Cultural Calendar

The following is a list of ongoing cultural events in Coral Gables. Event schedules are subject to change, so please call the organizations directly in advance of a show.

If you are an arts & culture organization holding events in Coral Gables and wish to be included in this listing, please send an e-mail message to e-news@coralgables.com. Please include complete event information such as time, date, place, name of performance or artist, ticket prices, and contact information.

Theatre

• January 28 - March 27: The Actors' Playhouse Musical Theatre for Young Audiences kicks off the New Year with the Prince Street Player's version of the classic tale Jack and the Beanstalk. Based on the fairy tale by Joseph Jacobs, this wacky adventure takes the climb with Jack as he goes up the magical beanstalk into a world of friendly giants, evil barons, and dancing geese. Performances are on Saturdays at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $17. The Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-444-9293 or click here.

• February 27 - March 28: The GableStage at the Biltmore Hotel presents the Southeastern Premiere of Blasted by Sarah Kane. Startling imagery and bleak humor create a theatrical performance complete with destruction, collapse and ultimately redemption and love. It is considered one of the most controversial and shocking plays ever produced. This play is only for adults. Performances take place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $37.50 to $45. GableStage is located on the northeast corner of the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-445-1119 or click here.

• March 5 – April 4: New Theatre presents Equus by playwright Peter Shaffer. This is the primal and electric story of a stable boy and psychiatrist who seeks to understand the sexual and religious mystery which leads to a climactic and unbelievable event. Performances take place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. Tickets cost $35 for Thursday and Sunday evenings and $40 for Friday, Saturday and Sunday matinees. New Theatre is located at 4120 Laguna Street. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-443-5909 or click here

• March 3 - April 4: An internationally acclaimed Broadway hit is coming to Coral Gables. The Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre presents Miss Saigon. This classic love story is set in the turmoil of the Vietnam War. An American soldier and a Vietnamese girl fall in love, only to be separated during the fall of Saigon. Their struggles to find each other over the ensuing years creates an unparalleled drama and a must see musical theatrical experience. Performances take place Wednesdays thru Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. For ticket information, call 305-444-9293 or click here.

• March 5, 6, 12, 13: The Emmy Award-winning cartoon series of the 1970's makes a comeback on the musical stage. Miami Childrens Theater presents School House Rock. Performances take place at the Coral Gables Youth Center Theater, 405 University Drive, at 8 p.m. with additional performances on Saturdays at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for children. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-274-3595 or click here.

• April 15 - 18: The University of Miami Frost Opera Theatre presents a double bill of two one-act operas. Strawberry Fields by Michael Torke and A.R. Gurney and Ballymore: Part 1, Winners by Richard Wargo. The performances will take place at the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Drive, Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information including ticket prices, call 305-284-4886.

• April 24 - May 23: GableStage presents the Southeastern premier of The Quarrel. Based on a Yiddish story, The Quarrel by David Brandes and Joseph Telushkin tells the story of two friends, an Orthodox rabbi and a Jewish poet who has lost his faith - both Holocaust survivors. When they meet unexpectedly years later, it sparks a fierce battle of wits and a raw test of friendship faith and tolerance. Performances take place Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Ticket prices range from $37.50 to $45. GableStage is located at the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 305-445-1119 or click here.

• April 21 - May 1: The Jerry Herman Ring Theatre presents Rent. Based on Puccini's classic opera La Boheme, Rent is a revolutionary rock opera that tells the story of a group of bohemians struggling to live and pay their rent in the gritty background of New York's East Village. Playing for over 12 years, Rent went on to become one of the longest running shows in Broadway history. Performances take place Wednesdays thru Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The Ring Theatre is located at 1312 Miller Drive. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-284-3355 or click here.

• April 29 - May 29: The Actors' Playhouse Theatre for Young Audiences presents Young King Arthur. The play created for children takes shows King Arthur as a child who soon discovers that with power comes responsibilities and troubles, especially from his jealous brother Sir Kay and the evil knight Sir Ridley. With the help of Merlin the Magician and an outspoken peasant girl named Brynith, Young King Arthur discovers that real power comes not from swashbuckling and sorcery, but from the heart. Performances take place Saturdays at 2 p.m. at Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. For ticket information, call 305-444-9293 or click here.

