Learning Comes To Life On Stage - The 2025/2026 Nicklaus Children's Smart Stage Matinee Series At The Broward Center And The Parker South Florida Sun Times Aug 20, 2025 From Bill Blagg’s The Science Of Magic And The Enchantment Of The Nutcracker To The Fun-Filled Musical Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are In A Play,” The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Presents An Exciting 2025/2026 Season Of The Nicklaus Children’s Smart Matinee Series At The Broward Center And The Parker. The Smart Stage Matinee Series of school-day performances begins in October with shows that are ideal for charter, private, public and parochial school students and home-school networks. These educational performances are curriculum-driven and align with Florida’s B.E.S.T. Standards. Free study guides called “Curriculum Connections” are available to download on the Broward Center’s website. Families with young children looking for a daytime activity are also encouraged to attend. Many productions offer an optional added Smart Stage Plus interactive learning experience for groups of 20-90 students. These are 30-minute workshops featuring a Broward Center teaching artist that deepen the connection to the content of the show. “Nicklaus Children’s is thrilled to sponsor the Smart Stage Matinee Series’ upcoming season,” said DeAnn Hazey, CFRE of Government Relations & Community Affairs at Nicklaus Children's Health System. “We strongly believe that supporting curriculum-connected performances is vital to inspiring creativity, deepening classroom learning, and giving students meaningful access to the arts. It plays a powerful role in promoting children’s health, wellness, and emotional wellbeing – fostering confidence, reducing stress and helping build importing skills that last a lifetime.” The 2025/2026 Nicklaus Children’s Smart Stage Matinee Series at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Parker features the following shows. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center's AutoNation Box Office. Pinkalicious: The Musical Wednesday, October 15th & Thursday, October 16th Join the whimsical adventure of Pinkalicious, a young girl who can’t get enough of the color pink when Pinkalicious: The Musical comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday, October 15th and Thursday, October 16th at 10:00 a.m. in a school-day performance. Pinkalicious embarks on a wonderful journey of self-discovery after she eats too many pink cupcakes and turns completely pink! This delightful, family-friendly musical has an important lesson about self-acceptance and the acceptance of others. Perfect for audiences of all ages, Pinkalicious is a sweet treat that will have everyone singing and smiling. Recommended for grades K-3. Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic Monday, October 20th Renowned Magician Bill Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature in an electrifying stage show that blends mind-blowing illusions with the principles of science when Bill Blagg’s The Science of Magic comes to The Parker for two shows on Monday, October 20th at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in a school-day performance. Designed to excite, educate, intrigue and promote students to think “outside the box” and spawn their curiosity about how science and the Scientific Method are used by magicians to create the impossible, Blagg takes audiences on a thrilling journey where physics and magic collide, using cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring tricks to defy the laws of nature. With captivating storytelling, humor and jaw-dropping feats, Blagg demonstrates how science plays a crucial role in the art of magic, leaving viewers in disbelief and wonder. Recommended for grades 3-7. Seussical Friday, December 5th The fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza, Seussical, presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Performance Project comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, December 5th at 10:00 a.m. in a school-day performance. Tony winners and legendary writers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, from the likes of “Lucky Stiff,” “My Favorite Year,” “Once on This Island” and “Ragtime,” have lovingly brought to life the most recognizable Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – Jojo. The colorful characters transport audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. In this exciting tale, The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust containing Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many "thinks." Horton faces a double challenge – not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left to his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphantly. Attendees can also join the cast for a post-show meet and greet. Recommended for grades K-5. Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida: The Nutcracker Thursday, December 18th The magic of Tchaikovsky's beloved holiday classic comes to life in this enchanting version of The Nutcracker that follows young Clara as she embarks on a fantastical journey to the Land of Sweets, where she encounters a host of whimsical characters, from the brave Nutcracker Prince to the Sugar Plum Fairy. Filled with stunning dance, vibrant costumes and unforgettable music, this 90-minute rendition captures the heart of the original story on stage in a school-day performance at The Parker on Thursday, December 18th at 10:30 a.m. This performance is recommended for grades 4-12. The Pout Pout Fish Sunday, February 1st, 2026 Turn the poutiest of frowns upside down in this musical underwater adventure featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure. When Mr. Fish sets out on a quest to find Miss Clam's missing pearl, he discovers there is more to him than his permanently plastered pout. This vibrant, toe-tapping musical follows Mr. Fish, a pouty fish who believes he's destined to spread gloom