By Tom Tracy An improved local business economy, a healthy uptick in advance ticket sales and some daring artistic additions to this year’s programming means things are looking up for Boca Raton’s arts and literary festival. The Mizner Plaza-based Festival of the Arts Boca is poised to enter a new chapter in its relatively short history this March 7-16 with a performing arts … [Read more...]
Despite loss and economic woes, 2011 was impressive year for local theater
It was a precarious year in theater in South Florida, with the sudden devastating demise of West Palm Beach’s Florida Stage, not quite offset by the expanded potential for Palm Beach Dramaworks in its new, larger space. Zoetic Stage debuted in Miami with its impressive repertory company of area actors, while announced, but not yet open, are Parade Productions in Boca Raton and … [Read more...]
The 2011-12 season in opera: Even in tough times, companies innovate
South Florida’s opera companies are keeping things busy and innovative this coming season even as the economy continues to take its toll on audiences, box office – and even a whole series of matinees. Still, there’s enough intriguing opera ahead to interest fans and casual attendees, and for them to see some bright new talent take some big steps. Here’s what’s happening on … [Read more...]
The Broadway season in review, and Hap’s Tony predictions
Recession? What recession? If the economy was in the doldrums this year, Broadway sure didn’t know about it. For the commercial theater season in New York that ended May 29, Broadway shows drew $1.08 billion in ticket sales, up 5.9 percent from last season to post record-breaking grosses. Of course ticket prices also set record highs, reaching a top of $140 for -- you … [Read more...]