Archive | Orlando Shows & Theatre

Unique Show – Phantasmagoria Christmas

By admin on December 11, 2018 in Holiday Specials, Orlando Shows & Theatre, Worth the Drive

For those of you not wanting to let Halloween go, but still, like the idea of Christmas, the Phantasmagoria Christmas Carol is a unique show for you. A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas is being performed at smaller theaters throughout Central Florida, most notably on Saturday, December 22 at 2pm and 7:30pm at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in Sanford. It could possibly be the most intriguing performance you’ll ever experience.

If you are not familiar with “phantasmagoria,” you are not alone. Until a controversial video game came on the scene in 1995 (and only continued a few years), few people had even heard of this word. Phantasmagoria is an exhibition of optical effects and illusions, usually in a bizarre fashion. Think horror theatre combined with a circus; a séance combined with a magic show; steampunk combined with Victorian fantasy. That should give you some idea of the what this unique show might offer. Now add in the story of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and you’ve got a very interesting performance!

John DiDonna is the founder of Orlando’s Phantasmagoria. He is also a teacher at Valencia College and has directed performances at most every theater company in the Central Florida area. He often finds performers to fill his roles at other Orlando theater performances. For example, the current queen at Medieval Times Orlando dinner show has been known to perform in the Phantasmagoria troupe.

Who is This Unique Show Suitable For?

If you are not certain this unique show is for you, think again. Last year tickets to the performances sold fast. Even kids can enjoy the movement, dance, puppetry, projections, music and storytelling. Just make sure they understand this is one of the most famous ghost stories of all times. While it may be a familiar story, this performance may be the most intriguing you’ve ever experienced.

For tickets, visit the Phantasmagoria’s website and select the performance and location you’d like tickets for. Most tickets start at $20, however, VIP packages are available at some theaters which include early entry, a souvenir, drink and post-show performance.

Speaking of unique shows… Capone’s Dinner & Show is one-of-a-kind, not found in any other area. Kids of all ages will have a blast here too. You won’t find any scrooges around here though. Al’s a generous fella and puts out a spread for his guests each night and even includes unlimited beverages. Just don’t go drinking too many. A ghost of your own Christmas past may find you in the most ‘phantasmagoria’ way!

So if you are up to seeing a unique show this holiday season, check out the Phantasmagoria’s “A Christmas Carol, A Ghost Story of Christmas.” Then save a night for Capone’s and check out our speakeasy and cabaret. This time of the year, we feature a unique show filled with holiday favorites. We’ll see you, hopefully in the past, present and future!

Updated by Admin: Tuesday, December 11, 2018

New Disney Dinner Show – Limited Time

By Carla Sinclair-Wells on August 24, 2018 in Orlando Dinner Shows, Orlando Shows & Theatre

A new ‘Disney dinner show’ is temporarily available at the Animal Kingdom. While the show is not new, the dinner offer is. Signature dining packages are available now through November 21 for Disney’s ‘Festival of the Lion King’ show at the Animal Kingdom theme park. For Lion King and Disney lovers, this is something to roar about.

The Festival of the Lion King show has been offered at this Orlando theme park since it opened 20+ years ago. It includes live performances with singing, dancing, gymnastics, fire twirling and an aerial act. If you love the classic film, “The Lion King” from 1994, chances are you’ll love this Disney dinner show as well. The Broadway-style show is filled with pageantry, puppetry, and popular songs from the film.

Photo by Ryan Wendler / Walt Disney Co.

Disney Dinner Show Packages

Additionally, the dinner package offers two tiers. Both include a meal at Tiffins Restaurant, VIP seating during the show, and a commemorative cast photo. Tier I packages also include a safari tour through the park’s African outback. The tour is lead by a dedicated guide after the show concludes. This Disney dinner show costs $99 for adults and $49 for children 3-9 years old. The less expensive Tier II package does not include the safari, but does include VIP seating and the photo. It costs $74 for adults and $29 for children. This is, of course, in addition to the theme park entrance ticket.

Dining Options

The Disney dinner show includes your choice of lunch or dinner at Tiffins. You’ll receive vouchers for the Festival of the Lion King show at Tiffins regardless if you are seeing the show before or after dining. This restaurant is located in the Discovery Island portion of the theme park, right before entering Pandora – the World of Avatar. You will enjoy a 3-course meal consisting of one appetizer, one entree, and one dessert. You also have the choice of beer, wine or a non-alcoholic drink. Unlike Capone’s Dinner & Show, refills on the alcohol are limited. Sorry lion, Al is the king of that ‘jungle’ offering the most beverage choices of any Orlando dinner show WITH free refills!

