Weekend Top 10: Final Four on the Court, Daredevils in the Sky, Vampire Slayers on Stage, and Highland Games in the Park!
The NCAA Women’s Final Four happens right here! But if that’s not your speed, we’ve got Mainsail, Buffyfest, the Highland games, the Aerospace Expo, St. Pete Motor Classic and so much more! #RegistryTampaBay always curates the coolest events for your weekend fun. See what’s in store for you right here! Thursday Ongoing: Sun-N-Fun Aerospace Expo Pipkin Rd., Lakeland Time for a visit to our neighbors to the north for one of the most exciting events of the year. Everyone loves the daring do and great showmanship of the pilots. From its humble beginnings in 1974 as a fly-in for sport aviation enthusiasts, the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo has grown into one of the largest and most successful aviation events on earth. They are Florida’s largest annual convention of any kind, and each year over 200,000 visitors flock to what has become known as “Aviation’s Season Opener” or “Spring Break for Pilots.” Now through Sunday, April 6th Find tickets, schedules and more information HERE. Opening: The Sunshine Boys by Neil Simon Francis Wilson Playhouse, Clearwater Lewis & Clark, AKA, the Sunshine Boys, were a very popular vaudeville act in their younger years, but time has not been good to their relationship, to put it mildly. Now one’s nephew, a talent agent, attempts to bring the two legendary (and cranky) comics together for a reunion and revival of their famous act. It’s a Neil Simon classic, funny and poignant. Put theater on your calendar this weekend. Thursday, April 3rd through Sunday, April 13th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Friday Artist Opening: Nathan Beard – Ten Measure Tune The Werk Gallery, St. Pete Ten Measure Tune is Beard’s first solo-exhibition in St. Petersburg in over 10 years. This homecoming exhibition will showcase a selection of his classic “Exit Music” paintings, as well as a number of new bodies of work in the “Exit Music” vein that he developed for exhibitions and projects outside the region over the last decade, from Illinois and Ft. Lauderdale to California and Japan. As a proud owner of an early “Exit Music” piece, I highly recommend you come and see Nathan Beard’s work for yourself. It’s an experience. Opening Reception: Friday, April 4th @5pm – 9pm Runs through May 11th Find more information HERE. Artist Opening: Spring Blossoms Featuring Bobbi Pratte Brenda McMahon Gallery, Gulfport It’s time for First Friday in Gulfport – a vibrant art street fair that everyone loves to visit, This Friday, visit the Brenda McMahon Gallery for the opening of Spring Blossoms, featuring Bobbi Pratte, a Gulfport artist. Bobbi loves flowers and says her garden inspires her studio work. Join us for our OPENING NIGHT with Spring Blossoms. Come for the art, stay for the music! Jazz singer, Fiona Frensche will serenade you with her sultry tunes playing all night long. You don’t want to miss this amazing night of talent. Opening Reception on Friday, April 4th @6pm – 9pm Find more information HERE. Saturday **Registry Spotlight Event** Of Course, the Final Four is a very big deal, but 50 years of Mainsail is a big deal too – and Mainsail is ours, so we shine this week’s spotlight on one of the premier arts events in the country that happens each year, right here in Tampa Bay. 50th Annual Mainsail Art Festival Vinoy Park, DTSP For half a century, the Mainsail Art Festival has been one of the premier cultural events on St. Petersburg’s outdoor calendar. Each year, more than 100,000 visitors attend the festival to enjoy and purchase quality art and to listen to live musical entertainment. The Mainsail committee of hard-working volunteers produces this annual fine arts festival exhibiting artists competing for $60,000 in prize money. Saturday & Sunday, April 5th & 6th Find event and entertainment schedules, and more information HERE. Dunedin Highland Games & Festival Highlander Park, Dunedin This is a really entertaining event that takes us across the pond to the beautiful traditions and culture of Scotland. Celebrate the Heritage of Scotland with great music, dancing, athletics, good food, drink, and friends! The flags are flying, the Celts are gathering, and everyone is a Celt for the weekend! What a great, unique way to spend your Saturday – in charming Dunedin. Saturday, April 5th @8am – 6:30pm Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE. Buffyfest – The Florida Björkestra The Palladium, DTSP Here’s a must see showcase that you won’t soon forget. The greatest Buffy the Vampire Slayer tribute concert in the world is back! Join The Florida Björkestra for the return of Buffyfest, the live concert performance of all the songs from Once More with Feeling (the Buffy the Vampire Slayer musical episode) and Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog. This concert features a 30 piece ensemble of some of Tampa Bay’s best performers. Saturday, March 5th @7:30pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Sunday St. Pete Motor Classic Straub Park, DTSP The show, which is free to the for spectators, is open to both Club Members and non-members, and features a carefully curated selection of 250+ vehicles from the 1880’s through today. There is something for every motoring taste, from antiques and classics through modern exotics, and even boats or motorcycles. There are 25 classes covering every era of motoring, each judged by a “People’s Choice” metric. Additionally, a Best of Show is awarded. VIP Experience available. Sunday, April 6th @10am Find more information HERE. NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four – Games and Events Tourney Town presented by Capital One Tampa Convention Center, Tampa Tourney Town is a FREE festival within a festival jam packed with special appearances, autograph signings, interactive games, giveaways, basketball contests, youth clinics and more. Thursday, April 3rd through Sunday, April 6th Find hours and more information HERE. Semi-Finals Amalie Arena, Tampa Game 1 – South Carolina vs. Texas @7pm Game #2 – UConn vs. UCLA @9:30pm Friday, April 4th
Weekend Top 10: Who Says You Can’t Have Fun Supporting Good Causes? Get Your Good Deed Doer Hat Right Here
You can gamble at a yacht club, eat great seafood on the beach, see a classic live stage play, play a round of golf, see fashion at a museum, listen to live music, or just walk your dog! All the fun things you might usually want to do, can be done for a good cause. All you have to do is choose! #RegistryTampaBay has your ‘feel good’ weekend right here. New Theater Thursday Hair in the Park Presented by American Stage Demen’s Landing, DTSP American Stage in the Park brings us another unforgettable classic and a blast from the past. As the Vietnam War rages on and the civil rights movement heats up, the Tribe, a group of young hippies, is right in the thick of it. Through catchy tunes like “Aquarius” and “Let the Sunshine In,” they belt out their hopes for peace, love, and freedom while sticking it to the man. This is the ultimate musical tribute to the 60s, to hippiedom, to tie dye, and to a by gone era never to be forgotten. Help keep American Stage in the Park going strong! Now through Sunday, April 27th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Friday **Registry Spotlight Event** All these great causes deserve a spotlight! I’ve chosen The John’s Pass Seafood Festival simply because of the level of devastation caused to a mainstay area central to our coastal existence for decades. Locals and visitors from all over the world visit each year and we need to bring the area back to its former glory. Shine on John’s Pass and Madeira Beach! Help to Rebuild the Beaches: 43rd Annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival John’s Pass Village, Madeira Beach If you live in the area, you know how much devastation was caused on the beaches by Helene and Milton. The fact that this festival is on at all is a testament to the hard work of a lot of people. Now they need our support more than ever – to join in, eat a lot, hear great live music, spend locally, and help John’s Pass continue to recover. It’s a wonderful way to have a great time while doing good and showing your support. Friday, March 28th@12pm – Sunday, March 30th @6pm Find more information HERE. For a Good Cause: Blackjacks and Birdies Weekend – Junior League of St. Petersburg St. Petersburg Yacht Club & Bayou Club, St. Pete & Largo Get ready for a weekend of high-stakes thrills and low-swings fun with exciting games, delectable bites & cocktails, exclusive prizes, and unforgettable memories at the Junior League of St. Petersburg’s Blackjacks and Birdies Weekend! Whether you join us for the whole weekend or just one event, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! Casino Kickoff Party: Friday, March 28 at 7:00 PM, St. Petersburg Yacht Club Golf Tournament: Saturday, March 29 – Shotgun start at 1:00 PM, Bayou Club Friday & Saturday, March 28th & 29th Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE. Saturday For a Good Cause: Do Good Day – St. Pete’s