December 2024 Happenings Magazine

Publisher’s Spotlight

Moretheatre

It’sanamazingtimeoftheyear whenwehavesomuchgoingon throughoutSouthwestFlorida.Our areatheatresarelitupfortheholidays withmusicals,dramasandcomedies. Here’swhatonstage...

TheatreZoneinNaplesopensits 20thseasonwithHomeforthe HolidaysDec.20-22attheG&L Theatre.

InCapeCoral,Cultural ParkTheatregivesus SealedforFreshnesson stageDec.6-15.

AChristmasCarol: TheMusicalcontinuesat theBroadwayPalm DinnerTheatreinFort MyersthroughDec.25. Thatwillbefollowedby Buddy:TheBuddyHolly StorywhichrunsDec.31 toFeb.15.

TheatreConspiracyisbackon stageattheAlliancefortheArts. ClownBar2runsDec.12-22.

GreetingsisplayingatPlayers CircleTheaterinFortMyersNov.25 throughDec.22.

ForbiddenBroadwayisonstage nowthroughDec.7attheMusicand ArtsCommunityCenterinFortMyers. InNaples,TheStudioPlayerspresentANiceFamilyChristmasNov.29Dec.8attheGoldenGate CommunityCenter.

AChristmasStory: TheMusicalisonstageatTheNaples Players’KizzieTheatrenowthrough Dec.22.

AgathaChristie’sTheMurderof RogerAckroydisbeingstagedby FloridaRepertoryTheatreinFort MyersNov.26throughDec.15.

TheBelleTheatreinCapeCoral presentsACharlieBrownChristmas Dec.18-22.

Thelaughsareaplentyatthe LangdonPlayhousewhereThe CharlottePlayersarestagingNoSex Please,It’sChristmas.Thatcomedy runsthroughDec.15.

TheWeddingSingerisonstage Dec.5-8atCypressLakesHigh SchoolinFortMyers.

InNaples,GulfshorePlayhousehas debuteditsnewblackboxtheatrewith EveryBrilliantThing.StarringJeffrey Binder,thatshowrunsthroughDec. 15.

ASouthwestFloridapremiere, ChristmaswiththeCrawfordsison stageDec.6-22atLaboratory TheatreofFloridainFortMyers.

FloridaReppresentsFully CommittedDec.10-Jan.12intheir ArtStageStudioTheatreinFortMyers. IntheOffBroadwayPalmTheatre, thelaughsarenonstopasAnother NightBeforeChristmasplaysnow throughDec.25.

4-DECEMBER2024

AnnieisonstageatFort MyersTheatreDec.1219.

EveryChristmasStory EverToldisbeingpresentedDec.4-22atMarco’s ArtCenterTheatre.

MaltShopCruise

KathyandIspentseven dayslastmonthonthe annualMaltShop MemoriesCruisewhichcelebratesthe musicofthe1950sand1960s. PerformersonthecruiseincludedThe BeachBoys,TheFourTops,The RighteousBrothers,ChubbyChecker, DarleneLove,TheRascalsandRicky Nelson’stwinsonsMatthewand Gunnar,justtonameafew.Withfive differentstagesontheship,everyday andnightwasfilledwithgreatliveperformances.Itwasourfourthyearon thismusiccruise,andweenjoyed everymoment...theconcerts,theinteractionwiththeartists,thetheme nightsandthe“CruiseFriends”wesee onceayear.Truly,memoriesthatlast alifetime.

The2025MaltShopMemories Cruiseisnowonsaleandincludes PaulAnka,TheJacksons,Little Anthony,JayandTheAmericansand somanymore.ItsailsfromFt. LauderdaletoCozumelandCosta MayaNov.2-9onboardHolland America’sEurodam.The15thanniversarysailingislookingtoselloutagain. Beforeitdoes,usepromocode ‘Happenings”andgetspecialsavings onyourcabin.

Call844-877-6258orvisitonlineat www.maltshopscruise.com/happenings

Rockon, Jamie

JenFalk,DebJonsson, BobWilliams,BethPreddy, RachelApplegate,KathyBernier, ShaelynCrabtree,PaulaSisk Sales&Marketing: JamieKuser,LisaDoyle-Mitchell,

isowned,published &distributedmonthlyinLee,CollierandCharlotte

HomefortheHolidays starts20thseasonforTheatreZoneinNaples

Kickoffholidayfestivitiesthis Decemberwithafeastforthesensesat aperformanceofHomefortheHolidays Dec.20-22,TheatreZone’seighthannualproductionofitstraditionalseason opener.

Thepopularholidaymusicalfeatures anall-starcastandtreatsaudienceswith memorablesongs,exuberantchoreographyandcolorfulcostumes.

HomefortheHolidayswillbeperformedonFridayandSaturday,Dec.20 and21,at7:30p.m.,andonSaturday andSunday,Dec.21and22,at2 p.m.Ticketsare$50to$85,dependingonseatselection.

Themusicalwascreatedby TheatreZone’sfoundingartisticdirectorMarkDanniin2016.“Iwantedto createafunandfestiveshowtoget everyoneintheholidayspirit,”Danni said.“It’salsoourwelcometothe launchofTheatreZone’s20thseason.”

Themusicalstarsacastofeight adultprofessionalperformersanda troupeofadorablechildren.Together, thecastperformsholidaysongsand livelydanceroutineschoreographed byTheatreZone’sassociateartistic

directorKarenMolnarDanni.

Aseven-pieceprofessionalbandis directedbyCharlesFornara.“Everyyear, oursonglineupchangestomixinmodernsongswithclassics,”Dannisaid.The songlineupthisyearincludes

“TheMostWonderfulTimeofthe Year,”“JingleBellRock,”“JustPutOne FootinFrontoftheOther,”“HeatMiser, FreezeMiser,”“DiscoSanta,”“AllIWant forChristmas”and“MerryChristmas Darling.”

“Theenergeticcast,creativecos-

tumes,livebandandfunnybantergive theshowafunatmosphereintunewith thejoyfulseason,”Dannisaid.

CastmembersincludeTheatreZone favoritesAdolphoBlaire,returningforhis 21stTheatreZoneshow(LittleMe, Amadeus,RockofAges,Homeforthe Holidays);VinceWingerter(Bonnie& Clyde,LittleMe);LukeDanni(Mysteryof EdwinDrood,Gypsy,Homeforthe Holidays);JenniferWingerter(Carrie:the Musical,MillionDollarQuartet);Rachael Lord(Bonnie&Clyde,BrightStar),and threetriple-threatperformersmaking theirTheatreZonedebuts:Will Knoop,JasmineVizenaandGiselle Myer.

TobuyticketsforHomefor Holidays,visitwww.theatre.zoneor calltheboxofficeat888-966-3352. Ticketsare$50to$85,dependingon seatselection.

TheatreZone,celebratingits20th seasonin2024-2025,performsits musicalproductionsintheintimate 250-seatG&LTheatrelocatedin Naplesat13275LivingstonRoad, betweenPineRidgeandVanderbilt Beachroads,onthecampusofthe CommunitySchoolofNaples.

Celebratetheholidaysat CulturalParkTheatre

CulturalParkTheatreinCapeCoralinvitesthecommunity tokickofftheholidayseasonwithafestivelineupofevents thatbringholidaycheerandsupportthoseinneed.

BeginningDec.1,thetheatrewillhostitsSecondAnnual HolidayLightingCeremony,amagicaleventperfectforfamiliesandfriendstoenjoythebeautyoftheseason.Jointhem astheyilluminatetheir spaceinfestivelights, creatingaheartwarming atmospheretowelcome themonthofDecember.

OnstageDec.6-15

ThefestivitiescontinuewithSealedfor Freshness,ahilarious andheartfeltplaydirectedbyLauraLeRoy, openingonDec.6and runningthroughDec. 15.Thiscomedicproductionistheperfect waytoenjoytheseason withfamilyandfriends, featuringanentertaining andrelatablestory aboutthecomplexities ofrelationshipsandselfdiscovery.

Addingtothecelebration,CulturalPark Theatreisthrilledto announceaspecialholidayperformancebyMichaelD’Amore,renownedforhisrich, soulfulvoiceandseasonalclassicsthataresuretogeteveryoneintheholidayspirit.Don’tmissthisenchantingnight, wheremusic,warmth,andjoycometogetheronDec.19.

Inthespiritofgiving,CulturalParkTheatreisalsopartneringwithOma’sHeartforaHolidayToyDrive.Ifyou’reattendinganyoftheirDecemberevents,theykindlyaskthatyou bringanew,unwrappedtoy todonate.Eachgiftwillhelp makeachild’sholiday brighterandshowthe strengthofourcommunity’s supportforfamiliesinneed.

ComecelebratetheholidayseasonatCulturalPark Theatre.

Forticketsandmore information,visittheirwebsiteat CulturalParkTheatre.comor call239-772-5862.

Thetheatreislocatedat 528CulturalParkBlvd.in CapeCoral.

MakethisDecembera monthtoremember—filled withlaughter,musicandgivingback.

MichaelDʼAmore-Dec.19

TheNaplesPlayerspresents AChristmasStory:TheMusical

Thisholidayseason,TheNaplesPlayers(TNP) bringabelovedclassictothestagewithAChristmas Story:TheMusical,runningnowthroughDec.22atthe newlyrenovatedKizzieTheater.

Basedontheiconic1983film,themusicalfollows youngRalphieParker’shumorousandheartfeltquestto gettheultimateChristmaspresent.

Packedwithenergeticdancenumbersandunforgettablesongslike"RedRyderCarbineActionBBGun" and"You'llShootYourEyeOut,"themusicaladdsa fresh,theatricalspintothecherishedholidayfavorite. Withlargeensemblenumbersandafestiveatmosphere,it’stheperfectfamilyoutingfortheholidayseason.

TheproductionisdirectedbyDawnLebrecht FornarawithmusicaldirectionbyCharlesFornara,featuringanexcitingblendoflocaladultandyouthtalent includingeleven-year-oldMatiasPiscoyaasRalphie.

“Theleveloflocaltalentinvolvedinthisproductionis trulyremarkable,”saidBryceAlexander,CEOandexecutiveartisticdirectorofTheNaplesPlayers.“We’refortunatetohaveanincrediblepoolofactors,fromour youngeststarstoseasonedperformers,whobringa uniqueenergytothisshow.It’swhatreallymakesthis productionshineandconnectsourcommunity.”

ShowtimesareWednesdaythroughSaturdayat 7:30p.m.andSundaymatineesat2p.m.

AttendeeswillalsoenjoyadmissiontotheTrees& TeasFestivaltakingplaceatTheNaplesPlayersduring therunoftheshow.Artist-designedtreeswillfillthe lobbyandotherspacesthroughthenewlyrenovated theater.

Ticketsareavailablenowatwww.naplesplayers.org orbycallingtheboxofficeat239-263-7990.The NaplesPlayersKizzieTheaterislocatedat7015th Ave.S.,inNaples.

FloridaRepertoryTheatrestagesAgatha Christie’sTheMurderofRogerAckroyd

FloridaRepertoryTheatre willpresentTheMurderof RogerAckroyd,Agatha Christie’smostbelovedwhodunitstory,playingNov.26 throughDec.15intheHistoric ArcadeTheatre.

TheMurderofRoger Ackroydwasvotedthebest crimenoveleverwrittenbythe BritishCrimeWriter’s Association,andMark Shanahan’splayisthefirsttime theclassicnovelhasbeen adaptedforthestage.The thrillingplotfeaturesamysteriouscastofsuspectsina worldfilledwithsecrets,gossip,misdirection,redherrings, plottwists,andatangledmurderinvestigationthatonlythe greatHerculePoirot,Christie’s mostfamousdetective,can solve.SetintheidyllicEnglish villageofKing’sAbbot,atightknitcommunitywhereeverybodyknowseverybodyelse’sbusiness–andmurderdoesn’tseempossible–becomesahotbedofsuspicionand intriguewhenwealthyandeccentricaristocratRogerAckroydisfounddead.

regionalpremiereofMark Shanahan’snewstageadaptationofthisChristiefan-favorite story,”saidproducingartistic directorGregLongenhagen. “Audiencesareinfora sleuthingtreat. Shanahanhaslovinglyadapted Christie’snovelfor thestage,andour top-notchcastand creativeteamare bringingittolifeso audiencesmaytryto workoutwhoamong thesuspiciouscharactersmurdered RogerAckroyd!”

atricalcreditsonBroadwayandregional stagesacrossthecountry–maketheir FloridaRepdebuts.ThecastalsofeaturesJillianHall,JacquelineSt.Pierre andJamesonStobbe,membersofthe FloridaRep2024-2025actingintern company.

Thecastfeatures FloridaRepensemblemembersVCraigHeidenreich(And ThenThereWereNone),Sara Morsey(TheGinGame)and JasonParrish(ASherlock Carol),returningguestactors DanaBrooke(AndThenThereWas None)andJackieSchram(ASherlock Carol).

“Weareverypleasedtopresentthe

NewYork-basedactorsEzraBarnes, JamesBeaman,ChristianPedersenand GysdeVilliers–eachwithnotablethe-

CharlesMorey,theformer artisticdirectoratPioneer Playhouse(Utah)and PeterboroughPlayhouse(New Hampshire),returnstoFlorida RepafterdirectingTwelve AngryMenin2016todirect thisproduction.

SingleticketpricesforThe MurderofRogerAckroydare $67forregularperformances fromNov.29throughDec.15 withdiscountedpreviewperformancesonNovember26and27startingat$49.Studentticketsareavailable for$15.ThereisnoperformanceonNov. 28inobservanceofThanksgiving.

Ticketsstartat$67andmaybepurchasedonlineatwww.floridarep.orgor bycallingtheboxofficeat239-332-4488 ortoll-freeat877-787-8053.

FloridaRepperformancesareheldin theHistoricArcadeTheatreandthe ArtStageStudioTheatreonBayStreet betweenJackson&Hendrystreets.

HappyLittleHolidayCabaretDec.8atFloridaRep

FloridaRepertoryTheatrewillpresentAHappyLittleHolidayCabareton Sunday,Dec.8inFloridaRep’s HistoricArcadeTheatre.

Theeventfeaturesholidayandseasonal-inspiredsongsperformedby FloridaRep’s2024-2025professional actinginterncompany.Thesongset lineupincludesoveradozenfavorites including“SantaBaby,”“Lostinthe Woods,”“Sisters,”“WhiteChristmas,” “HaveYourselfAMerryLittle Christmas”andmore.Theperformers willbeaccompaniedonthepianoby RosalindMetcalf.

FloridaRep’sSeason27acting interncompanymembersareReaganBaker,JJGibson, JillianHall,JacquelineStPierre,JamesonStobbeandNoah Warford.Thetroupeispresentlytouringinschoolsthroughout

SouthwestFloridawithFloridaRep’s TheatreforYoungAudiencesprogram wheretheyareperformingthemusicals VelveteenRabbit,DearAlbertEinstein andpresentingShakespeare’sHamlet. Membersoftheactinginterncompany alsoserveasunderstudiesorperform inSeason27mainstageproductions.

Theprogrambeginsat6p.m. Ticketsare$35foradults;$15forstudents/children.Allproceedsbenefit FloridaRep’seducationprograms.For tickets,visitwww.floridarep.orgorcall theboxofficeat239-332-4488ortollfreeat877-787-8053.

FloridaRepertoryTheatreperformancesareheldintheHistoricArcadeTheatreandthe ArtStageStudioTheatreonBayStreetbetweenJackson& HendrystreetsintheFortMyersRiverDistrict.

Sara Morsey

V.Craig Heidenreich

Jason Parrish

ACharlieBrownChristmas atTheBelleTheatreinCapeCoral

ByTylerYoung

It’sDecemberalready?Aftera busyfallseasonatTheBelle Theatre,we’reexcitedtocelebrate theholidayswithatelevisionclassic,ACharlieBrownChristmas!

JoinyourfavoritePeanutcharactersliveonstagealongwithholidaycarols,cookiesandcocoaall includedinyourticket.Donyour favoritefestivewearforafamily friendlycelebrationofholidaymagic andgrabphotosaroundtoshare.A CharlieBrownChristmasisperfect forallagesandwillbeonstageat TheBelleTheatreinCapeCoral Dec.18-22.

Readyforalittlemystery?Ring inthenewyearinmysteriousstyle withTheDaVinciCode,basedon DanBrown’sinternationalbest-sellingnovel.Agrippingmystery-thriller thatfollowsHarvardsymbologist RobertLangdonasheiscalledto

theLouvreMuseuminParisto investigatethemurderofthecurator,JacquesSaunière.

Soon,Langdon,alongwithcryptologistSophieNeveu,discovers thatSaunière’sdeathispartofa largerconspiracy.Runningfrom Jan.3toJan.19,thismysterypackedproductionpromisesto keepyouontheedgeofyourseat.

Ourthirdseasonwillcontinue withclassicandbelovedproductionslikeTheSoundofMusic, Harvey,DirtyRottenScoundrels andAlfredHitchcock'sThe39 Steps.

PartofourmissionatTheBelle iscreatingasafeplacewhere“Arts forAll”cantakecenterstage,as theendoftheyearapproachesyou canhelpsupportthatmissioninso manyways.ConsiderincludingThe Belleinyourendofyeargiving, yourdonationwillbeusedto

improveprogramming,expandour reach,maintainhighqualityentertainment,andprovidescholarships tostudentsinoureducationprograms.OtherwaystosupportThe Belle…purchaseticketstoan upcomingshow,giveaBelle Theatregiftcertificate,volunteerat thetheatre,andtellyourfriends aboutus.

Ticketsforourentire2024-2025 seasonarenowavailable.Visitour websiteatTheBelleTheatre.comor callourboxofficeat239-323-5533 toreserveyourseatstoday.Stay connectedwithusonFacebook (@thebelletheatre)forallthelatest updates.

TheBelleTheatreislocatedat 2708SantaBarbaraBlvd.,#135in CapeCoral. TylerYoungisfounderand executivedirectorofTheBelle Theatre

GulfshorePlayhouse’snewStruthers StudioopenswithEveryBrilliantThing

KristenCoury,founder,CEO&productionartisticdirectorofGulfshore Playhouse,announcedthecastand creativeteamforthepoignantand unforgettableplayEveryBrilliantThing byDuncanMacmillanwithJonny Donahoe.

Thisplaymarkstheopeningofthe newStruthersStudio,theblackbox theatrespace,intheBakerTheatre andEducationCenterat100 Goodlette-FrankRoadSouthin Naples.

StarringJeffreyBinder,Every BrilliantThingisdirectedbyRisa BraininandopenedonNov.14and runsthroughDec.15.

“Icouldnotbemoreexcitedto christentheStruthersStudiowiththis

touchingand heartwarming one-manplay,” saidKristen Coury.“And whobetterto welcomeaudiencesintothis blackboxspace thanthe belovedJeff Binder.Every BrilliantThing willhaveyou laughing,crying, reminiscing,andremindingyourself whatitmeanstobehuman.Thisplay isthecatharsisweallneedrightnow.”

