Entertainment

The Entertainment Community Unites For onePULSE: A Benefit For Orlando In Hollywood, CA

Published

10 years ago

August 12, 2016

LOS ANGELES, (FNN NEWS) By onePULSE FOUNDATION — In a powerful show of collaboration and support, leading names, artists and businesses in the entertainment community are teaming up in an event to honor as well as raise much needed funds for the victims of the Orlando tragedy.

onePULSE: A Benefit for Orlando is a unique partnership effort to raise in support of onePULSE Foundation (www.onePULSEFoundation.org), the official 501(c)(3) entity incorporated by the owners of the Pulse Nightclub. The August 19^th event will be held at the recently launched NeueHouse Hollywood, aligning artists, activists, and survivors in a program that honors those taken by the tragedy with tributes to the heroes and victims of the Orlando shooting.

The diverse presentation from the Hollywood community will include Barbara Poma, owner of Pulse Nightclub, and will feature an exclusive video that interviews both survivors and families of the victims, some of whom will be in attendance at the event, along with a special video message from President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

The evening is supported by many leading names in the industry, and the onePULSE Foundation will raise additional funds through their generous donations. Via partners CharityBuzz, Prizeo and Omaze, those who want to support the initiative beyond the text to donate campaign can bid on one-of-a-kind experiences donated by supporters who include Mark Cuban, Lady Gaga, Ellen DeGeneres, Cyndi Lauper, Sir Richard Branson, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Justin Mikita, Demi Lovato,Nick Jonas, LP, Robbie Rogers and many others.

All proceeds raised through individual donors, corporate sponsorship – and via the text PULSE to 91999 donation campaign – will benefit the onePULSE Foundation, whose mission is to provide assistance to victims of the attack at Pulse Nightclub and build a permanent memorial at the Pulse Nightclub site. Through the end of 2016, ninety percent of monies raised through this campaign will be granted to the National Compassion Fund (www.nationalcompassionfund.org), developed by the National Center for Victims of Crime, and designated to support those affected by the June 12^th tragedy. The remaining proceeds from the event and campaign will contribute to the creation of a permanent memorial at the existing site of Pulse Nightclub, providing a sanctuary of hope dedicated to the lives affected and taken by the tragedy in Orlando, FL.

“The genesis of Pulse Nightclub began with honoring the heart and vibrant spirit of my late brother many years ago, but at this moment we have an even greater call to action,” said Barbara Poma. “With the help of some incredibly generous partners, we are grateful to lean on the platform that the industry provides to spread love and support to those affected by this tragedy. I am awed by how quickly so many individuals have come together in a common cause. Our goal is to create a true family community. No amount of hate can destroy that bond. We will heal together.”

Entertainment industry leaders including Virgin Produced, iHeartMedia, Universal, private work collective for creative entrepreneurs NeueHouse Hollywood and the City of Los Angeles have also lent their support to the campaign. In support of the initiative, Virgin America guests will soon be able to donate inflight by going to the shop: make a difference section of the RED ® in-flight entertainment system as well.

“The horror of this attack on the LGBTQ and Hispanic communities prompted the generosity of people from around the world. We are honored to serve as steward of these funds and ensure that we receive in the name of victims is distributed directly to them,” said Mai Fernandez, executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

“We look forward to collaborating with all those who support this mission so that this is a unified effort, made possible not by one person but by and for everyone who wants to help,” added Poma.

For more information on how to join or support the onePULSE coalition as an individual or business, please visit:www.onepulsefoundation.org.

About Pulse Nightclub
For over twelve years, Pulse was a destination that welcomed everyone and embraced the LGBTQ community. It had been a place immersed in joy and music, and one that united Orlando’s diverse communities. Founded by Barbara Poma and Ron Leglerin the memory of Barbara’s late brother, John, who passed away in 1991, the name Pulse was chosen to keep his pulse beating on. Pulse Nightclub in turn became the heartbeat of Orlando and the spiritual home of the LGBTQ community.

On June 12^th, 2016 Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, FL was the scene of the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. The tragedy took 49 lives, and injured 53 others, and left a deep wound in both the Orlando community and around the world.

About the onePULSE Foundation
The onePULSE Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) incorporated by the owners of Pulse Nightclub. Its mission is to provide financial assistance to the victims affected by the attack at Pulse Nightclub. Through the end of 2016, it will contribute 90% of funds raised to the National Compassion Fund, with the remainder contributing to the creation of a permanent memorial at the existing site of Pulse Nightclub, which will ultimately provide a sanctuary of hope dedicated to the lives affected and taken by the tragedy in Orlando, FL. on 06/12/2016.

