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

• June 23 - August 7: Closing out the Actors' Playhouse Theatre for Young Audiences is the fun play Pippi Longstocking. Written by Thomas W. Olson and based on the children's books by Astrid Lindgren, this funny musical follows the life of the unforgettable little girl with the freckled face and red pig tales as she struggles to find her place in the world. This classic tale takes place Saturdays at 2 p.m. Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. Tickets cost $15 for adults and children. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-444-9293 or click here.

• July 7 - August 15: : Actors' Playhouse presents a fresh and funny musical comedy that tackles the question we so often ask ourselves on life's roller coaster journey, “Are We There Yet?” See the typical bumps, u-turns and road blocks of life being played out on the stage. Performances take place Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $42, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-444-9293 or click here.

• August 14 - September 12: GableStage at the Biltmore Hotel presents the Fifty Words by Michael Weller. When their young son is away on his first sleepover, a married couple has their first night alone together in years. Will they renew a vital spark that's been nearly smothered - or will provisional civility explode into fiery chaos? The play is an expansive look at modern marriage which is alternately funny and frightening. Performances take place Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. On Thursdays and Sunday nights, tickets cost $37.50, Friday nights and Sunday matinees cost $42.50, and tickets for performances on Saturdays costs $45. GableStage is located at Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 305-445-1119 or click here.

• September 29 - October 9: Jerry Herman Ring Theatre begins its 2010-2011 season with the Tony Award winning musical Urinetown. This comedy is set in a Gotham-like city where a terrible water shortage has led to a government-enforced ban on all private toilets and all bathrooms are regulated by a malevolent and greedy corporation. Weeknights and matinee performances range in price from $16 - $22. Friday and Saturday night performances range in price from $18 - $25. The Ring Theatre is located at 1312 Miller Drive on the University of Miami campus. For more information and performance times, call 305-284-3355.

• October 6 - November 7: A world full of lyricism comes to life in Havana in the new play The Color of Desire. Actors' Playhouse presents the world premiere of The Color of Desire by Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz. Set in 1960 as the revolution heats up, a dashing American businessman hires a young Cuban actress for a role unlike any she's ever played: the woman he loved and lost. Performances take place Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $42, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-444-9293 or click here.

• November 17 - December 26: One of the most beloved musicals of all time, Oliver! vividly brings to life Charles Dickens' timeless characters with its ever-popular story of the boy who asked for more. Lionel Bart's musical masterpiece is coming to the Actors'' Playhouse. Winner of 2 Tony Awards and 6 Oscars, Oliver! has played in 22 languages worldwide. Performances take place Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $42, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Actors'' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-444-9293 or click here.

• January 19 - February 13: A musical comedy that will spell W-O-N-D-E-R-F-U-L when it kicks off the New Year in 2011 at Actors'' Playhouse. 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicles the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Spelling Bee is a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom the spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. Performances take place Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $42, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Actors'' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-444-9293 or click here

• March 9 - April 10 : The Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre presents August: Osage County. The play is about is about a father who disappears, a mother caught in the grip of addiction, a marriage unraveling, and a family approaching total meltdown. This Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Tracy Letts electrified audiences in New York with its thrilling story and scathingly intelligent humor. Performances take place Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $42, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Actors' Playhouse at Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 305-444-9293 or click here.

Musical

• July 29: The Coral Gables Congregational Church presents the 2010 Summer Concert Series. The season continues with Nicholas Payton. The trumpeter has been lauded as a significant, top-tier voice in jazz. Nicholas has consistently committed himself to discovering his voice outside of the strict confines of that rearview mirror approach to the music. With this, we have a compelling artist and an over-the-top evening when Nicholas is joined with his dynamic band. The concert takes place at Coral Gables Congregational Church, 3010 De Soto Boulevard, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for general seating or $40 for seating within the first eight rows. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-448-7421, ext. 153.

• August 6: Seraphic Fire, the ensemble of professional singers, presents Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit: The American Spiritual Trio concert. Countertenor Reggie Mobley, tenor Calvin Lee and pianist Patrick Dupre Quigley will explore how the African American spiritual bolstered a people and inspired a nation. The performance will take place at First United Methodist Church, 536 Coral Way, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

• August 12: The Coral Gables Congregational Church presents the finale concert of the 2010 Summer Concert Series. The concert series ends with pianist and composer Ramsey Lewis. Lewis has been referred to as “The Great Performer,” a title reflecting his performance style and musical selections that display his early gospel roots and classical training. Come celebrate with the thee-time Grammy award winner in what is expected to be a night to remember. The concert takes place at Coral Gables Congregational Church, 3010 De Soto Boulevard, at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25 for general seating or $40 for seating within the first eight rows. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 305-448-7421, ext. 153.

