous time doing it. Make your wedding the party of the year. Your guests will love you for it. Be memorable, be awesome, and be creative. Let’s rock and roll girl and start with a checklist.
THE CHECKLISTS
This is going to be your go-to list so it’s best to get a binder to keep all the information you gathered in one place. Staying organized will keep you on track while you try to make your wedding memorable, awesome and creative. The items on the checklist are your must-do’s to make this spectacular event come together in the way only you know how.
ABOUT A YEAR + BEFORE - Don’t worry, you’re going to have a great time
You’re in the planning stage here, where you and your fiancé are brainstorming ideas that will make this a day to remember for you and your guests.

  • Work out your budget. Who is going to contribute? This will be the major factor in many of your decisions. Whether you can spend until your heart is content or have to be more budget conscious, there are dozens of ideas that will make this the day of your dreams.
  • Choose your date and venue for ceremony and reception- Worried about inclement weather? There’s nothing like a sudden storm to put a damper on an outside event. Choose an inside venue that will accommodate all your wishes and desires. Do you want a wedding with a theme? Check to see what the vendor might suggest.
  • Who will be in your wedding party? Give them as much time as possible so they can plan for the big day.
  • Pick your guest list. Sure, you want everyone you know to share your joy. But can you afford it? This is often one of the most difficult decisions to make. Name everyone who you would like to attend at first, then whittle it down over time. That is, unless you can invite everyone!
  • Who will marry you? Make sure he or she will be available on your special day.
  • Begin your research. Check into local photographers, bands or DJ’s, florists, videographer and caterers. Once you’ve chosen your venue, you might get some great recommendations from them.
  • Create a wedding website. Chronicle your ventures and accomplishments. Let your guests join in on the fun. Check out weddingchannel.com.
  • Browse wedding dress and veil styles. Will you go traditional or a little rock star? Have fun experimenting.
  • Research all the great wedding blogs and websites. There’s a ton of them out there with fantastic ideas and inspirational stories.
  • Most of all, be creative. Come up with ideas to make your wedding an event your guests will rave about for a long time to come. Make up some games or fun things people of all ages will enjoy.

ABOUT 9 TO 10 MONTHS BEFORE - You’re doing great and having a great time
Now is the time to make some decisions for the things that need to be taken care of well in advance. Musicians might not be available or your dress might not be ready on time. This is a must-do.

  • Purchase/order your dress and veil. If it is custom designed for you, it will definitely take longer so keep that in mind.
  • Choose bridal party attire and accessories- Don’t be a bridezilla! Let them in on the decision so they will be as comfortable and gorgeous as you will be.
  • Hire the photographer, videographer, musicians, DJ’s if you have not already done so. If you will be married during popular bridal seasons, it is especially important to book them well in advance.
  • Establish a fitness routine. This is only if you are not in the shape you desire. It’s a superb way to get a rocking body for the wedding and for life. Your fiancé will love you even more.
  • Meet the caterers. If your venue doesn’t provide catering, then meet several caterers to discuss options and availability.

ABOUT 8 TO 9 MONTHS BEFORE - You’re rocking it
While you’re still making and changing plans, there are some things that need your attention if you want your guests to be happy too.

  • Find three hotels at different price points for out of town guests. Not everyone will choose to stay in a high-end hotel, so make sure you choose hotels for everyone’s budget.
  • Create gift registries. Don’t be greedy. Look for gifts with pricing that everyone attending will be able to afford.
  • Begin planning your honeymoon. Have you been to Aruba yet? Looking for an adventurous honeymoon? It might be the last big trip you’ll have in a while so make it a memorable one.
  • Browse wedding invitation designs and all the accompanying stationary. The options are endless and you want to make sure they reflect the theme you have chosen.
  • Refine the guest list and mail your “Save the Date” cards. Include the link to your website. The guests will be able to post their congratulations and thoughts on your site.  Get everyone involved via social media.

ABOUT 6 TO 7 MONTHS BEFORE - Great job so far
You are on your way and you can’t believe how much more there is to do. Good thing you have a checklist.

