September 1, 2024
By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
Downtown will be alive with the Sound of Music as the 2024 – 2025 theatre season opens with a local adaption of the 1959 Rogers and Hammerstein musical. The fictional story was based on the 1949 biography of Maria August van Trapp. The movie version, featuring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer was released in 1965.
The community evening and matinee shows will be held over two weekends (Sept 6-8 and 13-15) at the Richey Suncoast in downtown New Port Richey. This production will also feature an American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation to ensure deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons can fully experience the show. (The theatre is seeking sponsors to defray the $1,500 cost so reach out if you would like to help.) This year’s season of theatrical shows at RST also includes Murder on the Orient Express, Into the Woods, Calendar Girls, and Little Shop of Horrors.
Those attending the Sips for the Stage fundraiser on August 27 at Estuary got a taste of the beloved musical with members of the local cast performing a couple of songs along with an Austrian-inspired menu offered up by Chef James Renew.
It’s a heralding for things to come, more options to choose from, and busier times in our local enclave as the fall season begins to unfold and arts and musical organizations like the Pasco Arts Council, West Pasco Arts Guild, and the Richey Community Orchestra shake off the summer doldrums and get back in the swing of things. Now get your tickets and do scroll down the calendar to see what else is on the agenda for the coming month.
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September 1 – 7
September 8 – 14
September 15 – 21
September 22 – 30
Markets
Mark Your Calendar | Get Your Tickets
- OTB denotes events that are “Over the (Pasco County) Border”
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September 1 – 7
OTB | Local Live Music Pick | 60 West performs as part of the Sunset Beach Concert Series, 7-9 p.m. Thursday, September 5 at Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs
Thinking you’re probably in for a little Buffet on the Beach along with whatever else they offer up from their extensive song list at this monthly music series at Sunset Beach in nearby Tarpons Springs. For more info on 60 West including local tour dates visit 60westband.wixsite.com
The Sound of Music, evenings and matinees, September 6 – 8 and September 13 – 15 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR. $25.
From the promo –
The Sound of Music is a musical set in Austria on the eve of World War II. The story follows Maria, a young woman who becomes the governess of the von Trapp family. Maria brings joy and music into their strict household, forming a special bond with the seven von Trapp children.
As Maria and Captain von Trapp find themselves drawn to each other their personal conflicts become overshadowed by world events. Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
9th Annual Okra Occasion, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, September 7 at the New Port Richey Library
Join in the fun while sharing the magic of okra – one of Florida’s forgotten summer vegetable treasures. There will be samples of delicious okra dishes, okra recipe books, okra seeds and maybe some fresh okra for sale by local growers. Come for the seasonal food and learn about sustainable living.
Recipe books for locally-grown produce, including okra recipe books, will be available for sale.
More Local Live Music Gigs
Sunday, September 1
- Jayar Mack, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey. Embry Trio, 3 – 7 p.m.
- OTB – Dan Welsh, 2:30-5:30 p.m. at Tarpon Springs Distillery in Tarpon Springs.
Monday, September 2
- The Ray Jr Show, 3 p.m. at Get Hooked Grill in Hudson.
Friday, September 6
- Joes Garage Band, 7-11 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
- Electric Soul Therapy, 8 p.m. at Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Mrs. Red Band, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- 5 Shades of Gray, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Borderline, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
Saturday, September 7
- Mario Guini, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey. Smooth D and the Boyz, 7-11 p.m.
- Andrew Michael Polo, 7-10 p.m. at Cotee River Brewing in downtown NPR.
- TC & Sass, 8 p.m. Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- The Shakes Society, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Bus Stop Band, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- CROSSFIRE Creek Band, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in
September 8 – 14
9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 11 in Sims Park in downtown NPR
Guest speaker is Jonathan Russell, the nephew of Deputy Commissioner William M. Feehan who was the highest-ranking New York Firefighter killed on that tragic day. Several local clergy, including Pastor Jerry Hekhuis and Chaplain Marilyn Essert, will also share remarks..
Music will be provided for by the Gulf High School Band and a special musical performance by the trio, Friends of Him. For those that come early, there will be 9/11 memorabilia and military vehicles on display as well as artwork from local students who share their view of this historical event
The Sound of Music, evenings and matinees, September 13 – 15 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR. $25.