"I’mthrilledtojoinKristenCoury,

JoelMarkus,andthewholeGulfshore teamtoopenthenewStruthersStudio spacewithEveryBrilliantThing,”said directorRisaBrainin.“Theplay’s themesoffindingjoyinadversityresonatedeeply,andtheintimatesetting ofthestudioallowsforacompletely immersiveexperience.We’vecreated anenvironmentthatiswarmandwelcomingwheretheaudiencebecomes anintegralpartofthestorytellingfrom themomenttheystepintothetheatre. I’mespeciallyexcitedtobeworking withtalentedlocalfavoriteJeffrey Binderwhobringssomuchheartand humortothisrole."

Ticketscanbeorderedonlineat gulfshoreplayhouse.orgorbyphoneat 239-261-PLAY.

AChristmasCarol:TheMusical atBroadwayPalmDinnerTheatrethroughDec.25

BroadwayPalmDinnerTheatreinvites youtoexperiencethetimelessandjoyous magicofAChristmasCarol:TheMusical, runningnowthroughDec.25.

JoinEbeneezerScroogeonatransformativejourneythroughChristmasespast, presentandfutureinthisbelovedadaptationofCharlesDickens’iconictale.Packed withheartwarmingmoments,festivesongs, andmemorablecharactersliketheGhosts ofChristmas,BobCratchitandTinyTim, thisshowissuretobringthespiritofthe holidaystoaudiencesofallages.

Perfectforfamiliesandholidayenthusiasts,AChristmasCarolpromisestodeliver anunforgettableeveningofentertainment. Audienceswillleavewithwarmheartsand areminderofthetruemeaningof Christmas.

TicketsforAChristmasCarolareonsale nowandcanbepurchasedthroughthe BroadwayPalmwebsite,callingthebox office,orinpersonatthetheatre.Matinee, evening,andtwilightperformancesareavailable.Seatsare expectedtosellquickly—don’tmissoutonthistreasured holidayclassic.

12-DECEMBER2024

TicketscanbepurchasedthroughtheBroadwayPalmwebsiteatBroadwayPalm.com,callingtheboxofficeat239-2784422,oratthetheatreat1380ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers.

JeffreyBinder

CharlottePlayerspresentthehilarious holidayfarceNoSexPlease:It’sChristmas byMichaelParker,runningnowtoDec.15 attheLangdonPlayhouse.

Thisside-splittingcomedyistheperfect waytokickofftheholidayseason,asitfollowsthechaosthatensueswhenaninnocentmix-upleadstoascandalousdelivery duringChristmastime.Withfast-paced humoranduproariousmisunderstandings, thisplaypromisestokeepaudienceslaughingfromstarttofinish.

Jointhemforaneveningoffestivefunas theybringthisdelightfulshowtolifewitha verytalentedcast.

DirectorTerryKozlowskishares, "Audiencesareinforarealholidaytreat withNoSexPlease:It'sChristmas.The showdeliversnon-stoplaughsandfestive fun,makingittheperfectescapefromthe holidayhustleandbustle"

Ticketsmaybepurchasedonlineat www.charlotteplayers.orgorbycalling 941-255-1022.Thetheaterislocatedat 1182MarketCircleinPortCharlotte.

DallasRiversasNanny&GeneCallanasBrooks photobyStephenLineberry

ChristmaswiththeCrawfords

TheSouthwestFloridapremiereofChristmaswiththe Crawfords,createdbyRichard WinchesterandwrittenbyMark Sargent,opensDec.6atThe LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida. Thishilarioustakeon1940s Hollywoodglamrunsthrough Dec.22.

Thisriotouscampclassicis basedontheactualChristmas Eveliveradiobroadcastfrom JoanCrawford’sBrentwoodmansionin1949.TinselTowndivas aboundandsingbelovedclassics whileCrawfordseethes.

ChristmaswiththeCrawfords allowstheaudienceahilarious sneakpeekintothebehind-thescenesshenanigansoftheglamorousworldofHollywood's GoldenAge.Thishilarious reimaginingoftheiconic1949 Christmasradiobroadcastwith JoanCrawford(RobertArmstrong) andHeddaHopper(Tracy Weaver)isarollickingcomedythat

invitestheatergoerstojoinaveritable gaggleofsilverscreeniconsforan unforgettablefestivecelebration. Audiencesaretreatedtoamadcap journeyfilledwithlaughter,music,and plentyoftoe-tappingmusicalnumbers. Thisdynamicproductioncapturesthe spiritoftheseasonwithadelightful twist.

DirectorToddLymansays,“The Crawfordsareafamilylikenoother, andtheirchaoticChristmascelebration isasighttobehold.We'vecreateda hilariouscomedythat"honors"divasof theGoldenAgebigHollywood.It'sa pleasuretodirectthisimmenselytalentedcast.”

PerformancedatesareDec.6,12, 13,14,19,20,21at7:30p.m.and Dec.7,8,15,22at2p.m.Halprice previewswilltakeplaceDec.4and5. Forticketsandmoreinfo,callthe boxofficeat239-218-0481orvisit www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com. LaboratoryTheaterislocatedat 1634WoodfordAve.indowntownFort Myers.

FloridaRepertoryTheatre willpresentFullyCommitted, ahilariousone-man,one-act playbyBeckyMode,playing intheArtStageStudioTheatre Dec.10throughJan.12.

InFullyCommitted,40wild charactersareunleashedina devastatinglyfunnyone-man, one-actplay.Thestoryfollows adayinthelifeofout-of-work actor,Sam,whomansthe red-hotreservationlineatManhattan’s #1restaurant.There,Samnavigates bribesandintimidationfromdesperate callerswhowillstopatnothingtoscorea table.Meanwhile,Sam’svyingforajuicy roleinaLincolnCenterproduction,and hislonelywidoweddadwantshimto comehomefortheholidays.

madeBroadwaybuzzin2016 whenTV’sModernFamily actorJesseTylerFerguson portrayedSam.Theplaycontinuestobeahotdishin regionaltheatresaroundthe countrywithavarietyofactors takingonthechallengingrole.

“Audiencesareinforawild ridewithtour-de-forceactor, KraigSwartz,whohasplayed Sammanytimeswithabsolutelyhilariousresults,”saidproducingartisticdirectorGregLongenhagen.“Kraig alsowonaBarrymoreAward–Philadelphia’sTony-forhisportrayalof SamatthePhiladelphiaTheatre Company,soaudiencesareinfora treat.”

son’sproductionofTheLegendof GeorgiaMcBrideandpreviouslyin VisitingMr.Green.”Swartzhasbeen nominatedforaDramaDeskAwardfor hisoff-Broadwayperformancesand earnedmultipleBarrymoreAwardsfor hisregionaltheatrework.Hehasalso appearedontelevision’sSNLandinthe filmWorldandTimeEnough.

FloridaRep’sproductionofFully CommittedwillbedirectedbyGus Kaikkonenwhoreturnsafterdirecting DinnerwithFriendsin2001.

Formoreinformationandtickets,visit FloridaRep.orgorcalltheboxofficeat 239-332-4488ortoll-freeat877-7878053.

BeckyMode’sfiercelyfunnyplay

14-DECEMBER2024

SwartzreturnstoFloridaRepafter appearingasMissTracyMillsinlastsea-

Foundedin1998,FloridaRepertory Theatreisafullyprofessional,livetheatreintheFortMyersRiverDistricton BaySt.betweenJackson&Hendry.

KraigSwartz

RobertArmstrongplaysJoanCrawfordinChristmas withtheCrawfords. photobySiskMedia

AlliancefortheArtspresentsClownBar2

TheatreConspiracyattheAlliance fortheArtspresentsthesequeltothe hitClownNoirplay,ClownBar2on stageDec.12-22.

It’sanexperiencelikenootheras theAlliancetheatreistransformedinto aninteractive,immersivebar.Drinks willbeavailableforpurchase,and servedbythesehilarious,yetfrightening,gangsterclowns.

Returntothesceneofthecrime forthehighly-anticipatedFloridapremiereofClownBar2,thefollow-upto thehitclownnoir-thriller-comedy. There'sbeenamurderattheClown Bar.It'saplacewhereunderground clowncrimesyndicatesbattlefortop billing,andagunshotendsinableedingstreamofconfetti.Therulesare strict,thejokesaredark,andthebest waytoserveacocktailisto"makeit funny."

It'sayearlaterandtheClownBar isindisrepair.Happyhasgonemissing.HashebeenoffedbyclowncowboyBrighamBillorwasitaninside

job?TwocopswhoknewHappywhen hewasontheforcegoundercoveras clownsintheClownBartofindout whathappened.

Knowledgeoftheprecedingshow

isnotrequiredtoenjoythissequel.In thewordsofplaywrightAdam Szymkowicz,"Look,ifyoudidn’t see/readtheoriginalClownBar,that’s fine.You’llstillunderstandtheplay."

ThelocalcastincludesSteven Coe,ShelleySanders,Scott Thomson,GiuseppeAnthony,Kelly Rivadula,GrantCothren,Christopher Brent,LaurenDrexler,KathyGrey, JamieCarmichaelandMadeleine Weymouth.

ClownBar2isdirectedbyBill Taylor,whoisthefounderandproducingartisticdirectorofTheatre ConspiracyattheAlliancefortheArts.

PerformancesareDec.12–14 and19-21at7:30p.m.andDec.22 at2p.m.withthebaropening45minutespriortothebeginningoftheperformance.Ticketsare$27formembersand$32fornon-members.To purchaseticketsorformoreinfo,call 239-939-2787,visitinpersonat 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers,or goonlineatwww.artinlee.org/Theatre.

T HEATRE

ShelleySandersasPetunia

GreetingsatPlayersCircleTheater

PlayersCircleTheaterisgetting intheChristmasspiritwithTom Dudzick’sheartwarmingholiday comedy,Greetings,runningNov.25 throughDec.22.

Thismiraculouslyfunnycomedy followsaCatholicboywhobringshis Jewish/atheistfiancéehomeforthe holidaystomeethisverytraditional family.Filledwithhumorandfantasy, thistouchingandendearingplayis aboutafamilyblessedwithanunexpectedmiracle.

“Allatonce,charmingand poignant-GreetingsisanuproariousblendbetweenAllintheFamily andMiracleon34thStreet,”cheered PlayersCircleTheater’sassociate artisticdirectorandtheplay’sdirector,TedWioncekIII.

Thisproductionalsomarksanew eraforPlayersCircle,asthetheater hasrecentlyreachedanagreement withActors’EquityAssociationthat willpermitthetheatertohiremembersoftheunionunderaguestartistscontract.

GreetingsstarsAEAmemberDouglasReesinthe Scrooge/ArchieBunker-esqueroleofPhil,agrouchyman

whoisstuckinhisways.

Reesisaprominentfigureinprofessionalregionaltheatre.Hehas appearedintheatresacrossthe nation,includingDenverCenter TheatreCompany,Shakespeare TheatreofDC,Alabama ShakespeareFestival,Pittsburgh PublicTheatre,CityTheatre (Pittsburg),andtheWilmaTheatre TheatreandtheArdenTheatrein Philadelphia.

“Thisisamajorstepforour organization–onethatwillallowus towidenourtalentpoolandcontinue toallowustobringSouthwest Floridaaudiencestheverybestof thebest,”addedPlayersCircle’s artisticdirectorRobertCacioppo.

Theproductionalsowelcomes backfourPlayersCircleTheater ensemblememberstothestage, includingNatalieBrouwer,Shane Dinan,HarveyEvansandCarrie LundCacioppo.

Forticketsandmoreinformation,visit PlayersCircleTheater.comorcall239-800-3292.Thetheater islocatedat13211McGregorBlvd.inFortMyers.

OffBroadwayPalmoffersholidaylaughs withAnotherNightBeforeChristmas

Getreadytolaughandbeinspiredas BroadwayPalmDinnerTheatrepresentstheheartwarmingandhilariousmusicalcomedyAnother NightBeforeChristmas,runningNov.28to Dec.25aspartoftheirOffBroadwayPalmseries. ThismodernholidaystoryfollowsKarol,acynicalsocialworker,whounexpectedlyencountersa homelessmanclaimingtobeSantaClauson ChristmasEve.Withcharm,wit,andatouchof holidaymagic,AnotherNightBeforeChristmas deliversadelightfulreminderthatthetruespiritof theseasoncanbefoundinthemostsurprising places.

Forthoseseekingafreshandfunnyholiday show,thisfeel-goodcomedywillleaveaudiences reflecting,smiling,andmaybeevenbelievingin miracles.

Matinee,eveningandtwilightperformancesare available.Ticketscanbepurchasedonlineat BroadwayPalm.com,calling239-278-4422,orin personat1380ColonialBlvd.inFortMyers.

NewexhibitsopenDec.6atAlliance

TheAlliancefortheArts(AFTA)willkick offthemonthofDecemberwiththreeexcitingnewexhibitions.TheannualMembers Onlygalleryexhibitionofsmallworks,titled OfftheWalls,willbeondisplayalongside ColoresQueSeDesvanecenbyrenowned portraitartistMarthaCantu,andtheLAEA ArtEducatorsShow,featuringartworkby localeducators.

TheopeningreceptionforallthreeexhibitionswillbeheldonFriday,Dec.6,from 5to7pm,andtheexhibitionswillremain onviewthroughJan.4,butAFTAwillbe closedDec.23–Jan.1.

OfftheWallsfeaturesoriginalsmall worksinavarietyofmediumscreatedby membersofAFTA,allpricedat$250or less.Artworkmustbe16x20inchesor smaller.Allsalesare“cashandcarry”and

availabletotakehomethatday,making thisexhibitiondynamicandever-changing eachdayitisonview.

RegardedasoneofSouthwestFlorida’s finestportraitartists,MarthaMariaCantu, worksinseveralartmediumsbutfocuses primarilyoncoloredpencil,acrylic,andoilbasedart.Mesmerizedbytheimperfectionsthatmakepeopleperfect;theretruly arenoborderswhenchoosinghermuse; assheisdrawntopeopleofallages, races,andbackgrounds.

“Thefreshandcrisplinesonherportraitscontainamodernphoto-realism,and herhandlingofdetaildoesnotdistractfrom herboldcolorchoicesandcomposition,” wroteoneJudge.Cantudescribeshowshe hasalwaysbeenattractedtopeople'seyes andfaces,whichhasinspiredherto becometheportraitartist sheistoday;whenone looksatherwork,itishard tobelievethatsheisselftaught.

TheAlliancefortheArtsannouncedOct.28that MollyRowan-Deckart,itsexecutivedirector,willstep downfromherroleeffectiveDec.15.

Rowan-Deckarthasservedinthepositionforfour yearsandhasbeeninstrumentalinleadingtheorganizationthroughaperiodoftransformation,growth,and challenges,includingrecoveryeffortsfollowing HurricaneIanandnavigatingstatewidefundingcuts.

ShewillbetakingonanewroleasCEOof MarqueeArtsinAnnArbor,Mich.

Today,shestandsatthe heartofImmokalee'svibrant artsscene,astheartist behindtheWelcometo Immokaleesign,Fieldof Dreams.

TheLeeArtEducation Association(LAEA)isan organizationofartteachers frombothpublicandprivate institutionsthroughoutLee

County.Thisgroupoftalentedartistsand educatorsareexcitedtosharesomeof theirpersonalandprofessionalartworkwith thecommunity.Awidevarietyofmediums andsubjectmatterswillberepresentedin thisshow,butthecommonthemewillbe theloveandpassionofeducatingand inspiringourlocalyouthtotakeprideinthe arts.

TheAlliancefortheArtsislocatedat 10091McGregorBlvd.justsouthof ColonialBoulevardinFortMyers.Formore information,call239-939-2787orvisit onlineatwww.ArtInLee.org.

Duringhertenure,Rowan-DeckartoversawsignificantadvancementsattheAlliancefortheArts,includingthe expansionoftheAlliance’sonartseducationprograms,theestablishmentofkeycommunitypartnerships,andtheplanningofthe organization’shighlyanticipated50thAnniversarycelebrations, whichwilllaunchinJanuary2025.Underherleadership,the Alliancestrengtheneditscommitmenttoartsaccessibility,cultural equity,andeconomicvitalityinSouthwestFlorida.

“MollyhasbeenavisionaryleaderfortheAlliance,guidingthe organizationthroughunprecedentedtimeswhilekeepingourmissionandvaluesattheforefrontofeverythingwedo,especiallyas weapproachthe50thanniversary,”saidJarrettEady,chairofthe

Alliance’sBoardofDirectors.“Wearedeeplygratefulfor herleadershipanddedicationtomakingtheartsa vibrantpartofourcommunity,andwewishherthevery bestinherfutureendeavors.”

TheAlliance’sBoardofDirectorshasestablisheda transitionplantoensureasmoothhandoverofresponsibilitiestoseniorleadershipwhileaninterimleadership strategyisconsidered.Theorganizationispreparingto conductasearchforanewexecutivedirectorinthe comingmonths.

Inherpartingstatement,Rowan-Deckartsaid,“Ithas beenaprivilegetoleadtheAlliancefortheArtsandworkalongsidesuchtalented,passionatepeople.Iamincrediblyproudofthe workwe’veaccomplishedtogetherandexcitedtoseethecontinuedworktobuildtheartscommunityinSouthwestFlorida.Ilook forwardtoseeingthecontinuedsuccessoftheAllianceinthe yearsahead.”

TheAlliancewillcontinuetodeliveritsrobustscheduleofarts programming,eventsandexhibitionsasplannedandinvitesthe communitytoparticipateina"FarewellParty"tobecelebratedas partoftheOfftheWallsgalleryopeningreceptiononFriday,Dec. 6from5to7p.m.

MarthaCantu

In the month of December, DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is hosting a month-long bazaar featuring a unique holiday inventory. A community Christmas party is scheduled for the evening of Friday, Dec. 6 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

All decked out for the holidays, the venue will transform into a Christmas bazaar, with unique handmade and original items such as ornaments, framed artwork, greeting cards, jewelry, pottery and more. The inventory is expected to change routinely throughout the month, as artists add new items and products.

For the past few months, DAAS Co-Op has incorporated six artist studios, while maintaining its monthly guest artist schedule for future exhibition receptions. Now integrated with Arts & Eats Café, considered the only art café in town, the gallery is part of an extensive concept of local art, exhibitions, art studios and

great food. Together with the Union Artist Studios, located on the second floor of the same Edwards Building, the Art Triad community is now established.

The DAAS Bazaar inaugurates on the first Friday of December at 5:30 p.m. with a community Christmas party, where everyone is invited and welcomed to enjoy light refreshments provided by the artists from the Union Artist Studios. Likewise, all the artists of the Art Triad are joining forces to produce and produce the inventory for the event.

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is located at 10051 McGregor Blvd., suite 104 in Fort Myers (adjacent to Arts & Eats Café) on the Alliance for the Arts campus. The gallery’s hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info about the venue can be found at daascoop.com or by calling 239-955-0422.

Artmarket,DebbieKramer atCapeCoralArtCenter

TheCapeCoralArtCenterinvitesthe publictobeapartoftheirgrowingarts communitybyparticipatinginDecember events.

