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DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 1

DTC February

Josh Newby, editor 10

It’s that time of year again! Our third annual Pensacon issue is one that I always look forward to with great anticipation. It’s a fun event to feature, and the related pictures and artwork always inspire great creativity and imagination, much like the works of pop culture on which the convention is based. More than just the sum of its parts, Pensacon is an example of what can happen when a couple of scrappy like-minded individuals come together, determined to make something great happen in their community. That’s really the story of Pensacola: great people joining with one another to create something greater than themselves, and it happens from people young and old. Take the Pensacola Little Theatre, for example. It’s an old institution that often performs pieces older than the city in which it’s located, but the hard-working staff always strive to put a new spin on an aging art. That’s

4 V-Day Returns to Pensacola 7 Putting the T in PLT 8 Whiskey Business 10 Return of the Con 12 Seven Deadly Sins 14 Gallery Night Guide

one of the motivations driving Tyler Kercher, the new executive director at PLT. We feature a Q&A with him on page 7 as part of our monthly arts and entertainment section. February is a big Mardi Gras month, and as someone who admittedly never got the appeal of the holiday’s Americazation, I decided that instead of featuring another well-worn story about all the great events that Pensacola features in participation of the event, we should show you all the fantastic opportunities for sin in Downtown (since, according to a cursory reading of a Wikipedia article, Mardi Gras is a chance to get sin out of your system before Lent hits). Go to page 12 to read a humorous essay about the possibilities Downtown offers to exploit each of the seven deadly sins before the season culminates on Fat Tuesday. To further drive home just how much talent Pensacola attracts, world-renowned street performance band STOMP comes to the Saenger Theatre this month. If you’re unfamiliar, the group uses everyday objects like trash cans and kitchen tools to make edgy, raw hip-hop-style music. The performance is something everyone can experience, and luckily you can! Read more about it on page 16. As in every Downtown Crowd, we feature all the best arts and culture events happening, and even provide a few more stories on ways to spend your time in and around Downtown so that you will never be bored.

16 Stomp 19 Dating Downtown 21 Film 22 Word on the Street 24 Dateline Downtown 26 Art • Music • Theatre

Publisher Malcolm Ballinger Executive Editor Kelly Oden Editor Josh Newby Art Director Rita Laymon Graphic Design and Ad Coordination Guy Stevens Editor + Downtown Crowd Layout Josh Newby Editorial Assistant Dawn Gresko Advertising Account Executives Paula Rode paula@ballingerpublishing.com

Deadline for space and information is the 15th of the month prior to publication. For advertising rates or news tips contact Phone: 433-1166 · Fax: 435-9174

DOWNTOWN CROWD is published by Ballinger Publishing. Offices located at 41 N. Jefferson St., Suite 402, Pensacola Florida 32502

Published by Ballinger Publishing

Downtown Crowd is locally owned and operated. It is published monthly for distribution in Pensacola, Florida. All Right Reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents herein is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Comments and opinions expressed in this magazine represent the personal views of the individuals to whom they are attributed and/or the person identified as the author of the article, and they are not necessarily those of the publisher. This magazine accepts no responsibility for these opinions. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. All advertising information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser. Appearance in this magazine does not necessarily reflect endorsement of any products or services by Ballinger Publishing.

Cover design by Guy Stevens

2 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

The best mornings begin at Blue Morning Gallery. So does the best art. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Become a morning person. Award-winning artists • Local, original art Open 7 days a week 21 South Palafox Place • 850.429.9100 • bluemorninggallery.com

DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 3

V-Day Returns to Pensacola The Feminist Society of Pensacola, in partnership with STRIVE, presents Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues on Saturday, Feb. 13. The event will take place at Artel Art Gallery in Downtown Pensacola. The show will begin at 7:30 pm. An art sale and cocktail hour, beginning at 6:30 pm, will precede the show. Tickets will be available at the door for $10. “The Vagina Monologues has been called the most important piece of political theatre in the past decade by the New York Times. We are excited to bring these diverse, poignant and sometimes hilarious stories to life in the gorgeous space at Artel to benefit our local Rape Crisis Program at Lakeview. This V-Day celebration is the perfect offbeat date or night out with friends, and you can enjoy it while strengthening our community’s resources for victim support. Expect to laugh, cry and be

4 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

inspired as we shine a light on the global movement to end violence against wome,” said Emily Echevarria, co-director and event coordinator for the day. V-Day campaigns, which take place around the world, raise much needed funds and awareness for their communities anti-violence groups. Over the past 17 years the V-Day movement has raised over $100 million. V- Day, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation, has won several awards for their efforts, including “100 Best Charities” in Worth Magazine (2001) and one of Marie Claire’s Top Ten Charities (2006). All proceeds from V-Day Pensacola will benefit the Rape Crisis Trauma Recovery Program at the Lakeview Center.

$ 99 LUNCH SPECIALS 11am-3pm

455 W. Main St. Downtown Pensacola (850) 915-8775 WWW.NICKSBOATHOUSE.COM

DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM | 5

6 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Putting the T in PLT

MONTHLY ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEW

AN INTERVIEW WITH NEW PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TYLER KERCHER · BY DAWN GRESKO Tyler Kercher has been putting the T in PLT (Pensacola Little Theatre) since he joined the crew in May 2015. The executive director of PLT is a fellow Pensacolian and graduate of the University of West Florida and he is bringing his creative business mind to one of the oldest continually operating theatres in the Southeast.

What did you do before joining PLT? After college, I was hired as the executive director of SkillsUSA Florida, a non-profit student organization that prepared technical students for the workforce. In that role, I oversaw 10,000 high school and technical school students, 2,000 instructors, and fostered industry partnerships across the state. What are you bringing to the table as the new executive director? I am always looking for new and exciting ways to reach and exceed our goals at PLT. Our formula is quite simple: we are constantly evaluating our performance. We find out what we are doing well and do more of that. Likewise, we take what has not been successful and do less of that. What are some of your responsibilities? I ensure that the mission, vision, and goals of the organization, as determined by the Board of Trustees, are executed in our operations. I oversee a staff of eight individuals with a diverse pool of talents. Additionally, I focus on grant-writing, fundraising, and managing the leases for the tenants of the Pensacola Cultural Center. What are some of the challenges you face? There is truly something new to do every single day. What has been the most challenging, so far, has been the urge to tackle too many tasks at one time. We are excited to address facility needs, such as expanding the women’s bathrooms, updating the 1990s decor, improving theatre lighting, and digitizing the sound. Without a winning Powerball ticket, we will have to continue with our plan to pursue these improvements over time! What are your plans for PLT? Many people don’t know the rich history of the Pensacola Little Theatre. We were incorporated in 1936 as part of FDR’s New Deal, under the Works Progress Administration. PLT is the oldest continually operating theatre in the Southeast, and we celebrate our 80th year in 2016. My plans for PLT are to highlight that rich tradition in Pensacola and broaden our audience base. We recognize that many people haven’t stepped foot into our building, which is rich in history itself (since it’s the old Escambia

County Court of Records and Jail from 1911), and we want to change that. Through diversifying show selection, and broadening our offerings to the community, we seek to be an anchor of the arts in Downtown Pensacola. Why is it an exciting time to be part of PLT? PLT is in the heart of a booming Downtown Pensacola. We are a stone’s throw from the activity on Gallery Nights and festivals in Seville Square. We are ready to make PLT more visible to the community and share this tradition with the Pensacola community. Is there anything else readers should know about you and your involvement with PLT? I am honored to serve as executive director at the Pensacola Little Theatre, but I am just a piece of the wheel in this operation. We have an outstanding and knowledgeable staff that deserves all the credit in the world. Furthermore, PLT wouldn’t exist without the dedication of an extensive list of volunteers. Between the Pensacola Little Theatre Guild, the Board of Trustees, the Artistic Committee, the Treehouse Committee, costumers, set designers, lighting and sound designers, painters, carpenters, engineers, stagehands, stage managers, production managers, directors, choreographers, music directors, musicians, ushers, house managers, and actors, we are able to provide such a great service to the community. Last year, over 1,000 individuals logged community service hours here at the theatre, totaling over 100,000 community service hours.