• May 1 - 2: Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents an entire weekend of theatre fun for the whole family at the 15th Annual National Children's Theatre Festival Kids Fest. The festival will feature the winning musical in the national call to competition for new children's works. There will also be many other activities geared toward children and their families. This event takes place at Actors' Playhouse Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. For more information and event times, call 305-444-9293.

• May 14, 15, 21, 22: : A Disney classic is performed on the big stage. Miami Childrens Theater presents Disney's Aristocats. See how this tale of aristocratic and alley cats is transformed into a moving musical. Performances take place at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater, 405 University Drive, at 8 p.m. with additional performances on Saturdays at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for children. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-274-3595 or click here.

Musical

• March 14: Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children presents David Grover & the Big Bear Band: A Family Concert. This concert created especially for children will include several sing-along songs where children come to the stage to participate. This event takes place at Gusman Concert Hall at the Frost School of Music on the grounds of the University of Miami, 1314 Miller Drive, at 3 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 - $12. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-271-7150 or click here.

• March 20: Miami Symphony Orchestra's season continues with its New Artists Series. Chinese Pianist Tian Lu will be performing at Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Drive, at the University of Miami campus at 8 p.m. For ticket information, click here.

• March 21: Sunday Afternoons of Music is presents pianist Olga Kern. Kern was born into a family of musicians with direct links to Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. The performance take place at Gusman Concert Hall at the Frost School of Music on the grounds of the University of Miami, 1314 Miller Drive, at 4 p.m. Admission ranges from $10 - $35. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-271-7150 or click here.

• March 26: Seraphic Fire presents Israel in Egypt – The Passover Story by G. F. Handel. In this dramatic performance, Seraphic Fire will recount the story of how Jews escaped from Egypt through music. The concert takes place at First United Methodist Church, 536 Coral Way, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $50. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-285-9060.

• April 3: In this special Saturday edition, Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children welcomes Florida's Singing Sons Boychoir with artistic director Craig Denison. The award winning group of youth ages 8 – 12 will engage in the hearty singing on an array of musical styles, languages and choreography. This event takes place at Gusman Concert Hall at the Frost School of Music on the grounds of the University of Miami, 1314 Miller Drive, at 3 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 - $12. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-271-7150 or click here.

• April 23: The 6th edition of The American Ideal will take place at 1st United Methodist Church of South Miami. This free concert showcases wonderful talent with a program that includes an orchestra, youth virtuosi soloists and opera singers. This year, the music will feature Tchaikovsky Celebration, Lalo, and Mozart. The American Ideal VI performance begins at 10 a.m. at the church located at 6565 Red Road in Coral Gables. For more information, please call 305-667-7509.

• April 25: The Chopin Foundation of the United States presents the latest free concert of its 2009-2010 Chopin for All season. Pianist Grace Fong will be gracing the stage at Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive, at 3 p.m. Fong has gained critical acclaim in the U.S. and around the world. She will be performing for free. For more information, click here.

• May 16: The Chopin Foundation of the United States presents in concert the Finalists of the 2010 Chopin National Competition. Hear top contenders performing during this free concert to be held at Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive, at 3 p.m. For more information, call 305-868-0624 or click here.

Senior Activities

• Mondays: Join the Morning Coffee Club. Catch up on the latest news and chat with friends while enjoying a fresh cup of coffee. Just drop in every Monday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. No registration required and best of all, it's free. The Coral Gables Adult Activity Center is located at 624 Anastasia Avenue.

• Every 2nd Monday: Keeping tabs on your blood pressure is important. The Coral Gables Fire Department is offering free monthly blood pressure screenings. Just stop by the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m

• Mondays & Thursdays: Who said exercise can't be fun! Dance your way to better health when you join instructor Belkis Frangente in Dancercise! The classes are one hour long, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and cost $10 a month. Registration is required. Call 305-460-5609

• Every 4th Wednesday: Jim Pollack, the senior center's new volunteer leader will share his knowledge of the jazz era and collection of vast bands and artists. Mr. Pollack has been a guest on “Night Train” on WLRN radio. Come interact and discuss your knowledge at Jazz Music Classics, the bi-weekly informal discussion group at 1 p.m. in Room 112 at the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue. No registration required. For more information, call 305-460-5609.

