These kids are really, really good. A couple of Vero Beach high and middle school musical groups present spring concerts this week – the Vero Beach High School Jazz Band Thursday, May 2; and the VBHS and Gifford Middle School orchestras, Sunday, May 5. If you’re already familiar with the level of musicianship these young people have reached, you know what I mean when I say that listening to what they have accomplished is an absolute joy and so worth your time and support. The Jazz Band’s “Swing into Spring” concert and the combined orchestras’ “Pops Concert” will both take place at the VBHS Performing Arts Center. Times: 7 p.m. Tickets, $6 and $12. 772-564-5537.
Bowties and Broadway stars: Bowties will again be the accessory of choice this Sunday, May 5, at what is widely considered the most lavish and eagerly anticipated al fresco party of the season – the May Pops Concert – celebrating its 30th year supporting (now) Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. On the expansive grounds of the Indian River County Fairgrounds, Maestro Christopher Confessore, the wonderful Brevard Symphony Orchestra and a pair of Broadway stars, Alli Mauzey and William Michals, will delight celebrants with a thrilling menu of melodies from the Great White Way. According to the event promo, among her numerous roles and awards, Mauzey appeared on Broadway as Glinda in the 10th Anniversary company of “Wicked,” which she also performed to critical acclaim on the first national tour and in the San Francisco company, and has performed in several concerts with symphony orchestras across the country and abroad, including playing Ellie in “Show Boat” with the New York Philharmonic, and the title role in “Cinderella” with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. Concert baritone Michals made his Broadway debut as “The Beast” in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” and recently appeared in the landmark revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” at Lincoln Center. He has played numerous leadings roles on and off-Broadway and in national tours, including as Captain von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” and Billy Flynn in Kander and Ebb’s “Chicago.” Whether you BYO picnic or partake of the lavish VIP spread, May Pops is always a totally delightful way to spend a late spring afternoon. Time: gates open for picnickers and VIP reception, 3:30 p.m.; performance, 5:30 p.m. Admission: lawn, $30; VIP, $225. 772-226-4960.
Let’s raise a glass to the ladies of the “Savannah Sipping Society,” who, you can be sure, will be raising a glass (or so) of their own. Opening on the Vero Beach Theatre Guild stage this coming Tuesday, May 7, for a two-week run, this comedy is about how four Southern women, each needing to escape from the soul-sucking sameness of their daily routines, who are, says dramatists.com, “drawn together by Fate and an impromptu happy hour,” and determined to find the enthusiasm for life they’ve lost. Workaholic perfectionist Randa is dealing with a career derailment that “reveals she has no life and no clue how to get one.” Dot faces starting over all alone, after her husband’s sudden death. Marlafaye is a mouthy, earthy Texan who has “blasted into Savannah” after her no-good hubby bailed with a young dental hygienist. She is seeking a new life – and revenge. Another newcomer, Jinx, is a “spunky fireball” who tries to get everyone else’s life back on track when she’s the one who really needs help. During six months of conversation, misadventure and liquid refreshment, the four learn a lot about themselves, each other, and the value of friendship. Filled with laughter, says the Guild promo, “The Savannah Sipping Society” is joyful and surprisingly touching. Curtain: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays – 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. Tickets: $30; students, half price. 772-562-8300.
