NICEVILLE — The Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College begins its 20th anniversary season with a theme of “Broadway’s Best.”

Ten nationally touring Broadway/Artist shows are featured, as well as two anniversary special events and various guest events.

Season packages go on sale Aug. 22, with single tickets on sale Aug. 29. A portion of all sales support student scholarships at the college.

A 10 percent discount is available for season packages of six or more Broadway/Artist shows, and a group discount of $5 off each ticket is available for groups of 10 or more tickets to a single show.

Anniversary and guest events may be added to a season package but are not discounted.

To purchase, call 729-6000 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

For a complete calendar, videos, updates, and ticket sales by web, see the center’s website at www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org.

Season performances are as follows:

"Second City Comedy & Slate Present – “Unelectable You,” 7:30 p.m. Sept. 21, $35: Fresh, fast and always spectacularly funny, Second City is legendary for producing cutting-edge satire and launching the careers of comedy superstars. In this irreverent look at America’s electoral insanity, the satirical muscle of Second City will harness the often contrarian and cutting-edge voice of Slate to take aim at the election, the candidates and the spin, with political satire and improvisation by Chicago’s best. Artist Series.

Sinatra: The Ultimate Tribute Concert, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22, $35 for concert, $30 for 6 p.m. anniversary reception: The Anniversary Special Event celebrates the season of the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra and also includes a separate pre-concert gala 30th anniversary reception. Las Vegas Star Brian Duprey (The Rat Pack Is Back), performs a knockout recreation of Frank Sinatra in a concert backed by the NFSO.

The Aluminum Show, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1, $35:  A sensational hit around the world that combines amazing special effects, acrobatics, jazz and dazzling aluminum costumes and lighting. Since its debut in Jerusalem in 2003, the show has mesmerized hundreds of thousands of people across the globe and is suitable for all ages and languages. Artist Series.

Cirque Holidaze, 7:30  p.m. Nov. 22, $45: This dazzling holiday extravaganza features the amazing aerial and visual artistry of renowned Cirque performers from across the globe – with over 300 costumes, 20 acts, illusions and gravity defying feats — all staged in a winter wonderland. Broadway Series.

Eisenhower Dance: In Power & Passion, Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. $25: Direct from Detroit, one of the nation’s finest contemporary dance companies presents a breathtaking program with a stunning collection of repertory by nationally-recognized choreographers. Artist Series.

An Evening with Jason Alexander, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21, $65: The highlight of the season features TV, film and Broadway star Jason Alexander to help celebrate both the 20th anniversary of the Mattie Kelly Arts Center and the 30th season of the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. Long before becoming world renowned as the iconic George Costanza on "Seinfeld," Jason Alexander was a Tony Award-winning Broadway song and dance man. His evening at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center brings a hilarious re-telling of his journey to and on the Broadway stage — which features a program of great music from the theater — along with comedy and audience interaction. It’s a much heralded night of music, laughter and fun — all backed by the NFSO. Anniversary Special Event.

'Pippin,' 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24, $45: This nationally touring Broadway show is the winner of four 2013 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Revival. The hit musical is full of extraordinary acrobatics, wondrous magical feats and soaring songs from the composer of "Wicked." Its revival has been described by USA Today as, “A combination of epic theater, burlesque and soulful spectacle.” Broadway Series.

'42nd Street,' 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9, $45: This national touring production is directed and choreographed by the team who staged the 2001 Tony Award-winning revival. The musical comedy includes favorites such as “We’re In The Money,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and “42nd Street!” Broadway Series.

The Piano Men: A Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11, $35: A musical celebration of the 1970’s, hit by hit, this concert is an amazing tribute to the music of Billy Joel and Elton John by award-winning Jim Witter and his sizzling band from Montreal, Canada. Artist Series.

Erths’ Dinosaur Zoo Live, 7 p.m. Feb. 21, $15 adults and $10 youths:  This family-friendly event features an eye-popping collection of  amazingly life-like dinosaurs and other creatures all presented in a theatrical show to thrill audiences of all ages in a fun, unique and educational experience. The one-hour show features an early start time of 7 p.m. and family pricing. Artist Series.

'Once,' 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27, $45: The winner of 8 Tony Awards including Best Musical, "Once" features an ensemble of actor-musicians in the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman discovers his haunting love songs. It’s a captivating night of love, laughter and gutsy Irish music making. Broadway Series.

One Night of Queen: by Gary Mullen and The Works, 7:30 p.m. April 13,  $35: The world premiere Queen tribute band presents a hit concert experience that has sold out across Europe and New Zealand. The pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest live band of all time is featured along with hits such as “We Will Rock You,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “We Are The Champions” and more. Artist Series.

