The Mahaffey Theater is known for its live theatrical and musical performances, but on Thursday, it debuts an actual art exhibit that will grace the walls of its lobby for the next few months.

Louis Markoya is one of the only artists still around who can say they painted right alongside Salvador Dali, and you can see Dali’s influence in every one of his works in the new exhibit, “Fluid Dreams.”

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This month, the Mahaffey Theater’s gallery will transform into a portal of perception with “Fractal Dreams: Surreal Visions of Louis Markoya,” a sneak preview of the exhibition opening on Thursday, September 18, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM that will be on display for a limited time. Featuring the work of surrealist and former Salvador Dali protégé Louis Markoya, the show invites viewers into a realm where mathematics, classical painting, and optical illusion converge.

For six years, Markoya worked directly with the legendary Salvador Dali. Today, his work builds upon that surrealist legacy by fusing traditional techniques with cutting-edge technologies, such as fractals and lenticular lenses. The result? Art that shifts, refracts, and even moves as the viewer does, blurring the boundaries between dimension and reality.

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Bill Edwards, Founder and CEO of Big3 Entertainment and the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts, today announced the appointment of Elizabeth Gelman as the new President of the Foundation. Gelman, an accomplished nonprofit executive and arts leader, brings decades of experience in museums, cultural programming, education, and community engagement.

“Beth is an extraordinary leader whose vision and commitment to the arts align perfectly with the mission of our Foundation,” said Bill Edwards. “Her track record of elevating institutions, expanding access, and fostering inclusive cultural experiences will strengthen our work and ensure that Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts – benefiting the Mahaffey Theater continues to enhance youth education throughout the Tampa Bay area.”

Gelman most recently served as Senior Director of Arts & Cultural Programming at Creative Pinellas, where she led a strategic vision for the county’s premier gallery, quadrupled attendance, and set historic records for artist sales. She produced over a dozen exhibitions annually, launched new revenue streams, and forged dynamic community partnerships that deepened the gallery’s impact.

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Barry Wong visits the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts’ Summer Camp, where students had the unforgettable opportunity to be mentored by Tony-nominated Broadway star Laura Bell Bundy, best known for originating the role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde.

Thanks to the Foundation, Laura spent time inspiring the campers and helping them hone their skills for the upcoming production of Legally Blonde Jr.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not only enhanced the students’ performances but also demonstrated the Foundation’s deep commitment to nurturing young talent through access, mentorship, and the transformative power of the arts.

Don’t miss this heartwarming story and behind-the-scenes look at a magical moment in the making!

Fox 13’s Charley Belcher visits the Mahaffey Theater and talks to Bill Edwards and other people involved in the upcoming production of Legally Blonde Jr. The Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts is proud to present Legally Blonde Jr., a fully staged, professional-quality musical production showcasing exceptional youth talent from across the region. Performances will take place on July 25 and 26 on the historic Mahaffey Theater stage in downtown St. Petersburg. “I’m continually impressed by the hard work these kids put in to earn their place on this stage,” said Bill Edwards, Founder & President of the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts. “Many of them dedicate themselves to their craft throughout the year to be ready for this opportunity. This production features talented local youth delivering professional-caliber performances with skills and stagecraft on par with national-level productions.”