Premier Non-Profit Fair Ferg’s Sports Bar, St. Pete At the heart of what #RegistryTampaBay tries to do, is to draw attention to the many good-deed-doers and their causes throughout our community. Here’s a opportunity to visit with many of those good deed doers all in one place. Do Good Day is a one-of-a-kind event where local nonprofits gather to showcase their missions and connect with community volunteers. If you’ve been looking for a great cause to give of some of your time, this is the place to find it! Saturday, March 29th @11am – 2pm Find more information HERE. For a Good Cause: SPCA 34th Annual Pet Walk N Straub Park, DTSP & Largo Central Park, Largo Get in your steps while supporting a great cause. Register as an individual or team and bring out your fur babies to help find animals in need good and loving homes. Pet Walk is a celebration of team and walker fundraising for SPCA Tampa Bay, our community’s only open admission shelter. Teams and individual walkers will compete for the title of “Top Dog,” raising funds for homeless pets from November – March. Saturday, March 29th @8:30am – 12pm Find more information HERE. For the Kids: Third Annual Youth Baseball Clinic Fossil Park Sports Complex, St. Pete It’s almost opening day and many of our thoughts are turning to opening day of the Major League Baseball season! Time to get the kids ready! Gulf Coast Community Church wants to serve our community through teaching the finer points of America’s pastime to our young people. John Stuper (1982 World Series Champion and former Yale baseball head coach) along with other experienced coaches will lead the clinic to help kids of every level. Saturday, March 29th @4pm – 7:30pm Find Pre-registration (only $5), and more information HERE. For Good Causes: Tampa Bay Empanada Festival Perry Harvey Sr. Park, Tampa A festival that brings together a tantalizing array of flavors and fillings, uniting people in the joy of this beloved Latin American pastry. It’s so much more than Empanadas. This year there are many more vendors and tasty cocktails. There will be great music and fun games like beer pong, corn hole, and giant Jenga. And you know how much #RegistryTampaBay loves good causes. Part of the proceeds benefit great local charities. Saturday, March 29th @12pm – 8pm Find more information HERE. Support Arts Education: CITY: Fashion+Art+Culture featuring Balmain Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa The Tampa Museum of Art announces the return of its signature fundraising event, CITY: Fashion+Art+Culture, on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Now in its fourteenth year, this highly anticipated occasion will feature the iconic luxury fashion house Balmain. In an exclusive collaboration, the Tampa Museum of Art will be the only location in the United States to host a Balmain runway presentation in 2025, offering an
Weekend Top 10: Celebrating a Beloved Local Bar’s 90th – Plus Brooms and Trashcans Make Music, and Endless Crawfish!
How about some never-ending crawfish? Want to dive into the world of Noir? Maybe a circus full of art, music, and entertainment is more your speed. Want to look at or buy some art right out of an artist’s yard? Did you know trashcans can make music? Well, you can explore all that and much more this weekend! Click some links and make your plans. Theater Thursday Ongoing: Trust Me by Paul Fell Lab TheaterProject, Tampa Life is filled with choices. Some people don’t make the best ones. To the outside world, John Scanlon appears to be a successful businessman, a leader in his church, and happily married to Rene. This image means more to John than anything else in his life. But it is a façade behind which John carries out nefarious business activities. This front begins to unravel when John falls behind on his payments to a loan shark and Lou, a representative of the loan shark arrives at his home. Lou is here to offer John a way out of this financial morass. However, Lou’s also falling in love with Rene. Ultimately, they all must make a choice that their lives may depend on, who do they trust? This Production is Theatre Tampa Bay recommended. Runs through Sunday, March 30th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Ongoing: A Lighter Shade of Noir by Michael Cote TheatreFor, Clearwater I love the Noir genre, and this production offers up a range of short stories to appeal to your Bogart/Bacall sensibilities. A Lighter Shade of Noir is an evening of 8 short plays celebrating the noir genre of theatre, some dark, some light, with characters ranging from classic hard-bitten detectives and femme fatales, to some of your favorite fairy tale characters in a darkly comic setting, to a few other surprise guests, these stylish pieces are sure to entertain. This weekend is your last chance to see it. Runs through Sunday, March 23rd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. UniverSoul Circus Raymond James Stadium Parking Lot, Tampa UniverSoul Circus is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music. This show is fresh, funky, bold, fun, and challenges your imagination like no other circus. UniverSoul Circus embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of urban pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. Through performance, they reflect the cultural diversity of the world in which we live. Opens Thursday, March 20 through Sunday, March 30th Find tickets, performance schedules, and more information HERE. Friday Killer Author Club on Tour Tombolo Books, St. Pete If you’re like me, somewhere along the line, an obsession with true crime was born. Here’s a chance to see some prolific ‘killer’ authors come to local fave Tombolo Books to talk about the genre. On tour, the Killers will use a format similar to their bi-monthly Killer Authors Club podcast. In addition, they’ll be sharing their experiences as podcasters, interviewers, and bestselling authors juggling live shows and deadlines. When it comes to discussing their own work, the killers will focus on their latest and upcoming titles. Friday, March 21st @7pm Find more information HERE. Mastry’s Bar 90th Birthday Party! Mastry’s Bar, DTSP When I moved to the ‘Burg in 1991 from Tampa (by way of NYC), Mastry’s was only one of a very few neighborhood bars downtown during an era when the rest of the sidewalks rolled up after 5pm. Some may call it a ‘dive bar,’ but it is one that has been much loved through the decades and still manages to attract both locals and visitors in the midst of all the new bars and full-service restaurants that have opened – over the last decade, in particular. The staying power of almost a century is certainly noteworthy, and so we pay tribute to Mastry’s – a true St. Pete treasure. Friday, March 21st @7pm Find more information HERE. Saturday 32nd Annual Hyde Park Village Art Fair Snow Avenue, Hyde Park Village, Tampa Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this free event is not to be missed. Explore the work of over 100 talented exhibitors as you stroll through the stunning displays of life-size sculptures, spectacular paintings, one-of-a-kind jewelry, photography, ceramics, and more. You’ll be amazed by the incredible talent and creativity on display, and the opportunity to chat with the artists themselves about their inspirations and techniques. The historic brick-lined streets of Hyde Park will be transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery. It’s become an annual arts staple, so don’t miss it! Saturday, March 22nd @10am – 5pm Find more information HERE. Art in the Yard! Throughout the City of Gulfport Come to my neck of the woods this weekend for a truly unique art experience. When people ask me about Gulfport, I describe my eclectic neighborhood as a charming cross between Greenwich Village and Key West – and this arty experience is a perfect representation of that analogy. This bi-annual community art sale will transform the funky City into an open-air gallery, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artists in their own front yards. Gulfport Art in the Yard is a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience and purchase original artworks created by Gulfport’s very own artists. Saturday, March 22nd @10am – 4pm Find more information HERE. 5th Annual Crawfish Boil Bayboro Brewing, St. Pete Celebrate Bayboro Brewing’s 5th Anniversary Weekend with the ultimate Crawfish Boil! They’re serving all-you-can-eat crawfish, with 3-4 rounds of boil to keep you satisfied—so come hungry! The first drop kicks off at 3 PM, and each round will take about 45 minutes to an hour. But don’t worry, craft brews will keep you refreshed. There will be live music in the Biergarten to enjoy while you wait. It’s a yummy weekend celebration you won’t want to miss—get your tickets now and get ready to
Weekend Top 10: Not Into Pub Crawls? Find Unique St. Paddy’s Events Right Here! Plus, a Mini Review of “When the Righteous Triumph”
