Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Comedy • Music
FEBRUARY 2019
FREE
STARDUST MEMORIES BIG BAND
GUYS & DOLLS AT BROADWAY PALM JOSH GRACIN AT THE RANCH
BONITA SPRINGS NATIONAL ART FEST
COMMUNITY & CONCERT
BANDS
Naples • Fort Myers • Cape Coral • Port Charlotte • Key West
Publisher’s Spotlight It’s showtime
Southwest Florida’s theatre season is alive and vibrant with a tremendous list of great plays and musicals. Gulfshore Playhouse presents The Revolutionists now through Feb. 3 at the Norris Center in Naples. Laboratory Theater of Florida presents Hedwig and the Angry Inch now through Feb. 3 in Fort Myers. Broadway Palm turns on the disco lights with Saturday Night Fever playing now through Feb. 9. The Naples Players perform Don’t Dress for Dinner, now through Feb. 10 at the Sugden Theatre. Gulfshore Opera presents Don Pasquale at various locations Jan. 31 - Feb. 10. Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical plays now through Feb. 24 in the Florida Rep’s ArtStage Studio Theatre in Fort Myers. At the Off Broadway Palm Theatre, Mid-Life 2 will be on stage now through Feb. 23. In Naples, the Studio Players present Burn This now through Feb. 3 at the Golden Gate Community Center. Marjorie Prime opens Feb. 6 at the Sugden Theatre. The Naples Players production runs through March 3. In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater presents The Butler Did It Feb. 1 - 10. And the Winner Is ... opens Feb. 22 at Laboratory Theater of Florida and runs through March 16. Broadway Palm presents Guys and Dolls Feb. 14 through March 30. In Naples, Gulfshore Playhouse will stage In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play) Feb. 16 through March 10 at The Norris Center. Mama Won’t Fly opens Feb. 28 in the Off Broadway Palm Theatre with a run through April 28. Florida Repertory Theater presents Noel Coward’s Hay Fever Feb. 15 through March 6. Right Bed, Wrong Husband is on stage at the Charlotte Players’ Langdon Playhouse Feb. 1 - 17 in Port Charlotte. In Naples, TheatreZone presents Aida Feb. 7 through Feb. 17. Machinal will be performed on stage Feb. 15 - 24 at FGCU TheatreLab in Fort Myers.
4 - February 2019
Concert bands
We are blessed to have so much musical talent right here in Southwest Florida. In this month’s magazine, we are showcasing the talents of our local community and concert bands. They include Stardust Memories Big Band, Bonita Springs Concert Band, Charlotte County Concert Band, Gulf Coast Big Band, Lee County Community Band, Naples Big Band, Naples Concert Band and the Southwest Florida Concert Band. These groups perform several times throughout season at indoor and outdoor venues. Many of them offer free performances and ask for donations at the concerts. It’s important that we continue to support these talented musicians who provide great entertainment. As you enjoy the free concerts at some of our great outdoor bandshells, remember to be generous toward our local talent.
National touring artists
We have a long list of national recording artists who are making stops in Southwest Florida over the next few months. The list includes Eli Young Band, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Travis Tritt, Josh Gracin, John Lodge, Patti LaBelle, Phil Vassar, Neal McCoy, The Orchestra, Little River Band, Lettuce, Here Come the Mummies, The Zombies, Cody Jinks, Los Lobos, Al Di Meola, Joe Bonamassa, Shinedown, Jamey Johnson, The Beach Boys, Toby Mac, Mark Chesnut, Night Ranger, Blood Sweat & Tears, Hillsong, Lonestar, John Mellencamp, Steve Miller Band, Hank Williams Jr., Clint Black, KC & The Sunshine Band, Village People, Tracy Byrd, John Michael Montgomery, Collie Buddz, Doug Stone, Stephen Bishop, Gin Blossoms, David Foster, The Platters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, Winger, FireHouse, Michael Bolton and so many more. For the most comprehensive list of national concerts in our area, visit our online concert calendar (which is updated daily) at HappeningsMagazine.net. Rock on,
Jamie
IN THIS ISSUE
theatre
6
art
music
dining
22
50
74 Publishers & Owners
Jamie & Kathy Kuser
Contributors: Holly Zammerilla, Michael Moran, Laurel Meny, Kathy Kuser, Bob Williams Advertising sales: Jamie Kuser & Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Distribution: Tom Booth & Aley Enterprises Happenings A&E Magazine is owned, published & distributed monthly in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties by KMK Publishing Inc.
