Calendar
Where to Go & What to Do
Sanibel Shell Crafters (Mondays, 10am) Come Mondays all year from 10am-3pm to watch this day of crafting, or attend a class. Lessons are free, but you pay for supplies. Space is limited even in the off season. Adults are encouraged, children must be accompanied by an adult if they will be crafting. Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239472-2155, sanibelcommunityhouse.net
Paint Escape (Open painting: Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10am-6pm; ladies’ night: Friday, 6-9pm) Ceramic painting for children and adults, the chance to create a decorative item for the home or as a gift. Friday night offers ladies a relaxing atmosphere with music, wine and cheese to enhance the artistic experience. 808 SE 47th St., Cape Coral. 239-945-2006, paintescapeonline.net
SoCo Second Saturday (Jan. 13, Feb. 10, 6pm) The new SoCo—south of Colonial Boulevard—is an area defined by geographical lines and venues representing Southwest Florida arts. SoCo Second Saturday is a family event with gallery receptions, vendors, live music and more. SoCo District’s cultural venues welcome guests with events such as artist demonstrations and talks, musical and theater performances, exhibit receptions and wine tastings. Proximity of venues allows for a selfguided walking tour; parking space is available at the Alliance for the Arts and Royal Palm Square. Don’t miss the after party at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, starting at 10pm. 1400 Colonial Blvd., Suite 84, Fort Myers. 239-590-8645, socoswfl.com
Get Fired Up! (Jan. 16 and Feb. 13, 5:30pm) Sip a glass of your favorite beverage and spend an evening creating a work of art. Bring friends or come alone and meet creative folks while you make your own fused glass projects during one of our fused glass art experiences! Advanced reservations are required. Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239495-8989, artcenterbonita.org
Cape Bike Night (Feb. 10, 5pm) Cape Coral Parks and Recreation is proud to present Cape Bike Night! Come join the fun as motorcycle enthusiasts gather for great food and the best in live music. Don’t miss your chance to compete with your new friends in the Slow Bike Race. It’s all about balance, folks! This is a great opportunity to see the new products and biker gear and enjoy a rock-n-roll/country night out on the town, biker style! 846 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral. 239-573-3128, ccbikenight.com
Annual Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club Arts & Crafts Show (Feb. 17-18, 10am) This two-day event is more than just an art fair—it’s a celebration of community spirit! Not only will there be stunning arts and crafts from more than 100 juried artists and craftsmen, but you’ll find tasty food and intriguing displays from the community and from the many charity projects supported by the Rotary Club. Proceeds from the fair are used to meet community needs, fund local scholarships and for human service needs worldwide. Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-2155, sanibelcommunityhouse.net
Fort Myers Music Walk (Jan. 19 and Feb. 16, 6pm) Third Fridays, more than a dozen participating venues feature music by local and regional talent. 855-7323836, fortmyersmusicwalk.com
Bluegrass in the Theatre (Jan. 21, 2pm) A sensational fusion of American country music; Irish, Scottish and English ballads and traditional dance music—with a heaping helping of jazz influence—makes our bluegrass concerts a toe-tapping, knee-slapping good time. Join fellow acoustic music lovers in the theater for three hours of great live music by bands from Southwest Florida and beyond! Presented in partnership with the Acoustic Music Society of SWFL. Lee County Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-9392787, artinlee.org
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Diana Krall Turn Up the Quiet World Tour (Jan. 31, 7:30pm) Award-winning jazz pianist and world-renowned singer Diana Krall returns to North America for the third U.S. leg of her Turn Up the Quiet
World Tour. Featuring material from her new album, “Turn Up the Quiet,” as well as a mix of fan favorites, these performances are bringing audiences to their feet worldwide. Don’t miss this one-night performance! Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Jay & the Americans with The Brooklyn Bridge and The Classics IV (Feb. 1, 7:30pm) The stars of the ’60s return, back by popular demand. Step back in time with hits like This Magic Moment, Only in America, Cara Mia and Some Enchanted Evening, accompanied by a live rhythm section and brass section. Joining our headliners will be The Brooklyn Bridge ( The Worst That Could Happen, Welcome Me Love, Blessed Is the Rain) and The Classics IV ( Traces, Spooky, Stormy). Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Rain—A Tribute to The Beatles (Feb. 7, 7:30pm) Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”! This performance takes you back in time with the foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com,