  • Book your florist. It’s great to have a florist who specializes in weddings and can give you great ideas to go with your theme.
  • Book the room for your wedding night. Make sure it’s romantic and management knows it’s your wedding night.
  • Reserve a block of rooms for out of town guests. Many hotels give specials, so definitely check into that.
  • Meet with the officiant to discuss the ceremony and confirm you have all the official documents. You also need to make sure you have applied for that marriage license.
  • Choose cake styles and schedule tastings. Yummy
  • Arrange transportation. Consider what you are wearing. Entries and exits from certain modes of transportation can be a bit tricky.
  • Purchase wedding invitations. Addressing them can be a time-consuming process, so take that into consideration when making your budget.
  • Decide on groomsmen attire. Thank goodness men are usually pretty flexible with choices.
  • Purchase wedding bands.
  • Do something different. Hire a dance instructor to teach guests a fun dance to get them all up and grooving to the music.

ABOUT 4 TO 5 MONTHS BEFORE - It’s getting closer
Even though you’ve been diligently keeping everything in order, there’s still more to do, but the load is getting a lot lighter.

  • Order the cake. That is if you haven’t already done so.
  • Assemble the guest list for the rehearsal dinner. This will be your wedding party along with family members.
  • Book the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner venue. If your wedding has a theme, then check out places that might complement that theme.
  • Prepare playlists for the band or DJ. Make sure you choose music for your guests of all ages.
  • Finalize the guest list. Just don’t argue about it. This can be a point of contention amongst couples, so don’t go there.
  • Book the honeymoon flights and hotels. Ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order.
  • Schedule hair and make-up artists. Try a few local places, take photographs and compare results. If some of your bridal party is local, then include them in the fun.
  • Schedule dress fittings. You want to make sure you are relaxed and comfortable the entire time.
  • Order linens and flowers for the tables if those are not offered by your venue of choice.

3 MONTHS BEFORE - Don’t get nervous
The items on the checklist during this period are decisions you definitely want to make together.

  • Plan the ceremony and reception seating. Don’t forget about your single friends and where they will be seated. You want all of your guests to enjoy the evening.
  • Purchase wedding favors. Keep them themed if you have one.
  • Make a list of the people giving toasts. Keep in mind your friends who like to imbibe may make a toast that is cringe-worthy.
  • Finalize readers and readings. Is it going to be religious or spiritual in nature?
  • Write your own vows. It adds a personal touch that you and your guests will remember forever.
  • Print menu cards and programs.

2 MONTHS BEFORE - It’s crunch time
You’re down to the wire and everything is going smoothly. Just a couple of months to go.

  • Mail the wedding invitations. Set the RSVP cutoff date at three weeks after the postmark date. Your guests will be thrilled to receive an invite and will jump at the chance to attend.
  • Check in with all the vendors. This is to ensure that nothing is amiss.
  • Meet with the photographer.  You’ll want to discuss specific shots and locations at the venues.  
  • Decide “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.” Come on, it brings good luck.
  • Book a spa and beauty appointments for you and the bridal party.
  • Purchase gifts for bridal party. If these can mirror your theme, great. If not, choose something you know the members of the party will love.

