Josh Garrick: Culture for Your Calendar

One more weekend through Jan. 29 – ‘Wicked’ at the Dr. Phillips Center

One of the greatest Broadway shows of all time continues to break box office records around the world … and in Orlando! Winner of over 100 international awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, “Wicked” is here for one more week, and this performance is very highly recommended. For tickets, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

  Jan. 27 – ‘In the Mood’… for the big band sound

This nostalgic ride to the music of the 1940s begins aboard the “Chattanooga Choo Choo” straight to “Tuxedo Junction.” “In The Mood” is a fully staged tribute to Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, The Andrews Sisters and all the big band greats. Complete with period costumes and choreography, the show celebrates the brassy, patriotic music of the World War II era performed by a 13-piece band and six singer-dancers. In two performances at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Bob Carr Theater, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

Jan. 27 – ‘Zora Neale Hurston: A Theatrical Biography’ at the Dr. Phillips Center

Direct from New York City, “Zora Neale Hurston: A Theatrical Biography” is a revival of the award-winning New York production of the Laurence Holder play. Elizabeth Van Dyke stars in the production directed by Woodie King Jr. with this one-performance-only serving as a benefit for Eatonville’s ZORA Festival. Celebrating Hurston's 125th birthday, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

Jan. 28 – Family Fun ‘Dino Day’ at Leu Gardens

There are fun activities and craft events all over Leu Gardens from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. as you explore the world of dinosaurs with your family. Follow the Dino Dig Map to discover all of the dinosaurs while enjoying activities throughout the Gardens. At the Mad Science area dig for dinosaur bones, and visit Arnold Palmer Hospital to receive a special keepsake. At the city of Orlando’s Pottery Studio station, children create clay dinosaurs to add to the landscape as you watch prehistoric plants come to life with the Dr. Phillips Center Performing Arts team. Experience live alligators from Gatorland and learn about these prehistoric animals and so much more at leugardens.org

Jan. 28 – Fourth annual Fire in the Park Chili Cook-Off to Cure

Big plans are underway for this event filled with award-winning chili, chicken wings, live music, games and family fun – all with a focus on raising money for breast cancer research. Teams are coming together to find a cure for cancer, and we are invited to join as a sponsor, cooking team, or attendee at Avalon Park in Orlando. Contests go from Best Traditional Red Chili to a corn-hole tournament. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit cookofftocure.com

Jan. 31 – Dr. Phillips Center presents Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

The original “Jersey Boy,” Frankie Valli is a true American legend. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles including “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night,” and “Grease.” His songs have anchored iconic movies, and over 200 artists have done cover versions of his work. Back by popular demand, his sold-out show last year paid tribute to a unique voice that is still going strong for the audiences who love him. The show is at 7:30 p.m. Call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

  Feb. 1 – Spend the Night with Billy Crystal

Tony and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, producer, writer and director Billy Crystal brings the first show of his American tour to the Dr. Phillips Center at 7:30 p.m. Call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org

Feb. 1 to 4 – ‘Tables Extraordinaire’ at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Over four special days – from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. – this unique event showcases 30 creatively exquisite table settings while offering handmade-with-love Greek culinary delights for lunch, dinner or take-out. You can bid on auction items, purchase internationally acclaimed artwork, and attend a fabulous gala dinner. The gala caps off a marvelous fun-raising week benefiting the Florida Hospital Transplant Institute, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. For tickets and information, visit Tables-Extraordinaire.com

Feb. 1 to 28 – Month-long celebration of the Morse Museum

I’m sure the Morse Museum will set some kind of record for generosity in February. To commemorate the Morse Museum’s 75th anniversary, entrance to this gem of a Museum will be free throughout the month. In addition, the Museum will debut a new audio tour, and we are invited to a free anniversary party on Feb. 17 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Visit morsemuseum.org

Feb. 1 to April 1 – The Central Florida Watercolor Society’s annual Members Exhibit

The CFWS is proud of its heritage of being open to anyone interested in watercolor, regardless of expertise. The organization’s annual Members Exhibit will be held at the SoBo Gallery at 127 S. Boyd St. in Winter Garden, featuring recent works by CFWS members. The opening on Feb. 2 at 5:30 p.m. includes an awards ceremony and is open to the public. Visit centralfloridawatercolor.org

Feb. 4 – The 25th annual Chef’s Gala supporting United Way

The funds raised at this exemplary fundraiser support United Way’s work in education, income, and health programs that serve thousands of Central Floridians in need. A premiere food and wine pairing event, Heart of Florida United Way Chef’s Gala features exquisite cuisine from more than 20 of Central Florida’s top chefs, along with fine wines, live music and a silent auction. Hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, 2017’s list of participating restaurants is amazing. Tickets are $275 (individual) and $500 (couples). The events starts at 6:45 p.m. Call 407-835-0900 or message [email protected]

Now to Feb. 5 – ‘Blackberry Winter’ at Orlando Shakespeare

Years of planning have not prepared Vivienne for her mother's slide into dementia, and Vivienne’s decisions regarding her care are interwoven with a 21st century myth about a White Egret. Steve Yockey’s new play “Blackberry Winter” is moving, sometimes humorous, but always deeply human. At the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre, call 407-447-1700 or visit orlandoshakes.org

Now to Feb. 18 – ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love?’ at the Winter Park Playhouse

This song-fest takes place at a bachelorette party where best friends share thoughts about love, marriage and the dating game. Featuring hits from the 1960s including "I Will Follow Him," "Hey There Lonely Boy," and "Why Do Fools Fall in Love?" this musical comedy reaffirms that true friendship is the key to everlasting love. Call 407-645-0145 or visit winterparkplayhouse.org

  Now to Feb. 19 - Picasso, Einstein and Steve Martin walk into the Mad Cow Theatre…

“Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” comic genius/playwright Steve Martin’s first full-length play, explores creativity, physics, and one-night stands, as worlds (and words) collide in this fictional meeting between Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein. With Steve Martin’s offbeat humor, the 20th century is born through the eyes of a very funny man. Call 407-297-8788 or visit madcowtheatre.com