What happens when two world-class entertainers decide to bring Vegas-quality production to Jacksonville? You get Boot, Scoot and Bourbon—a revolutionary immersive country music experience that's about to transform how the city experiences live entertainment.

Meet Russ and Ali Francis, the creative force behind this groundbreaking show. Their story reads like a Hollywood script: he's a Jacksonville native and professional singer; she's an Australian dancer who performed with Bruno Mars and Chris Brown. They met in Los Angeles, then moved to Vegas where they both starred in a major production (and where Russ proposed on stage!), then took their talents around the world before deciding to elevate Jacksonville's entertainment scene.

Boot, Scoot and Bourbon isn't just another concert—it's a fully immersive experience where the entertainment surrounds you. The Glass Factory transforms completely with country-themed décor while performers move throughout the space. The music spans classic and contemporary country hits, meticulously arranged with stunning harmonies and performed by extraordinary talents: Nashville vocalists, local musicians from UNF's renowned jazz program, and even specialty acts flown in from Spain. And yes, there's actual bourbon tasting involved, courtesy of local award-winning distillery Jacksontucky.

What makes this production special goes beyond the spectacle. It's about creating something Jacksonville can proudly call its own—a show that rivals anything you'd find in major entertainment hubs, but celebrates our Southern heritage and brings world-class talent right to our doorstep. Russ and Ali believe fervently that "you shouldn't have to travel to New York or Las Vegas to experience a show like this."

Experience Boot, Scoot and Bourbon select nights September 12-20 at the Glass Factory. Whether you're a die-hard country fan or simply crave something extraordinary, this show promises moments you'll talk about long after the final bow. Grab your tickets at bootscootandbourbon.com and witness Jacksonville's entertainment evolution firsthand.

Dive into the heart of Jacksonville's vibrant music scene as we take you behind the velvet rope at the historic Florida Theatre with board member and marketing committee head Carolyn Klucha. What begins as a chance meeting at a Dave Koz concert blossoms into a revealing conversation about one of Jacksonville's most treasured cultural landmarks.

Carolyn pulls back the curtain on the exclusive perks of Florida Theatre membership that most locals don't know about – from guaranteed premium seating and pre-sale access to the newly renovated VIP lounge where Jacksonville's music lovers connect. You'll discover why this 1,800-seat venue, hosting over 300 shows annually, just won the prestigious Outstanding Historic Theater of 2025 award and what exciting renovations are underway as it approaches its centennial celebration in 2027.

Our conversation weaves through unforgettable performances from Yacht Rock to Mummified funk bands, exploring how the theater creates magical first concert experiences while preserving musical legacies. We share laughs about Carolyn's mission to recruit new members (spoiler: she's ruthlessly persuasive) and her unexpected journey into bourbon appreciation through a fundraiser auction win.

The episode culminates with details about the upcoming Blues, Brews, Bourbon and BBQ fundraiser on August 21st at Bowie Oaks – a perfect opportunity to support this Jacksonville treasure while sampling the best local flavors. Whether you're a longtime Jacksonville resident or planning your first visit, this episode reveals why the Florida Theatre sits at the crossroads of the city's past, present, and future music culture.

Want to experience Jacksonville's music scene like a true insider? Subscribe to Live from Jacksonville for the latest on upcoming shows, exclusive artist interviews, and your guide to every venue from intimate historic theaters to sprawling amphitheaters.

Ever wondered what happens when a technical glitch sparks a philosophical revelation from one of science fiction's most iconic figures? That's exactly what unfolds in our conversation with William Shatner, where a simple audio feedback loop launches us into an exploration of existence itself.

The legendary actor joins us to discuss his upcoming appearance at the Thrasher-Horne Center, where he'll present a screening of the newly restored "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" followed by live storytelling and audience Q&A. But our conversation quickly transcends typical promotional fare. Shatner, at 94, demonstrates the same boundless curiosity that has defined his career as he contemplates whether we might all be living in some cosmic feedback loop of experience.

From there, we journey through the quantum wilderness with Captain Kirk himself as our guide. Shatner elegantly articulates how particles exist only when observed, references Einstein's "spooky" quantum mechanics, and connects these scientific puzzles to his work on "The Unexplained." His description of narration techniques reveals his dedication to authenticity, while his musings on mirages and perception challenge our understanding of reality. Throughout it all, Shatner's philosophical mind shines as brightly as his performing talents.

The episode also features a comprehensive rundown of Jacksonville's hottest August events, from Rob Thomas at Daily's Place to the Jacksonville Rock Orchestra's Journey tribute at the Florida Theatre. But it's Shatner's blend of showmanship and intellectual curiosity that makes this episode special. Despite the demanding schedule of his tour, he shares that connecting with audiences "overrides the fatigue" – a testament to his enduring passion for human connection.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to see William Shatner live at the Thrasher-Horne Center on August 3rd. Whether you're a Trekkie, a philosophy buff, or simply appreciate brilliant conversation, this is one event that promises to transport you beyond the final frontier of conventional thinking.