About the National Compassion Fund
The National Compassion Fund, a program of the National Center for Victims of Crime, provides a single, trusted way for the public to donate directly to victims of a mass crime, such as a shooting or terrorist attack. It has been developed in partnership with victims and family members from past mass casualty crimes, including those from Sandy Hook, Aurora, Virginia Tech, Oak Creek Temple, NIU, Columbine, and 9/11. The National Compassion Fund (The Fund) serves donors by honoring their intent and crime victims by distributing donations directly to them, in a fair and transparent way. The National Compassion Fund is a project of the National Center for Victims of Crime, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Federal Tax ID #30-0022798 and Florida Registration #CH21962, California Registration #110155.

Entertainment

Dr. Phillips Center’s Free Frontyard Holiday Festival Returns to Downtown Orlando Nov. 27

Published

4 days ago

August 26, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The holidays are returning to downtown Orlando as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts brings back its free Frontyard Holiday Festival, transforming the Frontyard and Seneff Arts Plaza into a holiday destination from Nov. 27 through Dec. 31.

The Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center, supported by AdventHealth, will feature nightly snowfall, live entertainment, holiday movies, themed nights, firepits, seasonal food and beverages, interactive experiences, light displays and performances by local artists and community groups.

Admission is free.

“This festival is part of our vision to create more free experiences in the Frontyard, one of the 1,000 annual free events planned as part of our master plan,” Dr. Phillips Center President and CEO Kathy Ramsberger said. “These events are designed to bring our community together while creating new opportunities that attract visitors and contribute to Orlando’s vibrant tourism economy.”

Nightly Snowfall Returns to Downtown Orlando

The festival opens Friday, Nov. 27, and runs through New Year’s Eve, giving Central Florida residents and visitors more than a month to experience the celebration.

Nightly snowfall will return as one of the festival’s signature attractions, along with holiday movie screenings and seasonal performances.

A rare musical attraction will also return this year: the only transportable carillon in North America.

The instrument features nearly four tons of bronze bells and will bring traditional holiday sounds to the outdoor festival.

Free Holiday Experience for Orlando Families

Organizers said the festival is part of the Dr. Phillips Center’s broader effort to increase free arts and cultural programming while creating a gathering place for residents and visitors in downtown Orlando.

AdventHealth returns as a major supporter of the event.

“The holidays invite us to slow down, reconnect and make memories with the people who matter most,” said Sharon Line Clary, AdventHealth’s senior vice president of community impact and partnership engagement.

Clary said the partnership is designed to help create a welcoming community space centered on celebration and connection.

Holiday Shows Coming Inside Dr. Phillips Center

The outdoor festival will coincide with a separate lineup of holiday entertainment inside the performing arts center.

The 2026 holiday schedule includes Lindsey Stirling, “The Nutcracker,” Vienna Light Orchestra, Irish Christmas in America, Straight No Chaser and “A Very Broadway Christmas.”

Other scheduled productions include “The Unauthorized Hallmarkish Parody” and “Adam Biner: A Jewish Boy’s Love Letter to Christmas.”

The lineup includes dance, orchestral music, comedy and other live performances throughout the holiday season.

More Festival Programming Coming

Additional details about performances, themed nights, movie screenings and interactive experiences are expected to be announced as the opening date approaches.

The festival is supported by AdventHealth, the city of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board, The Main Law Firm, OUC — The Reliable One, Massey Services Inc. and a donation from Neal and Jan Dempsey.

The project also receives funding from Orange County government through its Arts & Cultural Affairs Program.

Event Details

What: Frontyard Holiday Festival at Dr. Phillips Center supported by AdventHealth
When: Nov. 27-Dec. 31, 2026
Where: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Frontyard and Seneff Arts Plaza, downtown Orlando
Admission: Free

Entertainment

‘SPAMALOT’ Joins Dr. Phillips Center’s 2026-27 Broadway in Orlando Season

Published

3 weeks ago

August 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

Tony Award-winning musical will play Walt Disney Theater Nov. 3-5, 2026

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is expanding its 2026-27 Broadway in Orlando season with the addition of SPAMALOT, the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, scheduled for Nov. 3-5, 2026, at Walt Disney Theater.

Inspired by the classic comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, SPAMALOT brings Monty Python’s distinctly British humor to the stage through a comedic adventure following King Arthur and his quest for the Holy Grail.

The production comes to Orlando following a celebrated 2023 Broadway revival at the St. James Theatre, directed and choreographed by Josh Rhodes.

Monty Python Comedy Comes to Orlando

Described as “lovingly ripped” from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical features British royalty, flying cows, dancing girls, shrubbery and the Lady of the Lake.