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What’s all this whiskey business? It’s been called the water of life and writer’s blood, thanks to its consumption by famous writers like Hemingway and Twain, and there’s even variations on the spelling of whisk(e)y depending on its origins. Downtown Crowd caught up with Katie Garrett, one of Pensacola’s whiskey experts and owner of Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, to talk turkey about whiskey. She laid out a map to the wonderful world of whiskey, taking us from ways to enjoy whiskey and its many forms to why the whiskey path doesn’t have to be risky business, especially for those with a picky palate.

Whiskey Categories

“Basically, all whiskeys must be made from a grain,” said Katie. “The type of grain and how much was used in making the grain mash determines the category of whiskey it falls under.” Whiskey comes in all shapes and sizes. By legal definition, a drink is classified as a whiskey if it was made from a fermented grain mash and (if it was aged) it should be aged in oak barrels. The level of alcohol varies between types, but ranges from 40 to 68 percent ABV (alcohol by volume). The five main categories are bourbon, scotch, rye, Irish and Tennessee whiskeys. Bourbon contains corn, scotch is made of malted barley, Irish uses malted and un-malted barley, Tennessee is similar to bourbon in that it uses corn but differs in its filtering process, and it goes without saying what grain you’ll find in rye whiskey. However, the world of whiskey is constantly changing. Whiskey makers from around the globe are currently experimenting with nontraditional grains, such as rice and quinoa to produce new variations on grain mashes. 8 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Your definitive guide to Pensacola whiskey // By Dawn Gresko.

Whiskey and Age

“Age is just a number with whiskey and life,” said Katie. “Age doesn’t determine quality. If you like an oaky flavor, then go with an older whiskey. If you don’t like the oaky-ness, then stick with something younger.” Did you know? Whiskey that has not been aged is clear colored and called moonshine, white dog, white lighting, etc. Since the term has gained negative connotations as an illegal concoction, stemming from its widespread distribution during Prohibition, many refer to moonshine instead as simply unaged whiskey. Older whiskeys tend to keep strong notes of the oak barrel they were aged in, while younger whiskeys tend to have a smoother, less oaky taste. This is because over time, as the barrels heat and cool through the seasons of summer and winter, the liquid inside the barrels expands into the wood then compresses, taking with it traces of the wooden barrel that housed it. Today, distillers and warehouses are using different parts from oak trees to determine what sections of the tree make for the best barrel and taste.

Whiskey Drinking

“There is no wrong way to drink whiskey,” said Katie. “You drink it how you want it, which is how you like it. Sample and experiment to find out what you like and don’t be afraid to try something from every category, even if you’re a little scared to.” Ideally, if you’ll be sitting with a dram of whiskey, then your first sip should coat your mouth and prepare your palate for the second sip. If you start gulping right away, you’ll risk shocking

Whiskey Business

your taste buds and ruining your whiskey experience. Tone down a woodytasting whiskey with an ice cube or two. The water will lessen the intensity of the oaky flavor. On the flip side, try your whiskey neat if you prefer something at room temperature with a lot of smoky undertones. Whiskey shots (in moderation) can be equally good as sipping, but for shots you might consider choosing a flavored whiskey like Midnight Moon Apple Pie for smoother sailing down your gullet.

Whiskey Dos and Don’ts

Do: Order a single or a double of whiskey. Singles are 1.25 oz. and doubles are 2 oz. Don’t: Order by one or two “fingers.” Bartenders are all about precision pours and no two bartenders have the same size fingers; if you ask for two fingers, you’ll be asked if you want either a single or a double. Do: Look at all your options when picking a whiskey. Don’t: Consider ordering a whiskey because it says “craft,” or you think it’s “top shelf,” so it has to be good. Wild Turkey whiskeys have won blind tasting contests at Old Hickory

Whiskey Bar, and Wild Turkey products are often considered “bottom shelf.” Great taste can come at great value.

Do: Try a whiskey in a cocktail. Don’t: Avoid whiskey because you’re intimidated by the “harsh” taste. With cocktails like Whiskey Sours and Bourbon Sidecars, you won’t believe what you’re drinking has whiskey in it.

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w Ne

n r n u o t e C of

or decades, it seemed, politicians and businesspeople ruled Pensacola. The weak served the strong. But there was a silent resistance growing in the town’s underbelly. In movie theaters, at LAN parties and comic book shops across the city, a passionate and energized minority was starting to stand up. There would be occasional but short-lived sparks of revolution, of course. A costume party at Vinyl here, an outdoor showing of Star Trek there, but nothing really dependable. For years, it seemed that the movement would never fully take to the streets, that the community’s nerd culture would never find something around which to galvanize and call their own. Then it happened. A few well-funded fighters began to formulate a vision for a better tomorrow—a vision where, if only for a time, the outwardly shy but inwardly brave would have their day. That day finally came on Feb. 21, 2014. For three years now, the annual fan convention Pensacon has made Jedi, wizards, Starks and Doctors out of us all. And there were so many more 10 | Downtowncrowd.com

e h t

of us than we thought. We would have considered it a victory if a few hundred shuffled through the Bay Center’s doors, but the convention did something: it legitimized what had been long-dormant in so many of us—a desire, nay, a need to break free. No longer are we lawyers writing contracts, waiters serving drinks, or coders designing websites. We can discard those restrictive vestiges like Superman ripping off his earthly disguise. For three special days (Feb. 19 – 21) each February, we can be what society has told us to suppress for so long. We are all nerds, united in our love for all things pop culture. With that celebration of all things magical and otherworldly comes a lot of preparation. As thousands of walkers and Sith lords shuffle through the doors, ready to meet future best friends and vanquish enemies in games of Super Smash Bros. or Magic: The Gathering, behind-the-scenes staff and volunteers are working hard to make sure we can debate fan theories and pick up limited-edition swag in a fun and safe environment. The fearless team responsible for

putting the event on must ensure the safety of 17,000 fellow fans; scheduling and arrival of nearly a hundred celebrity guests; facilitation for dozens of panels, events, competitions, and more. They must do all that with a smaller staff and bigger expectations. So how do they do it all? “We rely heavily on 350 to 400 volunteers,” said Kat Bishop, director of marketing and communications. “We have volunteers assigned to tickets, celebrities, vendors and more.” They began planning 2016’s big

event before 2015’s Pensacon was even over. “We have a brain dump after each convention where we discuss what worked and what didn’t,” said Bishop. “We’d like people to know that there are many things happening all weekend, both at the Bay Center and in the general downtown area. By spreading the crowd out, hopefully we can avoid another bottleneck, especially during the busiest hours of 11 am to 2 pm

(Star Trek), Jason Mewes (Clerks, Dogma, Mallrats), and Peter Mayhew (Star Wars) will be on hand to sign autographs, take pictures, and discuss all your favorite character moments. Fans will also be treated to some surprise guests and people from previous years and had a great experience and wanted to come back. “For the first year, we really had to work to get celebrities, artists and authors to come,” said Bishop. “But now we’ve established a reputation of great care, transportation, hospitality and dining, and people want to come.” With that kind of consistent experience, it’s no surprise that tickets are going quick. The first batch of VIP tickets were gone in just five hours, but

e’d like people to know that there are many things happening all weekend, both at the Bay Center and in the general downtown area.”

