It takes us about 45 minutes to reach Orlando's performing arts hall, or about 70 minutes to reach Tampa's. We use this to our advantage two ways: Tampa often gets better touring Broadway shows than Orlando in an average year; in addition, all other things being equal, Tampa has a vastly superior facility, making it worth the extra half hour's drive. Either way, we feel wee get twice the choice each theatre season.
This was unnecessary this season. Orlando has played host to Thoroughly Modern Millie, Hairspray and Chicago; next month sees a production of Les Miz (one of my two alltime favorites). Of course, the same week Orlando hosts Les Miz (which I've seen at least three times), Tampa is hosting Disney's On The Record (which is brand-new). Add to that, while we're in Seattle, the Seattle Men's Chorus is providing the vocals for a concert version of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Lucy Lawless and Faith Prince. I will certainly have spent a significant budget on theatrical entertainment this season.
Not to worry, though: I'll save my money next year. Orlando's season is less than inspiring, featuring the "maybe" of Movin' Out and the "seen it" of Mamma Mia!. Tampa's is nearly as uninteresting, with one glaring, gotta-be-there exception: Wicked.
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