TheMerry&BrightArtMarketwill takeplaceNov.26throughDec.19. Merry&BrightArtMarketisanannual holidayfineartsaleshowcasingourlocal artistcommunity.Thisisthechancefor localartists,artcenterstudents,and instructorstodisplayandselltheirwork. Thepubliccanshopthisannualsaleand getajumpstartontheholidayshopping season.

Artistscanparticipatebyregistering priortoreceiving daywhichisNov. 25.Call239-5740802formoreinformationaboutselling yourworkduring Merry&BrightArt Market.

Merry&Bright ArtMarketisopen tothepublicfor shoppingduringregularbusinesshours Mondaythrough Saturday9a.m.to4 p.m.

MyJourney: LookingThroughthe Glassexhibitwillbe ondisplayDec.6–26andfeatureartist DebbieKramer.

Anopeningreceptionisscheduled forDec.6from5to7p.m.Embarkon acaptivatingexplorationoftheworld ofstained-glassartwithartistDebbie Kramer'slatestexhibition.

“Myjourneyinglassbegan40 yearsago.Overtheyears,Ihave takenandtaughtnumerousglass classesacrossvariousstates,which hasallowedmetodevelopboth expertiseandadeeppassionfor stainedglass.Iwasanactivemember ofthePennsylvaniaGuildof Craftsmenandcollaboratedonarts showswithaPennsylvaniagallery.I alsohostedanannual artstouratmyhome studio.Throughoutmy career,Ihavecompleted numerousresidentialand commercialcommissioned works.Currently,Iteach bothbeginnerand advancedglassclassesat theCapeCoralArts Centerandamanactive participantinthe SouthwestFloridaFine CraftGuild.Icontinueto acceptcommissionwork, allowingmetostay engagedwithboththe artisticandpracticalsides ofmycraft,”saidKramer Theartcenteroffersa varietyofworkshopsin December.Workshops

DebbieKramer

offerafunandflexiblewayexplorenew sidesofyourcreativity.Thesehands-on sessionsallowyoutoexperimentwitha varietyofmediums.Whetheryou’recuriousaboutpainting,sculpture,orpaper arts,it'stheperfectopportunitytotry somethingnew.Pre-registrationis requiredandprocessedinfirst-come, first-servedbasiswithlimitedspace.Call 239-574-0802formoreinformation.

NaplesArtcraftersinCambierParkDec.14

TheNaplesArtcrafterswillhosttheir secondjuriedfineartandcraftshowof thenewseasononSaturday,Dec.14. Theeventshowcasestheworkof juriedlocalartistsandcraftsmenwho willbesellingtheirpaintings,jewelry, pottery,artglass,sculpturesandmore inlovelyCambierPark,whichislocated on8thStreetSouth,justoneblock southof5thAveSouthindowntown Naples.

Meetwellknownandemerging Naples’artistsinthiscelebrationofcreativity.Itwillbeawonderfulopportunity toshoplocalandsupportyourartists.

Admissionisfree,andfreeparkingisnearby.Theshow runsfrom10a.m.to4p.m.

TheNaplesArtcrafterswasfounded in1966asanon-profitorganization dedicatedtothesupportoflocalartists andtheencouragementofthedevelopmentofartisticendeavorsinthe Naplesarea.Thegroupprovideslocal artistsandcraftsmenavenuefordisplayingandsellingtheirworkbysponsoringjuriedoutdoorshowsduringthe season.

Theremaining2024-25seasonhas showsinCambierParkscheduledfor Feb.1,March8andApril12.TheJan. 11artshowwillbeheldin FleischmannPark.

FormoreabouttheNaplesArtcraftersgroup,visitonlineat naplesartcrafters.com.

TheCapeCoralArtCenterispartof theCityofCapeCoralParks& RecreationDepartmentandislocatedat 4533CoronadoParkway,CapeCoralin RubicondPark.Formoreinformationon anyoftheseprogramsandexhibitscall 239-574-0802orvisitthemonFacebook @CapeCoralArtCenterorbye-mailartcenter@capecoral.gov. 22-DECEMBER2024

TowerGalleryreadyforholidaygiftbuyers

TowerGalleryisanartists’cooperativeconsistingof27artistsintwodimensionalandthree-dimensional mediumssuchasoil,acrylic,watercolor,photography,ceramic,jewelry, fiber,wood,glassandmetal.

Liveartistsdemonstrationswill takeplaceThursday,Dec.12from5 to8p.m.

Thegallerywasfoundedin1982 andmovedtoitspresentlocationin 1994.ItishousedinaspaciousoriginalFloridaCottage,withCraftsman elements,thatwasoriginallybuilton theGulfin1915andmovedtoits presentsiteonaflatbedtruck.

Thetwo-storyturquoisehouseis initsrepaintedbutoriginalconstruction.Thegalleryspaceislarge,welllitandinviting,andfullofoldFlorida charm.

GalleryartistsincludeJoAnne Bedient,CharlieBrown,SteveBufter, MikeDanley,KathleenDennison, SallyDutko,LudmilaEvans,Katie Gardenia,ShahHadjebi,Megan Kissinger,IkkiMatsumoto,Charlie McCullough,KellyMorrison,Carole Nastars,MarianneRavenna,Christine

SusanSadler,RonSebring,Anne Schroeder,KathySeguin,Elise Sewall,AnisaStewart,BuckWard, LindaWigginsandChristinaWyatt. TowerGalleryislocatedat751

TarponBayRoadonSanibelandis opensevendaysaweekfrom10a.m. to4p.m.

Formoreinformation,callthe galleryat239-472-4557orvisitat www.towergallery.net

Reichow,JohnRizza,JoanRoberts,

TwonewexhibitsopenDec.6at Sidney&BerneDavisArtCenter

TheSidney&BerneDavisArtCenterannouncestwo artexhibitionsopeningduringFortMyersArtWalkon Friday,Dec.6.

TheConservatoryofSBDAChostsanopencall groupexhibitiontitledMerryMovieMagic:ArtInspired byHolidayCinema.

ThesecondfloorCapitalGallerywillexhibit Panoramica:Soulstice,curatedbyIsraelAlpizarand SBDAC.

Theholidayseasonisuponus,andwithitcomesthe magicofholidaymoviesthathavewarmedourhearts andhomesforgenerations.TheSidney&BerneDavis ArtCenterisexcitedtoannouncetheopencallgroup exhibition,MerryMovieMagic:ArtInspiredbyHoliday CinemawhichwillbeondisplayduringSBDAC’smost popularevents;FestivalofTrees.Theexhibitionwillbe heldonthefirstfloorintheConservatory.

Theopencallinvitedartiststocapturebeloved momentsthroughnostalgicholidaycinemaclassicsand totranslateitthroughtheiruniqueartisticlensesand application.FromthewhimsicaladventuresofElf,the timelesstaleofIt'saWonderfulLife,theheartwarming charmofHomeAloneorthemagicaljourneyofThe PolarExpress,thisexhibitionaimstocelebratethestories,characters,andscenesthatareanintegralpartof ourholidaytraditions.

AsguestsenterintothesecondflooroftheCapital Gallery,theywillbeimmersedinavisuallytransforming multimediaprojectionshowtitledPanoramica:Soulstice, curatedbyIsraelAlpizarandSBDAC.Thefusionof visualaids,specialeffects,installationsandprojection mappingtechnologycreatesimaginativelandscapesfor

gueststodelveintoaworldofmultisensorymeditation. Theinstallationisanhomagetothesoulsticeinthe monthofDecember.Alpizarutilizesthespaceofthe gallerytoprovideavisualjourneyinspiredfromthecosmicdanceofoursolarsysteminrelationtotheWinter Solstice.Italignstheparadigmsoftheholidaysand astronomicalrhythms.Heexploreshowthecosmos dancesaroundone'sselfandencouragestheexperiencetobringjoyandwonderoftheholidaystoeach guest.

Additionally,theLeeCountyPublicSchoolDistrict willdisplaytheirannualHolidayGreetingCard CompetitioncompetitorsstartingDec.11intheGrand Atrium.Theartworkfeaturediscreatedbylocalstudentsinelementary,middle,andhighschool.TheexhibitionfortheLCPSDHolidayGreetingCardCompetition willendonDec.20.

BothartshowsopenduringArtWalkonDec.6from 6to10p.m.andrunthroughDec.20.Thefrontsteps oftheSBDACwillberockinginholidaycheerwithlive musicfromTheNowhereBandfrom7:30to10p.m. afterthegiantwreathlightingat7p.m.

Sidney’sRooftop&SculptureGardenwillbeopen from6p.m.tomidnight.

Theartopeningsandfreeconcertalignwiththe FestivalofTreeseventhappeninginsideoftheGrand AtriumatSBDAC.A$2admissionisabasedonation intotheFestivalofTreeseventonDec.6.

TheSidney&BerneDavisArtCenterisat2301First St.inthehistoricdowntownFortMyersRiverDistrict. Formoreinformation,call239-333-1933orvisitonline atwww.sbdac.com

IsraelAlpizar

MerryMovieMagic:ArtInspiredbyHolidayCinema

FacesoftheWateratTribbyArtsCenter

TribbyArtsCenterinvitesvisitorstoexperiencefascinating facesofunderwaterrealms,presentedinstunningphotography andelegantwoodworks,in“Faces oftheWater:TheArtistryofChris GugandMikeSorge,”ondisplay throughDec.28.

ChrisGugisconsideredby manytobeAmerica’sforemost underwateroceanphotographer. Hehascreatedimagesinmore than60countries,haswonmore than100majorphotographyawards, beenpublishedinnumerousmagazines,andhasdisplayedhisworkin theU.S.Smithsonianmuseums, London’sNaturalHistoryMuseum, andmore.

MikeSorgeisknownforhislarge, wood-turnedsculpturesthatseemto defygravityandseektoupliftthe humanspirit.Hisdistinctionsinclude topawardsinprestigiousjuriedarts festivals,mostrecentlybeingnamed bestexhibitorinthethree-dimensionalcategoryinthe2024Columbus (Ohio)ArtsFestival.Sorgeparticipated inthe2023SmithsonianAmericanFine CraftShow,hasexhibitedhisworkin

exhibitionsinMaryland,Virginia,North Carolina,andWashingtonD.C.,and teacheswoodturningtechniquesfor chapterclubsoftheAmerican

AssociationofWoodturners.

InFacesoftheWater,ChrisGug displays20large-formatimages printedonmetalandrepresenting locationsinAustralia,theBahamas, Curacao,DutchAntilles,Florida, Greece,Hawaii,India,Indonesia, Mexico,NewGuinea,andTurks andCaicos.

MikeSorgewilldisplayhissignatureformsevokingmantarays thatswimbeneaththeoceans’surfacesandthebirdsthatsoarabove them.InspiredbyNativeAmerican concepts,his“SpiritBirds”incorporateartisan-madeglassmarblesby IanStromandKevinO’Grady,the latterArizonaartistknownnationwide ashavingcreatedthevortexmarble technique.

Tribbyexhibitionsareopenfreeof chargetoall.TheFacesoftheWater exhibitionintheShellPointGalleryis open10a.m.to3p.m.Tuesday throughSaturday.

TribbyArtsCenterislocatedat 17281OnParBlvd.withinthe CoastalCommonsneighborhoodof ShellPoint.FormoreaboutTribbyArts Center,call239-415-5667.

MikeSorge

ChrisGug

HirdieGirdiewelcomesJimCrawford, StacyMoody,GerriZoppainDecember

HirdieGirdiewelcomesthreeguestartistsforthemonthof December:GerriZoppa,JimCrawfordandStacyMoody.

Ameetandgreetisscheduledduringthegallery’sextended hoursonThursday,Dec.5from5to8p.m.

ThegallerywillbeopenfortheSanibelLuminaryHoliday StrollonFriday,Dec.6from5:30to9p.m.Besuretocheck onlineathirdiegirdiegallery.comforanychangesinhours.

piecesofbrokenglassto transformthemintoabeautifulmosaic.

GerriZoppawillbeatthe galleryforthemonthof Decemberwithherbeautiful holidayornaments.Shedecoratesglassornamentswith asubstancecalled“mud” whichwasspeciallycreated forthispurpose.Themudis createdwithatexturedsubstanceandpulverizedglass whichisappliedwithpastry decoratingtechniques.

JimCrawfordisaself-taughtsculptor;histechniquesand finishedworksareveryunique.Nowaretiredprofessor,marine biologistandSCUBAinstructor,Jimuseshisunderwaterphotosandexperiencestocreatelife-likesculpturesofhisocean friends.Manyofhissculpturesarefirstcarvedinwood.He thenmakesarubbermoldoftheoriginal,andbyusingthelost waxmethod,hecaststhepieceinbronze.Thebronzesculptureisthensandedsmoothandfinishedwithanacidpatina, whichgivesitauniquelookandcolor.StacyMoodybeganher glasscreations asafunhobby andhasturned itintoapassion forcreatingartworkusing natureasher muse.She lovesbirdsand allthingsfrom natureandtries tocreatevisuallyexciting two-dimensionalpieceswith stainedglass. Shecutsand shapestiny

AjuriedshowtitledArtisanAdventuresfeaturing exceptionalworkbymembersoftheSouthwest FloridaFineCraftGuildwillgracethewallsanddisplaycasesoftheCapeCoralLibraryartgallerynow throughDec.30.Each pieceinthisexhibitisa handmade,originaland uniqueproductoftheindividualartist’simagination. Ondisplaywillbeglass art,sculptureandmixed media,2-dimensionalart, jewelry,functionalartand fiberart.TheLibraryis locatedat921SW39th Terrace,offMohawk Parkway,andtheexhibit willbeopenduringregular libraryhours.

HirdieGirdieisanartists'cooperative.Theuniqueworkis createdbymemberartistsChrisChristian,TracyOwenCullimore,TamaraCulp,ReneeFarr,ZdenkaFiala,Maureen Ginipro,NancyGray, SueHousler,JoAnn LaPadula,OliverMartin, ChristineMusic,Nikki TaylorPombrio,Penny Ripley,GilbertoSanchez, SharonShaw,Marty ShermanandKay Stammers.

HirdieGirdieislocatedat2490LibraryWay onSanibel.Galleryhours areMondaythrough Saturday10a.m.to5 p.m.andSundays11 a.m.to4p.m.

TheSouthwestFloridaFineCraftGuild(SWFFCG)wasformed53yearsagoandisahighly respectednon-profitartistcollectiveforcreative minds.Membersactivelyparticipateinthelocalcommunitybylendingtheirexpertiseandtakingpartin artexhibitions,workshops,demonstrationsandart scholarships.Localartistsareinvitedtojointhis dynamicgrouptoexpandtheirknowledgeandconnectwithothers.Whetheryou’reaseasonedfine craftspersonorjuststartingyourcreativejourney,the Guildisheretowelcomeyouintothefold,andyou canfindinformationaboutjoiningontheirwebsite: www.SWFFCG.org.

Changingartexhibitionsinthelibrary’sgalleryare sponsoredbytheFriendsoftheCapeCoralLibrary. Forinfo,contactMonicaRahman,artgallerychairperson,atgallery@capefriends.orgorvisit www.capefriends.org.Follow“FriendsoftheCape CoralLibrary”onFacebook.

GerriZoppa

JimCrawford

StacyMoody

DonnaSpitzer

LynnOndercin

TabbyBuddeexhibit atArtsforACTGallery

ArtsforACTGallerywillhostan openingreceptiononFriday,Dec.6 from5to9p.m.inconjunctionwith FortMyersArtWalk.Thismonth,ACT GallerywillfeaturetheartofTabby Budde.

TabbyBuddeisaself-trained mixedmediaartisthailingfromthe vibrantshoresofKeyWest. Surroundedbythelushbeautyofher tropicalhometown,Tabby'screative journeyhasbeendeeplyinfluenced bythebreathtakinglandscapes,vivid sunsets,andrichmarinelifeofthe FloridaKeys.

Herartisticpracticeisaharmonious blendofvariousmediums,including fluidart,clay,goldleaf,acrylicpaint skins,woodworking,andresin.This diverseapproachallowshertoexplore andexpressthenaturalworldininnovativeways.Tabby'sworkoften reflectsherpassionfortheocean,featuringstunningdepictionsofsealife, thetranquilityofthebeachandthe enchantingbeautyofnightskies.

Inherlatestexhibit,"Stardustand Seashores,"Tabbyinvitesviewersto experiencethemagicoftwilightand theserenityoftheseathrough sparklingnightskies,vibrantsunsets, andcaptivatingmarinelife.Each pieceisacelebrationoftheconnectionbetweenlandandsea.

TabbynowresidesinCapeCoral andherartcanbefoundather galleryPeaceinColoronline.

Thisexhibitcontinuesthrough Dec.30.Galleryhoursare11:30a.m. to8p.m.MondaythroughSaturday andnoonto6p.m.onSunday.

ArtsforACTGalleryislocatedat 2265FirstSt.indowntownFort Myers.ACTGalleryiscuratedby ClaudiaGoodewiththehelpofACT artistsandvolunteers.Thegalleryis ownedbyAbuseCounselingand Treatment,Inc.Moneyraisedgoesto domesticviolence,sexualassaultand humantraffickingparticipantsinshelterandoutreach.Formoreinfo, contactcgoode@actabuse.com.

Holidayeventsanddisplaysat VisualArtsCenterinPuntaGorda

TheVisualArtsCenterinPunta GordawillbebusyinDecember.

TheHolidayMarketplaceartandcraft showwilltakeplaceSaturday,Nov.2 from10a.m.to3p.m.Sharethejoyof artthisseason.TheHolidayMarketplace isanartandcraftfestivalfeaturinga diverseselectionofhandmadegiftsand artwork.

TheHolidaysintheHallsaleruns nowtoDec.28.It’safestiveChristmas wonderlandshowcasingholidayornamentsanddelightfulsmallgiftscrafted bymembersoftheVisualArtCenter.

Eachartistwillhave around5feetofspaceto adornwiththeirunique holidaycreations.

TheHolidayShowcase under$200saleisnowto Dec.28.Diveintoa treasuretroveof2D&3D Artallfor$200orless. Eachtalentedartistshowcasesandsellsuptosix fabulouspieces.Allart mediumsarewelcome, andeverythingispriced at$200orunder.

Revupyourengines forafun-filleddayat Hogs&Dogs,featuringa stunningdisplayofmotorcyclesbyBert'sBlack WidowHarleyDavidson onDec.3from9a.to4 p.m.Stopbyforcomplimentaryhotdogs,chips andsodawhilechecking outtheincrediblebikes.Butthat'snot all—thiseventalsosupportsthearts. JointheVACforGivingTuesday,a NationalDayofGenerosity,andshow yoursupportfortheVisualArtsCenter. Yourparticipationhelpsfundcreative programsandinitiativesthatinspireour community.It’stheperfectwaytoenjoy greatfood,incrediblebikes,andgive backtotheartsallinoneday.