Disney has many great restaurants. They also offer a dining plan which many people purchase along with their tickets. If you are on the Disney dining plan, you can exchange two table service entitlements for the Tier II package for this Disney dinner show.

Reservations

It is uncertain if this Disney dinner show package will be offered after November 21. One thing is for certain, with world-class entertainment and food, space will be limited. Book your experience in advance! Make reservations online at the Walt Disney World Resort website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). Have a roaring good time!

Speaking of roaring… If you’d like to participate in a show who’s time period is set near the roaring ‘20s, check out Capone’s Dinner & Show. Tickets are all-inclusive and half price using this special link.

Updated by Admin: Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Rock Dinner Show in Orlando Set to Take Stage

By Carla Sinclair-Wells on August 17, 2018 in Orlando Dinner Shows, Orlando Shows & Theatre

The Rock Dinner Show, an all-new dining entertainment experience, is set to debut in Orlando beginning September 8, 2018. This Vegas-style show will be performed nightly at the Orlando Forum Theatre, located at 6362 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819. This venue can accommodate up to 300 guests. Look-alike rock and pop artists will entertain guests. They will be performing acts from such icons as Prince, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake and others.

Additionally, singers, performances by actors, actresses, aerialists, and dancers will also add to the Rock Dinner Show. Their website states, “an all-star cast of legendary performers” will perform “for an unforgettable night that will amaze the senses with energizing music that will transform you to another place and time.” And, “sensational dancing that will captivate your eyes.” While not yet open, somehow, the “electrifying visual effects… have earned The Rock Show a standing ovation each and every time.” Perhaps by the individual performers at other shows? Just a guess…we’re not sure how they can make this claim prior to being opened.

The Menu at the Rock Dinner Show

As for the dinner portion of the evening, “award-winning cuisine by renowned executive chef Russell T. Booth” will be served. Booth’s recognition is from Hard Rock Cafe. The Rock Dinner Show menu includes the choice of 3 dishes. They are Scallopini of Chicken, Braised Short Rib or Vegan Pasta Primavera. Main entree upgrades are also available adding $9-$10 to your ticket. A dessert made of a chocolate mousse-filled cupcake, topped with a creamy and rich chocolate frosting and chocolate pearls follows the main course. In contrast, the kid’s (3-12) menu consists of Macaroni and Meatballs or a Vegetarian Macaroni, followed by dessert perfect for children: house-made fried vanilla doughnuts tossed in cinnamon and sugar, served in a paper bag.

Furthermore, brunch buffets will be offered at the Rock Dinner Show on Saturday and Sunday mornings in addition to the nightly shows. So if you want to get a taste of the food and entertainment, this is a less expensive option to check out this new Orlando dinner show.

Orlando Dinner Show Tickets

Tickets for regular adult admission are $64.95. Children tickets (ages 3-12 yrs.) are $39.95 and infants (ages 0-3 yrs.) are free. As with most local dinner shows, upgrades are available which include VIP seating, a concert pass, 1 glass of alcohol (wine, beer or champagne), a photo package and an on-stage meet & greet photo. Tickets for the brunch buffet shows are $29.95 (adult) and $19.95 (child).

In contrast, Capone’s Dinner & Show includes a large option of beverages with their tickets, including alcoholic beverages. The selection includes mixed drinks, beer, and wine. At half the cost of this new Orlando dinner show, it remains the best value!

Finally, for more information about the new Rock Dinner Show, call 407-536-7943 or visit www.rockdinnershow.com.

Updated by Admin: Friday, August 17, 2018

You’ve Got A Friend in the Orlando Fringe Festival

By Carla Sinclair-Wells on May 16, 2017 in Orlando Shows & Theatre

If you’ve been around Orlando long enough, chances are you know someone that performs in the Orlando Fringe Festival. Perhaps you have friends that are regular Fringe supporters. Or kids at your child’s school or daycare talk on and on about the fun they had at Kids Fringe. So what are you waiting for? Check out the Fringe Festival!

The Orlando Fringe Festival is a 12-day-festival that is founded on the concept of offering 100% uncensored, 100% accessible theatre, music, dance, art and madness to all types and ages. The Orlando Fringe is the longest running Fringe festival in the U.S., and 100% of the ticket sales go directly back to the artists within The Fringe. Each year, the festival takes place during the 12 days leading up to Memorial Day. This year’s festival is May 17th through 29th.

If you do your homework before heading down to Loch Haven Park, you’ll know where to park, what show to see and how to make sure you are able to get into the show(s) you want to see. Most everything you need to know can be found on the Fringe’s website at orlandofringe.org. You may also find information from our previous year’s postings about the Fringe Festival:

Kids Fringe Theatre Festival

Weekends are for kids. Kids Fringe is free and a lot of fun. Children can bounce away in the bounce house, meet a creature, dress up in a real theatre costume, play a drum and take funny pictures in the photo booth. It’s a great way to introduce your child to the arts and let them see for themselves how it can enrich their lives.

