A part of the Appleton Cultural Center, the Ocala Civic Theater stands as an important cultural landmark in the city. Each season, it hosts over 12 theatrical performances, besides also providing a setting to touring theater groups. Catch a play or musical on your evening out in Ocala, and be enthralled by the performances at what is considered one of the country's best community theaters.
Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center is one of the best entertainment venues in The Villages. Equipped with world-class equipment, the venue has tiered seating and an elegant lighting arrangement. The stage is used for traditional Broadway shows to contemporary plays and is also available for concerts. They are home to several artists and art groups and has played host to some famous names like Peter Nero, Johny Mathis, Patti Lupone, etc. The venue also provides lessons and organizes workshops on theater for those interested, especially targeting the student community. They can accommodate up to 1,000 spectators for a single event.
For entertainment in the unique retirement community of The Villages, head to the Savannah Center on Buena Vista Boulevard. This eclectic venue is one of the few entertainment options in the town, hosting a plethora of performing arts events throughout the year. Be it a concert by small bands and orchestra groups, a drama performance or a lecture by a prominent speaker, the center provides a perfect platform and atmosphere for such events. In the past, groups like Jay And The Americans, Hello Dolly and The Cowsills have already entertained the crowd at the Savannah Center. Call ahead or visit their website to know more.
Country music fans will find much reason to rejoice at the Orange Blossom Opry. The Opry is housed within the old Weirsdale School Gymnasium and showcases the best of country music. The house band performs at the opry every Friday and Saturday at 7:30p, showcasing a variety of musical genres, including bluegrass, rock, traditional country and show tunes. A weekly Jam Night is held every Thursday at 7p, where "jammers" are invited to perform alongside the band. The Orange Blossom Opry also hosts performances by a variety of prominent guest musicians and bands, including the likes of Billy Dean, New Odyssey and The Gatlin Brothers. The best seats sell out quickly, so be sure to buy your tickets well in advance.
There's a lot to explore in the downtown area of the beautiful city of Leesburg, which is located on the banks of Lake Griffin. One can relax in one of the cafes, restaurants and bars on the main street, which runs through the center of downtown. This historic district of Leesburg also has a number of shops and boutiques selling clothes, accessories, handicrafts and antiques. During summers, you can pick up fresh fruits and local produce during the Leesburg Saturday Morning Market. Apart from this, the downtown is also the cultural hub of the city, as it hosts street festivals and events throughout the year. Amongst these, the notable events like Annual Art Festival and Leesburg Bikefest attracts thousands of people everyday. For more information, contact the tourist information center.
Country music fans will find much reason to rejoice at the Orange Blossom Opry. The Opry is housed within the old Weirsdale School Gymnasium and showcases the best of country music. The house band performs at the opry every Friday and Saturday at 7:30p, showcasing a variety of musical genres, including bluegrass, rock, traditional country and show tunes. A weekly Jam Night is held every Thursday at 7p, where "jammers" are invited to perform alongside the band. The Orange Blossom Opry also hosts performances by a variety of prominent guest musicians and bands, including the likes of Billy Dean, New Odyssey and The Gatlin Brothers. The best seats sell out quickly, so be sure to buy your tickets well in advance.
Established in 1929, Mt. Dora Community Center is located centrally in Mt. Dora, FL. The building exhibits a prominent influence of Mediterranean Revival architecture and is one of the best concert venues in the city. The center was recently refurbished and is equipped with state of the art facilities. They are available for all types of events ranging from film screenings to concerts to weddings. The venue can accommodate up to 1243 spectators for a single event and is also used as a practice stage for major theater and performing arts groups in the area. The center has housed famous bands like the Nitty Gritty Dirt Road and the Firefly.
Located in the historic district of Ocala near downtown, the Reilly Arts Center is a premier entertainment venue. A part of the Ocala Tuscawilla Park grounds, the theater has a seating capacity of 700. The center plays host to various stage productions from musicals, symphony orchestras, contemporary gigs as well as private events.