Inaugural Fundraising Gala
Celebrating a Decade on Stage
An evening that promises dazzling entertainment, fine dining, and a celebration of 10 years of artists, community, and impact. It's a moment to reflect on our journey, honor our supporters, and look ahead to the future of arts in our community.
04.26.25 | 5:30pm | $150
We’re counting down the days until our Inaugural Fundraising Gala – and there’s still time to join the celebration!
This isn’t just any night, it’s a one-of-a-kind evening featuring:
• Exclusive Live Performances –Including the incredible Equinox Orchestra
• Premium Open Bar & Gourmet Bites –Savor award-winning cuisine
• Exciting Auctions & Games of Chance –Your opportunity to win luxury prizes
More than a party, this night fuels fundraising efforts to continue building upon the future of live theatre. Every ticket supports bold storytelling and artist-driven work at The Sharon and The Studio Theatre.
Reserve your seat today –we’d love to celebrate with you!
THE SCOOP
Lobby Lounge Cabaret - Sean Pollock Happening TONIGHT!
Lewis Black
Flying Karamazov Brothers
The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra
Peking Acrobats
Heather Land
William Lee Martin
Jazz at Lincoln Center
GET THE LED OUT
Hadestown
Velocity Irish Dance
Resounding Hope: A BROADWAY CONCERT For Alzheimer’s Awareness
WW Double D!
Three Dog Night
Pippin
Qualia
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THE SHARON
Powered by Significant Productions, a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping the arts alive in our community, The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center is committed to providing quality entertainment for our valued patrons. We are reaching out to gather your thoughts on what interests you most about our offerings and what encourages you to return for more. Your honest feedback is greatly appreciated, and we hope to continue welcoming you to our venue. Your support means the world to us.
An Evening of Disney Favorites
Starring Sean Pollock & Gary Powell
Ma chère Mademoiselle and Monsieur, it is with deepest pride and greatest pleasure that we welcome you on March 4th, for one night only. And now, we invite you to relax, let us pull up a chair, as the Sharon Lobby Lounge Series proudly presents: An Evening of Disney Favorites.
Featuring Disney classics and favorites such as Beauty and The Beast, Home, Someday My Price Will Come, When You Wish Upon A Star, Go The Distance, A Whole New World, and many more, artfully played on both the piano and theatrical Organ in the historic Sharon Lobby.
MAR 4 7PM $25 TONIGHT!
TWO-TIME GRAMMY WINNING COMEDIAN LEWIS BLACK ANNOUNCES FINAL STAND-UP
COMEDY
TOUR.
After 35+ years as a touring stand-up comedian, Lewis Black is parking his tour bus for good next year, marking the end of his legendary world touring career. Black will write the next chapter of his career by going back to his roots and focusing on writing a new play, penning a new book, and expanding his podcast, RantCast, to include live recordings. He will also return as the voice of “Anger” in the upcoming Pixar sequel, Inside Out 2.
Lewis on being asked about touring retirement, “For a while now I have been letting folks know that I am going to retire from touring. No one believed me. ‘Why would you retire from touring?’, they asked. This is after years of being asked why I was touring, ‘it must be exhausting.’ So, today I am announcing that I am retiring from touring. It is a life that has given me great joy and opened a world of possibilities for me. I thought the road would go on forever, well I was wrong about that. And the fact is as hard as the road maybe to be on, it’s harder to leave it. I am only retiring from touring. It’s time for me to explore other avenues such as writing, reading your rants, and pitching tv shows that will be rejected. (Which is why I know they are good.) More importantly I can finally give my Fantasy Football team the focus and time it truly needs. And maybe, just maybe I can become the professional golfer I was born to be.”
IN 1972, founding Karamazov Brothers Howard Patterson and Paul Magid lived across the hall from each other in the dorms at The University of California at Santa Cruz. Howard was studying Biology and Music. Paul was studying English Literature.
They began performing on April 23, 1973 at a Renaissance Faire in California. In 1974, they were joined by Paul's high school best friend Randy Nelson and in 1976 by juggler/technician, Timothy Furst.