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PO Box 9285, Fort Myers, FL 33902
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Happenings Magazine
THEATRE
NAPLES PLAYERS
Marjorie Prime
The Naples Players present the Pulitzer Prize-finalist play Marjorie Prime, written by Jordan Harrison. Performances will be Feb. 6 through March 3 in the Tobye Studio Theatre at The Naples Players Sugden Theatre. Directed by Naples Players executive artistic director Bryce Alexander, Marjorie Prime is is a captivating study of family dynamics that explores our connection with memory and leaves the audience wondering what you would choose to remember, and what would you choose to forget, if given the chance. What if technology offered you the opportunity to speak with your lost loved ones again? In this tender and inquisitive drama, a family grapples with the difference between a life lived and a life remembered as 85-year-
old Marjorie struggles to keep hold of her memories and identity, gently assisted by an artificial version of her late husband, Walter. An exploration of aging, memory and technology, Marjorie Prime peers into what lies ahead and how our past is rewritten to face today. The New York Times hails Marjorie Prime as “Jordan Harrison’s elegant, thoughtful and quietly unsettling drama.” “Marjorie Prime challenges the traditional ideals of family by considering how a digital replica may or may not be embraced or loved. It’s a fascinating and exciting production,” says Bryce Alexander. Marjorie Prime has received critical claim as an award-winning play and movie. “The concept of artificial intelligence is developing every day while our identities are being linked more and more to technology,” Alexander continues. “What if that trend continues beyond our lifetimes?” Jordan Harrison’s play Marjorie Prime, the 2015 Pulitzer Prize finalist, premiered at the Mark Taper Forum and had its New York premiere at Playwrights Horizons. A 2017 film adaptation, directed by Michael Almereyda, starred actors Lois Smith, Geena Davis, Tim Robbins and Jon Hamm. The Naples Players production features Kay Francis as Marjorie, Kenneth Hardcastle plays her husband Walter, Debi Garnett (Kalamazoo) is her daughter Tess, and Kevin Kimball is her husband Jon. The 65th anniversary season for the Naples Players is filled with dazzling musicals including Guys & Dolls (March 6 - April 7) – alongside the free outdoor Shakespeare-in-thePlaza production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Feb. 16 - March 10), the sweet comedy Always a Bridesmaid (March 27 - April 20) and Neil Simon’s classic Lost in Yonkers (May 1 26). The Sugden Theatre is located at 701 5th Ave. S. in Naples. Talk Backs will be held after every Sunday performance. Tickets are $40 and are available for purchase online at Kay Francis is Marjorie and Kenneth Hardcastle plays her late husband Walter in The Naples www.NaplesPlayers.org or by Players production of the Pulitzer Prize-finalist play Marjorie Prime. contacting the box office at 239263-7990.
6 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 7
THEATRE
BROADWAY PALM
Guys & Dolls opens Feb. 14
Broadway Palm is rolling the dice and putting bets on Guys and Dolls playing Feb. 14 through March 30. Broadway’s perfect musical comedy about gambling men and the women who long to tame them is based on the stories of Damon Runyon. Guys and Dolls is the winner of eight Tony Awards, a New York Drama Critics Circle Award and won a Grammy for Best Cast Album. The story revolves around Nathan Detroit, the ultimate gambling man and operator of “the world’s largest floating crap game.” He spends his days staying one step ahead of New York’s finest and evading marriage to his chorus girl fiancée of 14 years. Things really heat up when dashing, big time gambler Sky Masterson meets up with a refined
Salvation Army girl Miss Sarah Brown. Masterson, who’ll bet on anything, gets talked into what appears to be an unwinnable bet involving the girl, setting up an unpredictable chain of hilarious events. Guys and Dolls features one of the best musical scores in American theatre history with hits that include “Luck Be A Lady,” “I’ve Never Been In Love Before,” “Sue Me,” “A Bushel And A Peck” and more. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Tickets are $45 to $70 with group prices available. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Saturday Night Fever runs through Feb. 9
The Broadway Palm stage is heating up with the mega-musical Saturday Night Fever playing now through Feb. 9. The high-energy production features electrifying choreography by Amy Marie McCleary along with the Bee Gees’ chart-topping score. Based on the 1977 film that became a cultural phenomenon, the score is packed with Bee Gees’ hits including “Night Fever,” 8 - February 2019
“Stayin' Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love?,” “Jive Talking,” “You Should Be Dancing” and more. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. Tickets are $45 to $70 with group prices available. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, visiting online at www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Happenings Magazine
CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY
The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s
THE BUTLER DID IT BROADWAY SERIES
BY TIM KELLY
February THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA PRESENTS
AND THE WINNER IS ... A Comedy By Mitch Albom
1st - 10th
Tommy O INTERNATIONAL RECORDING & PERFORMANCE ARTIST
Remembers Dino & Darin
Feb. 15 & 16 at 8 pm
Feb. 16 & 17
Sponsored by Arlene Foreman
Half Price Preview
FEBRUARY 21
FEB. 22, 23, 28, MAR. 1, 2 MAR. 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.