However, many of the shows are NOT for children. Be sure to read each show’s description and follow the guidelines. Remember, the shows are not censored.

2017 Orlando Fringe Festival Show Highlights

So the wise guys and gals have been browsing the lineup for this year’s Orlando Fringe Festival. We couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to plug a few shows that caught our eye. Of course “A Brief History of Petty Crime” sounded intriguing to big Al! Another production that has received great reviews is “High Tea: Another British Comedy.” It has earned several best-of awards.

Other shows which piqued our interests include:

“Snack,” a first-time appearance with plenty of comedy centered about food!

“Roller Derby Saved My Soul” which is back by popular demand.

“6 Quick Dick Tricks: A Dirk Darrow Investigation,” a murder mystery adventure.

“Beau & Aero: Crash Landing” promises laughs with few spoken words (kid-friendly for 7+).

“Judy Garland: Stuck in a Bear Trap with Nothing to Wear”has been reviewed as laugh out loud funny.

…and a one night only show “Flori-DUH” – hosted by fringe favorite Mike Delamont and Morgan Cranny shares completely true stories and tales from Florida in a way that you’ll never forget! Hope you can still get tickets!

Fringe is a great way to experience something a little different here in Orlando. Find a friend or two and go see a couple of shows. On the weekend, take the little ones along. You’re sure to find the Fringe a friendly experience.

Updated by Admin: Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas – Are You Ready?

By Carla Sinclair-Wells on April 24, 2017 in Holiday Specials, Orlando Shows & Theatre

The Easter Bunny has come and gone, now for some Mother’s Day gift ideas. With Easter being late this year, there are a lot of folks that might be surprised to know that Mother’s Day in Orlando is just around the corner! So soon, in fact, that many sons, daughters, husbands and significant others are not ready for this special date. Are you?

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

How will you honor the mother in your life this year? The #1 gift is giving flowers. While this is nice, it should be way down on your list of thoughtful ways to show your appreciation. Flowers are pretty, but come on, they die! It’s not practical and most moms I know, really don’t WANT them for Mother’s Day. Plants are a little better, but at least offer to help water it every once-in-a-while.

Then there are the gifts of candles and perfume. Nice smell, but just a way to make up for, or cover up the dirty laundry/odors Mom has to put up with each day.

If you’re giving her a technology product, make sure it is for HER. Don’t give her the fish finder you’ve been dreaming of, or the gaming system the kids have been begging for. Personally, I bought 3 iPods for my children years before someone was thoughtful enough to buy one just for me!

The spa/massage/pampering gifts are very nice; you’re getting warmer. Jewelry is great – if you can afford it and the selection matches her taste. Save the receipt in case she wants to exchange it. Chocolates and candy are nice – if Mom isn’t on a diet or weight conscious. If she is checking the scales, help her out by not placing these temptations near her.

Taking her out to dinner is an excellent Mother’s Day gift idea. Not only does it give her a break from kitchen duties at home, but she also gets to spend TIME with her loved ones, which is quite often what a mother really wants on Mother’s Day. Time that is spent honoring her, not forcing her to plan a meal, clean up, entertain, care for others, etc. Time when others are caring for her.

Mother’s Day Orlando Dinner Show

If you’d like to cover more than one traditional gift for mom this year, take her and the entire family out for a dinner and a show – Capone’s Dinner & Show! Go ahead and get the kids up early and serve Mom breakfast in bed. (PLEASE clean up the kitchen before you let her see the mess you’ve made!) Print out the special Mother’s Day page Capone’s has online and insert it in her mother’s day card. Give it to her early in the day, so she knows that by late afternoon/early evening, you’ll have the kids all cleaned up and ready to go to the show.

Pick up any nearby friends and relatives on the way and get ready to have a blast! Capone’s is giving all mother’s a flower on Sunday evening, so if flowers are a tradition as a gift for you, Capone’s has you covered. If taking her out to dinner is tradition, Capone’s has you covered. If taking her to a show is tradition,Capone’s has you covered! It’s fun for all ages, so the mother in your life doesn’t have to choose between an evening with adults or an evening with kids – everyone gets to enjoy dinner & a show!

Tickets are just $32.99 per adult (when you order online) and $20.99 per child (4-12). If you have a large group, you can get a group discount, but you’ll have to call 1-800-220-8428 (ask for Lori) to find out more details about group rates. It’s a simple solution for a great gift for the mother in your life. Hope you’re ready for a fantastic Mother’s Day in Orlando! We are!!

Updated by Admin: Monday, April 17, 2017

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