Here are my top recommendations for Dr. Phillips Center Orlando shows and a few additional goodies from local theaters. You won’t be disappointed. Visit drphillipscenter.org or call 844.513.2014 unless otherwise indicated.
December 7 to December 10 at the Dr. Phillips Center
AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando and Dr. Phillips Center Presents – “Funny Girl”
This “love letter” to the theatre is a sensational Broadway revival that dazzles with ALL the celebrated songs, including “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” The story of a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage was told she’d never be a star. But then something funny happened — she became one of the brightest stars in history, shining among the brightest lights on Broadway.
December 8 to December 24 at the Dr. Phillips Center
The Orlando Ballet Presents – THE NUTCRACKER – a World Premiere Production
Created by Jorden Morris, Artistic Director, Orlando Ballet
Orlando Ballet’s enchanting annual favorite, The Nutcracker, is extra special this year as the Orlando Ballet presents a spectacular NEW production of the beloved story of a toy nutcracker that comes to life and transports Clara to a world of wonder. Join Clara in her sugar-plum world, complete with a Mouse King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Snowland.
December 12 at 7 p.m.
Dr. Phillips Center in Association with Live Nation Presents – Derek Hough’s “Symphony of Dance”
The incomparable Derek Hough brings an all-new “Symphony of Dance” with electrifying music and non-stop entertainment. Hough and dancers are the perfect way to experience the heroic power of dance – from the elegance of ballroom to the heat of sexy Latin. Topped off with a LIVE band, you’ll be mesmerized by the precision of Hough and his dancers as they bring his Emmy award-winning choreography to life.
December 13
Dr. Phillips Center Presents – Sarah Brightman “A Christmas Symphony”
The world’s best-selling Soprano — and UNESCO Artist for Peace Ambassador – Sarah Brightman, has amassed over 30 million sales, receiving awards in over 40 countries and garnering over 1 billion streams worldwide. She originated the role of Christine Daaé in the world-renowned Phantom of the Opera on both West End and Broadway. She has performed at such prestigious events as the “Concert for Diana” and “The Kennedy Center Honors.”
December 15 at 8 p.m.
Dr. Phillips Center Presents – The Illusionists — “Magic of the Holidays”
Celebrate the holidays with this extraordinary spectacle featuring the most incredible illusionists. The Illusionists shatter box office records around the globe, dazzling audiences with a powerful mix of the most outrageous LIVE acts ever seen on stage in a non-stop show packed with sophisticated MAGIC of unprecedented proportions.
December 20 at 8 p.m.
Dr. Phillips Center Presents –“LeAnn Rimes JOY: The Holiday Tour”
Leann Rimes brings some very special ‘JOY’ to our Holiday Season along with her 48 million-selling multi-platinum ASCAP award-winning hits, 2 Grammy® Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, 2 World Music Awards, and 3 Academy of Country Music Awards. At 14, Ms. Rimes won “Best New Artist,” making her the youngest solo artist to take home a Grammy® Award, and she wants to share it all with us. Happy holidays, Ms. Rimes. Welcome to Orlando!
Now to December 23
Orlando Family Stage Presents – “Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!”
First Grader Junie B. Jones is super-excited about her school’s upcoming “Secret Santa” gift exchange, BUT tattletale May is ruining all the fun. When Junie B. draws May’s name for Secret Santa, she has the perfect plan to teach her ‘frenemy’ a lesson! OR will the Joy of the Christmas spirit prevail?
Call 407.896.7365 or visit orlandofamilystage.com
Now to December 23
The Garden Theatre in Winter Garden Presents – “Moonshine & Mistletoe: An Appalachian Christmas Tale”
The Ballards welcome family and friends into their Appalachian Mountain home to celebrate Christmas Day. In the midst of the Great Depression, they have no gifts to exchange, but instead, they share their love of Appalachian hymns and carols. Call 407.877.4736 or visit gardentheatre.org
Shows at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando and Orlando Family Stage and The Garden Theatre are worth attending. Remember to grab your tickets now!