There's a lot happening at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Local performers, volunteers, and crews have been working hard behind the scenes, ready to welcome the community back through the doors. Take a look at what's coming to the MPAC stage from April to May.
Totally Tom Petty
April 4, 2026
Totally Tom Petty brings a full concert-style tribute led by Phil Dunget, a performer known for capturing Tom Petty's voice and stage presence with natural ease. The show features the big hits people expect, including Free Fallin', Refugee, Runnin' Down a Dream, You Wreck Me, and other favorites that shaped decades of rock radio. The band has toured across the US and Canada for many years, playing for audiences who appreciate a straightforward, high-energy Petty experience without gimmicks or overly theatrical twists.
The group performing at MPAC is based out of Las Vegas and has earned a following for its tight sound, steady musicianship, and commitment to keeping the music familiar and enjoyable. It's a good fit for anyone who enjoys live rock with a nostalgic edge and wants to hear Petty's catalog played with respect for the original sound.
The Elvis Presley Experience
April 7, 2026
The Elvis Presley Experience is a tribute that brings the music of Elvis back to the stage with a focus on the songs and moments that shaped his long run in entertainment. The show highlights different eras of his career, from early rock and roll to the polished style of his Vegas years. Expect familiar hits such as Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Love Me Tender, and others that still draw crowds today. The performer leading the show blends strong vocals with the smooth charm associated with Elvis, keeping the atmosphere lively without leaning into heavy exaggeration.
A full band backs the production, giving the music a rich sound that works well in Stone Hall. The pacing follows a classic concert style, moving through upbeat favorites and softer ballads in a way that feels steady and engaging. Fans of vintage rock and classic pop will appreciate how the performance focuses on the music itself, keeping the spotlight on recognizable melodies and the legacy behind them.
And Then There Were None
April 9, 26, 2026
Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None returns to the stage with a story that pulls the audience straight into its mystery. Ten strangers arrive on a remote island under unusual circumstances, and as the weather turns rough, the group starts uncovering unsettling truths. One by one, each guest meets a fate tied to an old nursery rhyme, creating an atmosphere that grows more tense with every scene.
The production highlights the steady build-up of suspicion as the characters try to make sense of what's happening around them. The cast leans into each shift in tone, allowing the quieter moments to land just as strongly as the dramatic ones. The play is presented through an arrangement with Concord Theatricals, and MPAC's team has shaped it with care to honor Christie's original work.
Big Fish
April 23 - May 10, 2026
Big Fish brings Tim Burton's imaginative world to the stage through a musical that blends tall tales with heartfelt family moments. The story follows Edward Bloom, a father who fills his life with vivid adventures involving mermaids, giants, witches, and other characters that blur the line between truth and embellishment. As his son tries to understand which parts of these stories come from real experience, the show reveals how memories and imagination often mix together in surprising ways.
This production is shaped by a dedicated cast of local volunteer performers who take on a wide range of colorful scenes and musical numbers. The tone shifts between playful fantasy and quiet emotional beats, giving the audience a chance to enjoy both spectacle and sincerity. The result is a warm, visually creative show that highlights how storytelling connects people across generations.
Alice in Wonderland Jr. Show
April 25, 2026
Alice in Wonderland Jr. Show brings the classic Disney story to the stage with plenty of color, imagination, and charm. Students from MPAC's Youth Education Program lead the show, guiding Alice through a lively mix of curious characters, memorable songs, and the playful twists that make this tale so well-loved. The adaptation keeps the spirit of the original while giving young performers the chance to shine in front of a live audience.
Families will enjoy seeing these students step into their roles with confidence after weeks of rehearsals and teamwork. For many of them, this is one of their first experiences performing on stage, and community support goes a long way in helping them grow. The show is upbeat, easy to follow, and a fun introduction to musical theatre for kids and adults alike.
Sarasota Contemporary Dance + Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
May 15-16, 2026
Sarasota Contemporary Dance closes its season with a special collaboration featuring artists from Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. This partnership brings together two respected local groups whose styles complement each other through movement, music, and shared storytelling. The evening highlights the rhythm and spirit of Motown, gospel influences, and the strong creative bond between choreographers Nate Jacobs and Leymis Bolaos Wilmott. Their long friendship shapes the heart of this performance, giving the program a warm, personal touch that longtime arts supporters will recognize.
After the final number, the audience is invited to stay for a champagne toast and a first look at SCD's upcoming 21st season. This post-show moment has become something many patrons look forward to, offering a chance to celebrate the work created throughout the year and enjoy a brief connection with the artists who bring it to life.
Plan Your Visit
All performances take place at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Avenue West in Bradenton. The theater continues to showcase the incredible talent of local volunteer performers and the dedicated teams who make each production possible.
Tickets for all MPAC April-May 2026 shows are available through the Manatee Performing Arts Center website, or by calling the box office at 941-748-5875.
Enjoy a great night out, support local theater, and experience the best of live performance right here at MPAC.
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