• August 27: Seraphic Fire, the ensemble of professional singers, presents The Entertainer: Music of Scott Joplin concert. Back by popular demand, this concert will once again evoke memories of the Age of Ragtime. The performance takes place at First United Methodist Church, 536 Coral Way, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $35. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

• October through May: Enjoy a Live Music Series when you visit the Village of Merrick Park. Gather by The Garden to listen to a multicultural mix of Jazz, Bossanova, World Music, Flamenco, Classics, Pop melodies, Contemporary and Latin Grooves. The entertainment takes place Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Village of Merrick Park is located at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue. For a schedule, click here.

• December 5: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents its 17th year of Holiday Music in the Garden. This heart-warming seasonal musical concert is the perfect compliment for Fairchild's beautiful landscapes. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. The event takes place from 6 – 10 p.m. For ticket information, please contact a special events coordinator at 305-663-8058.

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 10:30 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 10:30 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: May 5: Spaghetti and Meatballs, May 12: Chicken Roma, May 19: Baked Florida Snapper, May 26: Farfalle alla Campagna (vegetarian), June 2: Salmon, June 9: Chicken Marsala, June 16: Penne Rustica (vegetarian), June 23: Chicken Piccata, June 30: London Broil, July 7: Lasagna (meat or vegetarian), July 14: Chicken Teriyaki, July 21: Rigatoni e Salsiccia (pasta with sausage and peppers), and July 28: Salmon.

• 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.

• Every 4th Monday of the Month: Join new volunteer, Julia Cintron in this informal group that will explore healthy choices. The goal of the Healthy Living group is to improve your physical, social, metal, intellectual, vocational and emotional wellness. The classes take place every 4th Wednesday in the Adult Activity Center at 11:30 a.m. This program is offered free of charge. For more information, call 305-460-5609.

• Every 2nd and 4th Friday: There are many interesting events taking place around the world. Come and discuss them at the Current Events Discussion Group with volunteer leader Jim Pollack at 12:30 p.m. in Room 112 of the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 305-460-5609.

• July 1 - 29: Learn the language of the future. The Adult Activity Center is offering Beginner's Mandarin, the most widely spoken language in the world. Take the challenge and sign up for the five-week session that's being offered Thursdays 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The senior center is located at 624 Anastasia Avenue. The fee is $12. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5609 or visit the Registration Office at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive.

• Mondays & Thursdays: The Adult Activity Center is offering seniors a new dance class program called Almost Broadway. Volunteer Mimi Winship will be leading the monthly dance group on Mondays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. There is no previous dance experience needed. The fee per month is $10. For more information or to sign up, call 305-460-5609 or visit the Registration Office at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive.

• Every 3rd Monday: Join us for a complimentary lunch followed by a presentation by a guest speaker during the Monthly Lunch & Lecture Series. Reservations are required no later than the second Thursday of the month. Space is limited. Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. Topics for the next Lunch & Lectures: August 16, Good Health Series by Cindy Margolies, RN/ September 20, Senior Health Fair (meet at the War Memorial Youth Center gym)/ October 18, Jazz Classics by Jim Pollack.

• August 19: Preparation and planning can provide comfort to you and your family. Attend the workshop End of Life Issues and receive vital information on living wills, DNR (Do Not Resuscitate), Five Wishes, hospice care and much more. The workshop, held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Room 112, will be presented by Vitas, Norma Trabanco, LCSW and Alicia Suarez. Participation is free but seats are limited. Reserve your seat by calling 305-460-5609.

• September 7, 14: The Computer II class, is designed for individuals who have learned the basics. Learn how to customize the taskbar, in-depth Internet tools, adding a printer loading software and more. Classes take place at the War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on. The fee is $60. For more information, call 305-460-5609.

