A Theatrical and Musical Journey: PUFFS, Shakespeare Abridged, and Stardew Valley Symphony
This summer, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa is hosting a trio of remarkable events that promise to entertain and inspire. From the whimsical retelling of a familiar magical world in PUFFS, to the uproarious, fast-paced romp through Shakespeare's entire oeuvre, and finally, a symphonic journey through the beloved digital landscapes of Stardew Valley, each event offers a unique cultural experience. Dive into the world of these engaging performances, celebrating storytelling, humor, and music.
For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain school and conquered evil. You Know Who He Is. This is not his story, sorry, but that of those who also happened to be there, too. PUFFS is a play for anyone who has never been destined to save the world! This clever show “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to place fourth at a very dangerous magic school for kids. Overlooked and underestimated, the Puffs are a perky, well-meaning, loyal group of outsiders with a thing for badgers. Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a hero can be.
Having shrunk Shakespeare’s wit and wisdom into manageable morsels of madness, Jobsite returns to tear around the stage in doublets and Chuck Taylor’s on a riotous romp through all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays, plus the sonnets, in 90 minutes. This special encore features new cast members, new gags, changed-up sketches, but the same guaranteed belly-laughs -- even if you don’t know your Hamlet from a hole in the ground. Creative Loafing ranks seeing “an (abridged) anything at Jobsite” #12 on the list of the top 20 things to do to be considered a true Bay Area resident!
Sway and swoon to the soundtrack of the agrarian life a la digital. A 35-piece orchestra will perform music from the popular role-playing game Stardew Valley. Video will feature gameplay footage as well as original content created for the concert. See the farm grow through the seasons, and enjoy visits to valley attractions such as Pelican Town, Skull Cavern, Ginger Island and Calico Desert.
As the curtain falls on these captivating performances at the Straz Center, audiences are left with a sense of joy and appreciation for the arts. From the comedic exploits at a magic school in PUFFS to the fast-paced whirlwind of Shakespearean tales, and the melodic journey through Stardew Valley, each event offers a unique experience that celebrates creativity and storytelling. These performances remind us of the diverse ways in which stories can be told and enjoyed, enriching Tampa's vibrant cultural scene.