Defying Gravity: The Music of Stephen Schwartz
"Defying Gravity: The Music of Stephen Schwartz" has enthralled audiences around the world for over two decades — and received a standing ovation at every stop along the way. The beloved songs of the Grammy and Oscar-winning songwriter are given breathtaking performances by some of New York City’s best vocalists. This uplifting, soul-stirring concert features hits from classic shows like GODSPELL, PIPPIN, WICKED including "Magic to Do," "Colors of the Wind," "Corner of the Sky," "Day by Day," "When You Believe," "Popular," "For Good," "Defying Gravity" and more. It's an unforgettable evening of magical musical theatre starring Emmy-nominee Scott Coulter and Tony Award-winner Debbie Gravitte.
Patriotic Pops
Join the Symphony as we celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor those who have protected the freedoms that make America great. Hear your favorite selections from The Star-Spangled Banner to the themes of each of the branches of our military, with a touch of the Andrews Sisters for good measure. It promises to be one of the most inspiring events of the year.
Holiday Pops
It’s Jacksonville’s favorite holiday tradition. After hearing many beloved holiday songs, you’re sure to be in the spirit of the season. And don’t miss Florida’s only indoor snowfall. Featuring the Symphony, guest singers, dancers from Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, and more. Bring the entire family to celebrate the season together!
Classic Broadway
Return to the golden age of Broadway. Hear classic Broadway songs from The Sound of Music, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Porgy and Bess, Carousel, and many more. The Symphony and Broadway stars Ashley Brown and Jordan Donica will bring back wonderful memories of the best music from The Great White Way.
The Chris Thomas Band: The Rat Pack
“When Chris Thomas takes the stage he doesn’t just sing, he aims to embody the swagger and style of Dean Martin, Sammy Davis and Frank Sinatra” says The Florida Times-Union. “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” “You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You” and more performed by Jacksonville’s best big band alongside the Jacksonville Symphony. You’ll be dancing in the aisles.
Michael Cavanaugh: The Music of Elton John & More
The NY Times calls him “amazing.” Variety says he’s “brilliant.” You stood and cheered after his Music of Billy Joel show with the Symphony. Now, Michael Cavanaugh returns to Jacksonville to join the Symphony in performing the music of the other great piano man, Elton John. “Your Song,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man” and many more. Whether you loved his last show or missed it, be sure to join Michael and the Symphony for a Crocodile Rockin’ night.
The Music of Whitney Houston
She released seven albums and every one went gold, platinum or multi-platinum. She was the only artist to chart seven consecutive Billboard #1 hits. And, her mega-hit “I Will Always Love You” is the biggest selling single of all time by a female artist. Electric Broadway star N’Kenge returns to the Symphony to bring the hits of Whitney Houston to life in a heart-stopping concert not to be missed.
John Williams & Steven Spielberg
Their partnership began with Sugarland Express in 1974 and has totaled an amazing 28 films. It included Jaws, four Indiana Jones films, E.T., two Jurassic Park films, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List and so many more. Together they’ve won three OSCARS, three Golden Globes and 12 GRAMMYs. Hear John Williams’ fantastic music and relive some of the greatest movies ever made.
Get Happy! Judy Garland’s 100th
In her 47 years of life, Judy Garland became an American icon as an actress and singer. Now Joan Ellison, who Cabaret Scenes Magazine calls, “a singer who’s been obsessed with Judy Garland since childhood, who is Judy-esque in appearance, and who’s a near voice double for her idol” joins the Symphony to celebrate Judy’s 100th birthday. Hear Joan sing classics like “Over the Rainbow,” “For Me and My Gal,” “The Man That Got Away” and many more. Whether you’re a Garland fan or not, you won’t want to miss this magical concert.
The Music of Queen
“Early on in the Music of Queen concert, the Orpheum Theatre balcony started shaking. It wasn’t due to faulty construction, but enthusiastic audience members rocking out to ‘Another One Bites the Dust.’ By the time the visiting Windborne Music Band got to ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ the walls may have been shaking, too.” Be there when Jacoby Symphony Hall starts shaking to the music of one of the greatest rock bands ever.