FEB. 24 MAR. 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m.
www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com
239-218-0481
1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers Happenings Magazine
at 3 pm
Reminisce as Tommy O pays tribute to some of the most memorable hits of these two great artists and a whole lot more ...
Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral
CALL FOR
TICKETS
239-772-5862
www.CulturalParkTheater.com
February 2019 - 9
THEATRE
FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE
Hay Fever opens Feb. 15
Florida Repertory Theatre announces the opening of Hay Fever by Noël Coward, a witty and hilarious comedy of bad manners. Playing Feb. 15 to March 6, the run includes four previews Feb. 1214 in the Historic Arcade Theatre. Set against the backdrop of the glamorous 1920s, this classic farce is Coward at his finest: razor-sharp and as dry as a martini. The Bohemian Bliss family is gathered for a relaxing weekend in the English countryside and unbeknownst to the others, each of them has invited a guest. What was supposed to be a weekend of leisure spirals into mayhem as the family's eccentricities prove too much for their unsuspecting visitors. "This is one of the great English comedies," said Florida Rep artistic director Greg Longenhagen, "and audiences are in for a treat with a top-notch cast and expert creative team. No playwright is as good as Coward when it comes to capturing the foibles of the English upper classes, and the result is crisp writing, delightful characters and comedy that stands Kate Levy the test of time. Hay Fever is as funny today as it was when Coward wrote it 90 years ago. This comedy is the play to see if you are looking for laughs." Regional theatre and Broadway veterans, Kate Levy and Matt Sullivan make their Florida Rep debuts to lead the cast as the eccentric stage actress, Judith Bliss, and her egotistical writer husband, David Bliss. Levy was seen most recently on Broadway in Bernhardt/Hamlet, and Sullivan's recent regional credits include the Guthrie Theatre, Minetta Lane,and Baltimore Center Stage. Also making their Florida Rep debuts are New York actors Jake Murphy and Olivia Stevenson as Simon and Sorel, the equally eccentric and self-centered Bliss children. Murphy was recently seen off-Broadway at the Potomac Theatre Company, and Stevenson worked recently with Greenbrier Valley Theatre and Shakespeare's Globe. Florida Rep ensemble members Rachel Burttram and Brendan
Powers are joined by frequent guest artist Seth Andrew Bridges and current acting intern company member Sydney Torres as the Bliss' unsuspecting guests. Burttram appeared most recently in Florida Rep's Steel Magnolias, and both Powers and Torres were seen in the company's adaptation of A Christmas Carol: The Tale of Ebenezer Scrooge earlier this season. Bridges returns to Florida Rep after appearing in the 2016 regional premiere of The Dingdong, as well as extensive work at Alabama Shakespeare and Syracuse Stage. Also returning to Florida Rep's stage is British stage and screen actress Lesley Staples as the Bliss' long-suffering maid. Staples, who now calls Southwest Florida home, last appeared at Florida Rep in Enchanted April in 2007. Mark Shanahan returns to direct Hay Fever this season after his work as director and playwright on A Christmas Carol: The Tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and directing previous Florida Rep hits How the Other Half Loves, Around the World in 80 Days and Hound of the Matt Sullivan Baskervilles. Shanahan leads an expert creative team, including set designer Dennis Maulden (The Mousetrap), costume designer Jacquelyn Loy (Becoming Dr. Ruth), lighting designer David M. Upton (Over the River and Through the Woods), sound designer Katie Lowe (Damascus) and ensemble stage manager Janine Wochna (A Christmas Carol). Tickets are available online at www.FloridaRep.org and through the box office at 239-332-4488. Tickets are at $55 and $49 for regular performances, and $35 and $29 for previews. Box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. New this season, Florida Rep's parking lot will open two hours before each performance and offers guests limited free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre. Florida Repertory Theatre performs in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson & Hendry with limited free parking in the Fort Myers River District.