• Wednesdays & Fridays: Who said exercise can't be fun! Dance your way to better health when you join instructor Belkis Frangente in Dancercise! The classes are one hour long, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and cost $9 a month. Registration is required. Call 305-460-5609.

• Every 3rd Thursday: The knitting sensation “Flying Fingers of Coral Gables” have been featured in newspapers for having big hearts and quick hands. Be a part of the team that is knitting up a storm for charity. All levels welcome. No registration required. The “Knit for a Cause” group meets at the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

• Fridays: Learn how to hold a conversation in Spanish with volunteer Luz Del Rio. Conversational Spanish classes take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Room 112 at the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue. A five-week session costs just $12. Space is limited! For more information, call 305-460-5609.

• Wednesdays: Enjoy a main dish, side salad, assorted desserts, ice tea, soft music and new or old friends, all for only $6! It's the best deal in town! The Weekly Lunch is catered by "Catering by Lovables." Pre-registration is required by Mondays. Weekly Lunch is served at 12 p.m. Upcoming menu: February 3: Italian Sausage and Peppers, February 10: Chicken Roma, February 17: Tilapia, February 24: Grilled Chicken Penne, March 3: Salmon, March 10: Chicken Piccata, March 17: Tortelloni (vegetables only), March 24: Baked FL Snapper, March 31: Lasagna (meat or vegetable), April 7: Lemon Chicken, April 14: Penne alla Genovese (tomatoes and pesto), April 21: London Broil, and April 28: Salmon.

• Every 1st Wednesday: Spend the afternoon playing a friendly game of Bingo. Meet in the chapel at the senior center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, at 1:00 p.m. Participation is free.

• Wednesdays: Get ready to step it up. The Walking Group now meets every Wednesday. Meet in the Riviera Drive parking lot at the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, at 9:15 a.m. The group walks around the Center's parking lot.

• Every 3rd Friday: Informative Monthly Workshops will help with real life issues seniors face and strives to eliminate confusion on topics such as retirement planning, managing fixed income, investment planning, estate planning, health and wellness issues, eldercare for aging loved ones. The workshops will be hosted by Marilyn Bruno, Ph.D., J.D (Retired Analyst & Program Coordinator of Economic Policy for the State Department's Foreign Service, Volunteer for SHINE & AARP Legal Council for the Elderly). Ask questions, voice concerns and get help. Meet in Room 112 at the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, from 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. To RSVP or to find out specific topics, call 305-460-5609.

• February 2 - March 11: Every Tuesday and Thursday at the Coral Gables Branch of the Miami-Dade Public Library System, 3443 Segovia Street, will feature AARP volunteers helping people with their tax returns. The AARP Tax Assistance program takes place at 11:30 a.m. The volunteers are trained to assist in the preparation of tax returns. This is a free service. For more information, call 305-442-8706.

• March 15: The Adult Activity Center is hosting its monthly Lunch and Lecture program. The event consists of a complimentary lunch followed by a guest speaker. This month the topic will be the History of South Florida by historian Seth Bramson. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. and is followed by the guest speaker. The Adult Activity Center is located at 624 Anastasia Avenue.

• March 25: Seniors with busy schedules get together for dinner. ‘Let's Do Dinner!' is a special program for seniors 55+ to make friends and enjoy a great meal together. Participants meet at select restaurants at 6 p.m. and each pays their own bill. This month, seniors meet at Red Koi Lounge, 317 Miracle Mile. Register by that Tuesday by calling Anastasia Smith at 305-460-5609.

• April 19: The Adult Activity Center is hosting its monthly Lunch and Lecture program. The event consists of a complimentary lunch followed by a guest speaker. This month the topic is Story Telling Brought to Life. Nancy Avera will be acting out a story in full costume. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. and is followed by the guest speaker. The Adult Activity Center is located at 624 Anastasia Avenue.

• April 22: Seniors with busy schedules get together for dinner. ‘Let's Do Dinner!' is a special program for seniors 55+ to make friends and enjoy a great meal together. Participants meet at select restaurants at 6 p.m. and each pays their own bill. This month, seniors meet at Le Provencal, 266 Miracle Mile. Register by that Tuesday by calling Anastasia Smith at 305-460-5609.

• April 23: It's important to be prepared for any situation that may come. The Police department is offering a free Self-Defense Workshop that will offer seniors vital knowledge and hands-on techniques to keep them safe. Reservations are required. The workshop will take place in the chapel in the senior center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, at 11:30 a.m.

