February Brings Musicals, Comedy, Motown and Tribute Performances to Manatee Performing Arts Center
The Manatee Performing Arts Center continues its vibrant 2025-26 season in February with an exciting slate of live performances that offer something for every taste in the local arts community. The downtown Bradenton venue at 502 Avenue of the Arts (502 Third Avenue West) remains a cultural hub with theatre, music, comedy and tribute shows throughout the month.
The month opens with the final performances of Once Upon a Mattress, a lively musical comedy that puts a humorous twist on the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. The story follows Princess Winnifred, whose unconventional personality upends royal expectations as she undergoes an outrageous test to prove she is a “true” princess. Known for its witty dialogue, physical comedy and memorable songs, the production offers a lighthearted, family-friendly start to February.
Comedy takes center stage on February 7 with Fred Klett(s), bringing an evening of stand-up that blends observational humor with clean, relatable storytelling.
Music fans can enjoy Temps, Tops, Supremes & Smokey: A Motown Revue with the Soul Sensations from February 10–12, celebrating the timeless hits that defined the Motown sound and shaped generations of popular music.
The theatrical run of The Cemetery Club begins on February 19th. The play centers on three widowed friends who meet regularly at a cemetery and must confront grief, friendship and the possibility of moving forward when one woman begins dating again. Blending humor with emotional insight, the production offers a more reflective and intimate theater experience.
Rock fans can look forward to The Women of Rock Show Las Vegas on February 20, an energetic tribute to iconic female rock artists and their chart-topping anthems.
February concludes with the Bradenton Rotary 17th Annual Comedy Night on February 28, combining live entertainment with community support through fundraising.
Tickets and performance details are available through the Manatee Performing Arts Center box office and website, as the venue continues to serve as a cornerstone for arts and culture in downtown Bradenton.