While in Spokane, Washington for the 1974 World’s Fair, they named themselves "The Flying Karamazov Brothers”, after the great Russian novel, “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoyevsky, and took names from the book. Paul, Howard, Randy, and Tim became Dmitri, Ivan, Alyosha and Fyodor.
In 1980 they got their first big break, performing at the Goodman theatre in Chicago. In 1981 they won an Obie award performing in New York City. That year, Randy left the troupe and along came Sam Williams. 1983 they premiered their groundbreaking production of Shakespeare's "The Comedy of Errors" at the Goodman Theatre directed by Robert Woodruff.
Over the years, the group has produced dozens of shows and has enjoyed many television and movie appearances including Seinfeld, Mister Roger’s Neighborhood and the movie ‘Jewel of the Nile’.
PASQUALE VALERIO, MAESTRO
THE VILLAGES PHILHARMONIC IS A PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRA PRESENTING THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE STANDARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN MUSICAL PERFORMANCE SINCE 2003. Most members live in the Orlando area but we have regular members who come from as far afield as Jacksonville, Tampa, Daytona and St. Petersburg. The Philharmonic gives 13-15 concerts per year and so we don't provide full time employment for any of the players. Our players are comprised of resident and international artists who collaborate with symphonic and operatic companies at large. Although most orchestra members are not Villagers, there are two professional orchestra members who are Village residents and there are six amateurs who train each Saturday so that they can meet the standards required to play with the Philharmonic.
SEP 1-MAY 10
THE PEKING ACROBATS For the last thirty two years, THE PEKING ACROBATS® have redefined audience perceptions of Chinese acrobatics. They perform daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs and display their technical prowess at such arts as trickcycling, precision tumbling, juggling, somersaulting, and gymnastics. They push the limits of human ability, defying gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility, and control. THE PEKING ACROBATS are often accompanied by live musicians who skillfully play traditional Chinese instruments; the time- honored Chinese music coalesces with high-tech special effects and awe-inspiring acrobatic feats, creating an exuberant entertainment event with the festive pageantry of a Chinese Carnival.
HEATHER LAND went from part-time Worship Leader/fulltime Outbuilding Refinancer to a national sensation quicker than Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee said, “I do”. Busting on the scene in 2018 with her candid, clever and comedic take on everyday absurdities, she quickly gave voice to women everywhere who unanimously agreed, “I Ain’t Doin It”. Still going strong, Heather has a released her second solo album, published two books, appeared on numerous podcasts, two movies and is constantly touring across the U.S. teaching us all to laugh through the tears and to find healing through the hilarious. If not bringing comedy to a city near you, you can find Heather at her home outside of Nashville with her daughter, Ava; son, Noah; much younger husband, Stephen and her two terrible cats, Judy and Greg.
WILLIAM LEE MARTIN delivers the kind of comedy that feels like hanging out with one of your funniest, most genuine friends. Raised in Texas, he performed under his lifelong nickname, "Cowboy Bill," for 20 years before returning to his real name in 2016. Every night, he takes real-life moments—marriage, parenting, and all the chaos in between—and turns them into hilarious, relatable stories.
With four hit comedy specials, including two currently streaming on Amazon Prime and a brand-new one on YouTube, William’s heartfelt humor and clever wit have won over fans across the country. In 2025, he’s hitting the road for his Funny Life Tour, an epic one-man show that proves life’s chaos is way funnier when you embrace it. Don’t miss the chance to see William live—it’s more than a comedy show; it’s a night you’ll be talking about for weeks!
Life is funnier with William Lee Martin. Live. Laugh. Repeat.
Relatable Gut-Punching Stand-Up Experience!”
“A
THE
SPIRIT OF MARDI GRAS
featuring Quiana Lynell, Milton Suggs & Luther S. Allison
REVEL IN THE SOUL OF NEW ORLEANS and the spirit of Mardi Gras with the latest JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER PRESENTS concert touring the nation in 2025 celebrating the New Orleans Songbook. Led by acclaimed pianist Luther S. Allison, featuring the soulful vocals of Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs and backed by an equally brilliant band, this concert celebrates the legendary composers and timeless songs that define the Crescent City – best known as the historic epicenter of jazz. From the pioneering sounds of Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong to the distinctive stylings of Ellis Marsalis and James Black, this celebratory evening of amazing is not to be missed by fans of jazz, New Orleans and great music.