• April 23: The 6th edition of The American Ideal will take place at 1st United Methodist Church of South Miami. This free concert showcases wonderful talent with a program that includes an orchestra, youth virtuosi soloists and opera singers. This year, the music will feature Tchaikovsky Celebration, Lalo, and Mozart. The American Ideal VI performance begins at 10 a.m. at the church located at 6565 Red Road in Coral Gables. For more information, please call 305-667-7509.

• April 30: This is the second part of the Police Department's Self-Defense Workshop. This free workshop will offer seniors important information and show them techniques to help keep them safe. Reservations are required. The workshop will take place in the chapel in the senior center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, at 11:30 a.m.

Other

• Tuesdays: Learn why there is so much passion in tango. World Tango Champion Monica Llobet teaches tango classes at the Biltmore Hotel. The group class for beginners is held from 8 – 9 p.m. and 9 - 10 p.m. for advanced students. Learn basic steps, technique, musicality, philosophy and the passion behind the dance. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 1-800-727-1926 or click here.

• First Friday of Month: From now until April, Art in the Park will be held in conjunction with Gallery Night in the Gables. The first Friday of every month, hundreds of people descend on Fred B. Hartnett/Ponce Circle Park for live music, art exhibits and much more. The fun starts at 6 p.m. and runs until midnight. The event includes several activities for children. The park is located at 2810 Ponce de Leon Boulevard. For more information, click here.

• Thursdays: The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center wants you to dance your way to fitness. The Youth Center, 405 University Drive, is offering Azucar Aerobics & Conditioning classes that are convenient for working professionals. Classes take place from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. A month-long pass costs $30 - $50 depending on resident/member status. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• Saturdays: The Youth Center is offering Adult Intermediate Ballet. This class is for adults, ages 16 and older, with some experience in classical ballet. Classes take place from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. The cost ranges from $48 - $80 a class depending on resident/member status. The Youth Center is located at 405 University Drive. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• First Friday through May: Starting in December, restaurant goers will be able to dine al fresco in Downtown Coral Gables every first Friday of the month. The City's Restaurant Row, located on the 100 block of Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street, will be closed to vehicular traffic so guests can dine under the stars. Giralda Under the Stars will also include live music and entertainers. Take advantage of the change in atmosphere and enjoy your favorite restaurants in a way you haven't before. For more information, click here

• Saturdays from January 16 - March 27: The popular Farmers Market returns to Coral Gables. The market will feature local produce, baked goods, and culinary and gardening demonstrations. The Market located in front of City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way, is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information and schedule of events, call 305-460-5312.

• Through May 2010: The Village of Merrick Park is hosting a Live Music Series that includes a mix of Jazz, Bossanova, World Music, Flamenco, Classics, Pop Melodies, Contemporary and Latin Grooves. Guests can listen to the live music from 2 - 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Village of Merrick Park is located at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue. For more information, call 305-534-0081.

• Through February 26: The University of Miami School of Architecture and the City of Coral Gables are pleased to host PISA AD1064 – The Square of Miracles: a millennium of culture, an exhibition brought from Pisa, Italy, which contains artistic and cultural masterpieces enclosed by the lawns of the Cathedral, the famous leaning Tower, and ‘pieces' of the square of Miracles. The exhibition will be free and open to the public at the School of Architecture, Jorge M. Perez Architecture Center, Irvin Korach Gallery, 1215 Dickinson Drive, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. For more information, click here.

• February 6 - April 4: Forty Cuban born artists who live in and outside of Cuba use subtle devices or irony, metaphor and ambiguity to challenge accepted artistic and political discourse. Their collective artworks make up the exhibition Cuba Avant-Garde: Contemporary Cuban Art from the Farber Collection which is on display at the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. The Museum which is located at 1301 Stanford Drive is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens. For more information, call 305-284-3535 or click here.

• March 11: Gear up for Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden's orchid festival with an Orchid Festival Preview and Art Lecture. This event is held in the garden at nightfall, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. get a sneak peak at the beautiful orchids and activities that will form part of the Orchid Festival and also learn more about the art you'll find at Fairchild. Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $10 for Fairchild members, $5 for member children ages 6-17, $15 for non-members, and $8 for non-member children ages 6-17. For more information, click here.