• September 13: The Book Club is one of the most popular clubs at the Adult Activity center. Join volunteer Sandy Lysinger to discuss the Book of the Month. Meet at the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue, in Room 112 at 1 p.m. The book that will be discussed is “Loving Frank” by Nancy Horan.

• September 20: The Coral Gables Adult Activity Center and Baptist Health System have teamed up to offer a free Senior Health Fair. Take advantage of free health screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and osteoporosis), lunch and many giveaways. Screenings are limited to the first 300 people. Important health information will be provided such as Flu & Pneumonia and the 5 Wishes forms. Nurses and health professionals will also be onsite. The event takes place at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 305-460-5609.

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.

• 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.

• Tuesdays: The Biltmore Hotel hosts the only organized Petanque tournament in Miami. Beginners and experts can play this fun and exciting game from 6 – 8 p.m. Weekly drawing winners receive Sunday champagne brunch for two. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 305-445-1926.

• Sundays: Dade Heritage Trust offers Historic Tours of the Biltmore Hotel every Sunday. Tour the famous hotel with a Dade Heritage Trust Biltmore docent. Ask about the “Roaring 20s” speakeasy. The free tours are offered at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Meet at the hotel lobby. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call Judy Pruitt at 305-443-9793.

• Through August: Enjoy Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden during the Summer. Fairchild is offering free admission for visitors on Sundays during the month of August. During Free Summer Sundays you can sit on a bench, read a book or have a picnic. The garden will have special events during the month on August such as plant sales, live music, yoga and tram rides. Fairchild Garden, located at 10901 Old Cutler Road, is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, click here.

• Through August 13: The artwork of renowned Miami artist Erik Speyer is on display at Turnberry Bank, 221 Aragon Avenue. From Several of Speyer's watercolor and oil works will be on display in the offices from 9a.m. to 4 p.m. for everyone to enjoy. For more information, call 305-444-1660.

• June 14 - July 30: The Biltmore Hotel's Culinary Academy is dishing up a Summer Camp program just for kids. All one-week cooking camps and designed to be hands-on and are taught by the Biltmore's chef instructors with special workshops taught by the hotel's acclaimed chefs. The summer cooking camp is open to children ages 7 to 17, with classes grouped by age. The program is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and end at 2 p.m. Camp includes lunch, apron, and all class materials at a price of $375 per child. For more information, or to register, call 305-913-3131.

• June 14 - August 20: The Biltmore Hotel is offering children who like golf a Golf Summer Camp. Located on the restored Donald Ross 18-hole 71 par course, the camp is designed for all levels of junior golfers (ages 6 -17). The program exposes children to activities that will improve their hand-eye coordination, balance, strength and speed. By introducing children to new developmental exercises, the camp will not only improve their golf game, but will also improve their overall coordination, balance and agility. The Biltmore Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. The camp runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at a cost of $325. For more information or to sign up, call 305-445-1926.

• June 14 - August 13: The Coral Gables Parks & Recreation Department is offering several summer camps to keep your kids entertained all summer long. There is something for everyone, from soccer to painting, from theater to life guard training. Full and half day camps are available for children ages 3 - 18. For more information on particular camps and rates contact the department at 305-460-5600 or click here.

• June 26 - October 31: The University of Miami's Lowe Art Museum presents the exhibition The Jaguar's Spots: Ancient Mesoamerican Art. This comprehensive exhibition of masterpieces from ancient Mexico through Panama is a permanent collection of the Lowe Art Museum. The exhibit will be accompanied by a scholarly catalogue, lectures and educational programs that highlight and explore the complex relationship between art and the natural world. The exhibition will be open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. For more information, call 305-284-3535 or click here.

• July 12 - August 6: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents Fairchild Farm Summer Camp. Children ages six to ten will be empowered while learning about natural resources connected through the arts and science. Activities include hands-on learning about butterflies, bees, insects, unusual tropical fruits, birds, nature crafts with leaves, and much more. The four week camp takes place at Fairchild Farm, 14885 SW 248 Street in Redland, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The camp costs $150 per week for Fairchild members and $175 per week for non-members. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. For more information or to register, contact Leila Werner by calling 305-258-0464 or by email lwerner@fairchildgarden.org

