Student musicians to perform at Hoffman school production
CLEARWATER — The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall will present the award-winning musical “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on Friday, July 31, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Aug. 1, at 2 and 7 p.m., on the main stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater.
Student musicians ages 16 and older will perform the musical’s classic score from the orchestra pit. Tickets for Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are on sale now. Call 727-791-7400 or visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.
This summer, the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts offered student musicians the opportunity to gain hands-on experience performing the score for its summer musical through their Orchestra Pit Camp. Students rehearsed under the direction of Music Director Yohance Wicks in preparation for the production.
“The intent of this production was not only to offer the opportunity to perform on stage, but from every angle — including beneath the stage in our orchestra pit,” said Sharon Reid-Kane, Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts vice president and chief education and community engagement officer. “Young musicians from across the bay area along with our staff and alumni are joining us for an unforgettable experience in a truly professional setting, playing where countless Broadway companies and rock bands have, as well, and we are so proud of them. This just adds another element to what we know will be a summer to remember.”
Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl, “Charlie And The Chocolate Factory” features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman and a book by David Greig. The score also pays homage to the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film with songs from the motion picture including “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” “Oompa Loompa Song” and “Pure Imagination.”
Valpak, Hallmark Channel announce sweepstakes
ST. PETERSBURG — Valpak, a leader in direct marketing solutions for local businesses and national brands, recently announced it is partnering with Hallmark Channel to launch the “From Mailbox to Movie Set” sweepstakes this month, which will give one lucky winner the opportunity to appear as a walk-on in an upcoming Hallmark Channel original movie.
To promote the contest, July’s iconic Valpak Blue Envelope that is sent to more than 40 million households each month will also feature a new look and spotlight the upcoming Hallmark+ exclusive limited series “Paris is Always a Good Idea,” starring fan-favorite Lacey Chabert.
The “From Mailbox to Movie Set” grand prize winner will receive a walk-on role in an upcoming Hallmark original movie plus an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience on set and all-expenses-paid travel for the lucky winner and a guest. Beginning this month, eligible participants can enter to win the chance to step into the world of Hallmark movie magic, all while saving on top local and national brands thanks to Valpak, by registering for the sweepstakes through information found in their Valpak mailer or online at Valpak.com.
In addition to offering contestants the chance to turn their trip to the mailbox into a magical experience, Valpak and Hallmark are providing the more than 40 million households that receive the iconic Blue Envelope each month with exclusive access to more than 50% off a one-year Hallmark+ subscription.
To enter the “From Mailbox to Movie Set” Sweepstakes and discover savings in your region, or for complete sweepstakes details, eligibility requirements, and official rules, visit Valpak.com/walkon.
Woodson tapped for Smithsonian’s America 250 Commemoration
ST. PETERSBURG — The Woodson African American Museum of Florida has been selected as one of only three Florida organizations to present “Many Voices ... One Nation — Our Community,” a signature exhibition of the Smithsonian’s America 250 commemoration. Developed in collaboration with Florida Humanities, Smithsonian Museum on Main Street, and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, the exhibition commemorates the nation’s semiquincentennial by exploring the stories that have shaped America.
“‘Many Voices ... One Nation — Our Community’ invites visitors to see America’s story through the voices, experiences, and contributions of those who have too often been overlooked,” said Terri Lipsey Scott, executive director of the Woodson African American Museum of Florida. “We are honored to partner with the Smithsonian and Florida Humanities to ensure St. Petersburg’s history is recognized as an essential part of our nation’s story as we commemorate America 250.”
The exhibition celebrates the diverse people who built our nation, from those who were here first, to those who came seeking opportunity, and those brought here by force. Through Smithsonian resources and locally curated content, it connects national history with the people, places, and defining moments of St. Petersburg and the region.
The exhibition is anchored by a newly commissioned monumental mural by acclaimed artist, curator, and Black Art in America founder Najee Dorsey. Also featured is an original work by celebrated St. Petersburg artist Dallas Jackson.
The Woodson’s presentation is supported by Florida Humanities, with additional funding from the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, the City of St. Petersburg, Duke Energy, Orlando Health, the Parallel Foundation, and Legendary Lens Multimedia.
“Many Voices ... One Nation — Our Community” amplifies historically underrepresented voices and honors the enduring contributions of African Americans and other communities to the American story. The exhibition opened July 11.
For information, visit woodsonmuseum.org.
Lane Hosmer named Straz chief development officer
TAMPA — Straz Center President and CEO Greg Holland recently announced the appointment of Lane Hosmer as chief development officer of Tampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.
Hosmer’s selection coincides with the retirement of current CDO Julie Britton whose 35-year tenure with Straz Center draws to a close on Aug. 4. Hosmer’s long-term dedication to not-for-profit management spans a distinguished career that includes nearly 15 years of experience in fundraising for the arts and arts education. His time at Straz Center begins July 22.
He comes to Straz Center from New York City’s renowned Roundabout Theatre Company where he serves as development director — cultivating and stewarding individuals for major gifts, identifying and fostering corporate partnerships and producing fundraising events. Prior to his time at Roundabout, Hosmer served as director of corporate relations at GLAAD.
A former Tampa Bay area resident, he worked as the executive director of the Festival of States, a historic community tradition in St. Petersburg. Additionally, he was director of community relations for Alabama Live and production director for Arts Huntsville. Hosmer began his career as a teacher and the director of drama at Randolph School in Huntsville.
Hosmer holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication arts and English from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
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