OnDec.12,getreadyfor afestivenightoffunandphilanthropyatourUgly SweaterReception& HurricaneBenefitSale.Join themforamerryevening filledwithlaughter,holiday cheer,andahilariousUgly SweaterContest—complete withfantasticprizesforthe boldestandmostcreative designs.Whileyou'rehere, don'tmisstheHurricaneArt BenefitSale.Community membersimpactedbythe hurricaneshavespentsix weekscreatingart,andwill showcasetheirwork.Bestof all,100%oftheproceeds fromeverypiecesoldwillbe returneddirectlytotheparticipants.It’sagreatchanceto snaguniqueartworkwhile supportingthecreativecommunityandaidinginhurricanerecoveryefforts.Wearyourmost outrageoussweater,enjoythefestivities, andgivebacktotheartsthisholiday season.Theeventruns5to7p.m. Lookingahead,thecenterwillhost anopenhouseJan.3and4. VisualArtsCenterislocatedat210 MaudSt.inPuntaGorda. Formoreinfo,call941-639-8810or visitwww.visualartcenter.org

BobKozak

BonnieWalker

TinaBarnes

SWFloridaWoodArtExpoJan.10&11

TheannualSouthwestFloridaWoodArt,WoodCarversandWood TurnersexpoandcompetitionisscheduledforFriday,Jan.10and Saturday,Jan.11.

Thisisoneofthepremierwoodartshowsinthecountrysince1986. Adynamicshowwithhundredsofentriesforcompetition,vendorsofall kinds(wood,tools,blanks,dustequipment,artsuppliesandmore),demonstrations,raffle,carvingclasses,artists'displaysandsales.

TheshowwillbeheldattheCharlotte HarborEventCenter,locatedat75Taylor St.,PuntaGorda.

Doorswillbeopenfrom9a.m.to4 p.m.eachday.Admissionwillbe$10for eachday(12andunderarefree).Tickets areavailableatthedoorandonline.

Theshowfeaturesdemonstrations, silentauctions,carvingsupplies,carver sales&displays,vendors,uniqueraffle andaqualitycompetition.

Competitionfeeis$10forthefirstentry and$5foranysubsequententriesper division.Thisyear,theyhaveaddedchainsawcarving,CNC,andlasercarvingcategoriesalongwithanewfurnituredivision.

Commercialvendorsmaysubmitan applicationonlinefordisplayorsalesspace.Formoreinformation,tickets andforms,goonlinetowww.swflwoodartexpo.org.

LiveMusic,Theatre, ArtExhibits,Concerts andSpecialEvents

ONGOING

ForbiddenBroadway’s GreatestHits ThroughDec.7

Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 239-277-1700

TheMurderofRogerAckroyd ThroughDec.15

ArcadeTheatre,FloridaRepertory Theatre,2268BaySt.,FortMyers 239-332-4488

GulfshorePlayhouse presentsEveryBrilliantThing ThroughDec.15

StruthersStudio,BakerTheatre andEducationCenter, 100Goodlette-FrankRoad,Naples 239-261-7529

D ECEMBER C ALENDAR

TheOutlaws

SeminoleCasinoHotelinImmokaleewelcomesTheOutlawsin concertonDec.7.Forticketsandinfo,visitwww.moreinparadise.com.

Merry&BrightArtMarket ThroughDec.19

CapeCoralArtCenter,4533

CoronadoParkway,CapeCoral Monday-Saturday9a.m.-4p.m. 239-574-0802

Greetings ThroughDec.22

PlayersCircleTheater, 13211McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 239-800-3292

TheNaplesPlayers: AChristmasStorythemusical ThroughDec.22

KizzieTheater,TheNaplesPlayers, 7015thAve.S.,Naples 239-263-7990

AChristmasCarolthemusical ThroughDec.25

BroadwayPalmTheatre, 1380ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers 239-278-4422

AnotherNightBeforeChristmas ThroughDec.25

OffBroadwayPalmTheatre, 1380ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers 239-278-4422

AnnualEdisonHolidayNights ThroughJan.5

EdisonandFordWinterEstates 2350McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 239-334-7419

HolidayArtShows ThroughDec.28

VisualArtsCenter, 210MaudSt.,PuntaGorda 941-639-8810

HorizonArtInstallation ThroughFeb.16

MercatoEventLawn,Naples www.experiencemercato.com

SUN-1

ACMASongwritersCircle AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 2p.m.,www.americanacma.org

LastTrain

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,3-6p.m.,239-540-8454

BadLatitude Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte noon,941-235-3675

CharlottePlayerspresents NoSexPlease:It’sChristmas LangdonPlayhouse, 1182MarketCircle,PortCharlotte 2p.m.,941-255-1022

HolidayLightingCeremony CulturalParkTheatre, 528CulturalParkBlvd.,CapeCoral 5-8p.m.,239-772-5862

CandlelightConcerts: BestofHansZimmer-6p.m. TributetoColdplay-8:30p.m. Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 239-277-1700

SalsaDanceParty-5p.m. TheTapMonkeys-6p.m. ElvisTribute-7:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

MON-2

EdZiehm TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

SheldonUpchurch TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

TUE-3

Galleryopeningreception HarbourViewGallery,5789Cape HarbourDrive,suite104,Cape Coral,6-8p.m.,featuredartists NancyCunningham&CarolYoung, www.harbourviewgallery.com

DuelingPianos-6:30p.m. TheFirmJazz&Blues-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

BillBeck TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

ChristmasParade 3rdStreetSouthand 5thAvenueSouth,Naples 6p.m.,239-248-4151

FGCUChoirsand SymphonyOrchestraConcert MooringsPresbyterianChurch, 791HarbourDrive,Naples 4and7p.m.,fgcu.edu/joyful

CandlelightConcerts: ATributetoQueen-6p.m. TributetoAdele-8:30p.m. Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 239-277-1700

WED-4

MichaelDutra-Sinatratribute LobbyBaratLuminaryHotel&Co., 2200EdwardsDr.,FortMyers 6-9p.m.,239-314-3723

TreeLightingCeremonyand HolidayCirqueExperience MercatoEventLawn,Naples 5:30-8p.m. www.experiencemercato.com

JoshRowand TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

Temptations,FourTopstribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeach Road,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

CharlottePlayerspresents NoSexPlease:It’sChristmas Dec.4-8 LangdonPlayhouse, 1182MarketCircle,PortCharlotte 941-255-1022

FestivalofTreesPreviewParty SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 6p.m.,239-333-1933

Broadway’sRockofAgesBand BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 8p.m.,239-481-4849

LatinDanceSocial-6p.m. SmokinAces-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

THU-5

JoeyFiato TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

TheWeddingSinger Dec.5-8 CypressLakeHighSchool, 6750PantherLane,FortMyers www.cypresslaketheatre.com

RichieC-6:30p.m. EaglesTribute-7:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

SmokinAces

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,6-9p.m.,239-540-8454

FGCUPianoEnsemblesConcert MusicBuildingFGCU, 10501FGCUBlvd.S.,FortMyers 7:30p.m.,free,239-745-4268

MercatoNightsMusicSeries withSelwynBirchwood MercatoEventLawn,Naples 6:30-8:30p.m. www.experiencemercato.com

FabulousGirlsofMotown andLadiesofDiscotribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeach Road,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

GoodwillFestivalofTrees Dec.5-8

SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 239-333-1933

MeettheartistsatHirdieGirdie HirdieGirdieArtGallery, 2490LibraryWay,Sanibel 5-8p.m. www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com

RickHoward: LatinGuitarSummit PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

Exileinconcert TurnerAgriCivicCenter, 2250NERoanSt.,Arcadia 5p.m.,www.eventbrite.com

FRI-6

FortMyersArtWalk DowntownFortMyers 5-9p.m.www.myriverdistrict.com

TabbyBuddeexhibit ArtsforACTGallery 2265FirstSt.,FortMyers reception5-9p.m.,239-337-5050

NowhereBand,wreathlighting SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 7p.m.,239-333-1933

Leather&LaceDuo-6p.m. VentriloquistComedian MarkMerchant-7p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

SmallWorksOfftheWallsexhibit ThroughJan.4 AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers Openingreception5-7p.m. 239-939-2787

AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION

CliffEberhardt

SATURDAY, DECEMBER7 LouiseMosrie opens,7pm

Reckless Saints

SATURDAY,JAN.4 TheBernardisopens,7pm

ALLFAITHSUNITARIANCONGREGATION 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers

Doorsopenat6:30pm.Ticketsatthedoor.

SONGWRITERSONTHE PLAZA MacMartin,PeterSlota andGeneMartin TUESDAY,DEC.10 at6pm CornogPlaza,FortMyersLibrary,Downtown FREE-Bringchairorblanket. Showmovesindoorsdependingonweather JAN.14,FEB.11,MARCH11,APRIL8&MAY13

SINGER-SONGWRITERCIRCLE-Sundays2pm-AllFaiths

VisitourFacebookpageandwebsite formoreinfo&fullcalendarofevents www.americanacma.org

FRI-6continued

ComedianPeterFogel FloridaRepertoryTheatre, 2268BaySt.,FortMyers 7p.m.,239-332-4488

ThePoRamblinBoys PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

Desire4U

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

ComedianZarnaGarg SeminoleCasinoHotel, 506S.1stSt.,Immokalee 7p.m.,www.moreinparadise.com

13South TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

NeilDiamondand BarbraStreisandtribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

SealedforFreshness

Dec.6-8 CulturalParkTheatre, 528CulturalParkBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-772-5862

DebbieKramerexhibit ThroughDec.26 CapeCoralArtCenter,4533 CoronadoParkway,CapeCoral Openingreception5-7p.m. 239-574-0802

TheUltimateDoorstribute Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte VIPgatesat6p.m.,RobertGarcia at7p.m.,941-235-3675 VIPattwistedfork.freshtix.com

CommunityChristmasParty andDAASBazaar

DAASCo-OpArtGallery&Gifts, 10051McGregorBlvd.,suite104, FortMyers,Party5:30-9p.m.,art bazaarallmonth,239-955-0422

SouthwestFloridaConcertBand SouthFortMyersHighSchool, 14020PlantationRoad,FortMyers 7p.m.,BellsofJoy southwestfloridaconcertband.org

AnnualEmptyBowlsPotterySale ArstComplexCourtyard,FGCU, 10501FGCUBlvd.S.,FortMyers 10a.m.,239-745-4268

D ECEMBER C ALENDAR

ACMASongwritersCircle AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 2p.m.,www.americanacma.org

LeeCountyCommunityBand MarinerHighSchool, 701ChiquitaBlvd.,CapeCoral 3p.m.,www.leecountyband.org

CatchtheRewindBandatTheStageinBonitaSpringsDec.19 foraspecialCustomerAppreciationNight.MakeyourreservationsbycallingTheStageat239-405-8566.RewindbandmembersincludeEmeryPulse,MikeYacovelli,ChrisMorgan,John McCormickandBrianJackson.Findoutmoreabouttheband onlineatrewindbandswfl.com

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida: ChristmaswiththeCrawfords Dec.6-8

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida 1634WoodfordAve.,FortMyers 239-218-0481

TommyEmmanuel BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 8p.m.,239-481-4849

MerryMovieMagic:ArtInspired byHolidayCinemaexhibit ThroughDec.23 TheConservatory, SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers Reception6p.m.,239-333-1933

FGCUChamberStringsConcert SanibelCongregationalUnited ChurchofChrist,2050Periwinkle Way,4p.m.,free,239-745-4268

SAT-7

JohnnyCaribe&TheHurricanes TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

TheOutlawsinconcert GreenGrass&YuletideJam SeminoleCasinoHotel, 506S.1stSt.,Immokalee 8p.m.,www.moreinparadise.com

BillPence-6p.m. DoobieBrothersand Santanatribute-7:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

BeKindRewynd-90stribute Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte VIPgatesat6p.m.,RaisinCaneat noon,TheFabulousVoodooKings at2p.m.,BeKindRewyndat7 p.m.,941-235-3675 VIPattwistedfork.freshtix.com

LeeRoyParnell PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

AnnualChristmasCarolSing FirstPresbyterianChurch, 2438SecondSt.,FortMyers 1p.m.and4p.m. 239-334-2261

SmackDaddy TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

FleetwoodMacand StevieNickstribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

ACMA:CliffEberhardt AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers LouiseMosrieopens,7p.m., www.americanacma.org

SUN-8

Leather&LaceDuo-5p.m. DiscoDanceParty-6p.m. RatPacktribute-7p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

FestivalsofSpeedcarshow Mercato,Naples 11a.m.-3p.m. www.experiencemercato.com

BluesandBloodysConcertSeries TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, noon-6p.m.,WayneBakerBrooks &TasCru,www.thecenterbar.com

GulfCoastSymphony: DecktheHalls

BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 7:30p.m.,239-481-4849

BonitaSpringsConcertBand HolidayConcertUndertheStars RiversidePark,Old41Road, BonitaSprings,6p.m. bonitaspringsconcertband.org

AHappyLittleHolidayCabaret FloridaRepertoryTheatre, 2268BaySt.,FortMyers 6p.m.,239-332-4488

King’sXinconcert

TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon, 2158ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers, doorsopen7p.m.,239-985-9839

TwinkleandRockSoulRadio

Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 1p.m.,941-235-3675

NisitaConcertSeries: MaximLando,piano MusicBuildingFGCU, 10501FGCUBlvd.S.,FortMyers 3p.m.,fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268

MON-9

LaurieandRustyWright TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

Jayrock

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

MON-9continued

SouthwestFlorida SymphonyHolidayPops TribbyArtsCenteratShellPoint, 17281OnParBlvd.,FortMyers, 2&7p.m.,239-415-5667

TUE-10

WendyRenee TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

ACMA:SongwritersonthePlaza FortMyersLibrary,CornogPlaza, FirstStreet,DowntownFortMyers 6p.m.,MacMartin,PeterSlota andGeneMartin www.americanacma.org

FullyCommitted ThroughJan.12

ArtStageStudioTheatre FloridaRepertoryTheatre, 2268BaySt.,FortMyers 239-332-4488

D ECEMBER C ALENDAR

MatthewWestinconcert

BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 7:30p.m.,239-481-4849

ErichDanceParty

CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 6:30p.m.,239-549-3000

WED-11

MichaelDutra-Sinatratribute LobbyBaratLuminaryHotel&Co., 2200EdwardsDr.,FortMyers 6-9p.m.,239-314-3723

SudamericaLatinGroove PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

JoshRowand TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

Beatlestribute CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 7:30p.m.,239-549-3000

MikeImbasciani &HisBluezRockerz TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

CharlottePlayerspresents NoSexPlease:It’sChristmas Dec.11-15 LangdonPlayhouse, 1182MarketCircle,PortCharlotte 941-255-1022

HolidayShoppingNightMarket AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 5-8p.m.,239-939-2787

CandlelightConcerts: TheNutcracker&More Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 6&8:30p.m.239-277-1700

THU-12

DannyMasters TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

NashvilleChristmas:TheUltimate CountryHolidayConcert PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

UglySweaterReceptionand HurricaneBenefitSale VisualArtsCenter, 210MaudSt.,PuntaGorda 5-7p.m.,941-639-8810

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida: ChristmaswiththeCrawfords Dec.12-15

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida 1634WoodfordAve.,FortMyers 239-218-0481

TheatreConspiracy presentsClownBar2 Dec.12-14

AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 239-939-2787

TheFabFour: USAMeetstheBeatles

BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 7:30p.m.,239-481-4849

LindsayGarritson

TribbyArtsCenteratShellPoint, 17281OnParBlvd.,FortMyers, 7p.m.,239-415-5667

SmokinAces

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,6-9p.m.,239-540-8454

BenAllenBand CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 7p.m.,239-549-3000

AlterEagles TheStage,9144BonitaBeach Road,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

BlackFlaginconcert TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon, 2158ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers, doorsopen7p.m.,239-985-9839

LatinNightwithDJJC RooftopSculptureGarden, SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 8p.m.,239-333-1933

BIGARTSChorus&ConcertBand BIGARTS, 900DunlopRoad,Sanibel 7p.m.239-395-0900

EveningonFifth 5thAvenueSouth,Naples 6:30-9:30p.m.,239-248-4151

LiveArtistDemos TowerGallery, 751TarponBayRoad,Sanibel 5-8p.m.239-472-4557

JazzattheMACC:CharlieBrown &TheNutcrackerSuite Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 7p.m.239-277-1700

FRI-13

ComedianFrankiePaul FloridaRepertoryTheatre, 2268BaySt.,FortMyers 7p.m.,239-332-4488

TonyDavid-6p.m. JerseyBeat-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

SealedforFreshness Dec.13-15 CulturalParkTheatre, 528CulturalParkBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-772-5862

RandyandBradDuo TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

Rocker

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

RatPacktribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeach Road,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

BretMichaels,NightRanger andDeeSniderinconcert HertzArena,11000Everblades Parkway,Estero,7:30p.m. www.hertzarena.com

Anton’sEnsembleSoiree PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

TheVivaBand

Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 7p.m.,941-235-3675

SAT-14

Simply-Fi

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

NaplesArtcrafters

FineArt&CraftsShow CambierPark, 5808thSt.S.,Naples 10a.m.-4p.m., www.naplesartcrafters.com

FandomFest

FortMyersRegionalLibraryoutdoor plaza,2450FirstSt.,FortMyers 11a.m.-3p.m. leelibrary.net/fandomfest

GulfshoreBallet’sTheNutcracker BIGARTS, 900DunlopRoad,Sanibel 6:30p.m.239-395-0900

MikeZito PerformingArtsCenter,10150 BonitaBeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

13South-12:30p.m. DukesofBrinkley-2:30p.m. KettleofFish-7p.m. Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 941-235-3675

JoeVolpe

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

RodStewart,LindaRonstadt, TomJonesandMeatLoaftribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeach Road,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

SAT-14continued

SamGallowayFordConcertSeries presentsThomasMac TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon, 2158ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers, doorsopen7p.m.,239-985-9839

GulfCoastSymphony BrahmsPianoConcertoNo.1 Dec.14and15 Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 239-277-1700

SUN-15

ACMASongwritersCircle AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 2p.m.,www.americanacma.org

RocktheStage SouthwestFloridaFinals TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon, 2158ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers, 2p.m.www.rockthestageswfl.com

PhenomenalAnimal Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte noon941-235-3675

NewYorkRhythm TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-8p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

NaplesConcertBand HolidayinCambierPark CambierPark,Naples 2-4p.m.naplesconcertband.org

DeltaCrossing

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,3-6p.m.,239-540-8454

Bluegrass:BillsMetts andFrankCorso AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 3p.m.,239-939-2787

MattStone: Elvis‘68ComebackSpecial TheBelleTheatre,2708Santa BarbaraBlvd.,#135,CapeCoral 2p.m.,239-323-5533

Leather&LaceDuo-5p.m. LatinDanceSocial-5p.m. Deb&TheDynamics-6p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

D ECEMBER C ALENDAR

LatinDanceSocial-6p.m. SmokinAces-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

THU-19

JoeyFiato TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-8p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