Registry Tampa Bay is giving you an entire bonus section for St Paddy’s Day, so don’t miss it! There is also great new theater (with a mini review), art events, BIG golf tourneys, and BIG concerts to enjoy, so create your plan of attack and take Tampa Bay by storm! New Theater Thursday The Pillowman Presented by Jobsite Theater Straz Center, Shimberg Playhouse, Tampa The Pillowman is an electrifying and savagely funny black comedy about a fiction writer (Georgia Mallory Guy) in an unnamed totalitarian state who is interrogated when a number of bizarre incidents occurring in her town resemble the gruesome content of her short stories. Is this life imitating art or something more sinister? Now through Sunday, April 6th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Trust Me Lab Theater Project, Tampa To the outside world, John Scanlon appears to be a successful businessman, a leader in his church, and happily married to Rene. This image means more to John than anything else in his life. But it is a façade behind which John carries out nefarious business activities. This front begins to unravel when John falls behind on his payments to a loan shark and Lou, a representative of the loan shark arrives at his home. Lou is here to offer John a way out of this financial morass. However, Lou’s also falling in love with Rene. Ultimately, they all must make a choice that their lives may depend on, who do they trust? Thursday March 13th through Sunday, March 30th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. **Mini Review** Limited Run: When the Righteous Triumph by Mark E. Leib, Presented by Stageworks Straz Center, Jaeb Theatre, Tampa If you’re a history buff – especially a local history buff- and if you relish big drama in the telling of said history, then When the Righteous Triumph is definitely for you. This Stageworks production was presented several seasons ago, and was quite successful, but this time around the buzz has been huge, especially as we witness present day attacks on equality. Timeliness of message and the support of high-profile public servants like Jim Davis and Alex Sink has made this production the subject of a huge amount of media coverage and it will be the subject of a PBS/WEDU documentary later this summer. Multiple groups of students have been invited to see the play and, no doubt, it will leave long lasting impressions on them – as it did on me. The story recounts 1960 lunch counter sit-ins in Tampa, led by Reverend A. Leon Lowry of the NAACP. Despite the frightening resistance of KKK members and other hate mongering segregationists, negotiations between Lowry (played by Clay Christopher), then Mayor Julian Lane (Played by David Warner), and civil rights attorney, Cody Fowler (played by Jim Wicker), produced a blueprint for peaceful desegregation in Tampa Bay, and set an example for other Southern cities. The language is rough and difficult to hear, but if we are to understand the past in a way that positively informs the future, we must not forget. While the entire cast gives wrenching and convincing performances, I want to take a moment to comment on the tremendous talent that is Clay Christopher. The last time he performed at the Jaeb, it was in the role of Frank-N-Furter in last season’s Rocky Horror for Jobsite (and he was incredible). The transformation into the thoughtful and dedicated NAACP leader, Reverend Lowry, is nothing less than a triumph and a testament to the range of this polished performer. Keep an eye on him… I also wanted to give a shout out to the expert set design by Jarrod Bray. It was especially beautiful, almost becoming another character in the play. Everyone involved in this production made it exceed all my expectations. Now for the bad news, When the Righteous Triumph ends its run on SUNDAY, so if you’d like to catch it, I suggest you buy tickets RIGHT NOW. There will be a talk back after the Sunday performance. Runs through this Sunday, March 16th Find tickets, performance times and more information HERE. Saturday Fossil Fest Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa FossilFest is an annual event where vendors of fossils, rocks, minerals, and general cool stuff come together and show case their items for sale. There is also other activities such as Paleo Talks, Kids Mine, Silent Auction, Raffle Prizes, and much more! It is great family fun for all ages and for anyone interested in fossils and pre-history! Saturday & Sunday, March 15th & 16th Find tickets, and more information HERE. Tour of the Arts Kenwood Neighborhood, St. Pete The Artist Enclave in Historic Kenwood is hosting its 8th annual Tour of the Arts (formerly Artist Studio Tour). It’s a wonderful self-guided event that allows you a peek inside the artist’s studios and into their creative worlds. When you see something that speaks to you – and with all these artists participating, there’s a good chance you will – it will be ready to go home with you. Plus, visiting stops, adding to your collection, or buying gifts for friends and family can help you win raffle prizes from local businesses. It’s a lovely way to spend a weekend day. Saturday & Sunday, March 15th & 16th Find more information HERE. Sunday Studio Spotlight – Art Studio Tour 3 Studio Locations, St. Pete This marks the first Studio Spotlight: a tour of three talented artists’ studios, and they are three of my favorites – Heather Rippert, Patricia Kluwe Derderian, and Richard Logan. Believe me when I tell you, they are fantastic! Meet the artists, see their work up close, get a glimpse into their process and learn about what inspires them to create. Sunday, March 16th @12pm – 5pm Find more information HERE. **St. Paddy’s Day Doings** BONUS Paddy Fest St. Pete Williams Park, DTSP Welcome to Paddy Fest St. Pete! Join
Weekend Top 10: A Dream Weekend with Sleeping Beauty, Sondheim & Kerouac – Plus a Huge Bargain Hunt! Don’t Miss a Minute!
Would you like to laugh with Lewis Black this weekend? How about the new Stageworks play? Maybe a carnival is more your speed – or a book fair at the Kerouac House. St. Patrick’s concert? Bourbon & BBQ? Whatever you’re into, Registry Tampa Bay curates the very best stuff to do…just for you. New Theater Thursday **Registry Spotlight Event** We’re starting right off with the #RegistrySpotlight. Read on about this timely, prophetic (or should I say, ‘prephetic’) production, and you’ll see why… Opening: When the Righteous Triumph by Mark E. Leib Presented by Stageworks Straz Center, Jaeb Theatre, Tampa There’s been an awful lot of press surrounding this production, and for good reason. This true story comes back around to us at a key moment in the historical timeline of our lives in this community, and in this country. It so impactfully reminds us about the perils of not taking to heart the lessons of history. In 1960, a little-remembered sit-in at a Tampa Woolworth’s lunch counter sparks – not a riot, or bloodbath, but a civilly negotiated and peaceful outcome that ushered in the era of desegregation. (Sorry, it’s a 65-year-old spoiler.) The extraordinary efforts and forward-looking vision of three men – Tampa’s Mayor, a civil-rights Leader, and a progressive lawyer, come together to facilitate the successful avoidance of the fate so many Southern cities of the time suffered. Time to relearn that lesson. See you tonight at the premier! Opens Thursday, March 6th runs through Sunday, March 16th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. 56th Annual Pow Wow Festival 2025 Seminole Recreation Center, Seminole Here’s just a sample of what you’ll find at this year’s festival. With 55 years under their belt, Seminole knows how to do it right! Carnival Rides & Food~ DJ Columbo~ Vibe Dance Studio~ Jessica Rose~ Luminosity~ Festival Fireworks~ Mascot Mania Character Meet & GreetFlorida Twisters Baton & Irish Dance Presentations~ Trike Races~ Pride of Wrestling Show. So much fun in one place over three days. Don’t miss it! Thursday, March 6th through Sunday, March 9th Find more information, entertainment schedules, and more information HERE. Friday Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa My mouth is watering just writing this entry. Enjoy TWO BIG DAYS of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbecue eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an all-you-care-to-taste sampling of beer and bourbon. Food options (a la carte) are aplenty and you are sure to find something new and fun. VIP experience available. Friday & Saturday, March 7th & 8th Find tickets, times, and more information HERE. The Sleeping Beauty Presented by The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Duke Energy Center for the Arts @The Mahaffey This production features lavish sets, hand-painted scenery, exquisite costumes designed by the most talented artists of Ukraine, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, which promises an unforgettable experience. Led by a cast of world-class dancers, the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine’s artistry and flawless execution will transport you into a world of wonder and magic. Experience the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty brought to life in this mesmerizing ballet. Friday, March 7th @7pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Opening: A Little Night Music Presented by St. Pete Opera The Palladium, St. Pete A Sondheim classic comes to the Palladium this weekend presented by our friends at St. Pete Opera. It’s a whirlwind of intrigue centering on the tangled relationships between a middle-aged lawyer, his very young wife, his former lover, and her current paramour. The lush, waltz-inspired score includes the iconic ballad, Send in the Clowns as it weaves a complex web of bittersweet passion, jealousy, and second chances. My POV is, if it’s Sondheim, I’m all in. Friday, March 7th, March 9th & March 11th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Saturday Old Southeast, Tropical Shores, and Rosier Park Annual Garage Sale Throughout the Neighborhoods, St. Pete Bargain hunters unite! Three Mighty neighborhoods are joining forces to bring us one huge sale – we’re talking some 100 or more homes throughout the Old Southeast, Tropical Shores, and Rosier Park. You’re bound to find some real treasures and enjoy exploring the neighborhoods while you’re at it. Gather your shopping buddies, hit the ATM, and get on this! Happy bargain hunting. Saturday, March 8th @8am – 2pm Find more information HERE. Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival Craig Park on the Bayou, Tarpon Springs This year’s Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival will host an array of talented artists exhibiting their original works in many categories including delicate drawings, pastels, art for the home, abstract and realist works, monumental sculptures, wearable art and much more. In addition, there will be food court, craft beers and live music – all in the beautiful setting of Craig Park on the Bayou. Saturday & Sunday, March 8th & 9th Find more information HERE. Opening: Kimono – The Triumph of Japanese Dress Museum of Fine Arts, DTSP The word kimono has a much broader meaning than the Geisha imagery we may imagine. It encompasses clothing not just for women, but for men, girls, and boys. These garments range from exquisite ceremonial robes to simple everyday clothing, many of which follow the same, simple but sophisticated construction. This exhibition, organized around several interwoven themes, will feature over one hundred extraordinary kimono dating from the late Edo period (1603-1867) through Shōwa era (1926-1989). It will include examples of furisode, the kimono with beautiful, long sleeves worn by young women or stage performers, and men’s juban, the austere but elegant under-kimono often decorated with mythical scenes or wrestlers. Saturday, March 8th through Sunday, June 8th Find tickets, museum hours, and more information HERE. The Underground Book Fair Jack Kerouac House, St. Pete Meet and shop with local authors, booksellers, pop-up shops, artists, and more while exploring Jack Kerouac’s St. Petersburg home. Authors will read from
Weekend Top 10: Race Cars, Brews, and Family Time Too. Plus Mardi Gras, Gasparilla Arts, and More – All for You!
There’s a definite theme in the air this weekend – cars, cars, cars. But there are also many fun choices for all, as you’ll see in this loaded Top 10 list – new theater, Mardi Gras doings, Gasparilla arts festival, and great concerts for a start. Make your plans today and let Registry Tampa Bay be your guide! Friday Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Downtown & Multiple Venues, St. Pete Start Your Engines! It’s the national spotlight for St. Pete this weekend as the Indy Cars come to town once again! The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is a 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary circuit that uses the streets circling Pioneer Park, the Duke Energy Center for the Arts (Mahaffey Theater), The Dalí Museum and extending onto the runways at Albert Whitted Airport, which overlooks the waterfront of Tampa Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg Harbor and Marina. There are many associated events with the race (Sunday) all weekend, so check them out and plan your itinerary. Friday, February 28th through Sunday, March 2nd Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE. Limited Run: Disenchanted Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa Sometimes “Happily Ever After” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. This musical comedy lifts the curtain on the happy endings of storybook princesses and, I can tell you, you’ll never hear the song, So This is Love, without rolling your eyes again. The musical Disenchanted goes behind the magic to ask the question, “Did I eat a poisoned apple for THIS?” See how the princesses deal with their disappointment when Disenchanted! returns to the Straz. Friday, February 28th through Sunday, March 2nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Saturday **Registry Spotlight Event** Few arts festivals in Tampa Bay can boast the size, scope, and attendance of the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. It’s got everything yet, on the beautiful waterfront, there’s lots of room to move about. The spotlight shines on one of the final Gasparilla events this year. Family Friendly: 55th Annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Tampa For more than half a century, artists and art lovers from all over the country find their way to Tampa Bay to enjoy this massive arts festival. It’s where the country’s most accomplished artists and rising stars vie for the $15,000 Raymond James Best of Show Award and an additional $77,000 in prize money. The March 2025 Festival is FREE to the public and will showcase artists and their work to include ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood. This event will also feature the works of local young artists and a weekend full of live entertainment. Event is FREE. VIP available. Saturday & Sunday, March 1st & 2nd Find event schedules, and more information HERE. Family Friendly: Annual Auto Show Imagine Museum, St. Pete This isn’t just a car show—it’s a celebration of design, innovation, and community fun. Bring the whole family for a day of fun. Honoring the Firestone Grand Prix down the street, come to Imagine and admire an incredible lineup of vehicles—from vintage classics to modern marvels and experimental designs—and help decide which car takes home the coveted Best in Show Award! Enjoy exciting activities including: Kids’ Art Station – Create your own mini car design. Coloring & Craft Booths – Experience fun hands-on activities for young auto enthusiasts. Photo Ops with Classic Cars – Capture the memories with stunning vehicles. Live Face Painting – Get a fun, artistic design to match the excitement of the day. It’s a weekend devoted to the mighty automobile, so enjoy! Saturday, March 1st @10am – 4pm Find tickets and more information HERE. 2025 Florida Craft Brewers River Tower Park, Tampa Every year the Florida Brewers Guild kicks off Tampa Bay Beer Week by organizing the biggest beer festival in Tampa Bay–bringing over 70 of your favorite Florida craft breweries together, over 200 different beer samples and welcomes over 500 attendees. Come and enjoy beers from all over the state, meet Florida brewers, local vendors, food trucks, and a local DJ with music all day! Parking is free on site. Saturday, March 1st @1pm – 5pm Find tickets and more information HERE. FuelFest Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa It certainly is a weekend devoted to cars and racing all over Tampa Bay! FuelFest brings the most exciting elements of music festivals, car shows, auto racing, and auto expos together to bring you one giant comprehensive mega-event that also features movie cars and interactive sponsor exhibits. The result is a world-class experience with something for the whole family! Saturday, March 1st At 1pm -8pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Mardi Gras in Grand Central 2900 Block Central Avenue, St. Pete Get ready to kick off a new tradition! Join in for a multi-business Mardi Gras celebration paired with the beloved Annual Chili Cook-Off benefiting Come Out St. Pete. Line up of festivities include: Live music and entertainment Local vendors and unique finds A fun-filled puppy costume contest Delicious chili tastings and competition Saturday, March 1st @1pm – 6pm Find more information HERE. Think Tank Theatre Presents: Spring Cabaret Deviant Libation, Tampa If you love Broadway tunes and top shelf liquid refreshment, this evening is definitely for you. ThinkTank is teaming up with once again Deviant Libation to present an evening of Broadway favorites coupled with some Beers and Booze. Hang out on Deviant Libation’s spacious patio, under an enchanting tent, so bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and make yourself comfortable. A food truck will be available for you to purchase dinner or bring your own snacks. Get the family together and make your plans for Saturday, March 1st or Sunday, March 2nd, heck both nights if you want! Seating is limited and our cabarets do sell out, so don’t hesitate. It’s sure to be an evening everyone can enjoy, with some beer and
Weekend Top 10: Travel the World in a Day, Meet an Artistic Phenom, and Visit the Best Festivals of the Year!