National guest events

These 2016 performances include a specially commissioned appearance of the national historical drama “Black Angels Over Tuskegee” on Oct. 7 about the famous WWII Tuskegee Airmen; rising country music star Hunter Phelps in a Niceville Chamber-sponsored concert under the stars in the center’s amphitheater on Oct. 20; and jazz favorite “A Peter White Christmas” on Dec. 10.

Tickets for all guest events are now available and may be added to a season package.

A host of regional cultural events are also a major part of the art center's 20th anniversary, including performances by the Northwest Florida Ballet and Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra; a full schedule of free touring art exhibitions in the center’s two galleries; and theater, music and dance performances by the renowned NWFSC Fine & Performing Arts Division. A daytime series of national touring shows for school groups includes “Pete the Cat”; “The Lightning Thief”; and daytime school performances of “Eths’ Dinosaur Zoo Live” and “Black Angels Over Tuskegee.”

School groups may reserve space in all school shows by calling 729-6065.

For a complete schedule, more information and videos, go to www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Mattie Kelly Arts Center enters 20th season

VALPARAISO — Recent archaeological research provides details about daily life of those who inhabited the uplands surrounding the mill complex.

Arcadia Mill Site Manager Adrianne Walker will discuss the site's industrial past with an emphasis on the community who lived and worked there and the site’s historical significance.

“Work Done as if by Magic: Arcadia Mill Industrial Complex,” a free history lecture, is noon Aug. 12 at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida, 115 Westview Ave.

Bring a sandwich and take your lunch break.

This lecture is free and open to the public.  Call 678-2615 to reserve a seat due to limited space.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Northwest Florida museum schedules lecture on Arcadia Mill

FORT WALTON BEACH — After more than a decade of leadership of the Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale, NWF State College Professor of Music Lois Henry has stepped down as director of the vocal ensemble in order to assume other roles within the college’s Division of Humanities, Fine & Performing Arts.

She will continue her duties as a full-time Professor of Music at the college; lead the college’s premier women’s chorus, Belle Voci, and pursue additional professional opportunities as a composer and the region’s leading concert pianist. 

The chorale is a vocal ensemble of community and college members which performs with the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra.

In August, veteran Niceville High School Chorus Director Michael Dye will assume direction of the NWF Symphony Chorale as the orchestra enters its 30th season.

Dye, who will begin his 27th year as choral director at NHS in August, holds a Master of Music Education Degree.

 His primary responsibility with the Chorale will be to build membership of talented vocalists and prepare for performances with the NFSO in December 2016 and May 2017.  

“Taking on the leadership of the college’s chorale will be a wonderful extension of my decades at Niceville High,” noted Dye. “I hope many former NHS Chorus members and singers from across our community will audition August 9, and come out for our first meeting of both continuing and new members on August 23.” 

Dye said current chorale members are not required to re-audition for a position and should plan to attend the first rehearsal and meeting on Aug. 23.

Auditions and rehearsal

Auditions for new members are 6 p.m. Aug. 9 in the Tyler Recital Hall, Mattie Kelly Arts Center, Northwest Florida State College, Niceville.

Singers should bring a one-minute solo appropriate for the voice to be used in the chorale.  Bring sheet music for the accompanist, if necessary, or sing a capella. Callbacks and an alternate audition are Aug. 16.  Contact Phyllis Lake, lakepa@cox.net,  for audition scheduling.

The first rehearsal and fall information session for current and new prospective members are 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23 in the Tyler Recital Hall. 

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Northwest Florida chorale names new director, schedules auditions

NICEVILLE — A recital at the Tyler Recital Hall of Northwest Florida State College will feature a Brazilian violinist and a former Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra member.

A free recital is planned at 7:30 p.m. July 29 at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Blvd.

Performers are Leonardo Jaffé, of Brazil, a violinist studying at the Yehudi Menuhin School in London, and Victor Andzulis, Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky.

Donations will be accepted at the door to provide an honorarium for the musicians.

The works to be performed include Violin Sonata No.4, Op. 23 by Ludwig von Beethoven; Violin Sonata in D Minor, Op. 27, No. 3, “Ballade” by Eugéne Ysaÿe; Nocturne in C Minor, Op. 48, No. 1 by Frédéric Chopin; Violin Sonata No. 3, Op. 45 by Edvard Grieg and Carmen Concert Fantasy by Pablo de Sarasate.

Jaffé, who began learning the violin at age 5, carries with him a surname that has been engraved into the history of string pedagogy both in and outside Brazil. His grandfather, violinist and teacher Alberto Jaffé, developed the experimental Jaffé method of group string instrument teaching. 