TheSidneyandBerneDavisArtCenterindowntownFortMyers willhostitsannualNewYearʼsEveRooftopBashonDec.31. Forticketsandinfo,call239-333-1933orvisitwww.sbdac.com

MON-16

EdZiehm

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

AVictorianChristmas withSuzanneandJimHale TribbyArtsCenteratShellPoint, 17281OnParBlvd.,FortMyers, 2p.m.,239-415-5667

Halo

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

TUE-17

BillBeck

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

AClassicChristmaswith PaulToddJr.&Friends Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 7p.m.239-277-1700

DuelingPianos-6:30p.m. TheFirmJazz&Blues-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

ZachBartholomewTrio: ACharlieBrownChristmas TribbyArtsCenteratShellPoint, 17281OnParBlvd.,FortMyers, 7p.m.,239-415-5667

WED-18

MichaelDutra-Sinatratribute LobbyBaratLuminaryHotel&Co., 2200EdwardsDr.,FortMyers 6-9p.m.,239-314-3723

HigherGround PerformingArtsCenter,10150Bonita BeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

JoshRowand TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

ACharlieBrownChristmas Dec.18-22 TheBelleTheatre,2708Santa BarbaraBlvd.,#135,CapeCoral 239-323-5533

WineandPaint,RooftopKaraoke SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers Paint6:30p.m.,karaoke8:30p.m., 239-333-1933

KennyGinconcert CaloosaSoundAmphitheater, 2101EdwardsDrive,FortMyers 7p.m.www.caloosasoundamp.com

MindiAbairinconcert CharlotteHarborEvent andConferenceCenter, 75TaylorSt.,PuntaGorda 7:30p.m.941-833-5444

ChristmaswithSinatra Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 7p.m.239-277-1700

DwightIcenhower: EltonJohntribute CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 7:30p.m.,239-549-3000

SmokinAces TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,6-9p.m.,239-540-8454

ZachBartholomew: ACharlieBrownChristmas PerformingArtsCenter,10150Bonita BeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

RewindBand TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

MichaelD’AmoreChristmasShow CulturalParkTheatre, 528CulturalParkBlvd.,CapeCoral 7p.m.,239-772-5862

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida: ChristmaswiththeCrawfords Dec.19-22

LaboratoryTheaterofFlorida 1634WoodfordAve.,FortMyers 239-218-0481

KindredSpiritsexhibitand MiniatureMasterpiecesexhibit ThroughJan.15 VisualArtCenter, 26100OldRoad41,BonitaSprings ReceptionDec.19at6p.m. 239-495-8989

TheatreConspiracy presentsClownBar2 Dec.19-22 AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 239-939-2787

ReggaeSunsetJams RooftopSculptureGarden, SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 8p.m.,239-333-1933

THU-19continued SantaPawsatRocktheBlock MercatoEventLawn,Naples 6:30-8p.m.MusicbyMoonstone Riders,Santa,petphotos www.experiencemercato.com

FRI-20

FortMyersMusicWalk DowntownFortMyers 6p.m.www.myriverdistrict.com

ComediansPaul“Ox”Jensen andBill“Bull”Ohse FloridaRepertoryTheatre, 2268BaySt.,FortMyers 7p.m.,239-332-4488

TonyDavid-6p.m. JimmyKeyscomedy-7p.m. Boston&Styxtribute-7:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

HunterMcDaniel RooftopSculptureGarden, SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 8p.m.,239-333-1933

TheatreZonepresents HomefortheHolidays ThroughDec.22 G&LTheatre, 13275LivingstonRoad,Naples 888-966-3352

CelebratingBroadwayat Christmas-MarkSanders PerformingArtsCenter,10150Bonita BeachRoad,BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.,239-495-8989

JohnnyCaribe&TheHurricanes TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

JanisJoplin,JeffersonAirplane, Cream,TheBirds,CSNYtribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

BIGARTSHolidayOpenHouse BIGARTS, 900DunlopRoad,Sanibel 5-7p.m.239-395-0900

BackLotRockandRaveCircus SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 7p.m.,239-333-1933

PureCountry Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 7p.m.,941-235-3675

D ECEMBER C ALENDAR

SheldonUpchurch

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

THU-26

ClassicrockbandStyxwillperformJan.10atHertzArenain Estero.Forticketsandmoreinfo,viistwww.hertzarena.com photobyJasonPowell

SAT-21

CoralStoneBand TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

FamilyArtLab AlliancefortheArts, 10091McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 10a.m.-noon,239-939-2787

GulfCoastSymphony: TheNutcracker-GulfshoreBallet BarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHall,13350FSWPkwy,FtMyers 2and7:30p.m.,239-481-4849

Compton&Bennett: TheHome...FortheHolidays Dec.21-22

PerformingArtsCenter,10150Bonita BeachRoad,BonitaSprings 239-495-8989

MusicandArtNight

Lorne’sGallery,TarponMarina 5591SilverKingBlvd.,CapeCoral MusicbyTommyDeeandDee, 5-8p.m.239-945-0866

DiscoDanceParty-6p.m. TheTapMonkeys-6p.m. ChicagoHeat-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

HolidayBoat-A-Long FourFreedomsPark, 4818TarponCt.,CapeCoral 4-9p.m.239-573-3128

CabanaDogs-noon 22N-7p.m.

Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 941-235-3675

TheBoots

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

SUN-22

ACMASongwritersCircle

AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 2p.m.,www.americanacma.org

LatinDanceSocial-5p.m. BillPence-5p.m. Goldtones-6:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

CandlelightConcerts: TheNutcracker&More Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 6&8:30p.m.239-277-1700

PaulAlliodi

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 5-8p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

JoeYeoman

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,3-6p.m.,239-540-8454

Phoenix5 Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 1p.m.,941-235-3675 VIPattwistedfork.freshtix.com

MON-23

LaurieandRustyWright TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

DannyMasters TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

SmokinAces

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,6-9p.m.,239-540-8454

JohnnyRogersBandtributeto BuddyHolly,Elvis,RoyOrbison, JerryLeeLewis,PatsyCline

TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

CandlelightConcerts: ChristmasCarolsonStrings Music&ArtsCommunityCenter, 13411ShireLane,FortMyers 6&8:30p.m.239-277-1700

EchoBand

CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 7p.m.,239-549-3000

FRI-27

ThunderBeach TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

SoapyTuna

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

AlmostABBAand MammaMiatribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

Departure:JourneyTributeBad CaloosaSoundConventionCenter, 1375MonroeSt.,FortMyers 8p.m.,caloosasoundamp.com

Leather&LaceDuo-6p.m. RCSmithComedy-7p.m. TributetoMotown-7:30p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

SoulCircusCowboys Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 7p.m.,941-235-3675

SAT-28

VirgilCain

TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 7-10p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

BillPence-6p.m.

Brooks&Dunn,Reba andShaniatribute-7p.m.

CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

Riverside

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,7-10p.m.,239-540-8454

AlterEagles

TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

FromTheEdge-noon GasHouseGorillas-7p.m.

Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 941-235-3675

SUN-29

ACMASongwritersCircle

AllFaithsUnitarianCongregation, 2756McGregorBlvd.,FortMyers 2p.m.,www.americanacma.org

DirtyWork

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,3-6p.m.,239-540-8454

BeeGees,Simon&Garfunkel andCSNYtribute

TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings

7:30p.m.239-405-8566

MikeImbasciani &HisBluezRockerz

Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte 941-235-3675

VIPattwistedfork.freshtix.com

SalsaDanceParty-5p.m. Deb&TheDynamics-6p.m. TheTapMonkeys-6p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

MON-30

EdZiehm TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 6-9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

Jayrock

TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

RollingStones,DoobieBrothers, SteveMillerBandtribute TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings 7:30p.m.239-405-8566

TUE-31

NewYear’sEvePartywithJosh RowandandThePitbullofBlues TheCenterBar, ThePromenadeatBonitaBay, 26811S.BayDrive,BonitaSprings, 9p.m.,www.thecenterbar.com

BadLatitude TikiHutBar&GrillatDolphinKey Resort,1502MiramarSt.,Cape Coral,5-9p.m.,239-540-8454

CapeCoralNew Year’sEveCelebration SE47thTerraceand SE10thPlace,CapeCoral DJRifikat6p.m.,Deb&The Dynamicsat8:15p.m.,headliner BahaMenperform,balldropat midnight,www.capecoralnye.com

NewYear’sEvetributetoEagles, TomPetty,LynyrdSkynyrdand CreedenceClearwaterRevival TheStage,9144BonitaBeachRoad, BonitaSprings,239-405-8566

CharlottePlayerspresents NewYear’sEveUSOShows LangdonPlayhouse, 1182MarketCircle,PortCharlotte 6and8:30p.m.,941-255-1022

Buddy:TheBuddyHollyStory ThroughFeb.15 BroadwayPalmTheatre, 1380ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers 239-278-4422

NewYear’sEveParty withPureCountry TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon, 2158ColonialBlvd.,FortMyers, doorsopen8p.m.,239-985-9839

NewYear’sEveRooftopBash RooftopSculptureGarden, SidneyandBerneDavisArtCenter, 2301FirstSt.,FortMyers 9p.m.,239-333-1933

NewYear’sEvewithMaidenCane Bert’sBackPorchLive,TwistedFork, 2208ElJobeanRd,PortCharlotte VIPgatesat6:30p.m.,Storytellers at6:30p.m.,JohnSalaway&The Regulatorsat8:15p.m.,Maiden Caneat10p.m.,941-235-3675 VIPattwistedfork.freshtix.com

NewYear’sEveCelebration TonyDavid-6p.m. TheFirmJazz&Blues-6p.m. CapeCabaretDinnerTheatre, 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000

ArtsBonitapresentsLeeRoyParnell, MikeZito,PoRamblinBoys inDecember

ArtsBonitahasanotheractive monthofgreatshowsinDecemberat thePerformingArtsCenterinBonita Springs.

LatinGuitarSummit

RickHowardpresentsLatinGuitar SummitDec.5.Thereisnomusical soundmoreenchantingandromantic thanthebeautyofacousticguitarsin Latinmusic.RickHoward,Everton VidalAzevedo(SLG),ElGatoSoleil andCarlosNunezwilltakeyouona musicaljourneyofFlamenco,Salsa, Tango,BossaNova,Sambaand morethatyouwon’tsoonforget.The nightalsofeaturesDorianMendez andAlejandroYaguaracuto (Sudamerica).

PoRamblinBoys

NashvilleChristmas NashvilleChristmas: TheUltimateCountry HolidayConcertisscheduledforDec.12.Thisholidayseason,Nashville Christmasisbringinga star-studdedlineupof Nashville’sfinesttothe stageforanelectrifying nightofcountrymusicand holidaymagic.Thisshow willfeaturethetalentsof MartinShort,DustyKnapp, BillyMason,Steve LatanisionandGeoff Buttersworth.

Experiencetheauthenticandsoul-stirringsoundsofThePo’ Ramblin’BoysDec.6.Atatimewhentheconstantbarrageof technologyandnewscanfeeloverwhelming,thestraightforward honestyofThePo’Ramblin’Boys’musicoffersarefreshing escape.FormedintheSmokyMountainsin2014,thisEast TennesseeBluegrassoutfitisbothexactlywhatyou’dexpectand completelysurprising.Withtheiruniqueblendoftraditionand modernity,they’vecaptivatedaudiencesfromruralbluegrassfestivalstagestorockclubsacrossEurope.

LeeRoyParnell

LeeRoyParnellpresentsATexasFlavoredChristmasDec.7. ParnellispartofalonglineofTexasroots-musiceclecticsand amongtheelitefewwhocanbeidentifiedasatriplethreat.Anace guitaristwhoisknownasoneofthebestslideguitaristsonthe planet,smoothsoul-drenchedvocalist,hittop-shelfsongwriter,his musicrunsthegamutofdiversity.Combiningtheinfluencesof Blue-EyedSoul,DeltaBlues,RoadHouseRock,SouthernBoogie, TexasSwing,Countryand Gospel,Parnell’ssound defiesconventionalclassification.

SLG

SudamericaLatin GroovewillperformDec. 11at7:30.Classicalmusic hasbeen,andstillis,an influenceformosttypesof modernmusic.SLGtakes onthedaringchallengeof respectfullyversioningthe classicalmusictheygrew uplisteningto,while adaptingittotheirunique brandofWorldFusion.

AntonʼsEnsembleSoiree

Anton’sEnsembleSoiree–WinterSerenade:MagicHoliday MemoriesisscheduledforDec.13.

MikeZito

AwardwinningbluesmanMike ZitowilltakethestageDec.14. Hebeganplayingtheguitarat age5,andbyhislateteens,he hadalreadyintegratedhimself intothelocalSt.Louismusic scene.Afterreleasinghismusic asanindependentartist,hewon SongoftheYearforhistitletrack “PearlRiver”attheBluesMusic Awardsin2009.Zitohasbeen awardedtimeandtimeagainfor hismasteryintheblues,fromhis debutatthenumberonespoton theBillboardBluesAlbumchartto hismanymoreBluesMusic Awardswins,andmanymoreaccolades.

HigherGround

SouthFloridacoverbandHigherGroundwillperformDec.18. Thisyoungandelectrifyinggrouphasbeenthrillingcrowdsfrom MiamitoPalmBeachwithanincrediblemixofhitsongsspanning everygenre.Whetherit’sclassicrockfromEltonJohn,theswaggerofJay-Z,orthepopmagicofArianaGrande,HigherGround deliversitall.

ZachBartholomew

ZachBartholomewpresentsTheMusicofVinceGuaraldi:A CharlieBrownChristmasDec.19.

ThePerformingArtsCenter,islocatedat10150BonitaBeach RoadinBonitaSprings.Fortickets,call239-495-8989orvisit onlineatwww.artsbonita.org.

PoRamblinBoys-Dec.6

MikeZito-Dec.14

ACMAlisteningroomwelcomes

CliffEberhardt,LouiseMosrie

TheAmericana CommunityMusic Associationkeepsthe livemusicgoingwith intimateconcertsat theirlisteningroomin FortMyers.

Theupcoming scheduleattheACMA listeningroomincludes CliffEberhardtwith LouiseMosrieonDec. 7,RecklessSaintson Jan.4,Shannaina DressonJan.18, VerlonThomason Feb.1,Darren NicholsonBandon Feb.22,HankWoji& FriendsonMarch1, AnnieandRodCapps onMarch15,andRod AbernathyonMarch29.

CliffEberhardtandLouiseMosrie willperformDec.7attheACMAlisteningroom.

CliffEberhardtknewbyage7that hewasgoingtobeasingerandsongwriter.GrowingupinBerwyn, Pennsylvania,heandhisbrotherssang togetherandtheirparentsplayedinstruments.Hisdadintroducedhimtothe guitarandhequicklytaughthimselfto play.Fortunateenoughtolivecloseto theMainPoint(oneofthebestfolk clubsontheEastCoast),hecuthis teethlisteningtothelikesofJames Taylor,JoniMitchell,BruceSpringsteen, Howlin’Wolf,MuddyWaters,Bonnie Raitt,andMississippiJohnHurt— receivinganearlyandimpressivetutorialinacousticmusic.Atthesametime, hewasalsolisteningtogreatpopsongwriterslikeColePorter,theGershwins, andRodgersandHart,whichexplain hispenchantforgreatmelodiesand cleverlyricaltwists.

NewYorkwasanidealmusician’s bootcamp.Thoughheputinlonghours asataxidriver,Cliffworkedsteadilyon hismusicthroughoutthe80’s,doing sologigsandstudiowork,andplaying guitarontheroadwithRichieHavens, Melanieandothers.Singingadvertising jinglesforproductslikeCoke,Miller BeerandChevrolet(“TheHeartbeatof

America”campaign)allowedhimto devotemoretimetohissongwriting.

In2011,Cliffgotaphonecallfrom theFolgerTheatreandShakespeare LibraryinWashingtonDC.Theyhad beenlisteningtohissong,“ThatKindof Love”alongwithdirectorAaronPosner andgotthebrilliantideatohireCliffto writeoriginalsongsforthe Shakespeareclassic“TheTamingofthe Shrew”.ItwouldbesetintheoldWest –Deadwoodstyle–andCliffwouldbe castastheblindbutwiseoldsaloon singerbookendingsceneswithhis poignantsongsandguitarphrases.The playwasahugesuccessandwon muchcriticalacclaimacrosstownand7 weeksofsolidsold-outshowsinthe Springof2012.In2013,CliffwasnominatedforacovetedHelenHayesAward forSoundDesignandheandthecast wonforBestEnsembleandBestPlay. SomeofthesongsonShrewSongsare fromCliff’spastworkandsomeare brandnew.

Cliffiswell-knownasasongwriting teacherallovertheU.S.atsongwriting campsandprivatelessons.Healso produces,arrangesandadviseson otherartist’srecordings.

JoiningCliffisthefabulousLouise Coombe.Louisestartedwritingsongs abouttheSouth–whatsheknewand whereshegrewup.In2008,shebegan workingonanewalbumeventuallyto

becalled“Home”because she’dcomefullcircleinher “voice”asawriter.Thealbum wasamixofbluegrass,countryandfolkandasshe weavedinlushstoriesand songsaboutsouthernlife, shewasevenintroduced onceas“…WilliamFaulkner withaguitar.”

TheACMAwelcomesThe RecklessSaintsonJan.4. TheBernardiswillopenthe showthatnight.

RoySchneiderandKim Mayfieldarethecoreduoand songwritersofReckless Saints.Partnersinmusicand lovesince2003,theybegan recordingandtouringfive yearslater.“BlueTwangled Folk'n'Roll'istheanswer Royprovidedtothequestion"What kindofmusicdoyouplay?"TheFort Myersbasedduodecidedtousehis answerasthealbumtitlefortheirnew release,whilealsoadoptingthetitleof their2018releaseRecklessSaintsas theirnewbandmoniker.

Kim&Roymetonlinein2003,when itwasstillawkwardtoadmittosuchin public.Ontheirfirstdate,RoyhadKim playingafewchordsonthemandolin andtheirmusicalcollaborationbegan. Roywasmakingalivingperformingin localvenuesatthetime,butwasreluctanttosharehisoriginalsongsashe feltnoonewasreallylistening.Kim suggestedtheybookasummertour, playinganyvenuethatwouldhave them,sotheycouldfocusonplaying theirownsongsforalisteningaudience.Royagreed,andtheduospent6 weeksontheroadpullingatiny camper.Theinauguraltourgavethem confidencetocontinueseekingabigger listeningaudienceandledtohigher profilebookingsandtwoEuropean tours.

Doorsopenat6:30p.m.formostlisteningroomshows.TheACMAlistening roomislocatedatAllFaithsUnitarian Congregation,2756McGregorBlvd., FortMyers.Formoredetailsand schedules,visitwww.americanacma.org orfollowthemonFacebook.

CliffEberhardt (photobyRodneyBursiel)

LeeCountyCommunityBand ChristmasconcertDec.8

SitbackandenjoythegaietyandwonderofChristmas onSunday,Dec.8whenthe LeeCountyCommunityBand presentsMeetMeUnderthe Mistletoe!