• March 12 - 14: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is hosting its 8th Annual International Orchid Festival. The weekend-long event features over 10,000 orchid plants from more than 50 vendors. You can also explore the wonder of orchids during one of our many garden workshops and walking tours. There will also be great food and entertainment. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. The festival is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost of admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65+ and $10 for children 6-17 years of age. Admission is free for Fairchild members. For more information, click here.

• March 13: Books & Books presents author Mo Willems reading his new children's book I am Going! And Cat the Cat, Who is That? Willems introduces young readers to new characters and surprises. Bring your children to Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, at 4 p.m. For more information, call 305-442-4408.

• March 13: The Coral Gables Farmers Market is returns with fresh produce, baked goods and gourmet food. The market will feature a Tai Chi class at 8 a.m., a gardening workshop at 9 a.m. on Worm Gardening, a cooking demonstration at 10 a.m. by Café Abbracci, and a children's activity at 11 a.m. with creatures and sea shells of the South Florida Eco System. The Farmers Market takes place in front of City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call the Economic Sustainability Department at 305-460-5311.

• March 13: The South Florida Irish Community will hold its 30th Annual St. Patrick's Day Festival. The traditional Celtic celebration will start at noon and end at sunset at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park, 2810 Ponce de Leon Boulevard. This family friendly event includes Irish food, crafts and many activities for children. Several Irish bands will perform traditional and contemporary Irish music. Admission to the festival is free. For more information, CulinaryAcademy@BiltmoreHotel.com. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue.

• March 15 - 19: Bestselling cookbook author Lourdes Castro will be teaching at the Biltmore Hotel's Culinary Boot Camps. Castro, the author of the best-selling cookbook, Simply Mexican, will offer culinary instruction with a curriculum that includes basic training in knife skills, pantry, herbs & spices, Italian technique, cold kitchen, meats, seafood and poultry & grains. The week-long camp costs $1,500. There are all-inclusive packages that include deluxe accommodations and daily meals at the Biltmore's restaurants available. For more information or to register, call 305-913-3131 or email CulinaryAcademy@BiltmoreHotel.com. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue.

• March 17: Every St. Patrick's Day, thousands of people flock to John Martin's Restaurant and Irish Pub in Coral Gables for their popular St. Patty's Day. Wear your favorite green and enjoy the street party with Irish bands such as Paddy Kelligan, Brooks Reid and the Sonickats, and UV-U2 Tribute Band. The celebration takes place north of Miracle Mile on Salzedo Street to Aragon Avenue starting at 5 p.m. For more information, click here.

• March 17: Want to be a part of the spotlight? Miami Childrens Theater is holding auditions for its upcoming play Disney's Aristocats. The audition will take place at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater, 405 University Drive, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Children, ages 10 – 21, must come prepared with a one minute monologue and a song from a musical. Accompanist will be on hand. For more information, call 305-274-3595 or click here.

• March 18: Witness the magic of music with Sammy Tedder who demonstrates his homemade instruments and discusses how he achieves the sounds in his music. The University of Miami Friends of the Libraries presents interesting event to be held at the Austin and Marta Weeks Music Library, 5501 San Amaro Drive, at 7 p.m. Tedder wrote the soundtrack for Elam Stoltzfus' documentary “Big Cypress Swamp.” A small reception will start an hour before the program. For more information, click here

• March 19: The City of Coral Gables understands parents deserve a special night out every once in a while. The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center offers a monthly program called Parents' Night Out to help parents reconnect with each other as they disconnect with their children. The Youth Center, 405 University Drive, will host a sleep-over party for children ages 5 – 14 filled with special activities throughout the night. Guests are given an evening snack and breakfast the next morning. Drop off the kids on Friday at 7 p.m. and pick them up on Saturday at 9 a.m. The program costs $30 - $50 depending on resident/ member status. The deadline to register is March 17. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• March 20-21: See one of the world's largest collections of rare and exotic palms at the 2010 Spring Palm Sale. The event is taking place at the Montgomery Botanical Center, 12205 SW 57 Avenue. The South Florida Palm Society is hosting this free event from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Staff at the botanical center will be offering guided tours of its plant collection for a $5 donation per person. Over 20 different vendors will offer over 250 different varieties of palms and cycads from all over the world. Thousands of rare and unusual plants will be offered for sale. There will also be an information table where visitors can ask questions about the proper methods to grow palms. Free seeds will be available at the information table and free palm seedlings will be given to guests while they last. For more information on this event, call the South Florida Palm Society at 305-245-6331 or click here.