and doom. However, with the help of his ocean friends, Mr. Fish discovers that spreading joy and kindness is a much better way to live. Don’t miss this school-day performance of The Pout Pout Fish on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Recommended for grade levels Pre-K-1. Super Scientific Circus Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 Step right up to the most fun-filled science show around with a school-day performance of Super Scientific Circus on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at The Parker. In Super Scientific Circus, students and teachers will be amazed as science comes to life through exciting experiments, daring feats and mind-blowing demonstrations. The science ringmaster uses the power of physics, chemistry and amazing circus skills involving boomerangs, bubbles, beachballs, bull whips and magic to introduce the principles of friction, inertia, centripetal force, aerodynamics, sonic booms, air pressure and ultraviolet light. Super Scientific Circus is where science meets the circus for an unforgettable experience. This production is perfect for elementary students in grades K-5. The Emperor’s New Clothes Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 & Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 The Emperor's New Clothes from Stages Productions on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 and Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a lively and engaging retelling of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. With vibrant costumes, catchy songs and whimsical choreography, this production brings the story of the vain emperor and his tailors to life. The play delivers a humorous and heartwarming message about the dangers of vanity and the importance of honesty, all while captivating audiences of all ages with its fun, colorful and interactive school-day performance. This show is recommended for students in grades 1-4. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical Monday, March 23rd, 2026 Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical comes to The Parker on Monday, March 23rd, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. This beloved children's book springs to life on stage with vibrant songs, energetic dancing and whimsical puppets, ensuring a joyous experience for kids and adults alike. Follow the playfully adored story as the alphabet letters ambitiously climb the coconut tree, only to tumble down in a cascade of color and laughter. With plenty of audience interaction and lively performances, this school-day show is not just entertainment — it's a fantastic way for children to explore sound, rhythm and reading in a fun, engaging spectacle. Recommended for students in grades K-5. She Persisted: The Musical Thursday, March 26th, 2026 & Friday, March 27th, 2026 Inspired by the bestselling book, "She Persisted" by Chelsea Clinton, She Persisted: The Musical is a trailblazing production that celebrates the strength and resilience of women who’ve shaped history. Audiences will be captivated as fourth-grader Naomi’s field trip to a Women’s History Museum transforms into a thrilling time-travel adventure, where she meets trailblazing women who broke barriers and shaped the course of U.S. history. With humor, heart and a powerful message, this show encourages kids to embrace their own inner strength and keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. She Persisted comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 26th and Friday, March 27th at 10:00 a.m. This show is recommended for students in grades 3-6. Elephant & Piggie’s - “We are in a Play!” Thursday, April 23rd, 2026 & Friday, April 24th, 2026 Based on the beloved Elephant & Piggie books by Mo Willems, the fun-filled, school-day performance of Elephant & Piggie’s “We are in a Play” musical follows the lovable duo, Elephant Gerald and Piggie, as they embark on a hilarious adventure on stage. An elephant named Gerald, and a pig named Piggie are best, best, “bestus” friends. Gerald worries that something could go wrong that would end their friendship, but Piggie isn’t worried at all. She’s happier and more excited than usual because they’re invited to a party hosted by the Squirrelles, three singing squirrels who love to have a good time. So begins a day where anything is possible! Gerald and Piggie will solve problems, sing and dance, make each other laugh, share their favorite things, get mad and sad with each other, and even do a little goofing around the audience. Elephant & Piggie’s “We are in a Play!” comes to life on Thursday, April 23rd, 2026 and Friday, April 24th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Recommended for grades Pre-K–1. The Nicklaus Children’s Smart Stage Matinee Series is not offered by subscription, and new events will be added to the series throughout the 2025/2026 Season. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at each venue’s box office. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Broward Center 2025/2026 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. Previous Next