Saturday.” Bishop is right that there is a lot happening in Pensacola that weekend as part of the convention. This year, the squad has taken a galactic approach to the celebrations. Instead of the Bay Center and Crowne Plaza being the epicenter of the action, visitors will find

participating businesses and satellite events orbiting in the square miles surrounding the Bay Center. There’s a lip-sync battle at the Rex Theater, a silent auction to benefit Manna Food Bank, Star Wars- and Star Trek-themed parties at the Fish House and Atlas Oyster Bar, a Rocky Horror Picture Show celebration at Vinyl with some surprise celebrity guests, and more. “With the continuing growth of the event and the lack of space we face with current facilities, we’ve really had to take a ‘campus’ approach to Pensacon,” said Mike Ensley, Pensacon Chairman. “We added the Saenger Theatre as a venue in 2015 and are also adding the Rex Theatre and Palafox House this year. Hopefully, this will help not only keep the crowds at a reasonable level at the Pensacola Bay Center, but also encourage attendees to visit downtown Pensacola’s restaurants, bars and shops.” These changes underscore the fact that this band of scrappy rebels truly cares about the surrounding area and all who inhabit it. With a strong sense of corporate responsibility, they

hope all businesses and non-profit initiatives can live long and prosper alongside Pensacon and not in a spirit of competition. Businesses are wise to get into the spirit, too. The Tin Cow had the best single sales night of its existence during the first year of Pensacon, surpassed only by the second year when it hosted all manner of zombie-themed goodies in its The Walking Dead-inspired burgerserving safe haven. All this goodwill adds up to about $1.4 million worth of economic stimulus over the three-day weekend. “It’s very important to us that everyone feels the positive effects of this convention,” said Bishop. The celebrity experience has also changed slightly, as the staff has focused less on the number of guests and more on the quality of guests. After all, what are guests but slightly betterknown fans with whom to discuss the latest theories and bemoan untimely cancellations? That means that people like Michael Rooker (The Walking Dead, Guardians of the Galaxy), Michael Dorn

Feb 19: 1 - 8 pm Feb 20 10 am - 6 pm Feb 21: 10 am - 6 pm some weekend passes are still on sale for $75. If you haven’t already snatched up early 2016’s hottest party ticket, you’ll want to do so soon at pensacon. com. Pensacola needs a hero. Can you hear the call? It’s a beckoning for the brave of heart among us to cast aside our feebly human limitations and rise to the challenge of vanquishing the status quo and establishing a better tomorrow. The folks over at Pensacon heard that call, and they have become the heroes we need, and in so doing, made conquerors of us all.

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Deadly Sins* *for you to let loose with before Lent by Dawn Gresko and Josh Newby

Pride

Sloth

You’re smart, you’re hot, and gosh darn it, people like you. Instead of limiting them to just one slice of you, give them what they really came for— the whole pie. Don’t listen to the inner voices of doubt; this Whitney Houston song is yours to own! Don’t listen to the boos and heckles, these nobodies wouldn’t know a perfect C-note if it lit their ears on fire. Head down to Lili Marlene’s at Seville and let your inner diva (or hustla) shine.

So after you’re done throwing caution to the wind at downtown’s latest metal act, reconnect with your inner megalonychidae (two-toed sloth) by relaxing, reclining, and exfoliating your cares away at any one of downtown’s day spas. Long gone are worries about those overdue bills and extra pounds you packed on over the holidays. As fresh cucumber scents waft through your nostrils and the sounds of tribal chants soothe your eardrums, dunk yourself in a mud bath that rejuvenates as well as reinvigorates.

Gluttony

Fill your face with fabulous food found in one of Pensacola’s many Before the annual season of abstinence, aka Lent, food factories. Whether you’re in the comes to Downtown Pensacola, surrender to your mood for seafood, steak, dessert basic instincts during Mardi Gras. Downtown provides or a custom-made burger, our town is the one that’s responsible for the many options for engaging our more sinful natures and venting our less savory sides. With this handy list you’ll nom nom. The buffet of relentlessly irresponsible culinary decisions found be spent - physically, financially, and spiritually - just in Pensacola will make you wish you’d in time for Ash Wednesday. brought a pack of Tums.

Lust Desperate for that donk? Sammy’s is Pensacola’s go-to hot spot for bachelor parties, nights on the town, and deep intellectual conversation under a shower of Washingtons. Fill your eyes with a film of lust as you watch the South’s finest showgirls shake their money-makers to the sounds of Def Leppard and 2 Chainz. Let’s be honest, Pensacola’s not raining men. So, what’s a girl to do? Put on your sparkly red shoes and head down to Emerald City for a drag show, where the city’s hunkiest and most unavailable men frequent your tables wearing nothing but a smile just for you. 12 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Greed Do you want more, more, more regardless of how much you already have? Pensacola offers many options along the burgeoning corridor of Downtown, including jewelry, clothing, home furnishing stores and more. Feeling sassy? Go to SoGo. Feeling debonair? Go to Duh. Whatever your tastes, they have the perfect outlet for your excessive inclinations this season of sin.

Wrath Release your angst-ridden inner teenager by raging at one of Downtown’s signature thrash spots like Vinyl Music Hall, Handlebar, or Palafox Street traffic. Say goodbye forever to inner peace with a sick metal riff courtesy of garage bands and post-hardcore-emo-industrialgrindcore-melodic metal rockers the town over. Throw Mom’s warnings to the wind and let the mosh wash over you as you head- and hair-bang to the sounds of the city.

Envy Feeling self-conscious and edgy about your flabby extremities and Pooh belly? Take a trip to the gym and witness modern-day baby-oil lathered gods and goddesses pay tribute to the Titans of steel. Pumping Iron is literally brought to life before your puny specks of eyes as sexy bodies of marble sculpt themselves. Should you join them? The Green Monster says no, just sit back and judge.

All of this is leading up, of course, to the grandfather of debauchery before Lent: Mardi Gras. The annual parade this year is Feb. 6 at 2 pm in Downtown, where we’re sure all seven deadly sins will be proudly on display.

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feb. 19

official gallery night guide Official Gallery Night Guide sponsored by

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14 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

Wright St.