• March 20: The Coral Gables Farmers Market is returns with fresh produce, baked goods and gourmet food. The market will feature a Tai Chi class at 8 a.m., a gardening workshop at 9 a.m. to help with any of your gardening problems, a cooking demonstration at 10 a.m. by Morton's The Steak House, and you'll want to put on your best spring clothing for a special picture with Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit who will arrive at the market at 11 a.m. for the children's activity. The Farmers Market takes place in front of City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call the Economic Sustainability Department at 305-460-5311.

• March 22: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents Plants and People: An Interactive Garden, Unearthing a World of Experiences for People Living with Alzheimer's. During this program early to mid-stage patients and their caregivers will be treated to lunch and an exclusive and interactive tram tour of Fairchild. The program, which is free of charge, starts at 11:30 a.m. Registration is requested one week in advance. To make reservations, call 305-667-1651, extension 3388.

• March 25 - June 10: The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center will be holding its annual Business Basketball League. All individuals on each team must be affiliated with the same business. Registration is $475 per team. The league meets Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. For more information, call 305-460-5600.

• March 25: Come and experience Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden at night as moonlit tropical palms and world renowned art combine to create a beautiful setting for Movie Night. Enjoy a popular movie shown outside on the Garden House Lawn. Bring your blanket and picnic baskets to make it a truly special event. This event starts at 6 p.m. Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $10 for Fairchild members, $5 for member children ages 6-17, $15 for non-members, and $8 for non-member children ages 6-17. For more information, click here.

• March 27: The Coral Gables Farmers Market ends its season with a Grand Finale Chefs' Picnic hosted by the American Institute of Wine & Food. South Florida's finest chefs team up with purveyors of fine produce and foods for this event. Samplings are available at a modest charge. Market visitors can participate in a Tai Chi class at 8 a.m. and later enjoy music, see antique cars and children can pet baby farm animals. The Farmers Market takes place in front of City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call the Economic Sustainability Department at 305-460-5311.

• April 1: Come and experience Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden at night as moonlit tropical palms and world renowned art combine to create a beautiful setting for Family Movie Night with the Dog. Enjoy a family friendly movie with your pet. The movie is shown outside on the Garden House Lawn. Bring your blanket and picnic baskets. This event starts at 6 p.m. Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $10 for Fairchild members, $5 for member children ages 6-17, $15 for non-members, and $8 for non-member children ages 6-17. For more information, click here.

• April 3: The City of Coral Gables presents the popular Egg-streme Hunt & Carnival. Thousands of eggs will cover 13 city parks; some of which will be prized eggs. This is the largest simultaneous egg hunt in South Florida. The egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. After you're done collecting eggs, head over to the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive, for a carnival. For a list of participating parks and open spaces, click here.

• April 4: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is hosting and Easter Brunch at the Garden. Bring your appetite to the brunch. On the menu: Belgium waffles, made-to-order omelets, salads, a carving station and desserts galore. Come enjoy brunch and the springtime magic of Fairchild. The garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. The event takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information on the cost and to make reservations, call 305-256-8399.

• April 5: The Coral Gables Fire Department is offering residents a free CPR and AED class. Be prepared to handle a family emergency by learning the lifesaving techniques from trained professionals. The class will take place at Fire Station #1, 2815 Salzedo Street, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. After the course, participants will receive a two year certification issued by the American Heart Association. For more information or to register for the CPR class, call the Fire Department at 305-460-5576.

• April 10: The 7th Annual Coral Gables Wine and Food Festival is back and bigger. The event, which brings together over 40 restaurants in one location, has moved locations from Giralda Avenue to the 200 and 300 blocks of Miracle Mile. Enjoy live music and delicious dishes made by some of the areas most popular chefs. The fundraising event benefits the South Florida Community's Asthma Program & Asthma Research at the University of Miami's Asthma Clinical Research Center. Tickets to the event cost $50. For more information, call 954-524-4657.