• July 16 - July 30: The Salvadore Park Tennis Center is hosting a Ladies Round-Robin Doubles Tournament for ladies ages 18 and older. Teams are divided into two groups. The top two teams of each group advance to the semi-finals. Prizes and amounts of games played depend on the number of registered players. The games take place Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The fee per class is $21 for residents and $26 for non-residents. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• July 19 - August 9: The William H. Kerdyk / Biltmore Tennis Center is offering Adult Intermediate Tennis classes. This program is for those who have had some formal training and can demonstrate stroke production and maintain a rally. This class will consist of a combination of stroke technique, ball spin, court positioning, and basic tactics of play. Players in this clinic should have a NTRP rating of 2.5 – 3.0. The clinic takes place Mondays from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The fee for residents is $88 and $113 for non-residents. The tennis center is located at 1150 Anastasia Avenue. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• July 19 - August 9: The William H. Kerdyk / Biltmore Tennis Center is offering Adult Advanced Tennis classes. This course is for the advanced player. Classes will cover shot placement, strategy, advanced stroke production and point play. Players in this clinic should have a NTRP rating of 3.5 or better. The clinic takes place Mondays from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. The fee for residents is $88 and $113 for non-residents. The tennis center is located at 1150 Anastasia Avenue. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• July 22 - August 12: The William H. Kerdyk / Biltmore Tennis Center is offering Adult Beginners Tennis classes. This program is for beginners wanting to learn the fundamentals of the game. The clinic will cover racquet positioning, stroke production, court positioning, shot placement and games. Classes take place Thursdays from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. The session costs $88 for residents and $113 for non-residents. The tennis center is located at 1150 Anastasia Avenue. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• July 31: Children are invited to the library for an hour of shaking and moving to the music. Wee Wee Wiggle and Sing promotes early literacy. The program will help develop your child's natural rhythm while stimulating early skills through simple music and movement activities. The class starts at 11a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Coral Gables branch library, 3443 Segovia Street. For more information, call the library at 305-442-8706.

• August 3: Gather your friends and meet at the library for a fun and entertaining event. Crazy Eddie's Juggling Show is sure to make you awe in amazement. The show takes place in the auditorium of the Coral Gables branch library starting at 3:30p.m. The Library is located at 3443 Segovia Street. For more information, call the library at 305-442-8706.

• August 15: Hair salons normally don't open on Sundays but Camelot Salon & Spa is making an exception for a very good cause. Camelot has teamed up with Gold-Diggers, Inc. for the third annual Cut-A-Thon charity event. During the hours of 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., the salon will offer deep discounts for services: hair cuts for $20, nail polish change for $5 and a chair massage for $10. Gold-Diggers, a women's charity organization, has raised over one million dollars for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of South Florida and the Food for Life Network. Camelot Salon & Spa is located at 2600 Galiano Street. For more information or to make an appointment, call 305-986-3133.

• August 20: The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce presents Italian Cooking Show: A Journey Through Regional Culinary Traditions. This event is the forth and final in a series that puts two top chefs from renowned local Italian restaurants against each other in a culinary battle before an audience eager to learn the various cooking methods used in preparing some of Italy's most distinctive dishes. Audience members will then vote for their favorite dish. This event takes place at 6:30 p.m. at MiaCucina, 105 Miracle Mile. A reception will immediately follow the cooking demonstration until 9:30 pm. Admission for the cooking class and festival is $45, and $10 for just the festival. For more information or to make your reservations, contact Francesca Tanti at 305-577-9868 or by e-mail tanti@iacc-miami.com.

• August 24 - September 17: The University of Miami presents the artwork of incoming graduate students. New students Audrey Hynes (Sculpture), Colby Katz (Photography/Digital imaging), Daniel Listwan (Ceramics), Valeria Rocchiccioli (Sculpture), and Lorraine Turi (Photography/Digital imaging) will have their respective works on display. The Department of Art and Art History in the College of Arts and Science at UM is hosting the event. The exhibition will be on display at the College of Arts and Sciences Gallery located at the Wesley Foundation, 1210 Stanford Drive, Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 305-284-2543.