From Peter Max to iBoms, important art shines this weekend in Tampa Bay. Not only that – some of the best annual festivals are happening, along with music and comedy icons coming to town. And don’t forget about 2 new Broadway show tours opening right here! RegistryTampaBay.com brings you the best each week, so get out there! Thursday Opening Reception: iBoms: iMAGINE NATiON The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, Largo Here’s an opportunity to witness phenomenal talent in a 25-year-old artist. Come to Pinewood Cultural Park (Home of The Florida Botanical Gardens and the Gallery at Creative Pinellas), for the launch of iMAGiNE NATiON, presented by the Woodson African American Museum of Florida and Creative Pinellas. The exhibit is curated by Danny Olda, who also serves as Marketing and Communications Manager for the Woodson African American Museum of Florida. Step into the vibrant world of iBOMS, where imagination transforms into a limitless landscape of ideas and creations. Through graphite, spray paint, resin, and more, iBOMS redefines imagination as a lifelong force shaping knowledge, art, and culture. Don’t miss this inspiring evening to celebrate creativity and meet the artist behind this extraordinary exhibition. Event is free Artist Tour: 5:30pm – 6pm Reception: Thursday, February 20th @6pm – 8pm Find more information HERE. Friday St. Petersburg Seafood & Music Festival Vinoy Park, DTSP Indulge in a variety of delectable foods cooked on-site, featuring the freshest ingredients from local restaurants and food purveyors. Enjoy a selection of seafood entrees and vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a variety of side dishes and scrumptious desserts. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available. As you feast, sit back and enjoy live musical performances by some of the most talented musicians from the local and regional circuit. Scheduled to perform (subject to change) are Soul Circus Cowboys, Big Brother Band, Mixed Signal Band, Derek Lersch, Rock Candy, Damon Fowler, Greg Billings & the Stay Up Lates, March Fourth Band, 22N, The Black Honkeys, and Storm Bringer. Gather your family and friends to savor the food, music, and beautiful views of downtown St. Petersburg. In addition to the music, explore a marketplace of arts, crafts, and fine products between performances, offering a perfect opportunity to find unique treasures. Friday, Saturday & Sunday, February 21st – 23rd Find more information HERE. Saturday 12th Annual Localtopia by Keep St. Pete Local Williams Park, DTSP Every February Williams Park comes alive with the huge market, concert, art show, playground, and food mecca, that is Localtopia. It’s the kind of thing you really have to see for yourself to get the full picture of just how big and much anticipated this event has become – of course you probably already know judging by the number of people that show up. Every conceivable local business, artist, food vendor, and musician makes a home of Williams Park for the day and it’s a great time for the whole family, and the Sunrunner is free all day. When you spend local, your dollars stay local! Saturday, February 22nd @10am – 5pm (Rain date: March 1st) Find site map, vendors, and more information HERE. **Registry Spotlight Event** 49 years of bringing us the very best of what world cultures have to offer – that’s an event that certainly deserves to shine in the #RegistrySpotlight! 49th Annual SPIFFS International Folk Festival England Bros Park, Pinellas Park For almost a half century, SPIFFS has brought this colorful, flavorful, educational, and entertaining celebration of so many world cultures right here to Tampa Bay. It’s really something special and needs to be experienced. We could all use a bit more exposure to the many countries we call neighbors. SPIFFS is the only independent multi-ethnic organization of its kind in the United States. It was founded in 1975 as an umbrella organization of ethnic groups who joined together to present a festival during the U.S. Bicentennial Celebration. SPIFFS has been recognized by the Library of Congress and is found in its Local Legacies in Washington, D.C. Public Day – Saturday, February 22nd @10am – 6pm Find tickets, participating countries, and more information HERE. Art & Seafood on the Waterfront Safety Harbor Waterfront Park, Safety Harbor Art & Seafood on the Waterfronthas quickly become the Safety Harbor Chamber’s signature event. Showcasing the area’s best seafood, a Shrimp Showdown competition, juried fine art from over 50 national artists, interactive art activities, kids’ zone, entertainment for all ages and a full music stage, there is something for everyone. Headliners: The Fulcos (Saturday) and Greg Billings and The Stay Up Lates (Sunday). General admission to the event is FREE and the festival is DOG-FRIENDLY! Saturday & Sunday, February 22nd & 23rd Find VIP tickets, festival hours, and more information HERE. Peter Max Retrospective Exhibition Coming to Safety Harbor Syd Entel Galleries, Safety Harbor An unparallelled Collection of Works from the Studio of iconic American Artist Peter Max will be on exhibit and available for purchase at Syd Entel Galleries this weekend. In his extraordinary artistic career, Peter Max has been the Official Artist of the Grammys, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, 5 Super Bowls, World Cup USA, The World Series, and so many more iconic events. I used to collect Peter Max posters as a kid. I sure wish I still had them! Saturday & Sunday, February 22nd & 23rd Find gallery hours and more information HERE. Limited Engagement: Come From Away Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater This New York Times Critics’ Pick and Tony Award winning musical, 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. The production is based on the original Broadway direction and choreography, and is brought to us by a full staff of Tony award winning artists. It’s only here for 2 days, so
Weekend Top 10: Outside the Box Valentine’s Events and A Mini Review of Don’t Feed the Animals Plus Much More…
It’s a weekend of love, good causes, new theater, great music, festivals, and so much more! Check out these ‘alternative’ ideas for Valentine’s Day or enjoy one of the cool festivals that will make your Tampa Bay weekend full of fun, food, and spirits. More icons drop in for top concert experiences, and so much of your good time will be for a good cause – Win/Win! #RegistryTampaBay.com knows how to show you the best time! An ‘Alternative’ Valentine’s Day There are many wonderful places to enjoy a traditional romantic Valentine’s dinner, but here are a few ‘alternative’ ways to spend the day(s) that we celebrate LOVE. Think outside the box Enjoy! 11th Annual Valent’ween LOVECRAFT Art Lofts, DTSP Let’s face it, love can be scary, so a mash-up of Valentines and Halloween seems an appropriate way to celebrate. What is that emerging from the depths? Valent’ween is back for its 11th annual manifestation. This year’s lens is the weird fiction of H.P. Lovecraft. Connect to your inner Cthulhu, or the Eldritch deity of your choice, and join us for another wonderful time! Our favorite dancing witches, Darjuxena’s Darksplay Bats & Brews Dance Show, will be back again, along with a chocolatier selling hand crafted edible roses! Tarot card love readings are also available and limited to first come, first served. Space is limited, so hurry! Friday, February 13th (New Date) @5pm – 9pm Find more information HERE. Axes and O’s Valentines Day Axe Throwing Event Hatchet Hangout Axe Throwing, Clearwater Are you looking for something different this V Day? Nothing says ‘I Love You’ like throwing sharp objects together. What better way to show your love than to come throw axes as a couple? Cupid isn’t the only one hitting his target this Valentines. This year, check out several Valentine Specials that will be a perfect gift for your special someone. BOOKING PRICE INCLUDES: – Bottle of Bubbly – Axe Throwing for TWO – Personal Lane – a Box of Chocolates and Red Rose. Saturday, February 14th @11am – 11pm (more dates available) Find more information HERE. Valentine’s Couples Thai Massage Workshop Soley Massage, St. Pete Join Thai Massage therapist Rissa Wray for an fun and unique Valentine’s workshop event for couples where you will learn adaptable and interactive massage and stretching techniques from the Thai tradition. There will be time taken time to practice each technique with your partner – both giving and receiving. After class is finished, Rissa will send participants video recap lessons of what are covered in class so you don’t have to wrack your brain trying to remember everything! Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, arrive a little early to get settled, and leave your yoga mat at home. How romantic! Saturday, February 15th @4pm – 6pm Find RSVP and more information HERE. For a Good Cause: Paws-n-Kisses Kick-Off Event Dog Bar, St. Pete Here’s a great way to celebrate our love for our fur babies and help a good cause at the same time. Pinellas Paws for Prevention / American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Tampa Bay Chapter and Dog Bar St. Pete join forces to host a kick-off event that will feature: Dog Kissing Booth – Get Photos at the kissing booth with your pup for a $10 DonationRaffle A Raffle Prize, Event t-shirt (pick up in advance of the Pinellas Paws for Prevention Event), Play time for your dog, and Food truck Saturday, February 15th @5pm -8pm Find more information HERE. Valentine’s Vows & Our Hospitality (1923) Screening Historic Tampa Theatre, Tampa If Tampa’s majestic movie palace is part of your love story – or if you would like it to be – you are invited to spend a romantic evening under the stars with Valentine’s Vows and a classic romantic comedy at Tampa Theatre on Friday, February 14! At 7:00pm: The Right Reverend John Bell (also known as Tampa Theatre President & CEO John Bell, armed with an internet-official certificate of ordination) will invite married couples to participate in an en masse renewal of their wedding vows. At 7:30pm: After the nuptials, the silent comedy Our Hospitality provides the perfect excuse to sneak an arm around your date. Buster Keaton stars in this 1923 classic. Friday, February 14th @7pm – 9pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Valentine’s Night Out – Salsa & Bachata Couples Dancing Iroko Dance Academy, Tampa Now here’s an out of the box and sexy Valentine’s idea – Latin dances for 2! Bring your partner, friend, or anyone who loves to dance. No experience is necessary, and you receive a free glass of wine with each lesson. You can buy Salsa, Bachata, or both. A Social Hour will also be part of the festivities. Try something new and spread the love across the dance floor. Friday, February 14th @7pm & 8pm (2 classes) Find tickets and more information HERE. Science After Dark – The Science of Attraction MOSI, Tampa Science After Dark, the ultimate adults-only event that brings together science, entertainment, and socializing in one unforgettable evening. Enjoy a relaxing night out while exploring the wonders of science in a fun and engaging environment. Sip on a curated selection of beer and wine samples and indulge in a variety of delicious appetizers throughout the event. Then, head over to the Saunders Planetarium to experience immersive planetarium shows that take you on a journey through the cosmos. There are a series of ‘themed’ experiments to try about a true Valentine’s subject – attraction. This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your ‘laws of attraction,’ and learn something at the same time! Friday, February 14th @8pm Find tickets and more information HERE. New Theater Thursday Road Show freeFall Theatre, St. Pete From the writing team that brought us Assassins and Pacific Overtures – Road Show is based on the true story of the Mizner Brothers. From the Alaskan Gold Rush in the 1890s to the Florida real estate boom in the 1920s, Road Show is
Weekend Top 10(+): Camel Rides? Arts Festivals? Super Bowl Parties? Music Icons? Find Them All Right HERE!
It’s a big bonus Top 10 this week as there are simply too many great events to narrow down to just 10. Check out Super Bowl parties, art festivals, and iconic musical artists. The Science Festival is here, and there is great theater to enjoy. And don’t forget the opening of the Florida State Fair! So much to do, so little time – make the most of this incredible weekend from your friends at Registry Tampa Bay. Please subscribe today so you don’t miss a thing! Thursday Opening Day: Florida State Fair Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa Really. What is more fun than a fair? I mean a huge, all-encompassing State fair. For decades the Florida State Fair has been delighting everyone in the Tampa Bay area and beyond who loves fun. The rides, the weird food, the animals (including camel rides!), the entertainment, the competitions – and that just scratches the surface. It’s a full day(s) of family fun at a very reasonable ticket price and parking is free. So, load up the car and relive your childhood. It’s simply a blast! Opens Thursday, February 6th through February 17th Find tickets, hours, events, and more information HERE. Opening: Love or Best Offer early Bird Dinner Theatre, Clearwater Here’s a great Valentine idea for you. An evening (or afternoon) eating great food and enjoying a live “love themed” stage show would be just the ‘ticket.’ Early Bird offers both and it’s a really fun way to go to the theater at a very reasonable price. Cheryl is a widow of two years, and Stan is newly divorced. After failed blind dates, their best friends, Lori and Dave, convince them to try online dating with the new dating website, “Friends, Love or Whatever.” With the worst dating advice in the world from their friends, Cheryl and Stan set out to find happiness and true love—online. All the trials and tribulations of online dating come to the forefront, including overcoming heartbreak and rejection, all in an effort to find love…or best offer. Now through Sunday, February 23rd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Friday The People Downstairs by Natalie Symons Stageworks Theatre, Tampa Local treasure, playwright, and novelist, Natalie Symons has written a heartwarming and funny tale here that must see theater presented by Stageworks. In Buffalo NY, Miles, an aging funeral home custodian lives with his middle-aged daughter Mabel, who spends her days writing letters to prison inmates. When a court-appointed guardian threatens to take away their home, Miles sets out to set Mabel up with Todd, an inept mortician. It is a father’s fierce determination not to accept his daughter’s fate that ignites an endearing human comedy about love, loss, loneliness, and the healing power of laughter. Opens Friday, February 7th and runs through Sunday, February 23rd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. **Arts Festivals and Exhibit Openings** St. Petersburg Fine Arts Festival South Straub Park, DTSP This event is rated number #9 in USA Today’s Top 100 Art Shows. This Fine Arts Festival features original artwork by over 100 artisans from Florida and across the United States. Saturday & Sunday, February 8th & 9th Find more information HERE. Opening Day: Under the Spell of the Palm Tree: The Rice Collection of Cuban Art Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa Under the Spell of the Palm Tree: The Rice Collection of Cuban Art traces Susie and Mitchell Rice’s decade-long path of discovering the art and artists of Cuba. Opens Thursday, February 6th through July 6th, 2025 Find more information HERE. 10th Annual Gulfport Fine Arts Festival Clymer Park, Gulfport Over 50 artists will show their works in Clymer Park’s cozy 1.5-acre setting, itself decorated throughout by art crafted by renowned Florida artists. Saturday & Sunday, February8th & 9th @10am – 5pm Find more information HERE. 3rd Annual Lealman Honey & Arts Festival Seminole Bee Farm, Lealman Experience the Lealman Honey & Arts Festival, a vibrant community event that combines the beauty of nature, the talent of local artisans, and the delicious world of honey. Saturday, February 8th @12pm – 6pm Find More information HERE. Meet International Artist Maya Eventov Syd Entel Gallery, Safety Harbor Come experience Maya’s latest collection of stunning palette knife paintings of birch trees, faces, florals, landscapes and more! Talk with Maya about her work and process and have her personalize your purchase! Saturday, February 8th @5pm – 8pm Find more information HERE. Heartizaar St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, St. Pete The folks who bring you Hauntizaar and Holizaar now invite you to a new spring market event, HEARTIZAAR!You might feel a spark of desire when you see this carefully curated mix of original art and handmade gifts! Sunday, February 9th @10am – 4pm Find more information HERE. Saturday **Registry Spotlight Event** This very special science experience for kids from 5 to 95 has become a true St. Pete mainstay annual event. There’s so much to see and learn on the beautiful downtown waterfront at USF, that we chose it to shine in the #RegistrySpotlight. 2025 St. Petersburg Science Festival USF Campus, St. Petersburg The St. Petersburg Science Festival is an annual regional celebration where families and the public can explore the wonders of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The Festival is located at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus and Poytner Park – along the waterfront. It is held in conjunction with MarineQuest, the open house of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. The two events happen side-by-side and attendees are able to walk from one to the other. Saturday, February 8th (Public Session) @10am – 4pm Find more information HERE. 2025 Illuminated Knight Parade – The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Ybor City The Gasparilla fun continues with this popular night event. This free illuminated parade begins rolling down historic Ybor City’s 7th
Weekend Top 10: Enjoy a Wealth of New Theater Riches and an American Stage Mini Review. Plus, Baseball History, Year of the Snake, and MORE!