For over three decades, Jazz at Lincoln Center has been a leading advocate for jazz, culture, and arts education globally. Under the direction of Wynton Marsalis, Jazz at Lincoln Center has brought the art form of jazz from the heart of New York City to over 446 cities in more than 40 countries. The organization’s touring initiative provides an affordable opportunity to present great jazz programming, featuring up-and-coming musicians who have been identified as rising stars by JALC. The initiative also allows for expansion of the mission of JALC “to entertain, enrich and expand a global community for jazz through performance, education, and advocacy.”
“I thought the real ‘Led Zep’ was on stage!”
Stu Green - Magic City Music Hall
“More than just an exceptional recreation of Led Zeppelin, one of the best tribute bands on the planet!”
Bruce Ranes - Sellersville Theatre
FROM THE BOMBASTIC AND EPIC, to the folky and mystical, Get The Led Out (GTLO) have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before. Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-create the songs in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. When you hear three guitars on the album...GTLO delivers three guitarists on stage. No wigs or fake English accents, GTLO brings what the audience wants...a high energy Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart- thumping intensity.
MAR 22, 2025•7:30PM MAR 23, 2025•2 & 7:30PM
VELOCITY IS THE NEXT GENERATION IN IRISH TAP. Honoring past traditions but blasting them feet first into the 21st century, Velocity breaks away from the idea of what an Irish dance show is to one that is expressive, free, fast-paced and edgy, driven by passion and pride!
Led by Guinness World Record holder for The Fastest Feet in the World, James Devine, and five-time World Champion Irish dancer, David Geaney. Joined on stage by a motley crew of mind-blowing musicians and an old school scratch DJ, it’s nothing like you’ve ever seen before!
Resounding Hope
A BROADWAY CONCERT
For Alzheimer’s Awareness
Presented by:
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT
COPING WITH DEMENTIA
JOIN US FOR A BROADWAY STYLE CONCERT featuring husband and wife Stephen and Juliette Trafton, renowned performers from Broadway's Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Fantasticks! Presented by Charter Research.
All proceeds benefit Coping with Dementia. A company dedicated to making life better for individuals and families living with dementia through person-centered compassionate care.
W.W. DOUBLE D!
A TRIBUTE TO DOLLY PARTON
W.W. DOUBLE D? WHAT WOULD DOLLY DO? A TRIBUTE TO DOLLY PARTON UNVEILS A DAZZLING DRAG SHOW EXTRAVAGANZA WITH TORA HIMAN. In this cabaret experience, Tora Himan transforms the stage into a glittering tribute with "W.W. Double D? What Would Dolly Do?" Featuring sequins, rhinestones, and Tora's powerhouse performance of Dolly's greatest hits, the show seamlessly blends uproarious comedy with soulstirring musical performances, creating an intimate connection with the audience.
Opening Act
JAY PSAROS
LEGENDARY BAND, THREE DOG NIGHT, now in its 6th decade, claims some of the most astonishing statistics in popular music. In the years 1969 through 1974, no other group achieved more top 10 hits, moved more records, or sold more concert tickets than THREE DOG NIGHT.
THREE DOG NIGHT hits weave through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio where they are heard day in and day out, in TV commercials or in major motion pictures -- songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come)”, “Joy to the World”, “Black and White”, “Shambala” and “One” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize THREE DOG NIGHT’s continuing popularity. Marking over 50 years on the road, THREE DOG NIGHT continues to grow its fan base by keeping up a full schedule of concerts at theatres, performing arts centers, fairs, festivals, corporate events, and casinos. Since 1986, the band has performed nearly 3,000 shows including two Super Bowls.
BEHIND THEcurtain tour
Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of your favorite shows at The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center? Want to share footprints with some of the world’s biggest stars? Our Behind The Curtain Tour is for you!
Join a group of like-minded members of your community and your tour guide for a look at the history of The Sharon, her namesake, and the systems and people that make your hometown Performing Arts Center world-class.
