Join the Young Artists Orchestra as we present Bright Lights, Big City – a musical blueprint of cities that have shaped the world through their culture, community, diversity, and beauty. We are proud to journey through each city and highlight stories of its people through the music that defines them. Don’t miss this celebration of cities such as New Orleans, Vienna, New York City, Rome, and more!

A Conversation About the Evolution of Policing A pivotal scene in the musical Ragtime involves a presidential candidate’s visit. During the visit when one character attempts to get the politician’s attention, she’s accused of having a gun and is beaten. This raises the question of race and policing – where are we 100 years after Ragtime? On the anniversary of the death of George Floyd join local leaders to discuss the evolution of policing, where we are today and how our local police agencies have responded to changing trends. Moderated by Merchon Green, City of Orlando Chief Equity Official About Ragtime Community Programming CFCArts is pleased to welcome the Florida Theatrical Association as the presenting sponsor for the pre-show programs. FTA’s commitment to educational programs as a crucial component of expanding and supporting new audiences makes for a perfect partnership for the 2022 production of Ragtime. One of the many questions Ragtime asks audiences to consider is, “What does it mean to achieve the American Dream?” Through the pre-show programs, CFCArts and FTA invite patrons to explore that idea within the context of the themes of antisemitism, racism, immigration, and forced immigration presented in Ragtime.

A Cabaret Featuring Brandon Martin Vocalist Brandon Martin, accompanied by pianist Kevin Wu, celebrates and commemorates the Black American Experience. Through the words and music of Black artists and societal change-makers, the program takes us through the timeline of the struggle for justice for Black Americans. Featuring selections by Nina Simone, Sam Cooke, Billie Holiday, John Legend, Alicia Keys, and more. About Ragtime Community Programming CFCArts is pleased to welcome the Florida Theatrical Association as the presenting sponsor for the pre-show programs. FTA’s commitment to educational programs as a crucial component of expanding and supporting new audiences makes for a perfect partnership for the 2022 production of Ragtime. One of the many questions Ragtime asks audiences to consider is, “What does it mean to achieve the American Dream?” Through the pre-show programs, CFCArts and FTA invite patrons to explore that idea within the context of the themes of antisemitism, racism, immigration, and forced immigration presented in Ragtime.

A Screening of the Landmark Documentary Filmed in Orlando by local filmmakers, the story explores the first integrated little league game played in the South in 1955. The documentary tells the history of the teams, the outcome of the game, and the reunion of the teams decades later. About Ragtime Community Programming CFCArts is pleased to welcome the Florida Theatrical Association as the presenting sponsor for the pre-show programs. FTA’s commitment to educational programs as a crucial component of expanding and supporting new audiences makes for a perfect partnership for the 2022 production of Ragtime. One of the many questions Ragtime asks audiences to consider is, “What does it mean to achieve the American Dream?” Through the pre-show programs, CFCArts and FTA invite patrons to explore that idea within the context of the themes of antisemitism, racism, immigration, and forced immigration presented in Ragtime.