In January 2013, right after turning 15 years old, Leonardo was accepted into the Yehudi Menuhin School in London, one of the most renowned schools in the world for young violinists. In 2014, he performed one of his own compositions for Queen Elizabeth II. The Yehudi Menuhin School had been selected to send one piece in memoriam of the 100-year anniversary of World War I, and Leonardo’s piece, "No One Won," was selected among all submitted to be played at the event. He has performed for the Prime Minister of England, David Cameron, among other students with the Chance to Play project at the Lancaster House. 

Andzulis also maintains a private piano and strings studio in Kentucky.  He has a very active performing schedule as a soloist and collaborative pianist, frequently performing in concerts throughout the Southern United States.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he also serves as accompanist for student and faculty performances, as well as the Chamber Choir and Chorale.

He has a Master of Music in Collaborative Keyboard degree from the University of South Alabama.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Northwest Florida State College hosts guest artist recital

VALPARAISO — The Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida will present “Night at the Museum: Hub City.”

The event — 7 p.m. Saturday, July 30 at 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso — takes participants on a guided group tour that combines history and theatre.

“Be entertained with period music from the Pelican Pickers,” an event spokesperson said, “and the talented actors from the Emerald Coast Theatre Company will bring history to life by portraying people such as Congressman Bob Sikes, and Celeste Mapoles, whose husband, W.H. Mapoles, came to life during last year’s Night at the Museum.”

Guests can enjoy a silent auction, a wine tasting, restaurant raffle, and food from Café Bienville, Ernie’s Dockside Oyster Bar Café, Cold Creek Bar-B-Que, Coney Island, and Havana Harry’s East Gate Café.

Admission costs $40 per person, or $35 per museum member; $29 per person for groups of six or more (group must be paid in one transaction)

Space is limited, and name reservations are required. Make reservations at www.heritage-museum.org, stop by the museum, or call 678-2615.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Heritage Museum schedules 'Night at the Museum: Hub City'

VALPARAISO — The next History Sandwiched In presentation will be on Okaloosa County's history.

Guest speaker Jim Young will give an overview of interesting people and events that took place in Okaloosa County history from its creation until recent times. Guests will get a free American flag.

"The First 100 Years" is a free lecture scheduled noon July 8 at the Heritage Museum at 115 Westview Ave.

Bring a sandwich and take your lunch break at the event. Make a reservation due to limited space by calling 678-2615.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 'The First 100 Years' lecture focuses on Okaloosa history

Need something to do this weekend? Check out these fun events:

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 3 things to do this weekend in Northwest Florida

NICEVILLE — Niceville resident Linda Sealy Knowles' latest book — “Bud’s Journey Home” — is now available.

The Western novel is set for nationwide release the week of May 24.

The book is described as follows:

"After serving time in the Louisiana State Prison, Bud Downey spent many months winning a small fortune as a gambler.  Feeling confident that he had won enough money, he packed up his stake to begin his journey to Limason, Texas — his home.  After his last winning hand at the gambling table, a couple of disgruntled cowboys were angry that they had lost all their money to the smooth-talking young man.  As Downey traveled near the border of Lafayette, Louisiana, he was ambushed, shot and left for dead in the swampy waters of the bayou.

"Rosie Jourdian never dreamed at the young age of 18 that she would have the sole responsibility of caring for her two young siblings. Who would believe that life could play such an ugly, cruel trick on her life? She was abandoned by her mama and left to raise a 6-week-old baby boy and an 11-year-old brother.

"While fishing in the bayou river to help feed her little family, she discovered a bloody cowboy in the swampy waters. With special herbs and potions made by Justice, a black Creole woman-friend, they nursed him back to health. The men who were looking for him discovered his whereabouts and burned down Jourdian’s shack. Would this independent young girl go with Downey and leave the only place she has ever known all her life?"

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.

Knowles’ list of completed novels includes “Journey to Heaven Knows Where,” “Hannah’s Way” and “The Secret.” She resides in Niceville with her family.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Niceville author weaves romance, love of family in latest novel

FORT WALTON BEACH — Northwest Florida Ballet auditions and a performance are scheduled.

Trainee and company auditions are May 14. Trainees may audition 9-10:30 a.m. May 14 at NFB studios, 310 Perry Ave. SE, Fort Walton Beach.

Company and  high school pre-professional program auditions are 10:30 a.m. to noon May 14.

Evening school students are planning a performance at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College.

The performance is 3 p.m. May 28 at the college, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children. Purchase 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. – noon Saturdays at the studio. Tickets will also be available at the arts center before the concert begins.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: May 14 auditions and May 28 Northwest Florida Ballet concert set