Artis-Naples Presents: Gypsy: The Music of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac (Feb. 21, 6 and 8:30pm) Naples-native Casey Weston was a finalist on NBC’s The Voice. Now, this 24-year-old rising star performs Stevie Nicks’ and Fleetwood Mac’s most memorable songs, from Gypsy and Landslide to Gold Dust Woman and Tell Me Lies. Daniels Pavilion, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org
Night and Day, by Robert Cacioppo (Jan. 2-Feb. 25, Tuesdays-Sundays, evening and matinee shows available)
Night and Day: Love Lost and Found Through the Eyes of Cole Porter is a thrilling and glamorous new revue, featuring more than 40 from a film, Broadway, and recording career that spanned decades. Porter penned some of the most-sung songs of the 20th century, and you’ll fall in love with them all over again when you journey back in time with It’s De-Lovely, I Get a Kick Out of You, Let’s Fall in Love, In the Still of the Night and more! Art-Stage Studio Theater, 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers. 239332-4488, floridarep.org
Chicago: The Musical (Jan. 3-Feb. 10, Tuesdays-Sundays, evening and matinee shows available) The longest-running American musical in Broadway history comes to Broadway Palm! Set in 1920s Chicago and based on true murders and trials, it follows Roxie Hart, an aspiring vaudevillian who murders her lover and is arrested. In jail, Roxie meets her hero, the double-murderess and nightclub entertainer Velma Kelly. This tale of fame and fortune includes incredible dancing and one show-stopping song after another. Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-2784422, broadwaypalm.com
How the Other Half Loves, by Alan Ayckbourn (Jan. 9-31, Tuesdays-Sundays, evening and matinee shows available) One secret affair, two disastrous dinner parties, and three couples heading for trouble cause matrimonial mayhem in this expertly written farce. Two couples entangle themselves in a mixed-up love triangle and another gets caught in the middle as fidelity is put to the test. Social graces go out the window as love, lust—and even table manners—take center stage. Historic Arcade Theater, 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers. 239-332-4488, floridarep.org
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Finding Neverland (Jan. 9-14, evening and matinee shows available) The incredible
story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters—Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Casablanca, Film With Orchestra, at Artis-Naples (Jan. 9-13, 8pm; Jan. 13, 2pm) See this Oscar-winning film on the big screen with Max Steiner’s famous score performed live by the Naples Philharmonic. Part of the Artis-Naples Pops Series. Hayes Hall, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-5971900, artisnaples.org
Cultural Park Theater Presents: The Pajama Game (Jan. 12-21, Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm; Sundays, 3pm) Conditions at the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory are anything but peaceful as sparks fly between the new superintendent, Sid Sorokin, and Babe Williams, leader of the union grievance committee. Their stormy relationship comes to a head when the workers strike. Brims with songs and dances that have become musical theater standards, including Steam Heat and Hernando’s Hideaway. Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 239-7725862, culturalparktheater.com
The Kevin Hart Irresponsible Tour (Jan. 13, 7pm) Actor, comedian and bestselling author Kevin Hart is traveling the country, thrilling longtime fans and gaining new ones. His personalized brand of humor, which reveals his own insecurities and life experiences, resonates with fans everywhere and keeps his shows packed! Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. 239948-7825, germainarena.com
Films for Film Lovers: The Teacher (2016) Czech (Feb. 5, 7pm) Join us Monday nights in our cozy space, comfortably furnished with chairs and tables to enjoy the best of foreign and independent films. Make your opinions
known at our lively film discussion after the film, led by the Film Society chairman and a Film Society member. Wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverage, snacks and popcorn are available. Moe Auditorium, Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road Southeast, Bonita Springs. 239-495-8989, artcenterbonita.org
