Discover some of the best things to see and do in the Miami area this fall.
Performing Arts
“The Book of Mormon”
Nov. 26 – Dec. 22; Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Critically acclaimed filmmakers Trey Parker and Matt Stone and award-winning composer Robert Lopez deliver a contemporary twist to this dangerously comedic journey of two young missionaries in “The Book of Mormon.” First premiered in 2011, this spectacular musical has received positive recognition nationwide, garnering a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album and an impressive nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. (954-462-0222; browardcenter.org)
“Program I: First Ventures”
Oct. 18-20; Adrienne Arsht Center
Miami City Ballet premieres its season opener, “First Ventures,” featuring a three-part show including “Ballo Della Regina,” a distinguished performance executed with power and grace; “Polyphonia,” an original production crafted by contemporary choreographer Christopher Wheeldon; and finally, “Serenade,” George Balanchine’s universal masterpiece that first premiered in New York in 1935. Three more Miami City Ballet programs will come later in the season. (305-949-6722; arshtcenter.org)
“Pink Panther at 50—Celebrating
Henry Mancini”
Nov. 1; Knight Concert Hall
Celebrating 50 years since the premiere of cinematic icon “The Pink Panther,” the University of Miami and Festival Miami present the musical and cinematic works of award-winning composer and conductor Henry Mancini in this one-night-only tribute concert. The concert will feature projections of Mancini’s most distinguished films, as well as acclaimed musicians, including Mancini’s daughter, Grammy Award nominee Monica Mancini, and the University of Miami’s own Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra. (305-949-6722; arshtcenter.org)
“Next to Normal”
Nov. 7-10; Aventura Arts and
Cultural Center Directed by Obie Award-winning Michael Greif, the 2010 Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical “Next to Normal” portrays a tale of pain and crisis endured by one fragmented suburban family in its most honest, candid form. Playwright and lyricist Brian Yorkey and composer Tom Kitt bring the emotionally gripping performance to life. (305-466-8002; aventuracenter.org)
Exhibitions
“Terrestrial Paradises: The Voyages of Captain James Cook”
Through Feb. 9, 2014; Lowe Art Museum
This historic exhibit recalls and depicts engravings from Captain James Cook’s European voyages dating back to the late 1700s as interpreted by George William in his book “A New Authentic and Complete Collection of Voyages Round the World.” The engravings most notably depict 18th-century views of Pacific Islanders living at one with nature, or in their “terrestrial paradises.” (305-284-3535; lowemuseum.org)
“Time”
Nov. 2 – Feb. 23, 2014; Bass Museum
of Art
As part of the “Time” exhibition exploring the gap between cultures then and now, Hernan Bas will install a site-specific display known as a “cabinet of curiosities,” featuring a selection of his works as well as other artist’s most unique pieces. Through February, the exhibition will showcase additional works from Manny Prieres and Alexandra Pirici, specifically arranged to represent the essence and chronology of time. (305-673-7530; bassmuseum.org)
“Tracey Emin: Angel Without You”
Dec. 4 – March 9, 2014; Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami
The art world’s eyes will be on Art Basel as it comes to Miami Beach this December, but aficionados can kick off the celebration of artistic expression a day early with the Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami’s opening of “Tracey Emin: Angel Without You.” The exhibit, which is the first American museum exhibition dedicated to contemporary British artist Tracey Emin, will highlight the use of neons in her work. More than 60 works that span two decades will be on display, including an exclusive piece created for the museum’s Knight Exhibition Series. With pieces that include Emin’s free-floating neon writing and sculptures created from contiguous neon tubing, this bright MOCA exhibit is a shining star on the Miami art scene this season. (305-893-6211; mocanomi.org)
“Amelia Peláez: The Craft of Modernity”
Dec. 4 – Feb. 23, 2014; Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
PAMM will welcome the works of notable Cuban modernist painter Amelia Peláez, a pioneer of “primera vanguardia” (first edge), which signifies the Cuban art movement incorporating Cubism, surrealism and contemporary styles. Peláez is best known for vibrant hues that make up abstract depictions of life in Havana, Cuba. (305-375-3000; pamm.org)
Events and Activities
South Beach Seafood Festival
Oct. 19; Lummus Park
Minutes from Bal Harbour, South Beach’s inaugural seafood festival will feature signature dishes from acclaimed local restaurants like Joe’s Stone Crab; Truluck’s; Red, the Steakhouse; and Cafe Avanti. The festival is an extravaganza for stone crab season to excite your taste buds for what’s to come. (305-255-3500; sobeseafoodfest.com)
Miami Short Film Festival
Nov. 8-15; throughout Miami
Immerse yourself in the art, expression and culture of local, national and foreign short films—all 20 minutes or less—at this exclusive festival celebrating contemporary storytelling as the Miami Short Film Festival commences with its 12th season. (miamishortfilmfestival.com)
Miami Book Fair International
Nov. 17-24, 2013; Second Avenue
Miami Book Fair International’s 30th installment will present an array of compelling novels, acclaimed guest speakers, continuous live storytelling and art and food. Join the fun as literary enthusiasts unite to celebrate eight days of various events geared to intrigue and enlighten all ages. (305-237-3258; miamibookfair.com)
Festival Miami
Through Nov. 1; University of Miami Frost School of Music
To celebrate 30 years of world-renowned guest performers, faculty artists and student ensembles, Festival Miami invites attendees to thoroughly immerse themselves in this sensational live music experience. Opening with international jazz musician and seven-time Grammy Award winner Gloria Estefan, Festival Miami will showcase the talent and expertise of acclaimed musicians worldwide all within the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall. (305-284-4940; festivalmiami.com)