Charlotte Players: Right Bed, Wrong Husband
Ted has a huge estate, but his uncle controls it. To get a larger allowance, Ted – still a bachelor – tells his uncle he’s married. Which works fine, until the uncle shows up unannounced, and assumes a friend’s wife is Ted’s. Everyone plays along with the deception at the beginning, but how far are they willing to go? Things get dicey fast with Right Bed, Wrong Husband, the stage comedy opening Feb. 1 at the Charlotte Players Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte. “Shakespeare made a living writing comedies about mistaken identities,” said director Jerry Jones. “Right Bed, Wrong Husband is something he might have written if he’d been on steroids.” The play was written by Neil and Caroline Schaffner, who were part-time Sarasota resi10 - February 2019
dents. The play is set in a beach house on Lido Key. Michael Vena plays Ted, who would like to handle his own finances but can’t because his Uncle Martin (Paul Reed) is the very parsimonious executor of his mother’s estate. Ted and his fiancé Ruth (Robin Jenkins) are still awaiting approval from her father before they can tie the knot. Weekend guests Claude (John DiGiovanni) and Evelyn (Nicole Christian) just wanted a beach getaway, but when Uncle
Martin mistakes Evelyn for Ted’s wife, things get complicated. Housekeeper Myra (Celene Galvan) and neighbor Lashwell (Mike Moody) help try to keep the ruse from falling apart. Making her stage debut as Mother is Charlotte Players executive director Sherrie Moody. Chris Smith does his usual top-notch job as set designer, with other Charlotte Players veterans Steve Pignataro as stage manager, Lynne Zeigler as prop manager and Pamela Jones as costumer. Tickets for the Charlotte Players production are available at www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling 941-255-1022 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Evening performances are at 7:30, and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. The show runs through Feb. 17. The Langdon Playhouse is located at 1182 Market St. in Port Charlotte.
Happenings Magazine
Bee Gees Tribute 2/6
Buddy Holly, Everly Bros, Jerry Lee Lewis 2/9
Eagles The Long Run 2/15
Almost AHBA 2/20
Buble/Manilow trib. 2/24
Beatles/Stones Tribute 3/1
1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers
Doors open/dinner at 5:30 pm, Shows start at 7:00 pm
Dinner 4:30 pm, show 5:30 pm
Ter-Tini’s
More show updates online!
For tickets: www.Ter-Tinis.com or 239-344-6147
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 11
THEATRE
THE NAPLES PLAYERS
Don’t Dress for Dinner on stage at Sugden Theatre through Feb. 10
The Naples Players present Don’t Dress for Dinner, now through Feb. 10 in Blackburn Hall at The Naples Players Sugden Theatre. Don’t Dress for Dinner is a clever and rollicking comedy written by French playwright Marc Camoletti, who wrote BoeingBoeing. Bernard’s plans for a romantic rendezvous with his mistress are complete with a gourmet caterer and an alibi courtesy of his friend, Robert. But when Bernard’s wife learns that Robert will be visiting for the weekend, she decides to stay in town for a surprise tryst of her own—setting the stage for a collision course of assumed identities and outrageous infidelities. The cook is Suzette, the lover is Suzanne, the friend is bewildered, the wife is suspicious, the husband is losing his mind, and everyone is guaranteed a good time at this hilarious romp through the French countryside. 12 - February 2019
Directed by TNP’s associate artistic director Jessica Walck (Kalamazoo), assistant director is Margo Crupi. New York-based scenic designer Starlet Jones will design the set, lighting design is by Craig Walck, sound design is by Bradley Van Houten and costume design is by Dot Auchmoody. Stage Manager is Paul Polomsky. Seasoned TNP actor James Duggan (Maple & Vine) plays the lead Bernard and is paired-up in a dynamic comic duo with local director and actor Brett Marston. Duggan and Marston gave a brilliantly dynamic comedic performance in TNP’s production of The Foreigner. Rachel Ewy previously seen as Belle in TNP’s Beauty & the Beast plays Jacqueline and has performed at TNP since a young age and recently directed ETC Readers Theatre’s Making God Laugh. Rachel Borwein, seen last season as Petruchio in Taming