PARTICIPANTS 2.

Fosco Coffee Barre - 8 PALAFOX PL

Hopjacks Pizza Kitchen & Taproom

22 S. PALAFOX ST.

Palafox St.

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s -

Reus St.

FEBRUARY 19, 2016 1.

len St.

pring St.

Belmont St.

Chase St.

10 S. PALAFOX PL.

Marty Campbell Gallery - 126 PALAFOX PL.

Mimi’s On the Go -

Stevenson Klotz - 127 S. PALAFOX PL. #100.

The WES - 130 S. PALAFOX PL.

The Tin Cow -

Wild Greg’s Saloon -

Garden St.

313 S. PALAFOX ST.

102 S. PALAFOX PL. 22 S PALAFOX ST.

Downtown Pensacola

98 2 1

Romana St.

Inte

t St. 5

P P

Zarragossa S

DeVilliers S

Governmen

Jefferson S

The streets will remain closed until Midnight. Per city ordinance no animals and no glass bottles.

ndencia St.

P Parking Lots/Garages

MAP KEY Official Participating Business

S Tarragona

Coyle St.

Brought to you by the Downtown Improvement Board

Main St.

Cedar St. P

Gallery Night is sponsored by:

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BY KAYLA GLAZE Many modern dance and musical movements were born in the streets as raw depictions of struggle and triumph. Since then, break dancing and hop-hop have morphed and evolved into a cultural phenomenon, but one famous touring group is bringing the art forms back to their roots and back to the streets, literally. STOMP is an international rhythm production band that uses nonconventional items as instruments. The idea for the band came to Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas in 1991 in Brighton, UK. Four years later, STOMP made its debut in the U.S. Nowadays, the show is primal and rhythmic, the product of everyday objects with which many can identify. Downtown Crowd spoke with one of STOMP’s performers, Jeremy Price, who has been with the production on

and off for 13 years. Jeremy gave us some insight on the processes of the production. “There is not a lot of melody or words and the magic is based in movements and rhythms,” Jeremy said. “That is why so many different people can identify with it. This production reaches a vast diversity of people, because everyone understands rhythm.” There are legions of street performers out there, though, so what is the secret to STOMP’s success? “It’s primal in its rhythm, and we make rhythm out of everyday objects that everyone has,” Jeremy said. “We make rhythm with pots and pans, brooms, coffee containers—all kinds of things. The other thing special with the show is there is not a lot of melody and there are no words. Both of those things can be culturally specific, so this is something that doesn’t have too much of that. It is all just based in rhythm and movement, so it appeals to everyone.” As there is no set language in rhythm, no translation is needed. But, that doesn’t mean the crew doesn’t relentlessly rehearse for the big performances. In fact, the practices are just as physically grueling as the show itself. “When you get hired, you generally spend about six weeks in the rehearsal process,” Jeremy said.

JEREMY PRICE 16 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

“STOMP is not something people do naturally. It’s not like you can be a trained dancer and be a great STOMPer or be a trained musician and be a great STOMPer. You can come into STOMP and have those attributes but you still have to be cultivated and learn what it is to STOMP. It’s usually a mixture of movement and rhythm. The show is about an hour and 30 minutes to an hour and 40 minutes and if you do that every night it is a workout in itself. We have a rehearsal the day of the performance then right before the show we have someone come in and lead a warm up just to get our muscles warm and ready.” STOMP’s shows are ever changing and “organic,” according to Jeremy, and the show incorporates humor, which is “the secret weapon” of STOMP. Expect to be completely absorbed in this unique production of rhythm and humor. Jeremy wants each member of the audience to walk away feeling as if he or she is part of the production. More than anything, STOMP is a chance to escape real

life, forget all your worries and just enjoy the show. When asked what his favorite part of the show is, Jeremy responded with “the audience, seeing them interact with the show and enjoy it is the best part of the whole thing.” STOMP will be at the Saenger Theatre on Feb. 23 at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

FEB 23 | SAENGER | 7:30 PM

ONCE UPON A TIME . . . Always a Bridesmaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nov 6-8 & 12-15, 2015 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dec 11-13 & 17-20, 2015 Love, Loss and What I Wore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jan 15-17 & 21-23, 2016 Quilters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jan 29-31 & Feb 4-7, 2016 Short Attention Span Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Feb 12-14 & 18-20, 2016 The Paper Bag Princess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mar 11-13 & 17-20, 2016 24 Hour Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 9, 2016 Don’t Dress for Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 15-17 & 21-24, 2016 I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change . . . . . . . . . . . . May 13-15 & 19-21, 2016 Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .June 10-12 & 16-19, 2016 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .July 16-17 & 23 -24, 2016 Shrek, The Musical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 29-31 & Aug 4-21, 2016

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Celebrating 80 Years of Theatre in Northwest Florida

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DATING DOWNTOWN

BY DAWN GRESKO Photo: Jason Corey

Who’s gorgeous and has plenty to offer? Downtown Pensacola, of course. There’s nothing and no one to say it’s wrong to have a fling with downtown this Valentine’s Day (and we’re not suggesting you leave your significant other out). Either fly solo or link up with your other half for a romantic meal at a Great Southern Restaurant, get inspired by what you see at Pensacola Museum of Art and Pensacola Little Theatre, and let downtown show you a good time at Seville Quarter and Sammy’s Gentlemen’s Club. If you haven’t explored your relationship with downtown, then the upcoming holiday of love gives you the excuse to do exactly that: when someone asks who you’re seeing this Valentine’s Day, tell them you’re all about dating downtown! Downtown Pensacola will wine and dine you at Great Southern Restaurants… Downtown knows just how to warm you up with some foodie foreplay at Fish House: V-Day brunch will be prepared by chefs Billy Ballou and Jason Hughes, who will cook up Creamy Gulf Seafood Crepes—house-made thin crepes that are filled with Gulf shrimp, blue crab, and bay scallops in a sherry-leek cream, served with grilled asparagus and Brabant potatoes. Don’t leave without ordering a mimosa (or two), or a glass of bubbly, to set the right mood for the remainder of your day. After you’ve worked up an appetite with your Downtown ventures, head to Jackson’s Steakhouse where Chef Irv Miller will be preparing a special entrée for V-Day: petit filet mignon with fried oysters and tomato frito along with lobster and goat cheese risotto. If you’re having trouble deciding on what delicious dish to choose, mull it over while you sip on a glass of your go-to vino paired with an appetizer like butternut squash dumplings for your sweet and savory fix. Did we mention dessert? Don’t leave yourself (or your date) wanting more: finish off with a decadent chocolate mousse, or mouth-watering apple crisp topped with smooth vanilla ice cream.

