Apex Theatre Studio presents “A Christmas Story”
2018-12-15 19:00 (America/New_York) | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 32082
Celebrate the holidays with hilarity and Apex Theatre Studio this December when Apex Theatre Studio will present “A Christmas Story,” a full-length comedy based on the beloved film at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall.
Humorist Jean Sheperd’s memoir of growing up in the mid-west of the 1940s follows Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. All the elements from the classic motion picture are here: the exploding furnace, the school bully, the boys experiment with a wet tongue on a lamppost and the infamous leg lamp. The Orlando Sentinel exclaims “Classics bloom quickly in modern times… you don’t have to have grown up with 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his ache for an air rifle under the tree to think of ‘A Christmas Story’ as a Christmas must. And [this] version is just as kindly and just as cockeyed as ‘A Christmas Story’ is meant to be.”
The production is under the direction of Ian Mairs, managing director of Apex Theatre Studio and features a combination of faculty, students, and guest artists from the Northeast Florida area. Reserved seating tickets are $25.00 and will be available online and at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall and St. Augustine Amphitheatre Box Offices.
Now in its fifth year, Apex Theatre Studio (a non-profit training center with 501c3 status) fosters young artists who possess a passion and curiosity for acting, singing, dancing and stagecraft through a series of master classes, intensives, readings, and theatrical presentations. For more information on Apex Theatre Studio visit apextheatrejax.com.

Foxfire
2018-12-15 19:30, 2018-12-16 14:00, 2018-12-20 19:30, 2018-12-21 19:30, 2018-12-22 19:30 | Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, 32084
A beautiful glimpse into the lives of a Southern Appalachian family, Foxfire follows Annie Nations, an indomitable Appalachian widow of 79, living on her mountain farm with the acerbic ghost of her husband Hector. Her tranquility is threatened by a brash real estate developer who wants to turn her land into a vacation resort and by concern over her son Dillard, a country singer who has come home with two stranded children because his wife has run away.
Shows will take place Thursday-Saturday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm.

Join the St. Augustine Community Chorus for Gaudete! Rejoice! 2018 Christmas Concert
2018-12-15 19:30 - 21:00, 2018-12-16 14:00 - 2018-12-17 15:30 | Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, 38 Cathedral Plaza, St. Augustine, FL, 32084, United States
We kick off the season with our Christmas program on Dec. 15th at 7:30 pm and Dec. 16th at 2:00 pm in St. Augustine’s beautiful Cathedral Basilica. The chorus will be accompanied by brass, percussion, and strings, including some traditional carols, excerpts from Handel’s Messiah, and a special appearance by the St. Augustine Youth Chorus. It is also the 200th anniversary of Silent Night. We will include the original version in this program, which was altered slightly early on into the tune we know today. As we aspire to perform music of living composers, this program includes the music of Z Randall Stroope, Michael Engelhardt, and Dr. Peter Mathews. We are excited to premiere our commissioned piece, written for the chorus by Dr. Mathews, entitled “What Sweeter Music.”

Gaudete! Rejoice!
2018-12-15 19:30 - 21:30, 2018-12-16 14:00 - 2018-12-17 16:00 | Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, 38 Cathedral Plaza, St. Augustine, FL, 32084, United States
As we celebrate our 70th anniversary this season, the St. Augustine Community Chorus, under the direction of Mike Sanflippo, is pleased to announce the opening of our 2018-2019 concert series with two December performances of Gaudete! Rejoice! to be presented Saturday, December 15th at 7:30 pm and Sunday, December 16th at 2:00 pm at the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. The chorus will be accompanied by brass, percussion, and strings, including some traditional carols, excerpts from Handel’s Messiah, and a special appearance by the St. Augustine Youth Chorus. It is also the 200th anniversary of Silent Night. We will include the original version in this program, which was altered slightly early on into the tune we know today. As we aspire to perform music of living composers, this program includes the music of Z Randall Stroope, Michael Engelhardt, and Dr. Peter J. Mathews. We are excited to premiere our commissioned piece to celebrate SACCs 70th anniversary, written for the chorus by Dr. Mathews, entitled “What Sweeter Music.”

Salt Air Farmers Market
2018-12-16 10:00 - 14:00, 2018-12-23 10:00 - 14:00, 2018-12-30 10:00 - 14:00 | Salt Air Farmers Market, 101 Tolstoy Lane, Marineland, 32080
This is a frendly market along A1A in Marineland with fresh seafood, local produce, sauces & dips, honey, empanadas, artisan bread & pastries, local artists and more. This is every Sunday 10-2:00.