You’ll see, hear about, and have the opportunity to ask questions about:
• Sharon L. Morse, the matriarch of the Morse Family, and in many respects, The Villages itself.
• The History of The Sharon (and Church on the Square).
• A brief overview of the inner workings of the commercial theatre business.
• Audiovisual systems, including digital audio networks and workflows.
• Lighting systems, including conventional and intelligent lighting fixtures and electrical distribution and control.
• Rigging systems, including the world’s first fully automated fly system.
• Theatrical cast, crew, and patron safety.
• Backstage areas, like the scene shop, green room, and dressing areas.
UPCOMING DATES
•March 27th | 1PM Visit SignificantProductions.org for more information.
PIPPIN
BOOK BY ROGER O. HIRSON
MUSIC & LYRICS BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ
ORIGINALLY PRODUCED ON THE BROADWAY STAGE BY STUART OSTROW DIRECTED ON THE BROADWAY STAGE BY BOB FOSSE 2013 BROADWAY REVIVAL DIRECTED BY DIANE PAULUS
THEO ENDING ORIGINALLY CONCEIVED IN 1998 BY MITCH SEBASTIAN
THAT'S A WRAP!
SEASON 9
a post nuclear play
By Ashleigh Ann Gardner
A Radioactive Love Story
Qualia, a post-nuclear play by Central Florida playwright and Studio Theatre veteran, Ashleigh Ann Gardner, is a dystopian story set 100 years in the future. The world has been decimated by toxic radiation save a few lingering humans. Alex lives alone safely tucked away in a bunker made by her doomsday prepping parents. Her only companion is Dom, a compassionate AI program engineered by her late mother. Alex and Dom are the only sentient creatures for miles. Until one day a knock outside the bunker door turns their safe world upside down. This intelligent and modern play explores the formula for being human. Is using logic, expressing emotion, and feeling love enough; or is a traditional corporeal form also required? Join us for this funny and honest science fiction play about finding what it means to be human in an isolated world.
Previews APR 1st-3rd / $25
Performances APR 4th-26th / $40
MEET THE CAST
SEASON 9
PLAYWRIGHT DIRECTOR QA
Join us for an exciting evening with the creative minds behind the acclaimed play Qualia: a post-nuclear play. This lively Q&A session will feature Ashleigh Ann Gardner, the brilliant playwright, and Sara Oliva, the visionary director who first brought Qualia to life.
Ashleigh Ann Gardner
SARA Oliva
Ashleigh Ann Gardner is an Orlandobased playwright whose works include the award-winning Qualia, produced in both Orlando and Chicago. She also created The Not: a Midwestern Gothic horror, which premiered in 2023. Ashleigh holds a Master's Degree in Literary, Cultural, and Textual Studies with specializations in Victorian and Gothic literature, gender studies, and psychoanalytic theory from the University of Central Florida.
Sara Oliva is an Orlando-based director, actor, and producer who directed the first reading of Qualia in 2019. Her award-winning short film has been a hit at over 65 international festivals. Sara has received multiple acting awards and holds an MFA in Acting from Brandeis University.
Don't miss this chance to engage with Ashleigh Ann Gardner and Sara Oliva and gain unique insights into the creation and direction of Qualia.
APRIL 24TH | 1PM
ON SALE NOW
By Ashleigh Ann Gardner
Significant Productions is a Not-for-Profit Arts organization that operates The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center (The Sharon) and The Studio Theatre Tierra Del Sol (The Studio).
SignificantProductions.org #SigPro marketing@significantproductions.org 1000 Main Street, Suite 208, The Villages, FL 32159
The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center has a mission to curate and present a variety of world-class performing arts in order to enrich the cultural offerings of The Villages® and surrounding communities.
TheSharon.com | #TheSharon 1051 Main Street, The Villages, FL 32159
Our mission is to inspire the residents of Central Florida to examine relevant issues by elevating them through innovative and intimate storytelling. Think outside the box, inside the box at The Studio Theatre™.
TheSharonStudio.com | #TheStudioTheatreTDS 806 San Marino Dr, The Villages, FL 32159