Downtown Pensacola has great taste in art… Do you believe in love at first sight? It’s hard to when you have a short attention span. Still, we think it’ll be hard not to fall in love with the two productions taking place at Downtown’s Pensacola Little Theatre this Valentine’s Day: Swan Lake and Short Attention Span Theatre. Whether you’re a sucker for the predictable classic romances and tales of star-crossed lovers (like Swan Queen Odette and Prince Siegfried), or you prefer short performances full of quick wit and spontaneity (such as the one act plays of Short Attention Span Theatre), find the inspiration for your own story at PLT. Downtown will overload your senses with an evening of serenades, champagne and chocolate at Pensacola Museum of Art’s V-Day event: To Pensacola With Love. Treat yourself (and your partner) to samples of sumptuous sweets and sip on your choice of either champagne or sparking punch while you’re surrounded by the eye-catching art of Escambia County students. Enjoy the artsy scenery and feel good (not only because you’re on your third helping of bubbly) about donating to a worthy cause; your ticket to this event will support the Choral Society of Pensacola’s extraordinary concerts and local outreach programs. PMA will show you how to give back some love to the city you love!

Downtown Pensacola knows how to party hearty… Downtown is giving you signals: red means stop, yellow for slow, and green for go. Seville Quarter is hosting a Traffic Signal Valentine’s Party in Phineas Phoggs the night before V-Day, and guests will be wearing traffic signal colors to indicate their relationship status: green for single and ready to party, yellow for proceed with caution “it’s complicated,” and red for happily taken. There will be dancing, drinks and entertainment regardless of your status. So, follow the signals Downtown is sending and you’ll be on your way to your form of V-Day bliss. Feeling frisky? So is Downtown, thanks to Sammy’s Gentlemen’s Club. Spice up your V-Day routine with something that might be out of the norm and see how Sammy’s Angels earn the title of the South’s Finest Show Girls. Sit back and sip on your favorite spirits as Downtown’s foxy ladies keep the amorous mood flowing. Whether you’re going as a lone wolf, or as the ultimate power couple, don’t leave home without your free admit one found on page 17.

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Love Keeps Us Together

Adopt-A-Manatee®

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In which we unfairly judge upcoming attractions based solely on their trailers. By Josh Newby

HAIL, CAESER! RELEASE DATE: February 5 CAST: George Clooney, Josh Brolin, Ralph Fiennes, Scarlett Johansson PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES RELEASE DATE: February 5 CAST: Lily James, Lena Headey, Matt Smith, Sam Riley What I got from the preview: It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a story of such prestige and respectability as Pride and Prejudice must ultimately at some point be plundered for a quick dollar in the year’s coldest months by injecting it with some far-out third element that sounds novel in theory but is almost certainly heinous in execution (see also: Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer). Most notable for: I mean, what do you want me to say? Based on the book of the same name, the producers took the seminal tale of class and gender, and injected it with zombies. I suppose that’s notable, but it’s certainly not reputable. Unqualified critical observation: I love watching beautiful women kick butt as much as the next guy, and if those women happen to be buttoned-up, Georgian-era single ladies, then so be it. But let’s find something better to do with 108 minutes of our time and millions of our dollars. There’s a right way and a wrong way to do pulpy exploitation films, and this film promises to be the latter.

DEADPOOL RELEASE DATE: February 12 CAST: Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, TJ Miller, Gina Carano What I got from the preview: This lengthy trailer starts with the titular character experiencing the everyman annoyance of cab rides in the big city. This wise-cracking character isn’t just a budget Spiderman, though; he’s everyone’s favorite obscene, violent antihero who finally got his own movie. Jokes about Reynolds’ career abound, as do winking references to other, more vanilla and shall we say family-friendly entries in the Marvel universe. The story doesn’t particularly matter, as this is a character-driven piece, but it basically involves a special forces operative turned mercenary who is subjected to an experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers and a penchant for Internet memes. Most notable for: After years on and off of Hollywood’s blacklist, Marvel has finally brought this fan favorite to the big screen, with Reynolds as the not-at-all-risky casting choice. Unqualified critical observation: I’m split on this one. Initially very excited, my movieloving heart has since turned cold as the marketing campaign has grown increasingly cheeky and desperate for the all-important teen demographic. I get that they’re having fun with the premise, but could they be a little less annoying and pervasive?

What I got from the preview: The preview opens with the old Universal Studios logo as modern-day scenes from an old, lavish 50s epic follow. We discover soon, of course, that these are scenes from the forthcoming movie-within-a-movie Hail, Caeser!, a Biblical epic on par with The Ten Commandments and Ben-Hur. When the picture’s big star is kidnapped for ransom, however, a comic set of mishaps sets the stage for a darkly funny movie about Hollywood and its actors, agents and audiences. Most notable for: It may sound like a mostly unremarkable premise, but in the hands of the brothers Coen (Fargo, The Big Lebowski, No Country For Old

Fi l m

Men, O Brother Where Art Thou?), we know that this fairly standard plot will be anything but. Unqualified critical observation: The movie itself features a veritable laundry list of Hollywood’s brightest stars, much like the films of yesteryear this picture so clearly pays homage to. A dancing Channing Tatum, kidnapped Clooney, a bodacious Johansson: this is a love letter to these stars as much as it is to the movies they grew up on. So sit back, relax, and let the Coens remind you how truly great the silver screen experience can be.

ZOOLANDER 2 RELEASE DATE: February 12 CAST: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Benedict Cumberbatch What I got from the preview: No longer that household name celebrities they once were, Derek and Hansel are struggling to accept the new faces of fashion. But when an opposing company, led by the child-labor-loving Mugatu, threatens to destroy the world’s most shapely, symmetrical faces, the two dim-witted selfie-loving heroes must spring into slapstick action to save our world for hot people everywhere. Most notable for: Though a box office failure, the original achieved cult status through cable television showings and the DVD market. It’s now one of the most highly quotable movies in my repertoire, and this sequel promises more of the same. Unqualified critical observation: With comic talents both old and new, and the same level of silliness pervading every corner of the script, I’m hoping for a comedy sequel thoroughly unlike Anchorman 2. Why male models, you ask? Because no one can dance to “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” or flash le tigre™ like they can. But why male models, you ask?

GODS OF EGYPT RELEASE DATE: February 26 CAST: Gerard Butler, Nikolaj Coster-Walda, Rufus Sewell What I got from the preview: Ugh. The preview is full of bad CGI, bombastic, grandstanding speeches, rippling muscles and white-washing as far as the eye can see. I couldn’t tell you the plot, because the preview is just a montage of gods-verses-mortals warfare, deserted landscapes, and did I mention terrible CGI? Most notable for: How did this movie get approved for anything less than a SyFy channel original? I had more fun watching the entirety of Sharknado than I did watching this dreck of a trailer. Unqualified critical observation: I guess if you make really awful sci-fi movies, you’re called an auteur. At least that’s what the marketing for this movie would have us believe about Alex Proyas (Dark City, Knowing, I Robot). And if Gerard Butler is trying to have a McConaissance and Jaime Lannister is trying to break out of Game of Thrones, this isn’t the way to do either. Please don’t see this movie, unless you’re weirdly obsessed with future Razzie recipients.

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Word on the Street

Belmont Youth Band Expands to Create Community School

The music is sounding a little sweeter for the Belmont Youth Band. Last month, in the spirit of the season for giving, the Gulf Power Foundation presented a check for $1,000 to the Belmont Youth Band, a local not-for-profit that provides musical education to lower income students in the area. The organization also recently announced the formation of the Lamont Community Music School in honor of Belmont Youth Band founder, Vivian S. Lamont. “The Lamont Community Music School will strengthen the organization’s primary focus, which is youth music education,” says Allison Patton, volunteer piano instructor. “Gulf Power’s donation will help us to expand and improve that mission.” The school isn’t the only kind of expansion that is happening with the group. In the last year, the nonprofit has partnered with the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. The Symphony provides music instruction, as well as tickets to dress rehearsals and access to its musicians. Available for children seven-years-old to seniors in high school, The Lamont Community Music School offers free classes Saturdays from 10 am to noon at the Woodland Heights Neighborhood Resource Center. The Belmont Youth Band performs regularly throughout the area.