Comfort & Cheer
2018-12-16 14:00 - 16:00 | ACT at Portman Plaza, 2085 A1A South, Suite 105, St. Augustine, 32080
Favorite local performers have come together to present Comfort & Cheer – a program of seasonal stories, songs, poems, and more – for one performance only on December 16, 2018, at 2 p.m. at 2085 A1A South, Unit #105.
Performers include Shari Little, Margaret Kaler, Guy Tillis, Katie Timoney, Natalie Beltrami, Jennifer Latka, and others. Holiday refreshments will be served.
Comfort & Cheer is a theater-community based fundraiser in support of A Classic Theatre. ACT is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing classic, historic and original works to the St. Augustine theater scene. Recent productions include Intimate Apparel, Lysistrata, Democracy and its Demise, and 1984.
Seating is VERY limited and reservations are strongly encouraged. For email reservations: comfortandcheer18@gmail.com. Telephone reservations: Kate at 904-299-0591. Tickets are only available at the door for a suggested donation of $20. Cash or Check only.
Donations to A Classic Theatre are tax deductible and may also be made online at https://www.aclassictheatre.org/donate.
Questions? Contact us at comfortandcheer18@gmail.com.

Steven Wilson
2018-12-16 19:30 | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 32082
Thanks to a prolific work ethic, self-taught producer, engineer, and multi-instrumentalist Steven Wilson has gradually become one of the U.K.’s most critically acclaimed cult artists.
Twenty something years ago, around the time that the first records bearing Steven Wilson’s name began attracting critical interest, the big message in rock ‘n roll was that modern life was rubbish. Sound tracking a politically grey country stuck in a technological rut, popular music seemed to echo the underlying thought of the time. Something’s got to change.
Fast-forward to the second decade of the 21st century. Politics are in a state of self-inflicted turmoil; the connective technology that was meant to free us has become weaponized. It’s like everybody’s got the start of the millennium psychosis blues and modern life is out of control.
With that in mind, how should music in 2017 react to the flux and uncertainty of the here and now? If you’re Steven Wilson – now unarguably the UK’s biggest underground artist – the response is less about trying to make a state of the nation address and more about holding up a well-polished mirror to reflect back the chaos.
Lyrically, the 11 tracks on Steven Wilson’s fifth album To The Bone tackle such era-defining themes as everyday fanaticism; self-loathing caused by the pressures of online life; displacement by war and the hope that we try to pass on to future generations. Musically, the whole thing sparks and flashes in arcs of glorious color, fusing driving futurist rock and spectral electronics to elegiac hyperspace ambience and dizzying squalling guitars.
To The Bone is a bold, forward-thinking rock record. From the thunderous swampy rhythms of the album’s titular opener and the glimmering, stratospheric climb of “Nowhere Now” through the album’s two tales of unstinting home grown fundamentalism (“People Who Eat Darkness,” “Detonation”) via the gorgeous, acoustic break-up narrative of “Blank Tapes” and “Pariah’s” volcanic coda, the record presents 11 of Steven’s most concise, tightly melodic songs to date.
For anyone who’s followed Steven’s career since the early ’90s – four times Grammy nominated, the founder and front man of adored outsider rock band Porcupine Tree; as a remixer for acts like Roxy Music, Simple Minds and XTC or as a self-sufficient solo artist, hugely respected for a series of visionary LPs starting with 2008’s Insurgentes – To The Bone might sound like a departure. In fact, it’s a lovingly crafted paean to the progressive pop records that heavily influenced the formative years of his youth.
“People generally think my music is rooted in the ‘70s but really I came of age in the ’80s, and grew up with post punk, new wave and Trevor Horn’s productions. Recently I found myself going back to listen to albums like So by Peter Gabriel, Hounds of Love by Kate Bush, Tears for Fear’s Seeds of Loveand Talk Talk’s Colour of Spring. They were mainly made by musicians who’d come out of the crucible of innovative, experimental ’70s music but still wanted to write great songs that people could hum on the bus.”

Spirit of the Holidays Concert
2018-12-17 19:00 | Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, 32084
The award-winning Bartram Trail High School Concert, Symphonic, and Wild Symphony bands will perform their 2nd annual Spirit of the Holidays Concert showcasing a variety of traditional and more modern holiday favorites. The immensely-talent students have played throughout Florida and Georgia and are delighted to present the holiday spirit to their beloved Ancient City. Tickets to the event are $10.

Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman with Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives
2018-12-17 20:00 | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 32082
On the 50th anniversary of their groundbreaking album, Sweetheart of the Rodeo, Byrds co-founders Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman will perform the album in its entirety and tell the stories that brought the album to life. Along with cuts from Sweetheart of the Rodeo, McGuinn and Hillman also sing some other favorites from their long recording careers. The pair will be joined on stage for the tour by country legends Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives. Stuart himself plays the famous 1954 Fender Telecaster originally owned by legendary country-rock pioneer Clarence White, a performer on Sweetheart of the Rodeo.
Sweetheart of the Rodeo is widely considered to be one of the most influential country rock albums of all time, and credited with giving rise to the genre. In 2003, the album was ranked #117 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of The 500 Greatest Albums. “On March 9, 1968, Roger McGuinn and I along with many fantastic musicians began recording the Sweetheart of the Rodeo album at Columbia Studios in Nashville,” says Chris Hillman. “It was truly a pivotal moment in our lives taking a turn toward the music we always felt a strong kinship with. We are honored that it has left a strong, long lasting impression on country and rock music. To celebrate this special time with Roger, Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives is such a blessing on this, the 50th anniversary of Sweetheart of the Rodeo.”
Roger McGuinn adds: “Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Sweetheart of the Rodeo with a group of my favorite musicians is an honor. I can’t wait to be on stage with Chris Hillman, Marty Stuart and those Fabulous Superlatives! We’re all looking forward to taking the fans through the back pages of the recording. The concert will include songs that led up to that ground breaking trip to Nashville and all the songs from the album.”
Marty Stuart said about the influence the album had on him: “The Bryds’ Sweetheart of the Rodeo recording stands as a milestone in American music. I bought my first copy of the record in 1972. Upon my first listen, I was mesmerized at the effect of the combined power Country music, Rock & Roll, Bluegrass, Gospel and Folk music had on me. From that day forward, I considered Sweetheart of the Rodeo a blueprint as to how I should live my musical life. It is truly an honor for me and the Superlatives to get to go out and play music from Sweetheart with Roger and Chris. We love and greatly admire both of them and I have to believe this is a show not to be missed.”

Asleep At The Wheel
2018-12-18 20:00 | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 32082
Ray Benson founded Asleep at the Wheel in Paw Paw, West Virginia 48 years ago. Now based in Austin, the band holds 10 Grammy awards, 20 studio albums and 20 singles on the Billboard country charts. The Grammy Award-winning Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob WILLS and His Texas Playboys is the band’s most recent release (2015) and marks their third full-length Bob WILLS tribute album. Featuring 22 acclaimed collaborations, the all-star lineup includes legends such as Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and George Strait and newcomers like the Avett Brothers, Amos Lee, Old Crow Medicine Show and many other fine talents.
Asleep at the Wheel is bringing a fresh look, sound and new album in 2018. With recent additions Katie Shore (fiddle, vocals), Dennis Ludiker (fiddle, mandolin) Connor Forsyth (keyboard, vocals) and Josh Hoag (Bass) Asleep at the Wheel’s newest members have given a newfound energy and their own unique style within the band. Asleep at the Wheel veterans David Sanger (Drums) Eddie Rivers (Steel Guitar) and Jay Reynolds (Saxophone and Clarinet) round out the now 8 piece band. Between those Texas Twin Fiddles and Boogie Piano, you can bet you’ll be dancin’ down the aisles and swingin’ all night long when the Wheel rolls into town!

Farmer’s Market at the Pier
2018-12-19 08:00 - 12:00, 2018-12-26 08:00 - 12:00, 2019-01-02 08:00 - 12:00 | St. Johns County Pier Park, 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL, 32080, United States
Shop and support local vendors every Wednesday at the St. Johns County Pier Park on St. Augustine Beach, featuring baked goods, hand-made gifts, jewelry and home décor.
The Market is sponsored by the Saint Augustine Beach Civic Association. Anywhere from 60 to 80 vendors participate each Wednesday morning year round from 8 AM until 12:30 PM. Vendors, most local and others from as far away as Orlando, Florida display an array of produce, prepared foods, local seafood, art, crafts, jewelry and fair trade goods. Vendors & artists provide a wide variety of goods with a heavy emphasis on home grown, hand picked, and hand crafted items that are unique. It’s shopping in the most beautiful setting in the world. Join the fun and shop local… shop Florida at The Wednesday Market
www.thecivicassociation.org

Holiday Traditions with the Gainesville Orchestra
2018-12-19 19:30 | Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, 32084
Part of the EMMA Concert Series, this delightful holiday concert will be performed by the Gainesville Orchestra. Held in Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium, the concert will feature traditional holiday tunes as well as some fun holiday pop songs. For the little ones (and the kids at heart), the holiday concert is a sing along. So carol your heart out and get ready for the winter holidays. Children and students with ID are $5. Tickets are $40.