Artis-Naples Presents: Jessica Lang Dance, with the Naples Philharmonic (Feb. 5, 8pm) Making their Hayes Hall debut, Jessica Lang Dance’s sleek, modern choreography joins the Naples Philharmonic with music from Bach, Beethoven and Chopin. “Jessica Lang has a knack for conceiving a complete universe in each dance—distinctive in its look and mood, sound and atmosphere,” according to The Los Angeles Times. Hayes Hall, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Garrison Keillor: Just Passing Through (Feb. 6, 7pm) Garrison Keillor captivates with his signature blend of humor, charisma and wisdom as he shares his journey to becoming one of America’s greatest storytellers. Garrison regaled audiences for more than 40 years as the host of A Prairie Home Companion, and he continues to bring stories to life on public radio’s The Writers Almanac. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Cultural Park Theater Presents: The 39 Steps (Feb. 9-18, Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm; Sundays, 3pm) Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have this intriguing, thrilling, riotous and unmissable comedy. A cast of four actors plays more than 150 characters in this fast-paced tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily entertaining adventure. Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 239-7725862, culturalparktheater.com
Films for Film Lovers: The Hunt (2012) Denmark (Feb. 12, 7pm) Join us Monday nights in our cozy space, comfortably furnished with chairs and tables to enjoy the best of foreign and independent films. Make your opinions known at our lively film discussion after the film, led by the Film Society chairman and a Film Society member. Wine, beer and nonalcoholic beverage, snacks and popcorn are available. Moe Auditorium, Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road Southeast, Bonita Springs. 239495-8989, artcenterbonita.org
The Miracle Worker, by William Gibson (Feb. 13-March 7, Tuesdays-Sundays, evening and matinee shows available) This timeless American classic tells the inspiring true story of how a determined teacher was able to save young Helen Keller from her isolated silence. Made famous by the film starring Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke, The Miracle Worker is a moving, inspirational and electrifying story of perseverance, friendship and hope. Historic Arcade Theater, 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers. 239-3324488, floridarep.org
Travis Wall’s SHAPING SOUND, After the Curtain (Feb. 14, 7:30pm) Through his Emmy Award-winning work on So You Think You Can Dance, Travis Wall has established himself as one of America’s favorite choreographers. Now, Travis and SHAPING SOUND are back with a brand-new show. These visual musicians continue to dazzle audiences as they tell the story of a man fighting to find his creative voice after the death of his one true love. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Mamma Mia! (Feb. 15-April 7, Tuesdays-Sundays, evening and matinee shows available) The comical story of Sophie, a bride-to-be, and her search for her birth father on a beautiful Greek island. This enchanting and unforgettable tale of love, laughter, family and friendship is set to ABBA classics, including Dancing Queen, Take a Chance on Me, SOS and the title song. Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422, broadwaypalm.com
Dancing With the Stars: Live!—Light Up the Night (Feb. 16, 8pm) TV’s hottest show is going back on tour across America this winter. Fans of the show can see the best ballroom dancers in the business perform live in their hometowns. This all-new production showcases ballroom and contemporary dances. Hayes Hall, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org
Films for Film Lovers: Chef’s Special (Feb. 19, 7pm) Join us Monday nights in our cozy space, comfortably furnished with chairs and tables to enjoy the best of foreign and independent films. Make your opinions known at our lively film discussion after the film, led by the Film Society chairman and a Film Society member. Wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverage, snacks and popcorn are available. Moe Auditorium, Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road Southeast, Bonita Springs. 239495-8989, artcenterbonita.org
Barbara B. Mann Presents: Rhythm of the Dance (Feb. 19, 7:30pm) This twohour dance and music extravaganza is an inspiring epic, reliving the journey of the Irish Celts throughout history. Using modern art forms of dance and music, this richly costumed show marries the contemporary and the ancient. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Artis-Naples Presents: Steve Solomon (Feb. 22 and 23, 6pm; Feb. 23, 8:30pm) Steve Solomon is like your favorite uncle. His impressions of relatives and zany stories always leave those at the holiday dinner table roaring with laughter. My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish & I’m in Therapy is a wonderful compilation of the some of the very best bits from Steve’s hit shows with lots of new hilarious material and characters built in. Daniels Pavilion, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-5971900, artisnaples.org