50 Original Works of Art for $50 each

Second Saturdays at Quayside

Seville Welcomes New Chef

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Feature Artists: Quayside Artists Reception: Feb. 13, 3 to 5 pm Quayside recently found out that their 143-year-old historic building requires major repairs and their artists are donating their art for sale with 100 percent of proceeds going to repair the historic building. This will be an art extravaganza that you will not want to miss. There will be jewelry, pottery, paintings ranging from traditional to modern conceptual works, photography and woodwork, all for sale at $50 each. What a great opportunity to buy original art at an unbelievable low price and, at the same time, help preserve a bit of Pensacola history. Visit with them Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday from 1 to 5 pm. And check them out each and every Gallery Night.

Kevin Muldoon is Seville Quarter’s new executive chef. He hails from Pensacola Casino Bar and has worked for McGuire’s, Crab’s and Flounder’s. He has also worked at Margaritaville. He will bring a vast amount of experience to Seville’s kitchens.

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Date l i n e D o w n t o w n

Pensacola Color Vibe 5K Feb. 27 The Color Vibe, a vibrantly colorful 5k fun run company, is hosting the Pensacola Color Vibe 5k full of bright colors, epic beats, and tons of fun on Saturday, Feb. at 9 am. The event will be held at the Vince J. Whibbs Maritime Park Amphitheater. Throughout the course, participants run, walk, or dance their way through color stations where they are splashed with vibrantly colored powder. White shirts and crazy costumes quickly turn into canvases of color. At the end of the run, everyone is invited to stick around for the biggest, brightest dance party this town has ever seen, hosted by a professional sound crew and DJ. For more information, visit thecolorvibe.com.

Historic Pensacola Trolley Through Mar. 15 Enjoy a 50 minute narrated tour of the historic Downtown Pensacola, known as the “City of Five Flags.” You will hear about the first settlement of 1559 followed by permanent colonization in 1698. The trolley will leave from the Pensacola Visitor’s Center at the foot of Three Mile Bridge. Tours run from 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and are limited to 36 passengers. Make tour reservations online at beachbumtrolley.com, or call for availability at 850-941-2876. Annual Krewe of Lafitte Mardi Gras Parade Feb. 5 Are you ready for the only illuminated nighttime parade in Pensacola? The Krewe of Lafitte Mardi Gras Parade is returning on Feb. 5, and the parade will start at the intersection of Spring and Garden street at 8 pm. The crowd can expect to be entertained with marching bands, lighted floats and great throws as the largest krewe in Greater Pensacola helps kick off Pensacola Mardi Gras celebrations. Find out more on what the krewe is doing this Mardi Gras season by visiting kreweoflafitte.com.

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Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade Feb. 6 Pensacola Mardi Gras, Inc., is proud to present the largest and most extravagant parade in Pensacola is returning to the streets of Palafox and Garden on Saturday, Feb. 6. Admission is free and the parade will run from 2 pm to 6 pm. Feel free to bring the whole family, since there will be kid-friendly food, face painting, and other family-friendly entertainment. The area will have no alcohol and security will be provided to ensure safety. To learn more about Pensacola Mardi Gras Inc. events, check out pensacolamardigras.com. Super Bowl Chili Cook Off at Flora-Bama Feb. 6 Suit up in your favorite football jersey and show your team spirit at the Flora-Bama’s Super Bowl Chili Cook Off on Feb. 6 for Super Bowl Saturday. Teams of three will work their chili wizardry to win the contest for best chili ever. Even if you don’t want to cook, you are welcome to stop by and sample the wide variety of dishes. Cooking begins at 10 am, while tickets and tastings are dished out at 12 pm. Tickets are $2 per sample, or $10 for six samples. Learn more at florabama.com.

Seville Quarter’s Super Bowl Party Feb. 7 Are you ready for the ultimate Super Bowl watch party in Downtown Pensacola? Super Bowl Sunday is returning to Seville Quarter on Sunday, Feb. 7, and the pre-game party starts at 4 pm. They will have great food and cold drinks with a special Tail Gate menu and $12 buckets of Miller Lite. The big game will be shown in HD on 15 TVs and five big screens in four rooms. Game day tickets are free, and there will be Super Bowl trivia and prize giveaways. Get your super game face on and head to Downtown Pensacola for the 2016 Super Bowl Sunday! Visit sevillequarter.com for more details. Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Street Party Feb. 9 All are welcome to give a last hurrah before Lent officially begins, and it’s no charge to join in on the fun for Fat Tuesday, Feb. 9. A procession will begin on Palafox and Government streets and take participants around Downtown Pensacola for the biggest Mardi Gras party this side of Bourbon Street. Learn more at pensacolamardigras.com.

Dateline Downtown Pensacola Double Bridge Run Feb. 13 The Pensacola Double Bridge Run presented by Publix is one of the premier 15K races in the country. It carries runners over two bridges, across Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. It will run from Downtown Pensacola with a tour that includes the historic district and picturesque Bayfront Parkway, a run through Gulf Breeze and onto Pensacola Beach. The 5K invite both runners and walkers to travel from Gulf Breeze to beautiful Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island and the Gulf Islands Seashore. The race begins 7 am and the walk at 8:30 am on Feb. 13. Find out more at pensacolasports.org. The Vagina Monologues Feb. 13 The Feminist Society of Pensacola, in partnership with STRIVE, will present Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues on Saturday, Feb. 13, at Artel Art Gallery in Downtown Pensacola. Prepare to experience diverse, poignant and sometimes hilarious stories brought to life in the gorgeous space at Artel. Expect to laugh, cry, and be inspired as a light is shone on the global movement to end violence against women. All proceeds will benefit the Rape Crisis Trauma Recovery Program at the Lakeview Center. Although the show begins at 7:30 pm, an art sale and cocktail hour will begin at 6:30 pm. Tickets will be available at the door for $10 per person. For more information, visit facebook.com/ vdaypensacola. Valentine’s Day at Jackson’s Steakhouse Feb. 14 Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate with your sweetheart? Celebrate at Jackson’s Steakhouse, the restaurant will open lunch services from 11 am until 2 pm, and dinner begins at 5:30 pm. For lunch, in addition to the regular menu, Chef Irv will prepare a special lunch feature: crab cakes croustade and soft poached eggs with goat cheese crema, roasted red pepper remoulade, griddled country ham and Yukon Gold hash. The special Valentine’s Day dinner feature will be petit filet mignon with fried oysters, tomato frito, and lobster and goat cheese risotta. To reserve your table for this special evening, call 850-469-9898 or visit jacksonsrestaurant.com.