Wow! The level of entertainment this week is off the charts! See a show, go on a baseball history tour, go to a concert, or immerse yourself in culture during a celebration of the Year of the Snake. Visit vintage bungalows, cheer to the roar of monster trucks, and follow nature trails that lead to performing ‘animals’. Registry Tampa Bay finds the best for you each weekend! Enjoy New Theater Thursday One Night Only: The Addams Family Ruth Eckerd Hall The Addams Family is the magnificently macabre hit musical featuring everyone’s favorite creepy, kooky characters. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. A man her parents have never met. And if that weren’t upsetting enough, she confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. Thursday, January 30th @7pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Limited Run: Mama Mia! Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa Who’s your Daddy? The answer to that question is at the heart of this popular musical featuring the ABBA soundtrack we all know so well. The answer is being kept from a young bride by her free-spirited Mother living life in beautiful Greece. When 3 potential Dads show up for the wedding, hilarity, and a lot of great music, ensues. Mama Mia! hasn’t been around 25 years for nothing. You owe it to yourself to see it at least once! Opa! Thursday, January 30th @7:30pm & Friday, January 31st @8pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Tales By Twilight: Don’t Feed the Animals by Anthony Gervais – Presented by American Stage Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, St. Pete The Tales by Twilight series, a lovely collaboration between American Stage and Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, brings us a brand-new story. Unlike traditional theater, the park itself provides the ‘stage,’ and comes alive during the evening as performance goers follow the action through the trails, flora, and fauna. A cast of entertaining ‘beasts’ tell us a story that diverges along the way into two separate stories. YOU decide which path to follow. It’s fun for the whole family and a great way to introduce theater to kids and the theater-curious. Lucky for us, the play run coincides with Raptor Fest, (Saturday, February 1st @10am – 4pm for Raptor Fest), so it’s double the fun! Don’t miss it! Opens Thursday, January 30th through Sunday, February 23rd – These are evening performances Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Two Across by Jerry Mayer The Off Central, St. Pete They say opposites attract – in life and in love – but crosswords?? well, metaphorically, yes! It’s a train commuter meet-cute between a driven overachieving woman and an easily discouraged, yet engaging man. Both are otherwise committed, but it is, after all, hard to stop a speeding train…. The Off Central is small but mighty, producing a number of highly entertaining productions. Yones and Gregory are seasoned, highly talented performers, that you will surely fall in love with as you take this ride with them. Thursday, January 30th through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. **Mini Review** This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing by Finegan Kruckemeyer American Stage, DTSP Opening night for a mainstage production at American Stage is always an event. The house is usually full – with theatergoers milling about the lobby pre and post-show, enjoying treats, cake, and champagne – the buzz of excited conversations and the meetings of old friends. The air of celebration was especially sweet this past Friday for the opening of This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Written by Finegan Krukemeyer, the story was new to me, but I’m happy to report, I was delighted by it. It was presented with a lilting quality – as a story – as a poem – as a fairy tale, all rolled into one. It was the narration of the adventures of three sisters, separated by difficult life events. Two go off on great adventures, and one stays put in the woods, all seeking their missing father and attempting to rebuild their broken lives. What unfolds is the stuff of every child’s (or inner child’s), imagination. Sarah Beth Saho, as Narrator, Father, and a host of supporting roles is for me, the glue that pulls a lovely thread through the whole story. Blurring gender roles to the point of non-existence (as it should be), Saho delivers in every way, with spot-on dialects, razor sharp timing, and heartwarming appeal. The sisters, Albienne, Beatrix, and Carmen, played by Noa Friedman, Fahnlohnee Reeves, and Kayland Jordan respectively, seamlessly weave the evolution of their lives and ages, together and apart, with great heart, determination, and hilarity. The comic timing is far and away some of the best I’ve seen. And you laugh, because it’s true! The brave sisters equally blur the societal perceptions of what acceptable pursuits are for men or women but never need to point it out. It’s perfect. The set design by Kristen Morgan is genius – every bit filling multiple purposes. You’re in the woods, under the sea, on top of a dune – all with only a few elements. It’s amazing. The costumes by Johnna Presby also join practicality and ease, with color, function, and a total vibe that ‘fits’ each scenario perfectly. Kudos to the entire creative team for conjuring a lovely world to get lost in. Director and Producing Artistic Director, Helen R. Murray tells this story in a way that’s so warm and entertaining, that the time will fly by – and it does, as this is a 90-minute production
Weekend Top 10: Knights? Pirates? Tacos? No Need to Choose – Do it ALL this Weekend! Plus a Mini Review of Macbeth
Snow in Florida? Now we’ve seen it all! But the frigid temps won’t keep us from enjoying all the fun events happening this weekend in Tampa Bay! Registry Tampa Bay keeps you “in the know” and will keep the fun coming. Bundle up and get out there! Thursday Newly Opened: Source of All Hair, Wearer of All Socks Exhibition The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, Largo Walking into the gallery, you’ll be blown away at the size and scope of these installations throughout Creative Pinellas’ galleries. It’s an extraordinary exhibition by Nigerian Sri Lankan artist Sam Modder. Through mural-sized ballpoint pen drawings, Modder creates immersive, allegorical spaces where striking Black female figures navigate real and imagined realms. Blending childhood wonder with critical reflection, her work explores themes of power, resilience, and transformation, with Black hair as a central, dynamic character embodying strength and resistance. Don’t miss this captivating opportunity to experience Modder’s powerful storytelling. Now through February 23rd (Possible extension to April as of this writing) Find more information HERE. Theater Thursday Opening: This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing American Stage Theatre, DTSP In this modern fairytale, three sisters, left abandoned, take charge of their own destinies, and move ahead in different directions. The eldest, Albienne, heads East to show the world what she’s made of. Beatrix, the middle sister, heads West in search of adventure. Then there’s Carmen, the youngest, who finds comfort in staying put. As the years roll by, each new experience comes with a new lesson, a new perspective, and maybe even a little bit of magic. It’s a heartwarming tale about sisterhood, courage, and the beauty of embracing life’s twists and turns with an open heart. Now through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Opening: Venus in Fur TheatreFor, Clearwater David Ives’ Venus in Fur is a delightful romp that marries wit with seduction in a sharp examination of power dynamics. Set during an audition, the play centers on Thomas, a beleaguered playwright, and Vanda, an audacious actress who flips the script—quite literally—on gender roles. With a heady mix of clever banter and risqué humor, Vanda’s playful command turns the rehearsal into a deliciously chaotic exploration of desire and identity. As the lines between reality and role-play blur, the audience is treated to a satirical and insightful commentary on the absurdities of attraction and authority, all delivered with a captivating blend of charm and unexpected hilarity. Thursday, January 23rd through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Final Weekend: Four Old Broads Catherine Hickman Theater Having been a nurse for a (very) long time, I usually protest the whole “nurse as a villain” scenario, but we must make sacrifices in the name of comedy, so I happily give this nod to the very talented Gulfport Community Players. Things have not been very pleasant since Nurse Pat Jones began working at the Magnolia Place Assisted Living. A mystery unfolds with laughter as the gals try to outsmart the evil Nurse and figure out why so many residents have been moved to “the dark side. Thursday through Sunday, January 26th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. **Mini