The 14-time Tony Award-nominated musical features well-known numbers including “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Song That Goes Like This” and “Find Your Grail.”

SPAMALOT features a book and lyrics by Eric Idle, with music by John Du Prez and Idle.

Cast Announced for Orlando Production

The cast features Major Attaway, whose credits include Aladdin, as King Arthur; Sean Bell (Harmony) as Sir Robin; Chris Collins-Pisano (Forbidden Broadway) as Sir Lancelot; Ellis C. Dawson III (Hamilton) as Sir Bedevere; Leo Roberts (Les Misérables) as Sir Galahad; Amanda Robles as the Lady of the Lake; Blake Segal (Mary Poppins) as Patsy; and Steven Telsey (The Book of Mormon) as the Historian and Prince Herbert.

The company also includes Lindsay Lee Alhady, Delaney Benson, Jack Brewer, Connor Coughlin, L’ogan J’ones, Graham Keen, Claire Kennard, Ben Lanham, Nathaniel Mahone, Maddie Mossner, Emilie Renier, Mark Tran Russ and Meridien Terrell.

Creative Team

The production’s creative team includes scenic and projection designer Paul Tate dePoo III, costume designer Jen Caprio, lighting designer Cory Pattak, sound designers Kai Harada and Haley Parcher, and wig designer Tom Watson.

John Bell serves as music supervisor, with Jonathan Gorst as musical director and conductor.

Derek Kolluri is associate director, Michael Fatica is associate choreographer and casting is by Geoff Josselson, CSA. RCI Theatricals serves as general manager, and Jeffrey Finn is the producer.

Tickets on Sale Now

Single tickets for SPAMALOT are on sale now through Dr. Phillips Center.

Performances: Nov. 3-5, 2026
Venue: Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Location: Orlando, Florida

Tickets and additional information are available through the Dr. Phillips Center website.

Central Florida News

Dr. Phillips Center Generates $227.6 Million Annual Economic Impact, Supports Nearly 2,500 Central Florida Jobs

Published

1 month ago

July 30, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts generated $227.6 million in annual economic impact, supporting 2,483 jobs and producing $13.2 million in state and local tax revenue, according to a newly released independent study by Tourism Economics.

The analysis, conducted by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company specializing in economic impact and tourism research, measured the direct, indirect and induced economic activity generated by the arts center’s operations, performances, visitors and related spending throughout Central Florida.

The findings underscore the Dr. Phillips Center’s role as both a premier performing arts destination and a major contributor to the region’s economy.

“For more than a decade, we’ve seen firsthand how the arts inspire people, bring communities together and create lasting value,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “This study confirms that our impact reaches far beyond our stages—supporting thousands of jobs, driving business growth, attracting visitors from around the world and helping position Central Florida as a more vibrant, competitive and connected region.”

Economic Impact by the Numbers

According to the Tourism Economics report, the Dr. Phillips Center generated:

$227.6 million in annual economic output
2,483 jobs supported across Central Florida
$70.8 million in total labor income in Orange County
$13.2 million in state and local tax revenue
$73.1 million in off-site spending by event attendees, performers and production crews
61,600 hotel room nights generated annually

The study highlights the ripple effect created by visitors attending performances, benefiting nearby hotels, restaurants, retailers and other local businesses.

A Global Destination for Arts and Entertainment

Now in its 11th year, the Dr. Phillips Center welcomes more than 910,000 guests annually, attracting visitors from all 50 states and more than 80 countries.

Since opening in 2014, the venue has hosted:

More than 6.2 million guests
More than 6,200 performances and events
Programming presented 99% of the year
Venue occupancy rates ranging from 82% to 97%

The center has become one of the world’s busiest performing arts destinations while helping position downtown Orlando as a leading hub for arts, culture and entertainment.

Community Investment Beyond the Stage

In addition to its economic impact, the Dr. Phillips Center continues investing in arts education, community outreach and cultural programming throughout Central Florida.

According to the organization, it has:

Served 935,920 students and community participants
Supported and hosted 202 regional arts organizations
Received support from 24,085 donors
Benefited from $256 million in philanthropic contributions since its inception

Through partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, community groups and touring productions, the center continues to expand access to the performing arts while strengthening the region’s cultural and economic vitality.

Looking Ahead

Eleven years after opening, the Dr. Phillips Center continues to demonstrate that investment in arts and culture produces measurable returns through tourism, employment, education and community engagement.

As Central Florida continues to grow, the independent analysis reinforces the performing arts center’s importance as both a cultural landmark and an economic engine for the region.

Additional information about the economic impact study is available through the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.