Cooking Demonstrations with Chef Irv: Practical Pork Feb. 17 Join Chef Irv Miller of Jackson’s Steakhouse as he leads a series of cooking classes on the third Wednesday of every month. This month, learn how to make practical pork dishes with Chef Irv on Feb. 17; there will be a class at 5 pm and another at 7:30 pm. Each class costs $45 per person, which covers the cooking demonstration, tastings of the recipes, wine pairings ,and a takehome recipe booklet so you can try your hand at Miller’s recipes in the comfort of your own home. Reservations are required. For more information, or to make your reservations, call 850-469-9898 or visit jacksonsrestaurant.com. WSRE presents Orange Blossom Special Feb. 19-21 The Orange Blossom Special is this year’s theme for the 19th annual Pensacola Senior Follies, performing again this year at the WSRETV Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio. Be entertained for two hours of song, dance and comedy, with proceeds supporting various senior-driven initiatives in the community. The evening performance will be at 7 pm on Friday, Feb. 19 and matinee performances will be at 2 pm on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 20 and 21. Show tickets can be purchased at Bayview Senior Center and West Escambia Senior Center and are valid for any performance. Tickets can also be purchased at the box office one hour prior to each show. Ticket price is $12 and free to active military. Ticket information is also available by calling 453.3016 or 417.7736. Dinner and an Aria at Jackson’s Steakhouse Feb. 25 For the eighth consecutive year, Jackson’s is proud to partner yet again with the Pensacola Opera and its Artists in Residence program for “Dinner and an Aria” on Thursday, Feb. 25 at Jackson’s Steakhouse in Downtown Pensacola. This will be a great party—a visual and emotional spectacle that electrifies all the senses. The 2016 Artists in Residence include: Allison Nicholas (soprano), Amanda Fink (mezzo-soprano), Nicholas DeMeo (tenor), and Thaddeus Ennen (baritone) with Xavier Suarez accompanying on the piano. This is a wonderful opportunity that offers opera to newcomers and enthusiasts alike, so they can have an up-close experience with performances by Pensacola’s remarkable, young opera singers. Chef Irv has prepared a special feature to pair with the performance—an openfired Vegas strip sliced over chorizo-mushroom

dressing with sherry reduction sauce. Seatings are at 5 and 7:30 pm. This is a limited-seating event, so to make your reservations call 850-469-9898, or visit jacksonsrestaurant.com. Krewe du Yayas I Pink I Can Run 2016 Feb. 27 Put your running shoes on and join the Krewe du Ya Yas for I Pink I Can Run: the krewe’s third annual run/walk for Breast Cancer on Saturday, Feb. 27, starting 9 am at the Flora-Bama Lounge. The mission of Krewe du Ya Yas is to inspire hope and enhance life for those affected by breast cancer through early detection, advocacy, education and support services. Funds raised by this event will be used to help further the krewe’s mission by paying for mammograms to those who can’t otherwise afford them, assisting with the purchase of wigs and mastectomy bras, offsetting the expense of costly medications, sponsoring families in crisis, and offsetting housecleaning costs for those in recovery. Registration costs $30 now through Wednesday, Feb. 24, and packets may be picked up from Running Wild Pensacola (3012 E. Cervantes St.) on Feb. 25 from 2 to 6 pm, or Flora-Bama Lounge from 5 to 8 pm on Feb. 26. Registration and packet pick-up on the event day will cost $35. To learn more, go to kreweduyayas.com. Pensacola Ice Flyers Home Games Who’s ready for hockey season? Join the Pensacola Ice Flyers as they hit the ice and make a run for the President’s Cup this season. The team is scheduled to play five home games in February at the Pensacola Bay Center. Get in on the action today and purchase your tickets or season passes by visiting pensacolaiceflyers.com. Feb. 4: vs. Huntsville Havoc Feb. 12: vs. Mississippi RiverKings Feb. 13: vs. Columbus Cottonmouths Feb. 26: vs. Louisiana IceGators Feb. 28: vs. Fayetteville Antz The Fish House Deck Bar Weekly Music Schedule Sunday: Regional acts at 8 pm. Monday: Open at 4 pm. Tuesday: Lucas Crutchfield from 6 to 10 pm Wednesday: Lucas Crutchfield 5 to 9 pm; at 9 pm a regional band will play until midnight. Regional bands are changed weekly Thursday: Lucas Crutchfield 6 to 10 pm Friday: Lucas Crutchfield 5 to 9 pm; regional band begins at 9 pm Saturday: Regional bands begin at 9 pm

Ar t · M u s i c · T h e a t re

Saenger Theatre presents The Sleeping Beauty Feb. 22 Experience The Sleeping Beauty, a full-length ballet in three acts replete with beautiful costumes, grand scenery and elegant dangers and the time-honored story of the magic of a true love’s kiss at Saenger Theatre on Feb. 22. Music is by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikowski and choreography by Marius Petipa. The performance follows the story of the baby princess who was condemned at her christening by an evil fairy to prick her finger and die on her 16th birthday; she is saved by the good Lilac Fairy, who declares the princess will only sleep until awakened by the kiss of a prince. The fairy tale, replete with a king and queen, fairies both good and evil, a beautiful princess and dream prince, magical stage effects, and courtly splendor, lent itself perfectly to the full evening ballet. Tickets start at $40, and you can make your reservations at pensacolasaenger.com. Blue Morning Gallery presents Adorn Through Feb. 27 Visit Blue Morning Gallery, one of Downtown Pensacola’s finest art galleries, to experience Adorn. All that sparkles is the new Adorn jewelry design show which runs January 31 through February 27. This show will feature specific jewelry artists and original designs. Glenn Miller Orchestra Feb. 4 Come hear one of the greatest bands of all time as they bring unique jazz and big band sounds to the National Naval Aviation Museum on Thursday, Feb. 4, from 7 to 9 pm. The world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, a fully self-contained 19 member group, is the most popular and sought after big band in the world today. Since 1956, the present group has been consistently performing an average of 300 live dates each year world wide. Admission is $30 per person. For more info, visit navalaviationmuseum. org. PLT presents Quilters Feb. 4 – 7 Pensacola Little Theatre (PLT) will show Quilters: A Musical on Feb. 4 through Feb. 7, when illuminating tales contained within various quality patches will be told with music, dance and drama. The stories depict women on the American frontier through 26 | DOWNTOWNCROWD.COM

girlhood, marriage, childbirth, spinsterhood, twisters, fire, illness and death. But in these stories you will find love, warmth, lively humor and the moving spectacle of simple human dignity. In the end, when the patches, are assembled, the effect is a breath-taking masterpiece, which will linger in the mind and memory. To purchase tickets, or learn more about upcoming shows, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com or call 850-417-7763. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra presents Mozart Madness Feb. 6 Once again, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will set up in the perfect acoustics and intimate confines of First Methodist Church (6 E. Wright St.) for their annual celebration of Mozart’s birthday on Feb. 6 at 7:30 pm. Two of Pensacola’s most admired musicians, flutist Stephanie Riegle and harpist Katie Ott, will team up for Mozart’s flute and harp concerto and the 34th symphony will provide a resounding close to the performance. Get your tickets, or more information about the show, at pensacolasymphony.com. U.S. Air Force Band of the West Feb. 7 Don’t miss the performance by the Concert Band at the National Naval Aviation Museum on Feb. 7 from 2 to 3 pm. The band is a 45-member ensemble that

represents the Air Force by performing for formal military ceremonies, educational clinics, and public concerts throughout the Southern United States. At every performance the band offers a wide range of entertaining music to their audiences and their repertoire consists of music from the Renaissance through present day, from symphonic band literature to Broadway musicals, and from Sousa marches today’s hits. Learn more at navalaviationmusuem. org.