1 MONTH BEFORE - Is there something you’re forgetting?
There’s no backing out now. Everything is going great and most of these items are just to ensure that everyone else is on the same page as you are.
  • Call vendors to confirm. This is just another check-up.
  • Begin to pack for the honeymoon. Or at least decide what you’ll need for your adventure.
  • Confirm honeymoon reservations and agenda. You’ll want to make sure you are really going!
  • Final dress fitting if necessary. It can’t be too tight, you know.
  • Practice walking in your shoes. Especially if they are not the type you would normally wear. Purchase a pair of comfortable shoes for the reception. You won’t regret it.
  • Check in with the venue coordinator. They may want to know they have everything exactly as you wish.
  • Get hair styled for the big event. You want to be extra gorgeous on your special day.
  • Mail the rehearsal dinner invitations. Your wedding party will be looking forward to it.
THE LAST WEEK BEFORE - Calm down
You’ve done everything right and you are good to go. There are just a few last minute items and frankly, you can delegate some of the smaller tasks.
  • Get spa treatments for you and the bridal party. They will appreciate it as much as you.
  • Give readers their scripts. They may want to practice.
  • Finalize payments to vendors. Keeping them happy is essential.
  • Pick up your dress or have it delivered. It should be perfect!
  • Give directions to transportation drivers.
  • Break in your shoes again. Make sure you can dance the night away.
  • Enjoy the rehearsal dinner. Don’t drink too much. Nothing like a hangover to take away that glow.
  • Try to get some rest.
THE BIG DAY - Enjoy your moment
This is a joyful occasion you will remember for a lifetime. Let your hair down, relax, smile and enjoy every amazing moment.
THE CONFERENCE CENTER AT THRASHER-HORNE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Many stunning weddings have been held at the conference center at Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts and there will be many more. Nestled in a bucolic setting, guests can stroll through the property, visit art galleries or just dance the night away in one of the spacious and tastefully appointed conference rooms.
The professional on-site staff will cater to your wishes and desires. You can choose from the Center’s recommended caterers or you can hire one of your own. It’s all up to you. The staff at Thrasher-Horne want to make your wedding day perfect so you and your guests will rave about the experience for a long time to come.
For more Conference Center rental information please call (904) 276-6836 or email ThrasherConference@sjrstate.edu.   
In this article, I’ve given you a wedding planning checklist to help make your big day run smoothly. The venue of choice is one of the most significant elements in your planning and the conference center at Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts is one of the most stunning settings for your big day.
If you enjoyed this blog post, please share it. The Google Plus button is below, along with buttons for other social media.  
Spread the word about one of Northeast Florida’s best kept secrets! Tell your family and friends about the Thrasher-Horne Center. They will appreciate learning about what they have been missing.
We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. If you have a comment about this article, leave it in the comments section below.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Celebrate the Holidays at the Thrasher-Horne Center



Thanksgiving is just around the corner and The Thrasher-Horne Center has a fantastic lineup of special events coming up to celebrate the holiday season.
Peking Dreams: The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China will perform on Saturday, November 28, at 3:00 p.m.
Courtesy, Columbia Artists' Management
Peking Dreams is a big colorful show! What could possibly be a better follow up to a big Thanksgiving dinner and a big day of shopping on Black Friday? Experience this spectacular Chinese Circus and acrobatics performed by China’s most talented circus artists!
These extraordinary artists will perform amazing acts of juggling, contortion, and balance. The show features traditional Chinese music, stunning costumes, and elaborate props. This thrilling production will be a hit with both children and adults.
Peking Dreams was performed at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008. Since then, this dazzling production has been presented all over the world. The program ushers audiences into an artistic world full of culture, history, and wonder. There will be unforgettable acts including the Great Teeterboard, Grand Flying Trapeze, Group Contortion, and Straw Hats Juggling.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Musical, comes to life for two shows at the Thrasher-Horne Center on Sunday, December 13th!
Courtesy of Character Arts
Come see all of your favorite characters from the longest running television holiday special in history. Rudolph’s adventure teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.
Don't miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us. You’ll see Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer is the first show of The Broadway Season at the Thrasher-Horne Center. There will be two performances on Sunday, December 13th. The first will be at 1:30 p.m. and the second will begin at 4:30 p.m.
Based on the animated television special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and the stage production directed and conceived by Jeff Frank and First Stage. Script adaptation by Robert Penola. All elements © and ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC.
The score includes favorite holiday songs such as Silver and Gold, Holy Jolly Christmas, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Arrangements and orchestrations by Timothy Splain.
 
An Evening of Holiday & Hits with Michael McDonald, December 19th
Singer/songwriter Michael McDonald has one of the most recognizable voices in the music industry. With a distinctively soulful sound, he has won five Grammys. In 2009, McDonald released This Christmas, his third holiday album. The collection includes White Christmas, I’ll be Home for Christmas, and other traditional songs as well as a few songs that are less familiar.  
On December 19th, he will be taking it to the stage with hits and holiday favorites at The Thrasher-Horne Center. Join Michael McDonald for This Christmas: An Evening of Holiday & Hits. A limited number of VIP packages are available, including a Meet & Greet with Michael, an intimate pre-show performance, a great seat, and much more.

