Experience Arts & Holiday Cheer in Tampa Bay This Month
November ushers in a vibrant season of arts and festivities across the Tampa Bay area, offering locals an array of unique cultural experiences and beloved holiday traditions. From thought-provoking art retrospectives to festive stage performances and celebrity appearances, there’s something to enrich every schedule.
“Jeff Whipple: Past, Present, Future” — A Must-See Retrospective
Delve into four decades of captivating art with the “Jeff Whipple: Past, Present, Future” exhibition at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art in Tarpon Springs. On view through December 7, this retrospective showcases Florida-based artist Jeff Whipple’s figurative works, brimming with wit and social commentary on life’s absurdities. Look for his recurring “spasm” motif, which often playfully obscures subjects’ faces.
The exhibition impressively spans the entire museum and even includes an interactive miniature golf course – just ask for a putter at the front desk! For those who can’t get enough, a screen streams over 200 additional paintings, a testament to Whipple’s prolific career. It’s an insightful and engaging journey into an artist’s mind right in our backyard. Find it at 600 E. Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs.
Art Takes the Rooftop at The Tampa EDITION
Local architect and curator Tobin Green is redefining the art show experience with his AADMIXX series, transforming The Tampa EDITION’s swanky rooftop pool into an outdoor gallery. These events prioritize art and artists, distinguishing themselves from typical social gatherings. Green’s vision is to fuse St. Pete’s creative edge, Ybor’s grit, and Water Street’s newfound affluence to create influential art showcases.
Following successful past shows, the upcoming event on November 14 is “It’s Yours,” a solo exhibition featuring Tampa artist Fary “Junkyrd” Charles. This is a unique opportunity to witness cutting-edge local art in an unconventional, yet meticulously curated, setting. The event kicks off at 8 p.m. at 500 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Follow @aadmixx on Instagram for full details.
Comparing Local Art Experiences
| Venue | Type of Experience | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art | Traditional Museum Retrospective | Interactive miniature golf course within the exhibition; extensive collection display. |
| The Tampa EDITION Rooftop | Pop-Up Gallery (AADMIXX) | Curated, high-impact one-night-only shows by local artists in a unique social setting. |
Holiday Season Kicks Off with Beloved Classics
Get into the festive spirit early with two family-friendly holiday shows coming to St. Petersburg and Tampa. These performances offer a wonderful way to celebrate the season with loved ones.
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage
The timeless charm of the Peanuts gang comes alive in “A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage” at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Witness Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole crew discover the true meaning of Christmas, accompanied by composer Vince Guaraldi’s iconic holiday score. Catch this heartwarming performance at 7 p.m. on November 12.
Holiday Cheer at The Straz Center
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa presents a double feature of holiday magic. From November 28-30, see “A Christmas Story” transformed into a Broadway musical by the acclaimed songwriting team behind “Dear Evan Hansen.” Relive Ralphie’s unforgettable quest for a Red Ryder air rifle, dodging the infamous “You’ll shoot your eye out!” warning.
Then, on December 4, the Straz Center celebrates the 35th anniversary of “Home Alone” with a special screening followed by an interview with actor Macaulay Culkin, the original Kevin McCallister himself. It’s a nostalgic trip perfect for fans of all ages. Both events take place at 1010 N. Macinnes Place, Tampa.
FAQs About Tampa Bay Events
- When do the holiday shows begin?
Holiday events kick off in mid-November, with “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on November 12 and “A Christmas Story: The Musical” starting November 28. - Where is Jeff Whipple’s art exhibition located?
His retrospective, “Jeff Whipple: Past, Present, Future,” is at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art in Tarpon Springs. - How can I attend the art show at The Tampa EDITION?
The next show, “It’s Yours,” is on November 14 at 8 p.m. at The Tampa EDITION. Check @aadmixx on Instagram for event specifics. - Are the holiday events suitable for families?
Yes, both “A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage” and the Straz Center’s “A Christmas Story: The Musical” and “Home Alone” screening are excellent options for family entertainment.
With such a diverse range of artistic showcases and festive performances, November is the perfect time for Tampa Bay residents to immerse themselves in the local culture and kick off the holiday season. Make sure to mark your calendars and experience what our vibrant community has to offer!
Tampa Bay Arts and Holiday Cheer This Month