Old City Farmer’s Market
2018-12-20 08:30 - 12:30, 2018-12-22 08:30 - 12:30, 2018-12-27 08:30 - 12:30, 2018-12-29 08:30 - 12:30 | St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine
Visit the Old City Farmers Market for fresh produce, baked goods, hand-crafted items and plants directly from the producers. There’s even fresh seafood in season. The farmers market is always a lot of fun for the whole family with live entertainment and much more. The Old City Farmers Market takes place every Saturday morning at the St. Augustine Amphitheater on A1A South in St. Augustine. 8:30am to 12:30pm on Saturdays, Admission is Free.
www.staugustinefm.com

The Nutcracker
2018-12-22 - 2018-12-23 | Lewis Auditorium, 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, 32084
A longstanding holiday tradition and a local favorite, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker is almost a necessity to do the holiday season right. Performed by the St. Augustine Ballet, the classic tale follows young Clara as her nutcracker (a gift from her godfather) comes to life and brings her to a magical and fantastical world of toy soldiers, dangerous mice, a prince, and a Sugar Plum Fairy. This show is always unforgettable, spectacular, and a beautiful addition to your holiday festivities. Both days of the show will feature performances at 1:30pm and 7pm. Tickets are $20-$30 depending on seating.

Hyppo Coffee Bar Christmas Concert
2018-12-22 17:00 - 19:00 | Hyppo Coffee Bar, 1765 Tree Blvd. Ste. 5, Saint Augustine, 32084
The Hyppo Coffee Bar proudly presents an evening of music with Aslyn and the Naysayers! Come join us for an evening of music, ice pops, and drinks! Streaming The Bullet food truck will also be on hand selling delicious food as well!

Bare Your Soul Story Night
2018-12-28 19:00 - 22:00 | Bokeh Bar Gallery, 137 King St #103, St. Augustine, FL, 32084, United States
This monthly story night offer a platform where people can share stories in an informal and relaxed environment. The event is designed to accommodate the shy as well as the seasoned speaker, with a group of supportive local listeners. So it’s time to warm up your voice, tell your stories, and bare your soul. The event is free and open to the public. Craft beer, wine, and coffee will be available for purchase.

Donna the Buffalo with guest Western Centuries
2018-12-29 20:00 | Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra, 32082
One of the most dynamic and determined bands continuously touring America since 1989, Donna the Buffalo has created a community environment at their shows through their distinctive, groove-heavy and danceable music. Donna the Buffalo is a band for the people that is accessible, positive, and memorable. With roots in old time fiddle music that evolved into a soulful electric American mix infused with elements of Cajun/zydeco, rock, folk, reggae and country, Donna’ s music often contains social and moral responsibility as core beliefs, and they are just simply fun to get out and celebrate life with.
Donna the Buffalo just passed the marker as their 25th year as a band and have proven to be a true purveyor of American music. What’s the recipe? To be sure, it’s infused with more spices than you’ll find at a Cajun cookout by way of a southern-fried, rockin’ country old-time jamboree. “For the dizzying array of styles and genres with which they work, Donna the Buffalo maintain a surprising level of consistency… over the course of their 25-year career, they retain a sharp focus that has helped them create some truly lasting music…” writes Elmore Magazine. “Few groups are this comfortable as performers, and even fewer would take as many risks.”
Donna the Buffalo is Jeb Puryear (vocals, electric guitar) and Tara Nevins (vocals, guitar, fiddle, accordion, scrubboard) joined by David McCracken (Hammond organ, Honer Clavinet and piano), Kyle Spark (bass) and Mark Raudabaugh(drums). “It’s been really fun with this lineup,” Puryear says. “You get to the point where you’re playing on a really high level, things are clicking and it’s like turning on the key to a really good car. It just goes.”
In an era of unprecedented access to our musical pasts, shouldn’t country music be even more diverse than it was in its infancy? Honky-tonk supergroup Western Centuries, back with a new album in 2018, surely understands this. They aren’t bound by any dictum to write songs in a modern country, or even a retro country style; instead they’re taking their own personal influences as three very different songwriters and fusing it into a sound that moves beyond the constraints of country.
