Josh Recommends – Nov. 3, 2017

1. The Harry Potter Film Concert Series: ‘Chamber of Secrets’  

Nov. 4 and 5. The Harry Potter Film Concert will find the Orlando Philharmonic performing John Williams’ unforgettable score from “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” while the film plays in high definition on a 40-foot screen. The film is reformatted with the original dialogue and sound effects intact, but all the music is pulled out of the film. That’s the “magic” of the experience — understanding that the conductor is matching live music to the dialogue and the effects. While the film series has millions of fans around the world, symphony orchestras are now adding to that following while also serving as the perfect way for enlightened parents to introduce their children to live symphonic music. For tickets to this performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, call 844-513-2014 or visit drphillipscenter.org.

2. Central Florida Vocal Arts presents Pair of One-Act Operettas   

Nov. 9 to 19. As pioneers in modernizing operatic works, Central Florida Vocal Arts will cleverly present a premiere work by coupling it with a classic Gilbert and Sullivan. The title for the evening — “Double Jeopardy” and the double bill of “new” and “old” work together particularly well as both works deal with a trial. “The Trial of B. B. Wolf” by St. Augustine composer Curtis Tucker, and Nelson Sheeley will be presented with the classic Gilbert & Sullivan “Trial By Jury.” These comedic courtroom operettas will feature local opera stars Christina Rivera, Andrew Lejeune and John Segers, of the Gilbert & Sullivan Society, with the antics and laughter taking place in the intimate setting of the CFCArts Black Box Theatre, 250 SW. Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando. Directed by Deidre Axel, “Double Jeopardy” also will feature outstanding talent from their youth training program appearing in ensemble roles. Call (407) 927-0058 or visit CFLVocalArts.com.

3. ‘Art Under the   Stars Festival’

6 to 10 p.m. Nov. 10; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 11; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 12. Presenting 135 juried artists, the Maitland Rotary Art Festival is the only art festival in Florida with nighttime hours. Surrounded by the beauty of Lake Lily, this festival adds a real sense of occasion as art buyers stroll around the lake enjoying the sparkling lights of the artist’s booths as the stars twinkle overhead. Along with watching artists painting, attendees also can enjoy live entertainment on two stages presented by Performing Arts of Maitland throughout the weekend. There also will be a special “Kidz Art” section with student art from Orange County Public Schools. Of course, there will be food, beer and wine, with all proceeds benefiting the Rotary Club of Maitland Foundation. Parking is provided behind the Seacoast Bank on East Ventris Avenue, and admission is free. For details call (407) 777-8515 or visit facebook.com/MaitlandRotaryArtFestival.

4. Art in Odd Places 2017

Nov. 10 to 12. Art in Odd Places, a free international public art festival, returns to downtown Orlando with this year’s theme exploring the realm of Noise — “a sound, especially one that is loud or that causes disturbance.” Defining noise reveals its complexity: a joyful noise marks success, while offensive noise leaves its mark. This event will feature 34 art projects in a variety of disciplines from artists, including nine from Orlando, eight from Florida and 17 from across the country. “AiOP interrupts the ordinary day with a variety of art disciplines in the public spaces of downtown Orlando,” said Ed Woodham, AiOP founder/director. “It’s an opportunity to experience art outside of traditional venues — engaging with regional artists and artists from different parts of the U.S.” The events (all free) may be experienced along Orange Avenue between Wall Street and South Street. Call (407) 648-7060 or visit artinoddplaces.org/orlando-noise. 

5. The Festival of Trees 

Nov. 11 to 19. My favorite time to visit the Orlando Museum of Art is each November, when “The Festival of Trees” transforms the museum into a wonderland of sparkling Christmas trees by Central Florida’s top designers. Add in the festive décor, and one can not help but smile at the variety of trees — each with its own unique theme. Activities include an opening night gala fundraiser, live music performances, and daily programs for seniors and children. Trees, wreaths, gingerbread houses and decorative accessories for home or office are available for purchase with this joy-of-the-season experience supporting the Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave. in Loch Haven Park. Tickets are $10. Visit omart.org/FOT.

Josh Garrick, a West Orange resident, is a fine-art photographer, writer and curator. He holds a master’s degree in fine arts from Columbia University. He was the first non-Greek artist in history to exhibit in the National Archaeological Museum of Greece. In Orlando, Mayor Buddy Dyer named June 27 as “Josh Garrick Day” in perpetuity.