The Sound of Music is a musical set in Austria on the eve of World War II. The story follows Maria, a young woman who becomes the governess of the von Trapp family. Maria brings joy and music into their strict household, forming a special bond with the seven von Trapp children. As Maria and Captain von Trapp find themselves drawn to each other as their personal conflicts become overshadowed by world events. Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
Historical Walking Tours, monthly at 6 p.m. Saturday, September 14, October 5 and October 19 at the West Pasco Historical Society in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Learn the stories behind the city’s historic buildings and get a glimpse into what life was like for its early citizens.
OTB | Local Live Music Pick | Julie Black Band, 5-9 p.m. Saturday, September 14 (and 28th) at H’ours Creole in downtown Tarpon Springs
This is a regular gig for hometown performer Julie Black and her band which offers a fine blend of original jazz, blues, soul, roots, & rock. Check out the band and their schedule at julieblackmusic.com
Local Live Music Pick | Concert in the Park with Supernatural – The Santana Experience, 7-8:30 p.m. Saturday, September 14 in Sims Park in downtown NPR | Free
Bring blankets and chairs for seating and enjoy the show.
More Local Live Music Gigs
Sunday, September 8
- Both Worlds, 1-5 p.m. Sunday, September 8 at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey/
Thursday, September 12
- Banjoe Steve, 7-10 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
Friday, September 13
- Streetwise Band, 7-11 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
- Mark Anthony, 8 p.m. at Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Symmetry, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Voo Doods, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Firefly, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
Saturday, September 14
- Rick Currier, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey. Hurricane Shane, 7-11 p.m.
- Nacaea, 8 p.m. Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Stormbringer, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- North to South, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Swipe Right 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
September 15 – 21
Local Live Music Pick | Open Jam with Steve & the Boys, 7 – 10 p.m. Thursday, September 19 at Bourbon on Main in downtown NPR
Like to play? Do your thing at this open jam held at Bourbon on Main. Typically has live music Thursday – Saturday nights. You’ll have to go to their FB page here for info on their schedule.
Local Live Music Pick | NPR Library Riverside Concert Series with Yvonne Ramos, 6 p.m. Friday, September 20 at Sims Park in downtown NPR
Vocalist and entertainer Yvonne Ramos, originally from the Cape Verde Islands, brings a rich blend of cultural influences to her music. Her sound, deeply rooted in African traditions, incorporates elements of Latin, blues, Caribbean, and Flamenco styles. With her soulful voice and guitar, Yvonne creates music that crosses genres and delights audiences.
This performance will take place in the southwest corner of Sims Park, near the Grassin Bridge. Please feel free to bring your own camp chair or blanket for seating.
Film Premiere Parable, Friday, September 20 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | $10 | $100 VIP Box Seats
From the promo
Six strangers awake inside a single loft with no memory of how they got there and no escape. A seventh individual lies lifeless on a bed. Hourglasses count down the minutes as they fight to find a way out. Viewers are invited into this poignant drama where vulnerable men and women take a journey together full of mystery and intrigue. Parable, dubbed The Breakfast Club of a new generation, asks its audience to get to know the characters and consider whether any one of them looks unsettlingly familiar.
**After the movie, there will be a talkback with the filmmaker and members of the cast. Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
Defying Gravity, 2 p.m. Saturday, September 21 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | Free
Join SAGES (Senior Actors Guild & Education Services) and our talented senior cast as they present Denying Gravity, an inspiring theater experience that is a roller coaster ride with twists and turns between comedy and drama. A minor misstep interrupts the good life of an active retiree, and she is annoyed, yet somewhat amused, to find herself challenged until she realizes she has entered a “twilight zone” of the unexpected. Experience how this genuine story converts audience members into advocates and can quite literally save lives.
Comedy & Magic with Elliot Smith, 7 p.m. Saturday, September 21 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | $17 – $25 | VIP Box $150
From the promo –
Prepare to be amazed by an electrifying show that promises non-stop laughter and mind-bending illusions! With a perfect fusion of comedy, wit, and audience engagement, this show delivers an unforgettable experience filled with surprises at every turn.
More Local Live Music Gigs
Sunday, September 15
- Adam Stackpole, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
Friday, September 20
- Stormbringer, 7-11 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
- The Hitmen, 8 p.m. at Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Firefly, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Bynge, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Florida Hit Machine, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
Saturday, September 21
- Matt Plaisted, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water. Remedy Band, 7-11 p.m.
