The Pops Orchestra celebrates 50 years with a concert lineup that celebrates timeless hits, seasonal traditions, and show-stopping tributes. This 50th season is packed with performances in Sarasota and Bradenton, giving the community plenty of chances to enjoy live music together.
Hocus Pocus Pops
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Thursday, October 30, 2025 • 7:30 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
Halloween weekend starts on a high note with Pops Orchestra's Hocus Pocus Pops. This family-friendly concert is packed with Halloween favorites like Thriller, Ghostbusters, Beetlejuice, Black Magic Woman, and Superstition. The musicians will even be in costume, and the audience is encouraged to join in the fun. It's music, community, and a little spooky flair all rolled into one lively night.
👉 Get tickets here
Rhinestone Cowboys & National Heroes
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Friday, November 7, 2025 • 3:00 PM
Sunday, November 9, 2025 • 7:30 PM
5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Saturday, November 8, 2025 • 3:00 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
This heartfelt show celebrates the golden era of country music while paying tribute to America's veterans. Nashville country singer Ralph Curtis joins the Pops for classics made famous by George Jones, Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, George Strait, and Lee Greenwood. Expect plenty of sing-along favorites and a patriotic salute woven into the performance.
👉 Get tickets here
A Christmas Carol, the Concert
Manatee High School - Davis Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Friday, December 12, 2025 • 3:00 PM
Sunday, December 14, 2025 • 7:30 PM
902 33rd St Ct W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 3:00 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
The Pops teams up with the Manatee Players and the Manatee High School Chorus Program for a Broadway-quality version of Dickens' timeless story. Bob Christianson's musical setting brings Ebenezer Scrooge's journey to life with fresh songs, choreography, and a full cast of singers, dancers, and actors. It's festive, moving, and a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season.
👉 Get tickets here
All You Need Is Love (Liverpool Legends Beatles Tribute)
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Saturday, January 10, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Sunday, January 11, 2026 • 7:30 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
The Grammy-nominated Liverpool Legends return to Sarasota for two unforgettable shows. Hand-picked by Louise Harrison, the sister of George Harrison, this tribute band has performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to the Rose Bowl. With authentic costumes, voices, and timeless hits, they deliver the closest thing to seeing the Beatles live.
👉 Get tickets here
Let's Hang On!
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Friday, February 13, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Sunday, February 15, 2026 • 7:30 PM
5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Saturday, February 14, 2026 • 3:00 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
Spend Valentine's weekend with the unforgettable sounds of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Let's Hang On! brings the hits to life with polished harmonies and all the energy of the original Jersey Boys. Expect classics like Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Walk Like a Man, December 1963 (Oh, What a Night), and Can't Take My Eyes Off You.
👉 Get tickets here
Rocket Man (Elton John Tribute featuring Greg Bickley)
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Friday, March 20, 2026 • 3:00 PM
Sunday, March 22, 2026 • 7:30 PM
5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota
Saturday, March 21, 2026 • 3:00 PM
1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
Elton John's legendary catalog takes the spotlight as Greg Bickley channels the look, sound, and spirit of the Rocket Man himself. Expect sequins, bold costumes, and a setlist stacked with hits like Tiny Dancer, Candle in the Wind, and Crocodile Rock. It's a flashy, fun way to close out the Pops' 50th anniversary season.
👉 Get tickets here
Organ-ized: Pipes & Pops
SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, Bradenton
Friday, May 1, 2026 • 3:00 PM
5840 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
The Elizabeth M. Eaton Memorial Pipe Organ is the star of this one-of-a-kind concert. Installed at SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, the organ will join forces with the Pops Orchestra for a showcase that highlights its range and power. This program was designed for everyone who's ever asked to hear the organ featured front and center.
👉 Get tickets here
About the Pops Orchestra
The Pops Orchestra has been part of Sarasota and Bradenton's cultural life for five decades. What makes it special is the mix of people who come together to perform. More than 65 musicians take the stage each season, including teachers, students, retirees, and working professionals who all share a love of music.
Led by conductor Robyn Bell, the Pops has built its reputation on creating concerts that are both professional and approachable. Audiences get the chance to hear high-quality performances without having to drive far or spend a fortune on tickets. Many locals see Pops concerts as a tradition, and newcomers often leave surprised at how much fun they had.
Celebrating 50 years is no small feat, and the Pops is using this milestone to continue its mission of keeping music accessible to the community. With a season filled with variety and energy, there's never been a better time to be in the audience.
Visit thepopsorchestra.org for more information.