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DAYBREAK: The Music & Passion Of Barry Manilow - Ring In The Holiday Season With Memorable Performances At The Aventura Arts And Cultural Center Aventura Digest November 15, 2024 Share Get ready to experience one of the most authentic tribute acts ever to hit the music scene on Friday, December 6th at 8:00 p.m. when BruMar Productions presents DAYBREAK: The Music & Passion of Barry Manilow. The audience will embark on a musical journey to the 70’s, where they can relive Barry Manilow’s greatest hits just as they remember them. Led by veteran musician and accomplished Pianist Joe Hite, DAYBREAK: The Music & Passion of Barry Manilow brings to life timeless classics including "Mandy," "Can't Smile Without You" and the foot stomping rhythm of "Copacabana" just to name a few. Attendees won't believe their eyes or ears as this eight-piece ensemble presents the 'music and passion' of Barry Manilow to perfection while keeping the music alive for generations to enjoy. In a spectacular celebration the Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida proudly presents the 27th Anniversary of the beloved "The Nutcracker Gala Event" on Thursday, December 12th at 7:30 p.m. Under the masterful direction of Maestro Vladimir Issaev, this year’s performance promises to be a truly special event filled with magic, tradition and joy. Whether audience members are long-time fans of The Nutcracker or are experiencing it for the first time, this 27th Anniversary performance is not to be missed. The audience will be swept away by the enchanting world of dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the regal Sugar Plum Fairy. With Maestro Issaev’s visionary direction and the dancers' exceptional talent, this year’s production will be a highlight of the holiday season. Friends, alumni and former dancers are invited to join this celebration. Reconnect with old friends and relive the magic that has made The Nutcracker such a cherished tradition. VIP Tickets are available for this celebration and will include a souvenir and a drink voucher. Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida maintains a very strict late seating policy. Latecomers will not be seated until intermission. On Friday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, December 14th at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 15th at 3:00 p.m. Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida lights up the stage with The Nutcracker. Step into a world of wonder, where snowflakes, sugarplums and magical dolls come to life, all set to Tchaikovsky’s score. Under the masterful choreography of Vladimir Issaev, this critically acclaimed performance showcases the extraordinary talent of Florida’s professional dancers, complemented by the joyful participation of talented local children. This heartwarming production is a true holiday masterpiece, perfect for creating cherished memories. The Nutcracker is more than just a festive tradition; it’s an ideal introduction to the art of ballet, inspiring young audiences and igniting a lifelong passion for dance. Audiences will enjoy a performance that captures the spirit of the season and leaves all ages enchanted. The Nutcracker will become a part of one’s holiday celebrations after experiencing the magic for themselves. Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida maintains a very strict late seating policy. Latecomers will not be seated until intermission. Then on Saturday, December 14th at 11:00 a.m. the magic of The Nutcracker comes to life in a Sensory-Inclusive Performance. Created by the world-famous composer Tchaikovsky nearly 200 years ago, The Nutcracker, choreographed and directed by Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida Artistic Director Vladimir Issaev, tells the story of a spectacular Christmas Eve party and the magical events that take place late that night. With dancers of all ages, colorful costumes and breathtaking music, this abridged Sensory-Inclusive Performance of the timeless classic celebrates the magic of the season and serves as a wonderful introduction to the ballet. This one-hour performance is intended to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as individuals with other Sensitivity Issues or Developmental Disabilities. Slight adjustments have been made to the production including reduced sound levels, no flashing or strobe lights and minimal special effects. An area adjacent to the theater has been designated as the ABA Centers of Florida Quiet Room with a specially trained therapist to provide audience support. This performance includes complimentary pre-show arts and crafts activities provided by Young at Art Museum starting one hour prior to the show and a post-show character meet & greet. This event is part of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts 2024/2025 Sensory-Inclusive Series which is made possible through the generous support of ABA Centers of Florida, The Batchelor Foundation, Florida Support Autism Programs License Plate, The Gore Family Memorial Foundation Trust, Nicklaus Children's Hospital and The Taft Foundation with special thanks to UM-NSU CARD for their in-kind support. Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida maintains a very strict late seating policy. Latecomers will not be seated until intermission. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is proud to host A Seraphic Fire Christmas on Thursday, December 19th at 8:00 p.m., made possible by the generosity of the Meredyth Anne Dasburg Foundation. Experience a cappella voices in a candlelit setting to mark the Christmas season in South Florida. Popular Guest Conductor Anthony Trecek-King returns to lead our Billboard-chart-topping Christmas program. Enjoy fresh yuletide tunes like Taylor Scott Davis’s “Solstice” and celebrate the season with fan favorites like “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree.” Celtic Angels Christmas will captivate audiences of all ages with the magic of Christmas and Irish favorites in an awe-inspiring show that encompasses beautiful vocals and world class Irish dancers at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 21st. This enchanting evening of song and dance performed by the Celtic Angels and Celtic Knights are accompanied with music by the one and only “Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin.” With beautiful stage props, jaw-dropping costumes and visually stunning effects, Celtic Angels Christmas will leave the audience mesmerized from start to finish. Hands will be clapping, and toes will be tapping when experiencing Christmas classics such as Holy Night, I heard The Bells on Christmas Day, Little Drummer Boy, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas as well as Celtic Christmas songs including: Come Home To Ireland For Christmas, Christmas In Killarney and many more. Under the watchful eye of Irish Step Dance Director, Sarah Costello (Belfast, ADCRG), the Celtic Knight Dancers seek to defy gravity as they command the stage with their powerful, percussive presence. Written, directed and choreographed by Dublin native, Louise Barry (Dublin, The Diddley Idols / National Theatre) this wonderfully nostalgic journey will have audiences dashing through the snow to the local snugs of Ireland, where a step is expected, sing-a-longs are mandatory and good craic is had by all. Tickets to all shows are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