In The Mood at Saenger Theatre Feb. 9 Hop aboard the “Chattanooga Choo” and you’ll soon be “In the Mood” to hear some great musicians “Sing, Sing, Sing” at Saenger Theatre on Feb. 9 for In The Mood. Much more than just a concert, In The Mood is a fully stagd tribute to Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and the big band greats of the 40s. Complete with authentic costumes and choreography, the play pays homage to America’s greatest generation, when people listened and boogied to the up-temp big band rhythms and dance to intimate ballads. Experience the swing, the rhythm and the jazzy, brassy, patriotic, sentimental music of this pivotal time in America’s history. Tickets range from $39.50 to $59.50. Reserve your seats, or find out more about the show, by visiting pensacolasaenger.com.

Ar t · Music · Theatre PLT presents Short Attention Span Theatre Feb. 12 – 14 & 18 – 20 Join Pensacola Little Theatre (PLT) for their 12th journey into the ever-so-popular Studio 400 Series with an evening of one-act plays that find the humor, truth, darkness and surprises in romance and relationships of all kinds. You never know what might happen at Short Attention Span Theatre. Plays are typically original and unpublished, so for many, this will be their world premier performance. Shows start at 7:30 pm, except on Sundays when they begin at 2:30 pm. For more information on shows, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

Saenger Theatre presents Cirque de la Symphonie Feb. 13 Back by popular demand are the astonishing performers of Cirque de la Symphonie, returning to Saenger Theatre on Feb. 13. These performers will set up in front of the Pensacola Symphonie Orchestra and defy belief with their acrobatic moves. From juggling to working the trapeze, their feats of skill blend with a program of popular classical favorites to create an unforgettable experience. The show begins at 7:30 pm, and you may purchase your tickets, or find out more about the show, on pensacolasymphony.com.

PLT presents Swan Lake Feb. 12 – 14 & 19 – 20 Do you believe in love at first sight? Lose yourself in the romance of Swan Lake, a classic ballet and story of a love so strong it transcends a sorcerer’s curse. Experience the grace and elegance of the Swan Queen and the mesmerizing, seamless formations of her charmed maidens. Shows begin at 7:30 pm, except on Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14) when the show starts at 1:30 pm. Tickets range $23 to $35. For more information, call 850-432-2042, or visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

Don Williams Live! Feb. 18 See Don Williams Live! at Saenger Theatre for a 7:30 pm showing on Feb. 18. If anyone ever needed proof that music is an international language, then they need look no further than Don Williams, an American singer-songwriter who was a 2010 inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Don picks his songs with all the skills of winemaker picking grapes of which only the best will do. The vintage results, as fans around the world all know, is about the best blend of emotions the heart could ask for. To reserve your seats now, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

PMA presents Annual Youth Art Focus Exhibition Through Feb. 13 The Pensacola Museum of Art (PMA) presents the 62nd annual Youth Art Focus exhibition in partnership with Escambia County School District and in recognition of National Youth Art Month. It highlights the best works from over 500 art students and educators within Escambia County schools, celebrating their strong artistic achievements and our area teachers’ dedication to art education. For more on the upcoming exhibition, visit pensacolamuseum. org. PMA presents Funky Turns 40 Feb. 13 – Apr. 9 Pensacola Museum of Art (PMA) will show Funky Turns 40 starting Feb. 13. The exhibition commemorates the 40th anniversaries of 1970s Saturday morning cartoons that featured positive black characters for the first time in television history. This exhibition includes original production cells and drawing used to produce these cartoons. Funky Turns 40 includes 60 pieces of animation art from the Museum of UnCut Funk collection, one of the world’s most unique and extensive collections of original animation production cells and drawings from the 70s. For more on this exhibit, visit pensacolamuseum.org.

Vinyl Music Hall presents An Evening with Molly Ringwald Feb. 19 Long before she became known as an actress in popular 80s films like Pretty in Pink and The Breakfast Club, Ringwald was singing; she started performing with her pianist father’s jazz band when she was three years old and, since then, has never stopped. She was inspired by great singers like Ella Fitzgerald, Blossom Dearie and Susannah McCorkle. Experience An Evening with Molly Ringwald at Vinyl Music Hall on Friday, Feb. 19, beginning at 7 pm. The show is open to all ages, and tickets range $25 to $100. For more info on the show, or to purchase your tickets, visit vinylmusichall.com. Saenger Theatre presents The Lady with all the Answers Feb. 24 You can find The Lady with all the Answers at Saenger Theatre on Feb. 24. The play was drawn from the life and letters of Ann Landers, renowned newspaper advice columnist who responded to countless questions from lovelorn teens, confused couples, and a multitude of others in need of advice on matters small and momentous like the proper way to hang toilet paper rolls. Tickets range $25 to $45. Reserve your seats at pensacolasaenger.com.

PMA presents Collection in Context: Women Creating Through Feb. 27 2016 Pensacola Museum of Art will display Collection in Context: Women Creating, an exhibition from the museum’s permanent collection that highlights female modern and postmodern artists through a variety of media including photography, oil on canvas, and etchings. Public programs including a gallery talk, panel discussion and film accompany this exhibition. To learn more, go to pensacolamuseum.org. Blue Morning Gallery presents Adorn Through Feb. 27 All that sparkles is the new Adorn jewelry design show which begins, Saturday, Jan. 31 and runs through Feb. 27. This show will feature original designs from artists Christine Chandler, Jan Kurtz, a certified precious metal clay instructor who enjoys creating jewelry with this relatively new material; Meghan McMillan, Joy Oxley, Holly Vaughn, Mara Viksnins, who uses amber to compliment silver findings and Swarovski crystals and Elaine Woodward. Vinyl Music Hall Performances Vinyl Musical Hall will be hosting a variety of musical performances throughout August, all beginning at 7 pm. General admission is standing room only. An additional cash surcharge is charged at the door those under 21 and attendees under 16 must be accompanied by an adult guardian who has purchased a ticket. For more information call 607.6758. Feb. 3: Yonder Mountain String Band Feb. 5: Grayson Capps Feb. 8: Hawthorne Heights Feb. 12: Trailer Park Boys Feb. 13: Cedric Burnside Feb. 14: Martin Sexton Feb. 18: Grizfolk Feb. 19: An Evening with Molly Ringwald Feb. 20: Bad Girls of Burlesque Feb. 26: The Cold Hard Cash Show - A Tribute to Johnny Cash At Seville Quarter This Month Seville Quarter hosts a variety of entertainment from a wide array of genres. For more information check out SevilleQuarter.com. Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Paper Street Soap Co. Feb. 5, 6, 7: Nick Peraino Feb. 12, 13: Big Jim Brown & the Speed Kings Feb. 19, 20: Banana Republic Feb. 26, 27: The Red Field

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