• August 30 - November 13: The Coral Gables Youth Center hosts is Girls' Volleyball season. The Volleyball League will introduce new players to the basic skills while providing experienced players the opportunity to refine and enhance the skills they have already developed. This league is designed for girls ages 8-14. Practice times for girls ages 8 -11 is Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 – 6 p.m. and 6 -7p.m. with games taking place on Wednesdays at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11a.m., and 12 p.m. Practices for girls ages 12 – 14 is Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. and 7 – 8 p.m. with games takes place on Thursdays at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Registration fees range in price from $139 to $232 depending on resident/non resident status. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• August 31 - November 6: The Coral Gables Youth Center Flag Football Program is a community supported league designed for boys and girls ages 8 -14. Flag Football has adopted the philosophy of fun with a no-pressure “athlete first, winning second” environment. Practices for kids ages 7-9 and 10-12 is Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 -6 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. with games take place on Thursdays, 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Kids ages 13 – 15 practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-7p.m. and 7-8 p.m. with games take place on Tuesdays at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Fridays at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Registration fees range in price from $139 to $232 depending on resident/non resident status. For more information or to register, call 305-460-5600 or click here.

• September 18 - 19: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the International Aroid Society Show and Sale. There is no easier way to add a touch of the tropics to your yard than by mixing the striking look of aroids with stately palms. The leaves of many aroids are so stunning that they are frequently used in artwork throughout the world. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 - 17. For more information, click here.

• September 25 - 26: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the 7th Annual Butterfly Days. Explore the colorful world of butterflies; learn to identify South Florida varieties and what plants are best at attracting them. Take a walking tour through Fairchild with a South Florida butterfly expert and search for butterflies. There are several activities for children as well. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 – 17. For more information, click here.

• September 25: September 25: The Gables Hispanic Cultural Foundation is hosting its first ever Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival. The day-long event takes place at Merrick Park across the street from City Hall, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. It will feature music, art works, culinary offerings, a pageant and domino tournament, among other events. The street festival will serve to promote the Hispanic culture during Hispanic Heritage Month. For more information, click here.

• October 9 - 10: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the Bonsai Society of Miami Show and Sale. Massive trees are reduced to incredibly detailed miniature versions of themselves by the skillful hands of bonsai artists. Award wining bonsai trees will be on display and visitors will have the opportunity to purchase bonsai plants and the materials needed to create your own very own bonsai. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 - 17. For more information, click here.

• October 23 - 24: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the Edible Garden Festival. The festival will feature informative lectures, delicious food, cooking demonstrations, plant vendors and demonstrations on how to create a fruit and vegetable garden in your own home garden or as a container garden. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 – 17. For more information, click here.

• November 6 - 7: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the popular South Florida Palm Society Sale. Palms come in every shape and size and are a must for every home garden. The South Florida Palm Society offers the largest selection of palms available for the home landscape with vendors and members available for advice and to answer your questions. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 – 17. For more information, click here.

• November 12 - 14: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden presents the 70th Annual Ramble, a Garden Festival. The Ramble is South Florida's most loved and oldest garden party. Come and experience a blend of old traditions and new introductions with Nell's Tea Garden, the largest plant sale in South Florida, antiques and collectibles, garden themed art, old and rare books, our famous Kid Way, live music and the incredible ramble raffle. Fairchild Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road and is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages 6 - 17. For more information, click here.

• November 13 - January 16: The Lowe Art Museum presents selections from one of the premier collections of African American art. The Harmon and Harriet Kelley Collection of African American Art: Works on Paper will be on exhibition at the museum. The 69 works will include drawings, etchings, lithographs, watercolors, pastels, screen prints, acrylics and gouaches by noted artists such as Ossawa Tanner, Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Elizabeth Catlett and Alison Saar. The exhibition is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. The Lowe Art Museum is located on the University of Miami campus at 1301 Stanford Drive.

• November 13 - January 16: The Lowe Art Museum will place on exhibition a collection of African art which is as functional as it is spiritual. Useable Art: African Aesthetics in Daily Life will include containers, textiles, tools and assorted furnishings. The objects that serve some purpose of daily living can be relatively easy to recognize. They can be appreciated for their forms, beauty of pattern and quality craftsmanship. The exhibition is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. The Lowe Art Museum is located on the University of Miami campus at 1301 Stanford Drive.

• November 18: Kick off the holiday season with the Village of Merrick Park's Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Countdown with Santa Clause and watch the 50 foot tree light up. There will be various children's activities and entertainment before the grand unveiling. The Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Village of Merrick Park is located at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue.

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

City of Coral Gables 2009-2010 Cultural Grant Recipients

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