Thisannualfun-filledfree Christmasconcertbeginsat 3p.m.atMarinerHigh School,701Chiquita Blvd.,CapeCoral.

UnderthedirectionofGil Peltola,thebandwillperform avarietyofsacredandsecularmusic,includingtraditional carolsandbelovedholiday songs.Theprogramincludes “MarchoftheToys,”“Parade oftheWoodenSoldiers,”“Do YouHearWhatIHear?,” “SantaMeetsSousa,” Christmas“ala”BigBand, “JourneytoBethlehem”and “OHolyNight”withvocalist FredLamb.

The60-memberadult bandpresentssixconcerts betweenNovemberandApril.

Programsreflecttheband’s well-earnedreputationfor lively,upbeatmusicand promiseanentertainingmix ofoldfavorites,energetic marches,belovedpatriotic andseasonaltunes, BroadwayandSilverScreen hits,andasing-a-long.

Additionalconcertdates areJan.12,Feb.16,March 16andApril13.

Bandmembersareprofessionalandamateurmusicians fromallwalksoflifewho resideinLee,Collier,and CharlotteCounties.

Admissionisfree,though thebandreliesonthecontributionsofaudiencemembers andpatronstomeetits expenses.

Formoreinfo,visitonline atLeeCountyBand.org,email themat LeeCountyCommunityBand@ gmail.comorphone239-6009052.

BonitaSpringsConcertBandto performunderthestarsDec.8

TheBonitaSprings ConcertBandwillpresentits annualChristmasconcert Sunday,Dec.8underthe lightsat6p.m.atRiverside ParkinDowntownOldBonita Springs.

Theband’sveryspecial guestvocalistwillbeMark Sanders.Thiswillbethe band’sfirstnightconcert highlightingtheChristmas decorationsatthepark.Mark willperform“SantaClausis ComingtoTown”and“The ChristmasSong.”

MarkSandersgrewupin Marion,IL,spent15yearsin NYCandnowcallsFort Myershishome.Hehas appearedintheatricalproductionsandconcertsaround theworld.Markwasseenas ‘Perchik’ontheBroadway NationalTourofFiddleron

theRoofstarringthegreat TheodoreBikel.Hehas becomeafavoritesoloistwith theGulfCoastSymphony, performingattheBarbaraB MannPACinFortMyersas wellastheNaplesandBonita SpringsConcertBands.

Asanactor,hegarnered criticallyacclaimedperformancesfromcontemporary musicalssuchasMamma Mia!,PhantomandJesus ChristSuperstartoclassics suchasCarousel,MyFair LadyandGuysandDolls.

Membersareunderthe directionofGarySmithwho retiredafter24yearsasconductoroftheUniversityof IllinoisMarchingIlliniBand andSymphonicBand.

Findoutmoreat www.bonitaspringsconcertband.org.

Celebratethespiritoftheseason withGulfCoastSymphony’stime-honoredholidaytraditions.

ThisDecember,MaestroAndrew Kurtz,alongwiththesymphonyBoard ofDirectors,presentthreedifferent holidayshows:DecktheHalls,The Nutcracker,CharlieBrownandthe NutcrackerSuitebyourJazz Collective.

Eachshowfeaturesadifferent genre,invitingindividuals,couples, andfamiliesaliketogetintotheholidayspiritthroughmusic.

OnSunday,Dec.8at7p.m.,the festivesoundsoftheseasonreturnat theBarbaraBMannPerformingArts Hallasthesymphonypresentsyour mostfavoritesymphonicpopsholiday medleys.FromLeroyAnderson’s endearing“SleighRide,”amedleyof musicfromChristmasmovieclassics, totheMannheimSteamrollerSilentNight,andSanta!Deckthe HallsisyourfavoriteSouthwestFloridaholidaytradition,perfect forthewholefamily.

TheholidayperformanceoftheJazz attheMACCseriesoccursThursday, Dec.12at7p.m.withCharlieBrownand theNutcrackerSuite.Experiencethe enchantmentoflivejazzasGulfCoast JazzCollectivebringstheiruniqueinterpretationsandimprovisationsofthese holidayclassics.You’llbetransportedto awinterwonderlandfilledwithswinging melodies,harmonies,andinfectious rhythmsthatwillwarmyourheartandlift yourspirits.

AndfinallyonSaturday,Dec.21at2 and7p.m.,GulfCoastSymphony,along withGulfshoreBallet,presentsThe NutcrackeratB.B.MannHall.Atreasuredclassicforthewholefamilytoenjoy, thisproductioncomestolifewithtothe backdropofTchaikovsky’smesmerizing scoreandfeaturesnewchoreography createdbyGulfshoreBalletartisticdirectorsIlianaLopez&FranklinGamero. Fortickets,contacttheGulfCoastSymphonyBoxOfficeat 239-277-1700. Formoreinformation,visitwww.GulfCoastSymphony.org

SpendtheholidayseasonwithGulfCoastSymphony GulfCoastSymphonyunveils30thanniversaryschedule

For30years,GulfCoastSymphony hasbeen“PlayingtheMusicyouLoveto Hear,”andtheregionisinvitedtocelebrate withthemallseasonastheirpopsseries returnstoBarbaraB.MannPerforming ArtsHallatFSWinFortMyers.

OnSunday,Jan.19at7pm,thesymphonywillperformRegenerationX:A‘90s RockSoundscape.Thisshowisahighenergynostalgicjourneythroughtheiconic soundsthatdefinedagenerationwith musicfromAlternativeRockclassicsby GreenDay,SmashingPumpkins,RedHot ChiliPeppers,Radiohead,andAlanis Morisette,totheSeattleGrungesceneand beyondwithbandslikeNirvana,Foo Fighters,andPearlJam.

ThenonSunday,Feb.2at7p.m.,the DooWopProjectisbacktoperformwith GulfCoastSymphony.AttheHop!isthe musicheardineverysockhop,car,and maltshop;rock‘n’rollruledtheairwavesin the’50sand’60swithAmericanBandstand atthecenteroftheaction.AttheHop!is theDooWopProject’ssymphoniclovelettertothatindelibleshowandtheiconic songsheardonthatshow.Songsfrom BobbyRydell,FrankieAvalon,Fabian, SmokeyRobinsonandmore.

Additionally,onTuesday,Feb.4at7:30 p.m.,thesymphonywillbringyouSoulto Pop:WomenWhoRockfeaturingspecial guestsLaKishaJones(AmericanIdol)and

ChloeLowery(Trans-SiberianOrchestra). Theperformancecelebratesthepowerful voicesoffemalerockstars,fromAlicia Keys,WhitneyHouston,CaroleKing,Tina Turner,DonnaSummers,ArethaFranklin, DollyParton,BonnieTyler,CyndiLauper, andTaylorSwift!Bothvocalistshave activesolocareersandhavegraced stagesfromBroadwaytoconcerthalls worldwide.

OnSunday,Feb.16at7p.m.,Michael Cavanaughisback.Getreadytorockout asheperformsthetimelesshitsofElton John,suchas“TinyDancer,”“Rocket Man,”“BennieandtheJets,”Candleinthe Wind”andmanymore!Thiselectrifying showfeaturesCavanaugh’spowerhouse vocalsandincrediblepianoskills,accompaniedbyafullorchestra.

MarchwillbringthreedifferentperformanceswiththeGulfCoastSymphony:The first,Trinity:ClassicallyIrish,wasinitially recordedforPBSbytheGulfCoast Symphonyin2021,andnowit'sbackfor everyone!EnjoyaneveningofIrishmusic asthischarmingtrioperformsfresh arrangementsofbelovedsongs.Three accomplishedyoungsingers,allwithperformanceexperienceonstagesaroundthe world,makeupthecastofTrinity.Songs include“RedistheRose,”“DannyBoy,” “ThePartingGlass,”“TheRockyRoadto Dublin”andmore.Thisperformanceisco-

sponsorbyWGCUandwillbeperformed onSunday,March16at7p.m.

Thesymphonywillbebackingafull productionofWestSideStoryonSaturday, March22,andSunday,March23.West SideStoryisLeonardBernstein’sclassic storyofloveatfirstsight.TonyspotsMaria atahighschooldancein1957inNew YorkCity.Theirburgeoningromancehelps fuelthefirebetweenthewarringJetsand Sharks—tworivalgangsvyingforcontrol ofthestreets.Theirlovegrowsastensions betweentheirrespectivefriendsbuild towardstragedy.

Thelastofthesymphony’sMarchperformancesisits30thAnniversaryconcert celebration.JointheGulfCoastSymphony aswecelebrate30yearsofmakinggreat musicinourcommunity.Withspecialguest starsandlong-timefriends,thisconcertwill beawalkthroughthe“MusicYouLoveto Hear!”Theywillhonorkeycontributorsto thesymphonyaswellascelebratethe futureoftheorganization.

Thesymphonywillendits30thseason withiconicAndrewLloydWebberand FriendsonSunday,April13at7p.m. Webberhascomposedsomeoftheworld’s best-knownmusicals.

Forticketsandotherinformation, contactGulfCoastSymphony’sboxoffice at239-277-1700orvisitonlineat www.gulfcoastsymphony.org.

THURSDAY,NOV.28

Thanksgiving-closed

FRIDAY,NOV.29

DonnaSummer,EttaJames,Madonna PointerSisters,ArethaFranklin

SATURDAY,NOV.30

TinaTurner,CelineDion,Cher

WEDNESDAY,DEC.4

TheTemptations,TheFourTops

THURSDAY,DEC.5

FabulousGirlsofMotown andExcitingLadiesofDisco

FRIDAY,DEC.6

NeilDiamond&BarbraStreisand

SATURDAY,DEC.7

FleetwoodMac&StevieNicks

WEDNESDAY,DEC.11

MikeImbasciani&HisBluezRockerz tributetogreatestguitarplayers

THURSDAY,DEC.12

AlterEagles

FRIDAY,DEC.13

RatPack:DeanMartin, FrankSinatraandSammyDavisJr.

SATURDAY,DEC.14

RodStewart,LindaRonstadt, TomJonesandMeatLoaf

THURSDAY,DEC.19

CUSTOMERAPPRECIATIONPARTY

TheRewindDanceBandperforms DonnaSummer,EttaJames,Madonna, PointerSisters,ArethaFranklin

FRIDAY,DEC.20

JanisJoplin,JeffersonAirplane, Cream,TheBirds,CSNY, BuffaloSpringfield,GratefulDead

SATURDAY,DEC.21

TBA

THURSDAY,DEC.26

JohnnyRogersBand:BuddyHolly, RoyOrbison,Elvis,JerryLeeLewis, BrendaLee&PatsyCline

FRIDAY,DEC.27

AlmostABBAandMammaMia

SATURDAY,DEC.28

AlterEagles

SUNDAY,DEC.29

BeeGees,Simon&Garfunkel, Crosby,Stills,Nash&Young

MONDAY,DEC.30

RollingStones,DoobieBrothers andSteveMillerBand

TUESDAY,DEC.31

NEWYEAR’SEVESHOWBANDS: Eagles,TomPetty,LynyrdSkynyrd, CreedenceClearwaterRevival

THURSDAY,JAN.2

TBA

FRIDAY,JAN.3

TBA

SATURDAY,JAN.4

WallofEchoes-PinkFloyd

WEDNESDAY,JAN.8

TheTemptations,TheFourTops

THURSDAY,JAN.9

RodStewart,LindaRonstadt, TomJonesandMeatLoaf

FRIDAY,JAN.10

NeilDiamond&BarbraStreisand

SATURDAY,JAN.11

FleetwoodMac&StevieNicks

MONDAY,JAN.13

JohnDenver,JimmyBuffett, OliviaNewton-John,DollyParton andGlenCampbell

WEDNESDAY,JAN.15

MikeImbasciani&HisBluezRockerz tributetogreatestguitarplayers

THURSDAY,JAN.16

FabulousGirlsofMotown andExcitingLadiesofDisco

FRIDAY,JAN.17

FrankieValli,FourSeasons, JerseyBoysandBeeGees

SeminoleCasinoaddsRickSpringfield, MickyDolenz,AaronLewis&WillieNelson

SeminoleCasinoHotelImmokalee hasannouncedseveraladditionstoits busyconcertseason.

ThelatestincludeWillieNelsonon Feb.13,AaronLewisonFeb.15,Rick SpringfieldonMarch1andMickyDolenz onApril12.

CountrymusiciconWillieNelson& FamilywillperformWednesday,Feb.13 at8p.m.Willie’sspecialguestforthe outdoorconcertwillbeRandallKing. Ticketsforthisoutdoorconcertstartat $62.50.Withaseven-decadecareer, WillieNelsonhasearnedeveryconceivableawardasamusicianandamassed reputablecredentialsasanauthor,actor andactivist.Hecontinuestothriveasa relevantandprogressivemusicaland culturalforce.

AaronLewiswillperformhisgoldand platinumcountryhitsatSeminoleCasino HotelImmokaleeonSaturday,Feb.15at 8p.m.Advanceticketsforthisoutdoor concertstartat$65.Lewis,theVermontbornpowerhousefirstfoundsuccess withStaind,the2000s-erahardrockers whoinjectedmeditativemuscleintoan erabetterknownformindlessaggression.

SeminoleCasinoHotelwelcomes RickSpringfieldonSaturday,March1at 8p.m.

Overthepastfourdecades,Rick Springfieldhaswornmanyhatsasan entertainerandperformer.Thecreatorof someofthefinestpower-popofthe 1980s,heisaGrammywinningsinger, songwriter,andmusicianwhohassold 25millionalbumsandscored17U.S.

Top40hits,including“Jessie’sGirl,” “Don’tTalktoStrangers,”“AnAffairofthe Heart,”"I'veDoneEverythingforYou,” “LoveSomebody,”and“HumanTouch.”

He’salsoanaccomplishedactorwho hasstarredoppositeMerylStreepinthe featurefilm“RickiandtheFlash,”gavea chameleonicperformanceasthecreepy Dr.IrvingPitlorinHBO’sprestigedrama “TrueDetective,”earnedgreatreviews forhisportrayalofLuciferontheCWhit “Supernatural”andmostrecentlyplayed theinsanePastorCharlesonFX’sworldwidehitseries“AmericanHorrorStory.” Anauthoraswell,bothhiscandid2010 memoir“Late,LateatNight”andhis 2014comedicnovel“Magnificent Vibration”earnedravereviews.

In2014,Springfieldwashonored withastarontheHollywoodWalkof

Fame,locatedaroundthecornerfrom thefirstapartmenthelivedinwhenhe firstarrivedintheU.S.fromAustraliain 1971.Springfield’sSirius-XMradioshow, WorkingClassDJ,airsweeklyon80son 8.Hismostrecentalbum“Automatic,”is hisfirstalbumofallneworiginalmaterial infiveyears.

MickyDolenz,oftheiconic1960s bandTheMonkeeswillbeliveinconcert onSaturday,April12at8p.m.Advance ticketsareavailablefor$95.

Dolenzisanactor,singer,director, producer,writer,radioDJ,inventor,and all-aroundperformerextraordinaire,and standstallasaparagonoftasteand accomplishmentintherough-and-tumble worldofshowbusinessandentertainment.

Dolenzisbestknownasavocalist anddrummerofthe1960spoplegends TheMonkees.TheMonkeesnotonly achievedgreatsuccessasaTVshow, butalsoasrecordingartistssellingin excessof65millionunitsandachieving worldwidesuccess.Theirfirstfour albums–“TheMonkees”(1966),“More oftheMonkees”(1967),“Headquarters” (1967),andPisces,Aquarius,Capricorn andJones,LTD.(1967)–allreachedthe number-onepositiononthechartsand launchedthreenumber-onesingles: “LastTraintoClarksville,”“I'maBeliever” (bothwithleadvocalsbyDolenz),and “DaydreamBeliever.”Thegroup'sfirst fivealbumsalsowentplatinum.

Ticketsareavailablefrom Ticketmasterorat www.moreinparadise.com.

RickSpringfield

MickyDolenz

AaronLewis

WillieNelson

BradPaisley,DefLeppard,Train headlineHarvestNightsMusicFestivalJan.10-12

ThestarswillshineonJan.10-12 assomeofthebiggestnamesinentertainmentwilltakethestageattheJohn JimmieRodeoGroundsinImmokalee. CountrymusicsuperstarBradPaisley, Rock&RollHallofFameinductedDef Leppard,andGrammyAward-winning bandTrainwillallheadlinethethree-day charityevent.

"The"HarvestNightsMusicFestival" isthepremiermusiceventoftheyearin SWFL,"saysMeganMaloney,president oftheCharityPros,aFortMyersnonprofitorganization."Thisiswherewe bringsomeofthebestartistsandbands togetherwiththeirfansandthecommunity,allforawonderfulcharitable cause."

TheCharityProshasselectedthe ImmokaleeFoundation,Guadalupe Center,andtheCancerAllianceNetwork asbeneficiariesofthisyear'sannual Festival."Welovetheworkthatallof theseorganizationsdoforthechildren andfamiliesintheircommunity,"continuesMegan,"theirmissionsalignwith oursattheCharityProsinmakingadifferenceinachild'slife."

Theentertainmentcontinuesall weekend,featuringDonFelder,formerly oftheEagles,TylerHubbardofFlorida GeorgiaLine,multi-platinumrockband Tesla,TerriClark,AlanaSpringsteen, TedMontana,AmericanIdolfinalistsWill Moseley,JackBlockerandCasey

BishopwithRockRepublic,andlocal favoritestheBenAllenBandandMaiden Cane.

Friday’sschedulesincludesTrain, DonFelder,TerriClarkandtheBen AllenBand.

Saturday’slineupisDefLeppard, Tesla,TedMontana,MaidenCaneand CaseyBishopwithRockRepublic.

Sunday’sscheduleincludesBrad Paisley,TylerHubbard,Alana Springsteen,WillMoseleyandJack Blocker.

TheHarvestNightsMusicFestival willfeatureaFestivalVillagewithlive

entertainmentbeforeandafterthemain stageconcerts,anarrayofartsand craftsbooths,localbusinessactivations, andvariousfoodtrucks.On-sitecampingisalsoavailableforRVs,trailers,and campers.

Festivalticketsareonsalenow.The charityeventofferssingle-dayandthreedaytickets,includingpremierVIPseating,apartypit,reservedseating,a grandstand,andlawnseating.Concert tickets,prepaidparking,andcampsites areallavailableatthecharitypros.org. Vendorapplicationsandmoreinfois availableatwww.thecharitypros.org

DefLeppard

Train

BradPaisley

DavinaandtheVagabonds-Jan.24

BIGARTSannounces performingartslineup for2024-2025season

BIGARTSonSanibelhas announcedanotherfantastic scheduleofperformingarts forthe2024-25season:

Saturday,Jan.11

ChrisMannSingsthe TonyBennettSongbook: FromGershwintoGaga!