Magician Mike Super, Finalist on America’s Got Talent, December 26th
Mike Super has performed with Big and Rich, Louie Anderson, Train, and many other big league performers. On the Ellen DeGeneres Show, he helped the host to appear from nothing but shadows. Known as America's Favorite Mystifier, he will be performing magic and illusions live at the Thrasher-Horne Center on December 26th , 2015 at 7:00 P.M.
The Magic of Mike Super combines art, theater, and magic. Mike’s events incorporate video projection, cutting edge magic & illusions, dramatic lighting, and energizing music. It’s like a Broadway play and a rock concert in a family-friendly package. His innovative and interactive shows appeal to all ages.
Garber Automall of Green Cove Springs is sponsoring the event. Mike will attempt to steal a vehicle from the dealership and make it appear on the stage with a snap of his fingers. If he is able to accomplish this impossible feat, everyone with a valid driver license in the Thrasher-Horne Center’s audience will have a chance to win the vehicle, courtesy of Garber Automall.
Family life is very important to Mike Super and he finds the inspiration for many of his tricks in his own life. “When I was a kid, my mother loved it when it snowed,” he says. “She's since passed away, but because of her love for it, I created a trick where I make it snow inside the theater over the audiences’ heads.”  
Super performs 175 to 200 shows per year, but when he’s home, he is completely focused on family. “I value my time home with my family, and I give 100 percent to that when I'm there. While I travel a lot, I can be home quite a bit too.  Unlike normal families, when I'm home, I'm home 24/7. Also, we get to travel quite a bit and they all can come with me.  We get to go on adventures together as a family.” 
There may be a holiday surprise or two when he performs at the Thrasher-Horne Center. If you like snow, coming to Mike Super’s mystifying show at the Thrasher-Horne Center may be your best shot at seeing some of it in Northeast Florida this year. If you’re looking for a magical event for the whole family this holiday season, plan to see this mesmerizing performance. It promises to be spectacular. It could snow! You might win a vehicle!
Family four-packs are available! Get your tickets today.
 
Other Performers Coming Soon to The Thrasher-Horne Center
The following events are also coming up at The Thrasher-Horne Center:
Boz Scaggs on November 4th
The Jacksonville Symphony conducted by Courtney Lewis on November 21st

Are you looking for the perfect setting for an event?
The Thrasher-Horne Center has modern facilities, the latest technology, and a courteous and professional staff to provide you with everything you need. Whether you’re planning a lecture for hundreds of people or a brunch for thirty, the Conference Center is the ideal setting. Rooms at the Conference Center can be configured to accommodate corporate meetings, award banquets, workshops, reunions, weddings, and receptions. And, oh yes, holiday parties. The season for gatherings of family and friends is, indeed, upon us!
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In this article, I’ve written about events coming up at The Thrasher-Horne Center during the holiday season. These include Peking Dreams on November 28th, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on December 13th, Grammy winner Michael McDonald on December 19th, and magician Mike Super on December 26th.
Spread the word about one of Northeast Florida’s best kept secrets! Tell your family and friends about the Thrasher-Horne Center. People will appreciate learning about what they have been missing.
We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. If you have a comment about this article, leave it in the comments section below.

Friday, October 9, 2015

Music by America and Dinner by Carrabba’s - It doesn’t get any better!



Dinner and a Show at the Thrasher-Horne Center on November 13th.

The Thrasher-Horne Center is partnering with Carrabba’s Italian Grill to offer a plated three-course dinner before America’s performance on Friday, November 13th.  Imagine enjoying a delicious dinner catered by Carrabba’s, one of America’s favorite Italian restaurants, followed by classic rock hits served up by America, one of the country’s most beloved bands. It will be an evening to remember as you cruise down Ventura Highway!
When you arrive at the beautiful Thrasher-Horne Center, you’ll be greeted by a host who will show you to your seats in the conference room which will be set up as a banquet hall. (Special parking for Horses with No Names will be available outside.) Seating will begin at 6 p.m.  Your table will have Carrabba’s fresh baked bread, olive oil, and signature herb mix, along with a refreshing glass of water. 
We will take your iced tea order and provide it prior to the meal.  Once all our guests are seated, we will begin full service at 6:30  p.m. with salads, followed shortly thereafter by the entrée – scrumptious Chicken Bryan topped with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil and our lemon butter sauce. For dessert, you’ll have a sweet mini-cannoli.