• April 12: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents Plants and People: An Interactive Garden, Unearthing a World of Experiences for People Living with Alzheimer's. During this program early to mid-stage patients and their caregivers will be treated to lunch and an exclusive and interactive tram tour of Fairchild. The program, which is free of charge, starts at 11:30 a.m. Registration is requested one week in advance. To make reservations, call 305-667-1651, extension 3388.

• April 15: The University of Miami Friends of the Library brings you a special program featuring award winning photographer Clyde Butcher. Discover the intimate beauty of the environment as Butcher discusses his famous black and white photographs of the Florida landscape. A reception starts at 6 p.m. with the event starting at 7 p.m. at the Otto G. Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive. For more information, click here.

• April 15: Come and experience Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden at night as moonlit tropical palms and world renowned art combine to create a beautiful setting for a howling good time. Enjoy this Howl at the Moon event where you get to bring your dog to Fairchild for the evening. Your four-legged friend is sure to enjoy the scenery and participate in some dog-gone activities. This event starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m. Fairchild is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Admission is $10 for Fairchild members, $5 for member children ages 6-17, $15 for non-members, and $8 for non-member children ages 6-17. For more information, click here

• April 16 - 18: Bestselling cookbook author Lourdes Castro will be teaching at the Biltmore Hotel's Culinary Boot Camps. Castro, the author of the best-selling cookbook, Simply Mexican, will offer culinary instruction with a curriculum that includes basic training in knife skills, pantry, herbs & spices, Italian technique, cold kitchen, meats, seafood and poultry & grains. The weekend camp costs $900. There are all-inclusive packages that include deluxe accommodations and daily meals at the Biltmore's restaurants available. For more information or to register, call 305-913-3131 or email CulinaryAcademy@BiltmoreHotel.com. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue.

• April 16: The City of Coral Gables understands parents deserve a special night out every once in a while. The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center offers a monthly program called Parents' Night Out to help parents reconnect with each other as they disconnect with their children. The Youth Center, 405 University Drive, will host a sleep-over party for children ages 5 – 14 filled with special activities throughout the night. Guests are given an evening snack and breakfast the next morning. Drop off the kids on Friday at 7 p.m. and pick them up on Saturday at 9 a.m. The program costs $30 - $50 depending on resident/ member status. The deadline to register is April 14. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• April 17 - 18: The Bromeliad Society of South Florida presents the Bromeliad Plant Show and Sale. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and purchase these beautiful and easy-to-grow plants. The event takes place Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost of admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65+ and $10 for children 6-17 years of age. For more information, click here.

• April 24 - 25: The Food and Garden Festival featuring the 31st Annual Spring Plant Sale returns to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Come see culinary demonstrations with just-picked from the garden products. Gather new recipes and tips and visit with local growers which will showcase the best fruits, vegetables and herbs available in South Florida. The event takes place at the garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost of admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65+ and $10 for children 6-17 years of age. For more information, click here.

• May 1: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents Plants and People: An Interactive Garden, Unearthing a World of Experiences for People Living with Alzheimer's. During this program early to mid-stage patients and their caregivers will be treated to lunch and an exclusive and interactive tram tour of Fairchild. The program, which is free of charge, starts at 11:30 a.m. Registration is requested one week in advance. To make reservations, call 305-667-1651, extension 3388.

• May 10: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents Plants and People: An Interactive Garden, Unearthing a World of Experiences for People Living with Alzheimer's. During this program early to mid-stage patients and their caregivers will be treated to lunch and an exclusive and interactive tram tour of Fairchild. The program, which is free of charge, starts at 11:30 a.m. Registration is requested one week in advance. To make reservations, call 305-667-1651, extension 3388.