Girl Scouts Of Southeast Florida Kicks Off 2026 Cookie Season - New Rocky Road Ice Cream-Inspired Cookie, Exploremores, Join This Year's Lineup South Florida Sun Times Jan 7, 2026 Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida is gearing up for the sweetest season of the year with the launch of the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie Season, set for January 12th through February 15th. Beloved by families and cookie fans across the region, the annual season invites the public to support local Girl Scouts as they build critical business and leadership skills. New this year is Exploremores, a rocky road ice cream–inspired sandwich cookie filled with delicious flavors of chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond–flavored creme. The cookie’s name and design reflect the limitless curiosity and spirit of adventure that define the Girl Scout experience. In addition to the delicious new cookie, the 2026 lineup will include fan favorites including Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs and more. Through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world, Girl Scouts develop essential skills in goal setting, money management, decision-making, people skills and business ethics. Every box sold fuels their confidence and proceeds stay local, directly supporting Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida funding inspiring activities such as service projects, outdoor adventures, travel opportunities and other experiences that help girls explore new interests and expand their horizons. The business skills the girls develop are crucial, particularly since 46% of female K-12 students in Florida do not perform on grade level in math and 13% fewer girls met grade-level math standards in the year following the COVID-19 Pandemic, as highlighted in the Girl Scouts of Florida Association’s State of the Florida Girl Report. In addition to building business skills, the Cookie Program is designed to teach the girls about setting goals, making decisions, handling money, talking to people, and being honest and responsible. It’s more than a fundraiser, it’s a hands-on business, entrepreneurship and leadership experience for girls. “Every cookie season reminds us of the limitless potential within every Girl Scout,” said Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. “The Cookie Program is a powerful, hands-on learning experience that builds confidence, leadership and essential life skills. At a time when girls need strong support systems more than ever before, we are proud to provide opportunities that help them grow into the leaders our communities and our world need.” To further inspire goal setting and reward dedication, Girl Scouts who sell at least 100 boxes of cookies during the 2026 Season will receive their membership for the following year at no cost, courtesy of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. High school senior Girl Scouts who reach 100 boxes or more will have their lifetime membership fully funded, celebrating their commitment as they transition into Girl Scout alumnae. How to Purchase Girl Scout Cookies in 2026 From a Girl Scout You Know: Reach out directly to a Girl Scout to purchase cookies either in person or online. Use the Cookie Finder Tool by visiting: https://www.gssef.org/en/cookies/find-cookies.html to find a booth near you. Online Orders: Starting January 12th, those who do not know a Girl Scout can enter their zip code into the Cookie Finder to purchase cookies for direct shipment to their home. In addition to supporting Girl Scouts locally, community members can participate in the 18th Annual Cookies for the Military Program. This initiative allows customers to donate cookies to service members both domestically and overseas, sending them a comforting “taste of home.” Last year, more than 44,947 boxes were donated. Since the program began, more than 858,000 boxes have been shipped through partnerships with nonprofit organizations that provide care packages and support to troops and their families, including Forgotten Soldiers, Operation Homefront, the American Legion and Soldiers’ Angels. To support Cookies for the Military, donations can be made by purchasing a box ($6) or case ($72) from a Girl Scout or by visiting: www.cookiesforthemilitary.org . For more information about the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida or to find a local booth, visit: www.gssef.org . About Girl Scouts The preeminent leadership development organization for girls, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida provides a safe, supportive environment for girls to learn, lead and thrive, surrounded by a supportive network of peers and caring adult mentors. Through unique, impactful experiences, girls from kindergarten through 12th grade are empowered to become confident, capable and compassionate leaders who engage their communities, inspire lasting change and make a positive difference in the world. They are encouraged to explore their full potential, dream big and act boldly. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves 6,100 girls and engages 3,600 volunteers across Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties. To explore opportunities to volunteer, donate or partner with Girl Scouts, call: (561) 427-0177. Or visit: www.gssef.org . 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