In a time in which our differences should be celebrated but are not always, Theatre Jacksonville brings to life a production which reminds us that each one of us ultimately wants and is deserving of love, meaning and purpose. Opening on Friday, March 7, The Boys Next Door is an unusual play detailing the daily lives of four young men living in a communal mental health residence, told through the perspective of a social worker who looks after them.
           
“This poignant play about young men with a variety of intellectual challenges is marked with compassion and understanding,” said Theatre Jacksonville Executive Director Sarah Boone. “Little things that can become big things lend themselves to humorous moments, and audiences leave with an appreciation of how many things we ultimately take for granted.”
           
The Boys Next Door will be directed by Matt King and features Gayla Bush, Eli Durham, Isaiah Fiedler, Greg Hewitt, Zachary Jones, Amanda Kelly, Richie Rosado, Ron Shreve and Michael Skaff. Shows will run from March 7 through 23, with evening performances at 7:30 p.m. and three matinee performances at 2 p.m. on March 16, 22 and 23. New to this year, the last Saturday performance of each show will be a 2 p.m. matinee.
After The Boys Next Door, the final two Theatre Jacksonville Mainstage season productions will be:

¨     Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen, opening April 18 – The legendary vampire tale is hilariously twisted in this gender-bending romp through a hunt for the dangerous and sexy Count Dracula. The comedy serves up clever wordplay and quick-change antics, while five actors play over a dozen roles in the head-spinning, reimagining of a Gothic classic.   
¨     Desperate Measures by Peter Kellogg and David Friedman, opening June 6 – This witty and wild new musical comedy serves up a colorful cast of Wild West-inspired characters who intervene in the fate of the dangerously handsome Johnny Blood. Before the sun sets, will they be able to pull off the greatest act yet, or will Johnny be left hanging?
           
For more information about The Boys Next Door or final shows in the 105th season lineup, visit theatrejax.com

A ZOOLights Lantern Experience
Discover a mesmerizing fusion of lanterns, wildlife and wild places as over 1,000 intricate lanterns come to life. From the towering cherry blossoms of Asia to the native panthers and manatees of Florida, each lantern tells a unique story highlighting diverse cultures around the world.

As the sun sets, the Zoo transforms into a magical wonderland, filled with vibrant colors and enchanting light.

Prepare to be amazed as these stunning lanterns transport you to far-off lands and introduce you to fascinating creatures.

Experience the magic of the event as we celebrate the interconnectedness of culture, creativity and conservation.

Colors of the Wild will be held on select nights November through February, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Monthly on the third Saturday of the month, starting from Jan 20, 2024,  11 am to 3 pm.  Arlington’s century-old Norman Studios, now a museum dedicated to silent film history, is ready for public tours after major renovations.

The former silent film studio opened in 1916 is now a National Historic Landmark. Admission is free.