Panama City, Florida (September 9, 2025) – Saturday, September 20, is Opening Night of the 30th Anniversary Season of Panama City Symphony! SYMPHONY & SOUL, featuring baritone Philip Lima, will showcase American music’s diversity, depth, and soul. From Florence Price’s evocative Dances in the Canebrakes and Grofé’s majestic Mississippi Suite, to Gershwin’s iconic symphonic suite from Porgy and Bess, this evening promises an unforgettable journey through America’s musical landscape. Celebrate this landmark occasion with us, where each note will resonate with history and herald a future of continued musical excellence. The show begins at 7 PM at the Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center at Bay High School, 1200 Harrison Avenue in Panama City.
In October, Symphony patrons are in for some artistic imagination, haunting terror, and evocative thrills as Maestro Bogza performs in the Symphony’s annual immersive experience, NIGHMARE ON THE BAY. Now in its third season, this year’s theme, BEASTS OF THE BAYOU: TERROR IN THE MIST, weaves an original story created by Bogza into a Halloween-esque tapestry of intrigue with costumes, original cinematography, and epic symphonic music. The show plays on Saturday, October 11, 7 PM at the Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center at Bay High School. Concertgoers may feel free to embrace their inner beast by wearing a costume that evening! (costumes are optional)
On Saturday, November 8, Panama City Symphony takes a nostalgic and whimsical turn with its CHARLIE CHAPLIN’S THE GOLD RUSH featuring film with the live orchestra, and commemorating 100 years of Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush with a spectacular live score performance. That evening Maestro Bogza brings the silent screen to vibrant life, syncing Chaplin’s comedic genius with dynamic orchestral sound. Watch as The Little Tramp’s quest for gold in Alaska unfolds in a series of delightful mishaps and adventures. Patrons are encouraged to dress in black and white in honor of Chaplin’s style and era. The Symphony will be providing Chaplin-related props for fun photo opportunities! The show takes place at the Barbara W. Nelson Fine Arts Center at ay High School beginning at 7 PM.
Seats for these first three shows are limited; to purchase tickets visit PanamaCitySymphony.org; tickets are also available on Eventbrite.