Gulf Coast Symphony Presents: Oklahoma! (Feb. 24 and 25, 7pm)
The 75th anniversary of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s first collaboration! Curly, a cowboy, and Laurey, a farm girl, play out their love story. Gulf Coast Symphony and Broadway Palm Dinner Theater again present a great American musical. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Artis-Naples Presents: Howie Mandel (Feb. 25, 7pm) Before starring on America’s Got Talent and Deal or No Deal, Howie Mandel got his start as a renowned stand-up comedian. With his wild energy and enthusiasm, Mandel returns to his stand-up roots while making his Hayes Hall debut. Hayes Hall, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org
Animal Life (Jan. 12 - Feb. 3) Join artists Jeff and Dale Ocasio, Lily Hatchett, Felipe Maldonado and Terry Lynn Spry as they take you on a gallery adventure. Animals are wandering the walls of the Alliance! Working in different mediums, these artists transform paper, canvas, clay and masking tape into a rampaging herd of artistic wonder. Opening reception is Jan. 12 from 5-7pm. Member Gallery, Lee County Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-939-2787, artinlee.org
Art After Hours at Artis-Naples (Jan. 31 and Feb. 28, 6pm) Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6-9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries. The Baker Museum, Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-597-1900, artisnaples.org
12th Annual Coconut Point Art Festival (Feb. 17 and 18, 10am) Fine art, music and more will fill the streets of Coconut Point for two fun-filled days during this art fest that has earned the title of “The Big One!” This art show features life-size sculptures, spectacular paintings, one-of-a-kind jewels, photography, ceramics and much more. Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. 561-746-6615, artfestival.com
Fort Myers Art Walk (Jan. 5 and Feb. 2, 6pm; Jan. 6 and Feb. 3, 11am) First Friday from 6-10pm first Saturdays from 11am-4pm, more than 10 art galleries invite locals and visitors to a selfguided walking tour throughout the Downtown Fort Myers River District core and the Gardner’s Park area, Fort Myers. 239-337-5050, fortmyersartwalk.com
Green-Market (Saturdays, 9am) Join us on our 10-acre campus every Saturday to find an exclusive selection of locally grown, caught and cultivated foods and other products available to sample and purchase. Enjoy live entertainment by local musicians and fun activities for kids, gardening classes and live cooking by local chefs. Lee County Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-9392787, artinlee.org
Namaste Music & Arts Festival (Jan. 19 and Feb. 23, 8pm) Music and arts event hosted by Namaste Music, Arts, Wellness, & Education, Inc. at the riverfront basin on Hendry Street. 1-855-732-3836, fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
Pet Walk (Jan. 26 and Feb. 23, 6pm) Fourth Fridays at Hendry Street median. Pets leashed and owners to pick up “souvenirs.” Free, no registration is required. 855-732-3836, fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert (Jan. 2, 8pm) This holiday season, the spirited romance of operetta, the glamour of ballroom dance, and the delicate beauty of ballet will waltz you into a triumphant New Year. Inspired by Vienna’s beloved New Year’s Concert, this charming celebration blends acclaimed European singers and dancers with exceptional local symphonies for a rich cultural experience. A Fort Myers tradition for 21 years! Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. 239-481-4849, bbmannpah.com
Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Presents: Bonita Springs International Film Festival (Jan. 25-28) BIFF will screen compelling films from around the world. All genres are welcome— documentary, animation, narrative, experimental and short. Four days of official BIFF events, with many other ancillary events taking place over the weekend—parties, lectures, workshops, awards, food, drink and music and the films! A host of guests and filmmakers will promote their films and celebrate the accomplishments of their peers. Center for the Arts Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239495-8989, artcenterbonita.org
Valentine Taste of Opera (Feb. 13, 5:30pm) Enjoy an elegant dinner with light entertainment of popular melodies and famous opera scenes performed by various professional regional artists at Shangri-La Springs, 27750 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239529-3925, gulfshoreopera.org
TOTI Media, Inc. does its best to ensure that information in this calendar is up to date. However, we still encourage our readers to call ahead for detailed information before attending these local events.