Stressed out on stage 😱

That’s the name of this newsletter, right?

The version of Panic! a hyper-local arts and entertainment writer In the Disco. (Too early?)

But let me tell you, I was stressed. Why? No real reason. Because that’s how brain is fun. It’s like there are words in my head that I can’t say and words I say that I should probably keep in my head. Everything is reversed.

Aside from being stressed, I was too Sam, full-time ClickOrlando writer and human woman. The last gig I’ve actually been to for a while (and I haven’t even done it questions Therefore). But I think I’m going to be pretty good.

The writer part can be a bit bumpy at times. Like that intro right? Get to the good stuff already!

Point taken, reader. point taken. I do I actually have a lot of art news that I want to share with you. Like a preview of the latest show to hit the Winter Garden stage, an upcoming festival focusing on a local literary great and the latest venture from a Broadway legend.

Find out who/what I’m talking about below. ⤵️

Here they go again 🤘

The Garden Theater is officially back with live performances after a six month hiatus. And I’d say his big comeback played like the reverse of a TS Eliot quote: not with a whimper, but with a bang.

After a backlash from the theater community following a public feud between management and employees This summer, the conservatory establishment returned to its old form in Rock of Ages.

The jukebox musical is packed with ’80s rock anthems and power ballads sung by some of the famous “Voice” and “American Idol” songs you may have heard of.

Rock of Ages runs at the Garden Theater through February 26th. Click another link on the jukebox, baby, to find out more.

Zora! feast ✍🏿

Her eyes watched Zora.

At least, that’s what’s happening in Eatonville this weekend as the city celebrates one of its own literary luminaries, Zora Neale Hurston.

She is the mastermind behind such classics as “Their Eyes Were Watching God”, “Mules and Men”, “Spunk” and “Dust Tracks on a Road” and in honor of her life and legacy, Eatonville is hosting its 34th Zora! Firmly.

Enjoy museum exhibits, special performances, crafts and more this Saturday and Sunday. Take a look at what to expect here.

Closer Look Q&A: See the Stars ✨

This Broadway legend’s performance in the theater is another for the books. Literally. The director, writer and actor brings other artistic talents here, Sheldon Epps has written a book to share what he’s learned on and off the stage during his decades in the entertainment industry.

From the Big Apple to Hollywood, it’s a name you may not have heard before, but one whose work you would recognize immediately. He managed everyone from Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett to the cast of Friends.

His leadership in diversity nationally has impacted local theaters and artistic organizations, including those based in Central Florida.

To learn more about its history and its relationship to the Central Florida arts scene, Click here.

More music, movies and chaos near you 🎶📽️🤯

🎤 What to do Madonna, Stevie Nicks, Billy Idol and Brooks & Dunn have in common? These are all artists featured on my Spotify? … How do you know this?! But I didn’t want to say that. These legends are all coming to Orlando this year too! Find out when these award-winning icons and artists will grace the City Beautiful stage by clicking on the appropriate links.

📸 The perfect Kodak moment is coming to New Smyrna Beach this weekend at the IMAGES Arts Festival. Guests can browse and purchase the works of over 200 artists Friday through Sunday. Imagine everything here.

🪕 There won’t be much singing about the blues when this up-and-coming musician debuts his album in Daytona Beach next month. News 6’s Riff On This host Samara Cokinos spoke to Dyer Davis about his upcoming album, Dog Bites Back, which he plans to perform at The Bank & Blues. It even includes some Grammy nominated artists. To find out who, where, what, when, why and how Click here.

📖 Once upon a time, writers from all over the world would gather at the Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora for the four-day Florida Storytelling Festival. And that time is NOW. Want a SparkNotes version of what’s in store for you? Find out more about the beginning, middle and end (spoilers ahead) of this weekend’s event here.

Credits 🎬

Thank you for staying here to hear about the latest artistic endeavors bringing Central Florida to life!

If you have something you would like to hear more about, or if you are or know an artist who has an upcoming project that you would like to see shine in the spotlight, please email me, Sam Dunne, at sdunne@wkmg.com.

Don’t worry, I don’t bite. Just sing and dance.