Arts & Culture in Coral Gables

Theater/Musical:

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theater
280 Miracle Mile
305-444-9293
www.actorsplayhouse.org

Bill Cosford Cinema at the University of Miami
Memorial Building, 2nd Floor
1111 Memorial Dr.
305-284-4861
http://com.miami.edu/Our_School/Facilities.htm#CosfordCinema

GableStage
The Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Ave.
305-446-1116
www.gablestage.org

Jerry Herman Ring Theatre at the University of Miami
1312 Miller Drive
305-284-3355
http://www.miami.edu/tha/ring/rwelcome.htm

Maurice Gusman Concert Hall at the University of Miami
"Sunday Afternoons of Music"
1314 Miller Dr.
305-271-7150
http://www.music.miami.edu/facility/gusman/
http://www.sundaymusicals.org/gusman.htm

Miami Children’s Theater
Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater
405 University Dr.
305-233-2206
www.miamichildrenstheater.com

New Theatre
4120 Laguna St.
305-443-5909
http://www.new-theatre.org/

Museums:

Casa Bacardi
1531 Brescia Ave.
305-284-2822 (305-284-CUBA)
http://casabacardi.iccas.miami.edu

Coral Gables Merrick House and Gardens
907 Coral Way
305-460-5361

Coral Gables Museum
Coming soon to 285 Aragon Ave.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Rd.
305-667-1651
www.fairchildgarden.org

Montgomery Botanical Center
11901 Old Cutler Road
305-667-3800
www.montgomerybotanical.org

Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami
1301 Stanford Dr.
305-284-3535
http://www.miami.edu/lowe/

PIAG - Museum & Gallery
2724 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
305-443-0770
www.piagmuseum.org

Antiques/Home Furnishings:

Alhambra Antiques / European Fine Art
2850 Salzedo St.
305-446-1688
www.alhambraantiques.com

The Gilded Hand
165 Aragon Ave.
305-442-1445
www.thegildedhand.com

Modernism Gallery
800 Douglas Rd., Suite 101
305-442-8743
www.modernism.com

Literary Events:

Barnes and Noble
152 Miracle Mile
305-446-4152

Books & Books
265 Aragon Ave.
305-442-4408
http://www.booksandbooks.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp

Fifteenth Street Books
296 Aragon Ave.
305-442-2344

Other:

Miami Piano Academy
4091 Laguna Street
786-464-0566
www.miamipianoacademy.com

2008-2009 Coral Gables Cultural Grant Recipients

2008-09 Coral Gables Cultural Grant Recipients: A total of $166,250 in grant funds has been awarded to these organizations to support festivals and cultural and community events in Coral Gables. The City is proud to support the cultural community for its invaluable contributions to the Coral Gables way of life.

Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre - www.actorsplayhouse.org

Beaux Arts Festival - www.beauxartsmiami.org

Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education - www.caje-miami.org

Chopin Foundation of the United States - www.chopin.org

City Theatre - www.citytheatre.com

Civic Chorale of Greater Miami - www.civicchoraleofgreatermiami.org

Coral Gables Congregational Church - www.communityartsprogram.org

Coral Gables Museum Corp. - www.coralgablesmuseum.org

The Dance Now! Ensemble - www.dancenowmiami.org

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden - www.fairchildgarden.org

Friends of Chamber Music of Miami - www.MiamiChamberMusic.org

Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library - www.mdpls.org

GableStage - www.GableStage.org

Greater Miami Youth Symphony of Dade County - www.gmys.org

Lowe Art Museum - www.miami.edu/lowe/

Merrick Festival - www.merrickfestival.org

Miami Bach Society - www.miamibachsociety.org

Miami Children’s Chorus - www.miamichildrenschorus.org

Miami Momentum Dance Company - www.momentumdance.com

Miami Short Film Festival - www.miamishortfilmfestival.com

Murray Dranoff Foundation - www.dranoff2piano.org

New Theatre - www.new-theatre.org

St. Patrick’s Day Committee - www.emeraldsocietysfl.com

Sunday Afternoons of Music - www.sundaymusicals.org

Temple Judea - www.judeagables.org

Tigertail Productions - www.tigertail.org

Walenstein Musical Organization - www.walensteinmusic.org

Women’s International Film & Arts Festival - www.womensfilmfest.com

University of Miami Frost School of Music - www.frestivalmiami.com

University of Miami School of Communication - www.cosfordcinema.com

Arts & Culture Around South Florida

Visit these web sites for more cultural events happening in South Florida:

Arts & Culture for Kids

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre
"Theatre for Young Audiences"
280 Miracle Mile
305-444-9293
http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

Maurice Gusman Concert Hall at the University of Miami
"Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children"
1314 Miller Dr.
305-271-7150
http://www.sundaymusicals.org/gusman.htm

Miami Children’s Theater
305-233-2206
www.miamichildrenstheater.com
Two locations:
Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater
405 University Dr., Coral Gables