Who likes theatre? Now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday have past, what better way to reward yourself and your friends or family than with tickets to see a show? With the turkey leftovers all finished and the holiday cheer in full swing, here are a few events that are going on in the 727area; for gift giving or attending! Don't forget when attending a show to check out the local restaurants to turn your date night into a great night!

Staged Theatre & Dance:

Much Ado About Nothing  at the American Stage Theatre Company

Thursday, November 30 - Sunday December 3. Friday 8:00 p.m., Saturday 3:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m., Sunday 3:00 p.m.

This take on Shakespeare's classic "original Rom-Com" is directed by Artist-in-Residence Benjamin T. Islamil, and starring producing artistic director Stephanie Gularte as Beatrice, is set right at the end of World War II and "full of music and dance, and set against the backdrop of the Florida Keys' bright sunshine." This plays in the intimate Raymond James Theatre where American Stage resides. Tickets available here and start at $39. This show runs through December 10.

The Little Prince at Freefall Theatre

Wednesday, November 29 - Sunday, December 3 | Wednesday 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m., Thursday 7:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 p.m., Saturday 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m., Sunday 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.  | Tickets start at $25

by Rick Cummins and John Scoullar
based on the book by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

"All grown-ups were once children...but only few of them remember it."

An aviator crashes his plane in the Sahara Desert. There he meets a little prince who has left his home on Asteroid B-612 and its only other inhabitant, his beloved rose. The most translated book in the French language, this allegory remains a beautiful example of personal struggle manifesting itself as transcendent art. A great production for the whole family during the holidays, Eric Davis directs another classic in the Sanctuary of freefall theatre. Tickets are available here. This show runs through December 24.

The Nutcracker presented by Dance Alive National Ballet 

Presented by Tarpon Arts at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

Sunday, December 3 | 3:00 p.m. | General $35, Tarpon Arts Members $30, Children K-6 $12

There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to take the family to see this classic. The Nutcracker is a ballet for all ages following Clara on Christmas Eve as she journeys through dazzling courts, thrilling battles and meets magical friends. Performed by the Dance Alive National ballet from Gainesville, FL featuring “beautiful costumes” and “spellbinding sets.” Tickets can be found here.

Music:

The Morning Star Festival

The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay | First Presbyterian Church, St. Petersburg

Friday, December 1 | 8:00 p.m. | $21.69 after Service Fee

The Master Chorale Ensemble Singers, Principal Chorus of The Florida Orchestra, performs a night of Bach, Mendelssohn, Arvo Part, Ola Gjello and Roberto Sierra. The premiere classical chorale of the Bay Area has been performing since 1979 and has been called "one of the country's finest choirs" by the Tampa Tribune (RIP).

It's great for our community to support local arts and embrace the holiday season with our family, friends, and even our in-laws. Over this Christmas season there will be plenty of holiday-themed shows, events, plays and festivals, and you can still wear flip-flops and shorts to most of them!

So when you're with friends or family and debating what the weekend should entail, check out 727area for the best Things To Do in the Bay Area. And don't forget to register for free on the site for the latest updates!

Cover Photo from Tarpon Arts' Facebook Page