- Mrs. Red, 8 p.m. Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Borderline, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Risky Business, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Jam Jones, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
September 22 – 30
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy, Shows at 6, 8, and 10 p.m. Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | $45
From the promo –
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the dark and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe. This exclusive speakeasy will transport you to a bygone era as you sip on expertly crafted cocktails inspired by four of Poe’s most beloved stories. Led by the speakeasy’s lead mixologist and Poe historians, this immersive evening promises to be a chillingly unforgettable experience. Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
“This” 70’s Show, 7 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR. $30 – $40. $200 VIP.
From the promo –
An All-Star Music Tribute to the Decade of Decadence Dust off those Boogie Shoes and come celebrate the “Golden Anniversary” of the 70’s! From Studio 54 to Hotel California, and everything in between, “This” 70’s Show” will pay tribute to some of the many artists and groups that defined a generation. Featuring a special tribute to ABBA! Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
Live Music Pick | Proper Wednesday, 9 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
Band promo..
Energetic not-your-standard-cover-band Proper Wednesday has been exploding on the Tampa Bay music scene, with venue managers inviting them back after hearing just a couple of songs. And with good reason: PW’s audience rarely leaves the dance floor, ignited by seldom-heard premier hits from the 60’s to yesterday. Check the band out at properwednesday.com
Literary Movie Day featuring the showing of Sense & Sensibility, 2 p.m. Sunday, September 29 at the Richey Suncoast Theater in downtown NPR | $6 – Free with a New Port Richey Library Card or Pasco County Library Card
Come out to Richey Suncoast Theatre to experience Sense & Sensibility on the big screen again! Join us as we celebrate this classic story as told by the incredible talent of Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Kate Winslet & Hugh Grant. Doors and Concessions will open at 1:15 PM. Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.
More Local Live Music Gigs
Sunday, September 22
- Jeff Lizio, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
Thursday, September 26
- Wade Hunt Williams, 7-10 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
Friday, September 27
- Gulfstream Band, 7-11 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
- Embry Brothers, 8 p.m. at Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey
- Jezabell, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Dirty White Boys, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey
- Mixed Signal, 9 p.m. at The Social NPR in downtown New Port Richey
Saturday, September 28
- Reyna Spears, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water. Shane Gang, 7-11 p.m.
- Mark Anthony, 8 p.m. Art’s Tap House, Old CR 54 in New Port Richey.
- TL Jentgens, 8 p.m. at Arts Tap House North, Ridge Road in Port Richey.
- Embry Brothers, 9 p.m. at Bourbon on Main in downtown New Port Richey.
Sunday, September 29
- Justin Rice, 1-5 p.m. at Whiskey River on the Water in Port Richey.
Markets
Community Markets set up shop in neighborhoods and local parks across Pasco County offering an opportunity for vendors to build a customer base and a shop local offering for residents.
Tasty Tuesdays Community Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Tuesday at the New Port Richey Library in downtown New Port Richey
Find locally sourced foods, sustainably grown produce, cottage-industry baked goods and foods, unique, hand-made items, and more. Regular items include organic produce, plants, bread, honey, eggs, coffee, skincare, etc. Get to know your growers, ask questions, and learn from their experience.
- Fourth Friday Bazaar, 6 – 10 p.m. September 27 at various locations in downtown NPR. The market features artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, woodwork, gifts and so much more.
Mark Your Calendar
- Pasco County Libraries presents “Saturday Sounds” Tribute Shows, October – January at the Starkey Ranch Library, Theatre and Cultural Center in Odessa. Tickets are $13.
- OTB – Camping With the Blues, October 18 – 20 at the Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville. It’s not too long of a ride from NPR to this spot in the woods that offers live music over three days featuring some local/area bands such as Julie Black and T-Bone Hamilton.
RV campsites tend to sell early so if this is your thing you might want to get on it now. For tickets and info go to floridasandmusicranch.com/camping-with-the-blues
- Richey Community Orchestra tickets for the 2024 – 2025 season will be on sale starting October 1. The season opens on Nov. 10 with”Rock on America” and includes dinner concerts held at Sparton Manor and general seating concerts at the Center for the Arts. For tickets and info, visit richeycommunityorchestra.com
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