After dinner, relax and enjoy some art

There won’t be any need to go to the car and drive anywhere. You’ll be just a short walk from the Thrasher-Horne Center’s main stage. Before dinner, or during the time between dinner and the show, you can take a walk on the landscaped grounds. There’s even a waterfall to enjoy. Or if you simply prefer to stay indoors, you might take a few minutes to walk through the photo galleries.
The Center’s permanent collection features photography by the renowned Jack Mitchell. Over his forty-five year career, Michell was a photographer for the American Ballet Theater for a decade and for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for over three decades. He shot 168 covers for Dance Magazine! His work also appeared on the covers of Rolling Stone, The New York Times Magazine, Newsweek, Time, Life, Vogue, Elle, and Vanity Fair. He photographed celebrities including Robin Williams, Al Pacino, Angela Landsbury, Jack Nicholson, Meryl Streep, Natalie Wood, John Lennon, Neil Simon, Andy Warhol, and many others.
Photography from Susan Michal’s “Flowers in Transition” collection will also be on exhibit. Susan is unusual in that she photographs flowers after they’ve passed their prime. According to her website, “Susan is very aware of the short life that flowers have and has been interested in photographing them as they transition through the stages of bud to full bloom and death. Many of Susan’s favorite images are of blooms well past their prime. As flowers transition through different stages the colors change drastically. The textures become intense.” 

Enjoy the Show

You’ll be comfortably seated when America takes the stage in the Thrasher-Horne Center’s acoustically excellent theatre. Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell have been making music together as America since 1970. A Horse With No Name was a gigantic hit which made it to the top of the charts in 1972. America won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist that same year.
Throughout their phenomenal career, the band has produced six certified gold and platinum albums. America’s journey down Ventura Highway continues. Get your tickets to join them as they make a pit stop at the Thrasher-Horne Center on November 13th.  The concert begins at 8 p.m.

Dinner Reservations

Seating for the three course dinner from Carrabba’s will begin at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will include salad, Chicken Bryan, and a mini-cannoli. The cost for the dinner is just $35.00 and does not include a ticket to the concert. Seating is limited. Order now.

Are you looking for the perfect setting for an event?

The Thrasher-Horne Center has modern facilities, the latest technology, and a courteous and professional staff to provide you with everything you need. It’s one of Northeast Florida's architectural and cultural gems, making it the perfect setting for gatherings of almost any kind. Whether you are planning a lecture for hundreds of people or a brunch for thirty, the Conference Center is the ideal setting.
Rooms at the Conference Center can be configured to accommodate corporate meetings, award banquets, workshops, reunions, weddings, and receptions. And, oh yes, holiday parties. The season for gatherings of family and friends is, indeed, upon us! Your room will be set up and waiting on you, just the way you want it. And when you want to take a short break from your special gathering, you can step outside for some fresh air, stroll by the waterfall, or explore the center’s stunning visual arts galleries.

Coming Soon to The Thrasher-Horne Center

The Thrasher-Horne Center has several exciting events coming up, including:
Boz Scaggs on November 4th
The Jacksonville Symphony conducted by Courtney Lewis on November 21st
Peking Dreams performed by The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China on  November 28th
Michael McDonald on December 19th
Magician Mike Super on December 26th
The Broadway Season at the Thrasher-Horne Center begins in December. There will be six great shows including Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Ragtime, Always… Patsy Cline, Annie, Saturday Night Fever, and the Northeast Florida Premiere of Once. Subscriptions are on sale now on the Thrasher-Horne Center’s website.
In this article, I’ve written about the upcoming performance of America at the Thrasher-Horne Center on November 13th. Dewey Bunnell and Gerry Beckley have been performing as America for over four decades. Their greatest hits include A Horse With No Name, You Can Be Magic, and I Need You.  An optional three course dinner before the performance will be catered by Carrabba’s.
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Spread the word about one of Northeast Florida’s best kept secrets! Tell your family and friends about the Thrasher-Horne Center. Share this article with them. They will appreciate learning about what they have been missing.
We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. If you have a comment about this article, leave it in the comments section below.