Saturday,January18

AlwaysLoretta–The UltimateLorettaLynnTribute, StarringEmilyPortman&The CoalminersBand

Tuesday,January21

YoungConcertArtists (YCA)onTour

Friday,January24

Davinaandthe Vagabonds

Friday,January31

TheBarricadeBoys

Thursday,February6

DavidShifrin&Miro Quartet

Saturday,February8

AuthenticUnlimited

Thursday,February13

JupiterandJasper Quartets

Friday,February14

PhatCatSwinger

Thursday,February20 IlyaYakushev

Wednesday,February26 AileyII

Thursday,February27 Fandango!

Saturday,March1

LateNiteCatechism:The HolyGhostandOther TerrifyingTales

Saturday,March8

GeorgeMichaelReborn

Friday,March14

JazzatLincolnCenter Presents:NewOrleans Songbook

Thursday,March20 PekingAcrobats

Saturday,March22

BIGARTSAnnualBenefit FeaturingShadowsofthe 60s

Saturday,March29

ThePlayers:Former MembersofChicago

BIGARTSislocatedat 9800DunlopRoad. Forticketsandmoreprograminformation,visitonline atwww.bigarts.orgorcall 239-395-0900.

4:15PM SUNDAYMATINEES NightShows-Diningat5:30pmandSunday MatineeShows-Diningat3:30pm-AllShowsBuffet Meat,Fish,Chicken,Pasta,Veggies,Roll&Salad

RoyOrbison& RayCharlesTribute

AlmostEagles& LindaRonstadt

AntonDoran: JamesTaylor& AmericaTribute

JohnnyRogers tributetoElvis

98Degrees

NickLachey

Popvocalgroup98DegreesperformedNov.19 ontheoutdoorstageatSeminoleCasinoHotel Immokalee. photosbyJamieKuser

AnnualRockabillaqueFloridareturnsJan.18

FloridaWeeklypresentsRockabillaque FloridaatSeminoleCasinoHotelwiththe maineventonSaturday,Jan.18beginning at11a.m.

RockabillaqueFloridaisthebiggest festivalofitskindinFlorida,celebrating mid-centuryand1950sAmericana.This action-packeddayandnightfeatures nationalandregionalmusicalacts,aclassiccarandvintagebikeshow,contests includingpin-up,tattoo,andbeardand moustache,plusavendors’market,food trucksandmore.

"It'shardtobelieveRockabillaque Floridaisalreadycelebratingour5th anniversary.Wearesoexcitedtopartner withtheSeminoleCasinoHotelagainand bringouraction-packedfestivalbacktothe casino.Youdon'twanttomissour2025 celebrationofmid-centuryAmericanawith amodern-daytwistfeaturinganepic ClassicCarandVintageBikeShow,a rockin'musiclineupfromalloverthemap, contestsincludingourpopularpinupcontest,aneclecticvendormarketandso muchmore,"saidfestivalproducerSimon

CantlonofViveLeRockProductions."As alwaysthefestivalisfreetoattend,day andnight.Sohittheroadandjoinusfor anotheramazingyear,youwon'twantto misswhatwehaveinstore!"

TheRockabillaqueFlorida2025KickOffPartywillbeheldFriday,Jan.17inZig ZagLoungeandwillfeatureDougDeming &TheJewelTonesandShanda&The Howlers.

OnSaturday,Jan.18,themainstage entertainmentlineupfeaturesfreeperformancesfromco-headlinersLesGreene& TheSwayzees,PokeyLaFarge,The RhythmShakers,TheBellfuriesplusother nationalactsSouthernCultureOnThe Skids,TheSurfarajettes,MozzyDee,and theFloridabasedHillbillyHellcats.

Inaddition,ZigZagLoungewillhost performancesbyJeffVitolo&TheQuarter MileRebels,ThePatinaTurners,Thee Stillnites,LittleRachel,Sasquatchandthe Sick-A-Billys.

Thenight’smusicallineupendsinthe ZigZagLoungewithspecialperformances byCMWolfAndTheBackbones,thenew

musicalprojectfromChrisMoinichen,formerleadsingerofTheDeltaBombers,followedbylegendarynationalpsychobilly musicact,theKoffinKats,andclosesout withFlorida’sSlipandtheSpinouts.Anew additiontothisyear’sscheduleisa BurlesqueshowfromMissNatrix’sRitz GlitzRevuefeaturingfourBurlesqueperformersdoingtwoshowsonbothFriday andSaturdaynightsintheZigZag Lounge.

Classiccarsandvintagebikeswillbe ondisplayfrom11a.m.to4p.m.Multiple contestswillbeheldthroughouttheday includingaBeardandMustachecompetition,thelegendaryMissRockabillaquePinUpcontest,andaTattoocontest.Thisyear alsooffersaFridaynightkick-offpartyat theZigZagLoungefeaturinglivemusic.

Allconcertsarefree.Attendeesare welcometobringchairsandallagesare welcome.Awideselectionoffoodtrucks andmerchantswillbeattheevent. Coolers,backpacksandpetswillnotbe permittedduringthisevent.Formoreinformation,visitFLROCKS.com.

DrewLachey,JeffTimmonsandJustinJeffre

PERFORMANCES INSWFLORIDA

DEC2

DaveKoz Arts–Naples

DEC5

Exile TurnerAgriCenter,Arcadia

DEC6

TommyEmmanuel BBMannHall,FortMyers

DEC7

TheOutlaws SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

DEC8

KingʼsX TheRanch,FortMyers

DEC10

MatthewWest BBMannHall,FortMyers

DEC12

BlackFlag TheRanch,FortMyers

DEC13

BretMichaels,Dee Snider,NightRanger HertzArena,Estero

DEC14

OldDominion, GooGooDolls, TheRitz-Carlton,Naples

ThomasMac TheRanch,FortMyers

DEC18

MindiAbair

CharlotteHarborEvent Center,PuntaGorda

I N C ONCERT

ChicagowillperformJan.30atBarbaraB.MannPerformingArts HallatFSWinFortMyers.Forticketsandmoreinformation,visit onlineatwww.bbmannpah.com

DEC18

KennyG CaloosaSoundAmphitheater, DowntownFortMyers

JAN6

LosLobos Artis–Naples

JAN10

Styx,Loverboy HertzArena,Estero

Train,DonFelder

JohnJimmieRodeo Grounds,Immokalee

JAN11

DefLeppard,Tesla

JohnJimmieRodeo Grounds,Immokalee

JAN12

BradPaisley, TylerHubbard JohnJimmieRodeo Grounds,Immokalee

JAN18

RockabillaqueFlorida SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

JAN22

LeeGreenwood SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

Dailyconcertupdatesat HappeningsMagazine.net

JAN23

GavinAdcock TheRanch,FortMyers

JAN25

Kansas SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

JAN30

Chicago BBMannHall,FortMyers

Everclear TheRanch,FortMyers

JAN31

AshleyCooke TheRanch,FortMyers

FEB1

TobyMac BBMannHall,FortMyers

FEB5

KennyWayne

Shepherd BBMannHall,FortMyers

FEB7

AliceCooper BBMannHall,FortMyers

FEB13

ChrisBotti BBMannHall,FortMyers

FEB15

AaronLewis SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

FEB21&22

TheDrifters Artis–Naples

FEB23

PaulAnka Artis–Naples

MAR1

RickSpringfield SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

MAR2

TheBeachBoys Artis–Naples

MAR7

TheTemptations &TheFourTops SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

MAR10

ZZTop BBMannHall,FortMyers

MAR12

LovinSpoonful,Gary Lewis&ThePlayboys, TheClassicsIV BBMannHall,FortMyers

MAR20

LittleRiverBand BBMannHall,FortMyers

APR3

RascalFlatts HertzArena,Estero

APR6

BluegrassMusicFest SeminoleCasino,Immokalee

APR11

FrankieValli

BBMannHall,FortMyers

52-DECEMBER2024 HappeningsMagazine

TheRanchConcertHall&Saloon welcomesThomasMac,AshleyCooke

TheperformancescheduleatThe RanchConcertHall&SalooninFort Myersshowcasesnationalcountryand rockartists.

Here’swhat’sonthescheduleatpress time:

TheSamGallowayFordConcertSeries presentsThomasMac(withopenerTimmy McKeever)onDec.14andAshleyCooke (withopenerGreylanJames)onJan.31.

ThomasMacisanup-and-coming countryartistyou'llwanttokeepyoureye on!

Afterhavingasong,hewrotegoviral onsocialmedia,hemovedtoNashville, wherehestartedcatchingtheeyeofpeopleintheindustry.Hewasofferedhisfirst recorddealattheageof20andperformedforthefirsttimeonTheGrandOle Oprystagethatsameyear.Thomashas foundawaytowalkthelinebetweenmodernandtraditionalcountry.

Today,Thomashasanenormoussocial

mediapresencewithmillionsofviewsand over3millionfollowersonTikTokalone.

WithBigLoud/BackBlocksMusic countryartistAshleyCooke,it'sbestto knowwhatyou'regettinginto–because thisemergingstaristhedefinitionofmore thanmeetstheeye.Agracefulexterior matchedbyacasual-coolnature.Skillfully craftedlyricsandaknackforunforgettable performance.Effortlessvocalbeautyanda boldsenseofinternalgrit,freelymixingit upwiththeboyswhilesheralliesthegirls. Andmostimportant,apassionforcapturingthemagicbetweenheartbeats,each momentasuniqueassheis.Stillearlyin herjourney,beingherselfhasalready servedCookewell.

Hernextchaptercontinueswithher 2023debutalbumshotinthedark. Unfoldingasiftheywererippedfrom pagesofherpersonaljournal,Cooke's sun-kissedblendoftwo-lanepopcountry isonfulldisplayinthecollection's24 tracks,inspiredbytruetalesoflove,heartbreakandallthemomentsinbetween.

CookewentontowinherfirstCMT AwardforBreakthroughFemaleVideoof theYearatthe2024CMTAwardsbefore beingnominatedforACMNewFemale ArtistoftheYear,addingtoprevious recognitionasoneofMusicRow's2023 DiscoveryArtistoftheYearandNextBig ThingaswellasiHeartCountry'sOnThe Vergeartist.

ThomasMac-Dec.14 AshleyCooke-Jan.31

OtherupcomingshowsatTheRanch ConcertHall(notpartoftheSam GallowaySeries)includeHardwired-A TributetoMetallicaonNov.29,King’sX onDec.8,BlackFlagonDec.12,Rock theStageSWFLFinalsonDec.15,New Year’sEvewithPureCountryonDec.31,

IntheEnd-LinkinParkExperience onJan.12,CompletelyUnchainedVanHalenTributeonJan.17, Nightbird-TheUltimateTributeto StevieNicksonJan.18,Gavin AdcockonJan.23(soldout), EverclearonJan.30,theReverend Peyton’sBigDamnBandonFeb.7 andFakeFestonMarch22.

Forticketsandmoreconcert information,visitonlineattheranchfortmyers.com.

TheRanchConcertHalland Salooncanbereachedbycalling 239-985-9839.Formostshows, doorsopenat7p.m.atTheRanch ConcertHall&Saloon,whichis locatedat2158ColonialBlvd.in FortMyers.

F ORT M YERS R IVER D ISTRICT

FestivalofTreesDec.5-8 atSidney&BerneDavisArtCenter

The18thAnnualFestivalof TreesreturnstotheSidney& BerneDavisArtCenterin December.

Experiencethewinterwonderlandoftreesgorgeouslydecoratedandgenerouslybedecked bylocalbusinessestoraise moneyforGoodwillIndustriesof SouthwestFloridaandSBDAC.

PresentedbyPublixSuper MarketsCharities,Festivalof Treesisahugeholidaydestinationwherebeautifultreesare decoratedandadornedwith presents.Thegiftsarenotonly underthetreebutareincorporatedintotheribbons,ornaments,andtreetoppers.Each themedtreeiscraftedbylocal businessesandraffledoffto helpraisemoneyforGoodwill IndustriesofSouthwestFlorida andtheSidney&BerneDavis ArtCenter.

Theweekispackedwithfamilyeventsforeveryage.The NowhereBandoutdoorconcert, Santa’sBlockParty,Sidney’s RooftopParty,andtreeviewing onDec.7areallfreeentry.Tree viewingonotherdaysisa$2 admissionwithraffletickets availableforpurchase.

Theseasonalcelebrationsbeginwith aticketedPreviewPartyonWednesday, Dec.4from6to8p.m.Ticketsare$50 each.Comegetintotheholidayspirit withasneakpreviewoftheFestivalof Treesalongwithhorsd'oeuvresandrafflepackagesthenenjoytherestofthe eventswithfriendsandfamilythrough theweekend.

AholidaythemedWineandPaint nightwillbeheldonThursday,Dec.5 from6to9p.m.withticketsavailableat $45perperson.‘Tistheseasontoget creativewithoneofSWFlorida’sfavorite localartists,AngelaHicks.Thistalented instructorwilldemonstratehowtopaint holidaycandiesthatlooksoreal,you’ll wanttotakeabite.Eachparticipantwill besuppliedwithcanvas,paint,brushes, andofcourse…wine!

MayorKevinAndersonwillcontinue theannualtraditionoflightingthemas-

sivewreathgracingtheloggiaofthe SBDACfollowedbylivemusicoutonthe streetfromTheNowhereBand-afree eventhappeningFriday,Dec.6from6to 10p.m.Thelightingwillhappenpromptly at7p.m.withlivemusicstartingat7:30 p.m.

Santa’sBlockPartysleighsintothe streetsonSaturday,Dec.7from10a.m. to2p.m.JoinSantaforfamilyfunand holidayfestivities!Santa’sBlockPartyis anopportunityforkidstoenjoystudent performers,createholidayarts&crafts, decorateyummycookiesfromPublix SuperMarkets,enjoyatrainride,aswell aswriteletterstoSantaandourmilitary servicemembers!Childrencanalso experiencethe‘TouchaTruck’witha visitfromtheFortMyersFire Department.Tocoolofffromallthefun, ScoopsonFirstwillhaveicecream availableforpurchase.Pictureswith Santaareavailableattherightentrance oftheSidney&BerneDavisArtCenter

intheConservatory.Freeentry, withKidsWorkshopBagsare availableforpurchasefor$6at theevent.Publicentryfeesfor Santa’sblockpartyaresponsoredbyWellcare.

ThepopularTreeRaffle Drawingisthemostexcitingpart ofthefestivalforallraffleticket participants.OnSunday,Dec.8 at5p.m..,alltreesandgiftswill beraffledofftotheluckywinners withtheexceptionofthedonated treegoingtotheGolisano Children’sHospital.Alltreesare valuedatover$1,750eachand willbemakingspiritsbrightin theirnewlocations.

Notifiedwinnerswillreceive thethemedtreeplusallofthe giftsonandaround,including deliveryandsetup.

Bringnew,unwrappedtoysto donateandgetfreeadmissionto thefestival.FriendsofJanet Foundationisafoundation formedinlovingmemoryofJanet andAnntohonortheirserviceto othersandtobuildalegacyof givingintheirnames.Janet Wilsonandhersister,Ann Wilson,werelong-timeresidents ofSouthwestFloridadevotedto communityandgivingback.Janetoften pulledtogetherfriendstohelpsupport hervariouscharities,whojokinglycalled themselvesthe‘friendsofJanet.’Just beforetheirtragiccaraccidentin2019, theyweregatheringtoystobegiven awayduringtheholidayseason.Toyswill becollectedatallFestivalofTrees events,andatvariousotherpartnerbusinesses,andwillthenbedistributedto localchildren'scharities.

TheFestivalofTreesgeneraladmissionis$2perperson,(5andunderfree) forviewing,votingforfavorites,andpurchasingraffletickets($10each,3/$25, 10/$50,25/$100).Formoreinformation call239-333-1933orvisitthewebsiteat https://www.sbdac.com/fordetails,tickets,andtocheckforpossibleschedule changes.

TheSidney&BerneDavisArtCenter islocatedat2301FirstSt.inthehistoric downtownFortMyersRiverDistrict.

PineIslandSoundMysteries

JUSTRELEASED

The9thnovelbySouthwest FloridaauthorJohnD.Mills

CaptivaCoven: Fouryoungwomenfromdifferentpartsoftheworldbecomefriends whileworkingatSouthSeasResortonCaptivain2002.Duringtheirfriendship,they discovertheyhaveanuncannybond–theyallcomefromalegacyofwitches.One nightwhilecampingonadesertedbeachunderafullmoon,theydecidetoform theirowncoventobindthemtogetherforever.Theyagreetoreturneverytenyears tocelebratetheirfriendshipcementedbyformingtheirowncoven.Overthenext twentyyears,twoofthewitchesaremurderedinsadisticways.Whenthepoliceare notabletosolvethemurders,thetworemainingmembersoftheCaptivaCoven decidedtofindtheresponsiblepersonandadministertheirownversionofjustice.

JohnD.Millsisa fifthgeneration nativeofFort Myers,Florida.He grewupfishingthe watersofPine IslandSoundand it'sstillhisfavorite hobby.ThroughouttheyearsJohn hassupportedandsponsoredmany oflocalfishingtournamentsbenefitingthePineIslandcommunity. Hisbooksaresoldinsomeofthe mosticonicdestinationsinthebarrierislands.Readerswillgetarare andseldomheardhistorywrapped innail-bitingthrillermysteries.He iscurrentlyconcentratinghislaw practiceoncriminaldefenseand domesticviolenceinjunctioncases.

HisNineNovelsare: ReasonableandNecessary TheManateeMurders TheObjector SwornJury TheTrophyWifeDivorce TheHooker,theDancer andtheNun PinelandGold CayoCostaCross CaptivaCoven

ReviewbyKirkusIndie Anestrangedcoupleʼsdisputeover onememberʼspotentiallyvaluable heirloomturnsdeadlyinMillsʼ (PinelandGold,2017,etc.)thriller. In1910,JimMcKenzie,needing fundsfordaughterSarahʼs tuberculosistreatment, stealsagoldcrossfroma drunkenCubancaptain. Unabletogetbacktohis familyintimetohelphis child,Jimburiesthecross onCayoCostaIsland,specifyingitslocationinaletter tohiswife,Claire.More thanacenturylater,Lynn Chapmanownsthatletter, whichJimʼsancestorshavepassed down.Evidently,ahurricanehadcoveredtheburialsiteforthecross,preventingClairefromretrievingit.That certainlydidnʼtstopLynnʼssoon-to-be ex-husband,Bobby,fromlooking.He nowfeelsentitledtosomeofthe crossʼsestimatedmillion-dollarvalue, ashissearchcostmostofhisinheritancemoney.WhenBobbysubsequentlyfindsawaytoclearthearea wherethecrossislocated,Lynnfears heʼllgethishandsontheantique.So sheseekshelpfromprivateinvestigator,formercop,andboatownerDoug

Shearer.Thetwoheadtotheisland withhopesofreachingthecrossfirst. Unluckily,Bobbyisalreadythereand, armedwithaweaponizeddrone,isnʼt willingtogiveupwhathebelievesis rightfullyhis.StraightforwardcharacterspopulateMillsʼtale,the latestinhisPineIslandSound Mysteryseries.Bobby,for example,istheunmitigated villain,hisangersosharpand frequentthatheantagonizes hisowndivorcelawyer.But backstoryfornearlyevery individualaddsinterest: ReaderslearnwhatLynnoriginallysawinBobby,while Bobbyʼspitifulchildhoodmay explainhisunsavorypresent-day behavior.Thenarrativespotlightssupportingcharactersaswell,likeLynnʼs genialattorney,BethMancini. RecurrentstoriesfromBethʼslawyer boyfriend,FrankPowers,aboutone ofhiscases,thoughcurious(ajudge isthedefendantina“sextrial”),generallycomeacrossastangents.The bookʼslatterhalf,however,stayson track,asBobbymenacesLynnand Doug,andMillsamplydetailstheir timeonthebreezyisland. Anoftendivertingstoryofmemorable charactershuntingtreasure.

