The Florida Orchestra (TFO) is bringing a sleigh load of holiday performances in December for very merry music at its very best. Family-friendly experiences include Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas film with live orchestra; its most popular concert of the year, Holiday Pops; the grand tradition of Handel’s Messiah, conducted by music director Michael Francis; and TFO’s festive Holiday Brass. Tickets are available now at https://floridaorchestra.org/, 727-892-3337 and TFO’s ticket center.
Concert details:
FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s worlds upside down, inside out and funny side up in her search for the true meaning of Christmas. The Florida Orchestra will perform the score live to picture. Starring Jim Carrey, directed by Ron Howard. © 2023 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Saturday, December 2, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Mahaffey Theater — matinee added.
Tickets: $25, $35, $45 and $55; all fees included. Visit https://floridaorchestra.org/event/2324-spc4-grinch/.
RAYMOND JAMES POPS
Holiday Pops
TFO’s most popular concert of the year. It’s an annual tradition filled with family and friends, featuring favorites that range from “Sleigh Ride” to The Nutcracker with a holiday sing-along. Conducted by Bruce Hangen, former guest conductor of the Boston Pops. Featuring Tampa Oratorio Singers and Lumina Youth Choirs.
Friday, December 15, 8 p.m., Straz Center, Coral Morsani Hall.
Saturday, December 16, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Mahaffey Theater — matinee.
Sunday, December 17, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall — matinee.
Tickets: $28, $40, $65 and $80; all fees included. $20 children’s ticket available in advance; restrictions apply. Visit https://floridaorchestra.org/event/2324-pops4-holiday/.
SPECIAL CONCERT
Handel’s Messiah
Francis conducts the ultimate celebration of holiday joy with its divine “Hallelujah” chorus, a tradition for nearly 300 years. Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.
Friday, December 8, 8 p.m., Straz Center, Moraine.
Saturday, December 9, 8 p.m., Mahaffey Theater.
Tickets: $25, $35, $55 and $65; all fees included.
TFO CHAMBER CONCERT
Holiday Brass
Feel the power of TFO’s unparalleled brass section as they perform a festive mix of classical and popular holiday favorites in intimate venues. Daniel Black conducts.
Thursday, December 7, 7:30 p.m., Church of the Ascension.
Saturday, December 9, 8 p.m., Tampa Theatre.
Sunday, December 10, 2 p.m., Palladium Theater.
Tickets: $25 for general admission.
TFO will perform more than 100 concerts this season in venues throughout Tampa Bay. For tickets and more information, visit https://floridaorchestra.org/.