Cultural Arts 2011-12 Season Preview

Southwest Orlando boasts an eclectic variety of cultural events, performance troupes and arts centers. Theater groups, museums and local attractions offer something to suit everyone. For those looking to learn for themselves, there are numerous music and dance schools, as well as art and acting studios that can teach students the skills they need to become true artists. Southwest Orlando Bulletin’s seventh annual Cultural Arts Season Preview offers an up-close look at many of the area’s most popular venues, groups and experienced schools.

Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando Resort

Redefine entertainment with Blue Man group, a captivating mashup of unique live music, unexpected humor and lots of paint. People of all ages will enjoy the outrageous experience of Blue Man Group, which is only available at Universal Orlando Resort, 3000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. For more information, call 407-258-3626 or visit www.universalorlando.com/blueman on the Web.

Central Florida Ballet

Innovative ballet productions and educational programs are the cornerstones of Central Florida Ballet, a professional ballet company with national recognition from CNN Headline News, USA Today and the U.S. House of Representatives. Central Florida Ballet’s Academy has built an impressive reputation, with a ballet syllabus based on the Russian method, which is proven to create the strongest, most versatile dancers. The fall term begins Aug. 29, and enrollment is currently open. For more information, call 407-849-9942 or visit www.centralfloridaballet.com on the Web.

Central Florida Film Festival

During Labor Day weekend, Sept. 2 through Sept. 5, hundreds of actors, producers and directors will converge on the West Orange 5 Cinema in Ocoee for the sixth annual Central Florida Film Festival. Patrons will have the opportunity to see 70 independent features, shorts and documentaries from around the world, as well as participate in seminars and panel discussions that will entertain moviemakers and watchers alike. For more information, call 407-370-3703 or visit www.centralfloridafilmfestival.com on the Web.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

Located at 445 N. Park Ave. in downtown Winter Park, The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by American designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his art glass, pottery, leaded-glass windows, lamps and celebrated 1893 chapel interior. The museum recently opened a new 12,000-square-foot wing that exhibits art and architectural objects from Tiffany’s Long Island estate, Laurelton Hall. For more information, call 407-645-5311 or visit www.morsemuseum.org on the Web.

Cheri’s Art Uncorked, LLC

Cheri’s Art Uncorked, LLC, is the place for guests to let their creativity soar. The venue offers three-hour painting classes with professional artists. Patrons spend a fun-filled time learning how to paint, while snacking, drinking and listening to musical favorites. Guests leave with their own handpainted, original artworks, ready to give or hang. The facility works well for corporate team building, charity fundraising, birthday parties and fun nights out. For more information, call 321-248-0202 or visit www.cherisartuncorked.com on the Web.

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