Review** Macbeth (The Scottish Play) Jobsite Theater @The Jaeb, Straz Center, Tampa Jobsite, under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director, David Jenkins, has effectively and deservedly developed a reputation for creating stellar productions of the classic plays penned by the Bard, William Shakespeare. In this adaptation, set with intergalactic influences, Jenkins creates an environment of color, light, (and fog), that beautifully backdrops the drama of Macbeth – the scheming, the betrayal, the murders, the blood, the breakdowns. It’s a somewhat prophetic portrait of power and greed run amok that serves as a reminder to us that the frailties of human nature in the 15th century have not evolved all that much. The intergalactic flavor of this production, already mentioned, acts more as subtext. However, the visual presentation of the set, lighting, sound, and projections created by Chris Giuffe, with lighting design by Jo Averill-Snell, and music/sound composition by Jeremy Douglass, greatly add to the sensory experience. Costume design by Katrina Stevenson, (Lady Macbeth), is beautifully done and can be seen as period or futuristic. The ensemble performed in complete sync with standout performances, for me, by Giles Davies as Macbeth, Stevenson as Lady Macbeth, and Katherine Yacko as the perfectly Scottish brogued Porter. Of course, most cast assumed multiple roles and quickly transformed from one character to another seamlessly. When you consider how many intricate details go into creating magic on stage, that is no small feat. Macbeth runs until February 9th with a special 20% off night for the Friday, January 24th performance – use Code BLOOD. This production is Theatre Tampa Bay recommended. Runs through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Friday For a Good Cause: The Great Plate Fundraiser Dinner Morean Center for Clay, St. Pete Meet artists, eat pasta, support a good cause, go home with art! Sounds like a perfect evening to me. Diners will all go home with a unique ceramic plate made here at the Morean Center for Clay by the residents and staff. All participants will have the opportunity to enter drawings for raffles and bid on artwork in a silent auction. Proceeds from the evening will go towards sending our artists in residence to the annual ceramics conference, NCECA. Friday, January 24th @6pm – 8pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Saturday **Registry Spotlight Event** Hard not to shine a spotlight on Jose Gaspar and all his “Krewes” sailing into town this weekend. It’s a triple threat of fun and celebration totally unique to us, so if you’ve never experienced Gasparilla, make this your year! Gasparilla Invasion, Parade, and Pirate Fest Bayshore Blvd, Tampa Since 1904, pirates have invaded Tampa Bay. Every year, the unruly plunderers take over
Weekend Top 10: What Do Cher, Tibetan Monks, Shakespeare, MLK Jr., and Pirates Have in Common? Find Out Here!
Don’t let cooler temps keep you from all the amazing events going on in Tampa Bay this weekend! New theater, art, music, parades, boat shows, and much more await you if you brave the big chill. Registry Tampa Bay has you covered with all the best “stuff” to do! New Theater Thursday Limited Engagement – The Cher Show Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa You know the old saying – after the nuclear holocaust, there will only be cockroaches, and Cher. Well, she still astounds in look and in sound through six decades as she continues to entertain at almost 80. This Tony Award winning musical at the Straz Center is a limited engagement, this weekend only. It’s a musical documentary of Cher’s amazing life and career that you simply don’t want to miss. The costume changes alone will be worth the price of admission! Now through Sunday, January 19th Find tickets, performance times and more information HERE. Macbeth Jobsite Theatre @ The Straz Center Producing artistic director David Jenkins is well known for pushing the boundaries of classical works and presenting them in new and fascinating ways. For this Macbeth, he worked closely with the design team as they looked for a way to possibly set this “off-world,” drawing from Sci-Fi — perhaps Frank Herbert’s Dune is the closest point of reference someone might most easily think of. “I think, visually, a style like this might break down some barriers or preconceived notions folks have about Shakespeare. People might often feel intimidated by this stuff, but then I watch them binge hours and hours of content in the worlds of Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones or Dune with no problem. If we can adopt an aesthetic that makes this stuff feel more accessible to folks from jump, why wouldn’t we do that?” Come see innovation on stage starting this weekend. Thursday, January 16th – Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Thursday and Beyond St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show (4 days) Mahaffey Yacht Basin & Albert Whitted Park, DTSP The St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show is the largest boat show on the Gulf Coast. The annual show takes place at Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park in St. Petersburg, Florida. The show will feature an impressive lineup of powerboats and sailboats in water and on land, including a 40,000-square-foot tent housing an extensive selection of marine gear, accessories, and equipment. Thursday, January 16th – Sunday, January 19th Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE. **Registry Spotlight Event** As the Sacred Arts Tour continues, the Monks come into the gallery to create a stunning mandala, one grain of sand at a time. That most certainly deserves to shine in the #RegistrySpotlight! It’s absolutely fascinating to watch. Tibetan Monks Sacred Arts Tour 2025 (3 days left) Florida CraftArt, DTSP The creation of the sand mandala at Florida CraftArt has long been a cherished tradition for St. Petersburg and the surrounding community. Over the course of several days, the eight monks will meticulously place millions of grains of vibrant sand into an intricate mandala—a stunning geometric representation of the universe and the enlightened mind. This ephemeral masterpiece symbolizes the impermanence of life and the beauty of creation. This year, the monks selected the healing mandala to reflect the challenges our community has faced in recent months. Trust me, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by the meticulous work done on the mandala by these religious icons. Check it out. Now through Saturday, January 18th Find times, and more information HERE. Friday Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival (2 days) Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Tampa Where can you see exciting rodeo antics and a full country music festival all in one place? The answer, of course, is our very own Hillsborough County fairgrounds. Famed artists like Chris Janson and Clay Walker grace the stage between rodeo phases to make your experience complete. But there’s more! Enjoy delicious food, a cold beer and test your skills on the mechanical bull before the Bull Bash begins. It’s big fun for the whole family, so don’t miss a minute! (No beer for the kids, though.) Friday & Saturday, January 17th & 18th Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE. For a Good Cause: MLK Dream Big Weekend Celebration & Parade Multiple Venues, St. Pete In its 38th year, MLK Dream Big Parade is one of the Nation’s longest-running Martin Luther King Day Parades. This year features a full weekend of activities and fun for all. On Friday, it’s the MLK Dream Big Banquet. On Sunday, it’s the MLK Dream Big Band Showcase at Gibbs High School. Then on the Monday holiday celebrating Dr. King’s life and legacy, is the main event – the MLK Dream Big Parade. This vibrant and inspiring parade travels through the heart of downtown St. Pete on 1st Avenue South, concluding at Tropicana Friday, January 17th – Monday, January 20th Find event schedule and locales, and more information HERE. For a Good Cause – Dishes & Wishes: A Taste of Tampa Bay The Gathering @Armature Works, Tampa What better way to eat delicious food with friends and family, than when it benefits the Make-A-Wish of Southern Florida organization? Enjoy open bars, live music from The SugarSax and DJ Anthony Carollo, auctions and fabulous food from the bay area’s finest restaurants. Your taste buds will thank you and so will all the kids battling illness as they get their dream wishes granted. Get your tickets today. Friday, January 17th @7pm – 11pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Opening Reception: Skinner & Skinner, Presence Felt, Lisa Bagley: Hopes & Fears, Luster Morean Arts Center, St. Pete Four exhibitions in one come to The Morean Arts Center this Friday with an opening reception. Skinner + Skinner features father and son artists Arthur and Joe Skinner in their first-ever