AnnualChristmasCarolSingDec.7

Celebratetheholidaysand helpfeedthehungrybysingingat the33rdAnnualChristmasCarol SingsponsoredbytheGalloway FamilyofDealershipsandSusan BennettMarketing&Media.

TheChristmasCarolSingwill beheldforthefirsttimeeverona Saturday,Dec.7,atFirst PresbyterianChurch,2438 SecondSt.indowntownFort Myers,betweenLeeStreetand RoyalPalmAvenue.

“TheCarolSinghastraditionallybeenonthefirstTuesdayof December,butwethoughtwe wouldtryitonaSaturdaythis year,inhopesthatmorefamilies willattend,”saidtheRev.Dr.Paul deJong,pastorofFirst PresbyterianChurchofFort Myers.

Admissionisfree,although organizersrequestvoluntary donationsofatleasttwocansof non-perishablefoodforTheSoup Kitchen,operatedbyCommunity Cooperative,andavoluntarycashdonation,ifyoucan.

andserves14,000individualsandfamilieswithhomelessandcomprehensive casemanagementservicesthroughits Social&EducationResourceCenters.

Becauseoftheoverwhelmingpopularityoftheevent,twosing-alongsare plannedat1p.m.and4p.m.Thedoors willopen30minutespriortoshowtime.

CommunityCooperativeisaninnovativenonprofitorganizationmadeupof socialserviceentrepreneursfightingto endhomelessnessandhungerinour community.Itprovidesmorethan26,000 mealseachmonththroughSam’s CommunityCafé,MealsonWheelsprogramsandschoolprograms,distributes morethan2.1millionpoundsofgroceriesthroughitsMobileFoodPantries,

Thechurchhasbeenastrongsupporteroftheagencyfromthebeginning andcontinuestosupportitsministry therebyprovidingvolunteersandother supportforSam’sCommunityCafé& KitchenandtheMealsonWheelsprogram.

“Theneedhasneverbeengreater withsomanypeoplestrugglingafterthe devastationcausedbyHurricaneIan andHurricaneHelene.Thefoodthatis donatedwillgoimmediatelytothosein ourcommunitywhodesperatelyneedit,” deJongsaid.

TheChristmasCarolSingisafestival ofholidaymusicandfamilyfun.This year’s90-minuteperformancewillfeaturetheFirstPresbyterianChurchChoir, soloistsandotherspecialguestssinging favoriteholidaycarolswithaudience sing-a-longs.

CashdonationsareespeciallyneededbecauseCommunityCooperativecan buyfivetimesasmuchfoodforthe sameamountofmoneythatresidents spendatlocalgrocerystores.

ThereisastrongrumorthatSanta Clauswillbemakingasurprisevisitfor the“childreninallofus.”

Formoreinformation,callFirst PresbyterianChurchat239-334-2261or visitwww.fpcfortmyers.org.

KennyGtoperform atamphitheaterDec.18

Foroneamazingnightonly,multi-platinumselling,Grammy Award-winningculturaliconKennyGisbringinghissignature brandofjazztodowntownFortMyersthisholidayseasonon Dec.18atCaloosaSoundAmphitheater.

Thelegendarysaxophonistwillfilltheairwithfestivespirit asheperformsfanfavorites,holidaystandards,andcontemporaryclassicsfromhischart-topping,50-yearcareer.

Generaladmissionticketsstartat$55,andVIPtickets startat$95.Doorswillopenat6p.m.withtheopeningact beginningat7p.m.

Concertgoerscanmaketheireveningevenmorespecial withpre-concertperksbyshowingtheirconcertticketatChips SportsPub,TheSilverKingOceanBrasserie,OxbowBar& Grill,orBeaconSocialDrinkeryonthedayoftheconcertto receivea10%discountofftheirbill.Formorediningoptions, browseLuminaryHotel&Co.’sofferings.Barsandsnackswill alsobeavailableonsiteforpurchasesbeforeandduringthe show.

Guestslookingtoavoidpost-concerttrafficcanstaythe nightatLuminaryHotel&Co.bybookingaroomandenjoy theconvenienceofbeingjuststepsawayfromthevenue.

CaloosaSoundAmphitheaterislocatedat2101Edwards Drive,adjacenttoLuminaryHotel&Co. Purchaseticketsonlineattixr.com. Foradditionalinformation,visitCaloosaSoundAmp.com.

HolidayNightsatEdisonandFordEstates

OnFriday,Nov.29at5:30p.m.,EdisonandFordWinter Estateswillkickoffthe49thannualHolidayNightscelebrationwithatreelightingceremony.

GuestswillhaveanopportunitytoparticipateinthecountdownwithDaveEliasfromNBC-2whentheChristmastree ontheFordpropertyislitwiththousandsofanimatedlights choreographedtoholidaymusic.Femalevocalists,the AmericanSirens,willperformshortlyafterthetreelighting.

HolidayNightswillrunnightlythroughJan.5(willbe closedChristmasEveandChristmasnight).GuidedHoliday TraditionTourswillbeofferedat6and7p.m.everynight exceptopeningnightorvisitorscanchoosetomeanderat theirownpaceonaself-guidedtour.Inside-the-Homestours willbeofferedonDec.4,11,and18at6:30p.m.foraspecial up-closelookatthehomes'decoratedinteriors.

Thefamily-orientedeventincludestheChildren'sTree Trail,whichfeatures50treesdecoratedwithhandmadeornamentsfromLeeCountyschoolchildren.OnSundayevenings

from6to8p.m.,childrencanvisitwithSantaandMrs.Claus. Therewillbemusiconseveralnights,includingstrollingcarolers,apianist,andtenorsaxophoneandtrumpetplayers.

TheMuseumStoreandGardenShoppewillbeopenuntil 9p.m.everynightofHolidayNightsandwillbestockedwith uniquegiftitemsforthathard-to-buy-forlovedone. Refreshmentswillbeavailableforpurchaseonselectnights.

HolidayNightsticketsforadultsare$20,teens(ages1319)$10,children(ages6-12)are$2,andchildren5years oldandyoungerwillbeadmittedfree.EdisonFordmembers arealsoadmittedfree(fortheself-guidedtour).Guided HolidayTraditionToursare$30foradults,$25forteens,and $18forchildren.Inside-the-HomesHolidayToursare$50per person.LeeCountyresidentswithidentificationwillreceive $5offregular-pricedHolidayNightsadmissiononMonday nights.

Topurchaseticketsorviewthenightlyschedule,visitthe websiteatEdisonFord.org.

ACMASongwritersonthePlazaDec.10

TheFortMyersRegionalLibraryhas joinedwiththeAmericanaCommunity MusicAssociation(ACMA),toofferfree concertsofalloriginalmusicbylocal artists.Concertswilltakeplaceinthe amphitheater,whichislocatedonSouth CornogPlaza,2450FirstSt.intheFort MyersRiverDistrict.

Thefreeseasonaleventruns NovemberthroughMay.

OnTuesday,Dec.10,MacMartin, PeterSlotaandGeneMartinwilltake theoutdoorstageat6p.m. Bringachairorablanket.Allshows willbemovedtothemeetingrooms locatednexttotheamphitheaterif

neededdependingonweather.

MacMartinisanotablemusician hailingfromArcadia,andiscelebrated forhiscontributionstotheCoastal Americanagenre,alsoknownasTrop Rock.Afourth-generationFloridian,Mac Martinhasadeepconnectiontohis roots,whichisreflectedinhismusic.

PeterSlotaisaFloridabornretired, disabledVietnamveteran.Asamusicianandsongwriter,Petercamelateto theparty.Hehadbeenplayingguitar sincehighschool,neverrisingabovean intermediatelevel,(havingoncesolda treasuredOvationguitartoeat).Later yearsprovedabitmorefruitful.

GeneMartin,whohassungin choirs,chorusesandgleeclubsmostof hisearlylife,firststartedplayingukulele atage13,thenbanjoandguitar.He graduatedfrommedicalschoolin1967, wasdraftedintotheU.S.Armyin1968, andservedasabattalionsurgeonin Vietnamforayear.HejoinedtheACMA in2016andhasbeenwritingmusic eversince.Heisleaderofthefour memberbandTheFloridians.

TheremainingdatesareJan.14, Feb.11,March11,April8andMay13.

FormoreabouttheACMA,visitthe websiteatwww.americanacma.organd followthemonFacebookforupdates.

Freeseasonal LeeTrantrolley serviceresumes

LeeTranhasresumedthepopularseasonalRiverDistricttrolleys.

BoththeBlueandGoldLinetrolleysprovidefreeaccesstoandfrom thehistoricdowntownFortMyers RiverDistrict.LeeTrantrolleysallow forafunandconvenientwayto enjoyshopping,diningandentertainment,withouthavingtodriveand parkdowntown.

TheBlueLinerunsthrough downtownFortMyers.Theroute loopsfromtheOasisCondominiums toWestFirstStreetandMcGregor BoulevardalongFirstStreet,thento RosaParksTransportationCenter, FowlerStreetandSecondStreet. TheGoldLineconnectsNorthFort MyerstoDowntownFortMyers.

DetailsaboutLeeTranoperations,updatedschedules,andmaps canbefoundatRideLeeTran.com.

LeeTranisthepublictransit providerforLeeCounty.LeeTran operates25busroutesduringseasonandaparatransitserviceknown asPassport.

FandomFest

FandomFestreturnstotheFortMyersRegionalLibraryonSaturday,Dec.14. Thefreeone-dayfestivalwillrunfrom11a.m.to3p.m.atthelibrarylocated at2450FirstSt.FandomFestisacelebrationoffandomsandpopculture. Forfestivaldetails,visitonlineatwww.leegov.com/library/fandom-fest

D ININGIN S OUTHWEST F LORIDA

1stStreetDeli

AnauthenticNewYork-styledelicatessen,1st StreetDelibringsadistinctlyuniquediningconcept tothecasino,featuringdelipickles,freshbread andsandwichesbiggerthanyourappetite.Thehot deliplattersectionfeaturesthreenewfavorites: housemademeatloafwithYukongoldmashed potatoesandbrowngravy;potroastdinnermade withslowbraisedbeefshortrib;andchicken Marsala.

Opendailynoon–8p.m. 506South1stStreet,Immokalee 800-218-0007www.moreinparadise.com

CapeCabaret DinnerTheater

CapeCabaretDinnerTheaterisabeautiful upscalevenuededicatedtodining,dancing,live musicandcomedyshows.Wefeatureacomplete dinnermenu,threefullbars,twolargedining roomswithhardwooddancefloorsandalargeoutdoorpatio.Ourentertainmentincludeslivemusic fromthe60’stothe90’sandthebesttributeband showsinSWFL.Wespecializeinhostingyourprivateeventsandpartiesfor24to350guests. ExecutiveChefPabloFelixandhisstaffprepare deliciousappetizers,entreesanddessertsdailyfor yourenjoyment.Walk-insarewelcome,butreservationsarerecommended.Reserveonlineorcall. 4725VincennesBlvd.,CapeCoral 239-549-3000 www.capecabaret.com

EE-TO-LEET-KEGrill

TheEE-TO-LEET-KEGrillfeaturescontemporaryregional cuisinesutilizingthefreshest selectionsofsteaks,seafood,and anarrayoflocallysourcedproduce.ThestartersmenunowfeaturesSouthwesttenderlointacos withpicodegalloandchipotle aioli;chickenquesadillawithblack beans,roastedcornandpepper jack;andgrilledpeachsaladwith arugula,candiedpecans,goat cheeseandlemon vinaigrette.Newadditionstotheentréeselectionsincludebeerbatterfishand chipswithcoleslawandtartarsauce;blackenedFloridasnapper;crabcakes withroastedcornsalsa;grilled12-ounceribeyewithsofritoandgarlicpuree; andabeefBourguignonmadewithtenderlointips,pearlonions,mushrooms& redwine.Opendaily8a.m.–midnight.

506South1stSt.,Immokalee

800-218-0007www.moreinparadise.com

EllaMae’sDiner

Nostalgiaservedwithasmile.Afun retro-inspiredeateryservingcomfort foodandclassicdinerfare.Slideintoa boothorpulluptothecounterfora burgerandmilkshakeorthebestall-day breakfastyou’veeverhad.EllaMae’s providesawelcometwisttotheclassic southerndiner.CelebratingDr.EllaMae Piper’slegacy,it’sherethecommunity comestogethertosharestoriesasthey enjoyamealamidstvintage-inspired finishesandabrightcolorpalette.Ella Mae’sDineratLuminaryHotel&Co.is afunretro-inspiredeateryservingup comfortfoodandclassicdinerfare. Slideintoaboothorpulluptothe counterforaburgerandmilkshakeor thebestall-daybreakfastyou’veever had.EllaMae’sisopendailyfrom7am to2pm.Servingbreakfastalldayandlunch. LuminaryHotel,2200EdwardsDrive,FortMyers 239-314-3854www.LuminaryHotel.com

LuckyMi

AnAsian-inspiredupscale restaurant,LuckyMiNoodle Houseispresentedasanopenkitchenconceptandfeaturesa noodlebar,diningroomandprivatefunctionarea.Chefsblend traditionalingredientswithcontemporaryinfluencestocreate newinterpretationsfordishes suchasVietnamesePho NoodleSoupandKoreanBeef andBroccoli.

506South1stStreet,Immokalee 800-218-0007www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

OxbowBarandGrill

CasualdocksidediningonthedoorstepofDowntownFort Myers.PanoramicriverfrontviewsontheCaloosahatchee.A boater’sretreatwithanupbeatnauticalvibe.Servingcoastal cuisineandmoreforbrunch,lunchanddinner.Retailand rentalstoigniteyourspiritofadventure.Diveintofresh seafood,oystersonthehalfshell,steaks,signaturesandwiches,freshsalads,localcraftbeersandcuratedcocktails. OurhoursareMonday-Thursday11a.m.-10p.m., FridayandSaturday11a.m.-11p.m.andSunday11a.m.9p.m.WenowofferbrunchonSaturdaysandSundays 11a.m.-3p.m.

1300HendrySt.FortMyers

239-314-3856www.oxbowfortmyers.com

SilverKingOceanBrasserie

Acoastal,chef-drivenmenuunlikeanyotherrestaurantin FortMyers.Complementedbyastrikinginteriorthat’sas appealingtotheeyesasthedishesaretothepalette.Asthe Luminary’ssignaturerestaurant,TheSilverKingOcean Brasserieoffersamenushowcasingthequalityoffresh seafoodthroughclean,simplepreparationsusingclassic techniquesforamodernpalate.Centeredonanopen kitchen,thesophisticatedrestaurantfeaturesacoastalinspiredmenuandadditionaloutdoorseatstorelaxand indulgeinthefinestlocalseafoodinSouthwestFlorida. NestledwithinSilverKing,you’llfindTheFloridaRoom,aprivatediningspacethatseats14guests,perfectforintimate gatheringsandcelebrationsandnamedafterFlorida Heitman.Ifyourgroupislarger,wefeatureavarietyof venueswithentertainingoptionsavailablefromuniqueseatingtotailoredmenus.HoursareTuesday-Saturdayfrom 5-10p.m.

LuminaryHotel,2200EdwardsDrive,FortMyers 239-314-3855www.LuminaryHotel.com

TikiHutBar&Grill atDolphinKeyResort

There'salwayssomethingtodoattheTikiHutBar&Grillat theDolphinKeyResort.LocatedinDowntownCapeCoral,the biggestTikibarintheworldoffersliveentertainmentWednesday throughSunday,KeyWestStyleRelaxWednesdayandThursday, Lightoutdooratmosphere,sofamily,andfriendstwoorfour leggedarewelcome.Greatfoodmenu,withFloridaSpecials,pool table,TVs.Open7days.Kitchenopenlate.

1502MiramarSt.,CapeCoral 239-540-8454www.dolphinkeyresort.com

TwistedFork

TheTwistedForkisahot-rodandmoto-culturethemedrestaurantfeaturingascratchkitchenandcustomcocktails.Afamily friendlyspaceadjacentBert'sBackPorchconcertvenuewith loadsofoutdoorspace,ithasrapidlybecomeCharlotteCounty's hottestplacetoeat,drinkandhavefun!"

2208ElJobeanRoad,PortCharlotte 941-235-3675www.twistedfork.net

MaltShopMemoriesCruise readytosailagainin2025

TheMaltShopMemoriesCruise sailedOct.27-Nov.3fromFort LauderdaletoSaintMaarten,aboard HollandAmerica’sNieuwAmsterdam. ProducedbyStarVistaLIVE,thesoldout musiccruisefeatureddailyconcertsand interactiveactivitieswithcruisersandthe artistsincludingTheBeachBoys,The RighteousBrothers,TheFourTops, ChubbyChecker,TheRascals,Darlene Love,TheDuprees,CharlieThomas' Drifters,TheFlamingos,TheCoasters, TheCowsills,Jan&Dean'sBeachParty starringDeanTorrence,TheDooWop

Project,RickyNelsonRememberedfeaturingMatthewandGunnarNelson,Jay Siegel’sTokens,GaryU.S.Bonds, JohnnyFarina,PeggyMarch,The Classics,TheChantels,LindaGail Lewis,BobbyWilson,VinnieMedugno, Elvistributeartistsandmanymore.

The2025sailingonsalenow

The2025MaltShopCruisesailsNov. 2-9fromFortLauderdaletoCozumel andCostaMayaandisnowonsale.The 2025lineupincludesPaulAnka,The Jacksons,LittleAnthony,TheBrooklyn

Bridge,Jay&TheAmericans,TheBronx Wanderers,TheModernGentlemen,The Intruders,TheTymes,TheHappenings, TheElegants,KathyYoung,Merrilee Rush,BillHaleyJrandTheComets,Al ‘LilFats”Jacksonandmanymore.

Savemoneyonyourcabinreservationandusethepromocode “Happenings.” Thiscruisesellsout eachyear.

Call844-877-6258orvisitonlineat www.maltshopcruise.com/happenings

2024cruisephotosbyJamieKuser

MikeLoveandBruceJohnstonofTheBeachBoys

BobbyWilson(sonofJackieWilson)andVinnieMedugno

TheCowsills

MatthewandGunnarNelsontalkabouttheirtribute showtotheirlatefather,RickyNelson