of the Shrew, plays Suzette and also performs with local theatre troupe, The Studio Players. Lori Grandon is celebrating her TNP main stage debut in the role of Suzanne. She has participated in ETC Readers Theatre and has also performed in The Vagina Monologues benefiting Project Help. Daniel Ospina plays George, and is a newcomer who is excited to begin his journey on stage with The Naples Players. “This is an extremely fast-paced comedy with pristine timing and will be one wild ride for the audience,” shares Jessica Walck. “I’m working hard so that this audience gets every belly laugh they deserve,” she continues. The Sugden Theatre is located at 701 5th Ave. S. in Naples. Tickets are $40 and are available for purchase online at www.NaplesPlayers.org or by contacting the box office at (239) 263-7990. Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 13
THEATRE
THEATREZONE
Aida in Naples
TheatreZone presents Elton B.B. King’s All Star Blues Band. John and Tim Rice’s award-winShe has done some film and telening musical Aida from Feb. 7 - 17 vision work and has performed at the G&L Theatre on the internationally in Holland, Italy, Community School of Naples camCuba, and China. She has also pus, 13275 Livingston Road. shared stages with major recordA winner of four Tony Awards, ing artists such as Celine Dion, this epic tale of love, loyalty and Jennifer Hudson, David Foster betrayal is based on the Verdi and Mary J. Blige. Her favorite opera. musical theatre roles include The An enslaved Nubian princess, Color Purple (Celie); Dreamgirls Cherry Hamlin Kara Konken Natale Perrotta Aida, finds her heart entangled with (Deena); Beehive (Aretha/Cherry); Radames, an Egyptian soldier who The Pajama Game (Mabel); and is betrothed to the Pharaoh’s daughter, Amneris. As their forbidden West Side Story (Francisca/Somewhere Singer). love blossoms, Aida is forced to weigh her heart against the Natale Perrotta plays Radomes. Perrotta is ecstatic to be returnresponsibility that she faces as the leader of her people. Aida and ing to TheatreZone - last seen as Sonny Malone in Xanadu. Radames’ love for one another becomes a shining example of true Originally from Massachusetts, he attended The University of devotion that ultimately transcends the vast cultural differences Tampa - majoring in performing arts with a dance minor. Some of between their warring nations, heralding a time of unprecedented his favorite credits include Tarzan (Tarzan), Ragtime (Younger peace and prosperity. Brother), Xanadu (Sonny Malone), Rocky Horror (Riff Raff), With an unforgettable score featuring soaring ballads and rousHairspray (Link Larkin), Next to Normal (Henry), Bare (Peter) and ing choral numbers, Aida is a modern crowd-pleaser with exuberant Into the Woods (Jack). dancing. Kara Konken (Amneris) is excited return to TheatreZone this "I've loved this show since I saw it on Broadway," said Mark season. Audiences may remember her from recent performances Danni, TheatreZone founding artistic director. "This started as a as Doralee in 9 to 5 and Cinderella in Into the Woods. Kara children's book written by acclaimed soprano Leontyne Price. received her musical theater training from Baldwin Wallace Disney approached Elton John and Tim Rice about composing a University in Berea, Ohio. Some of her favorite roles include Meg score for an animated version because of their success with The Brockie in Brigadoon, Ado Annie in Oklahoma, Bambi in Curtains, Lion King. Elton John said he was interested not in doing an aniPeter Pan in Peter Pan, and Amanda in Bright Lights, Big City. mated film but a live stage production." Kara operates her own princess birthday party business in Cherry Hamlin plays the title role of Aida. Cherry says she is Southwest Florida. excited to take on one of the first musical theatre roles she ever Due to popular demand, an extra performance was added on studied, Aida. She has the unique ability of singing any musical Feb. 13. Tickets are $50, $60 and $75 and available at www.thestyle, and has a vast variety of performance experience, from opera atre.zone or by calling 888-966-3352 x1. and Disney’s Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, to jazz and the
Ed Asner stars in new comedy; live talk back in March in Naples
The Naples Players present seven-time Emmy Award-winning television icon Ed Asner in a live audience talk-back on Saturday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at The Naples Players Blackburn Hall. In partnership with Unity Church of Naples and Fubble Entertainment, Ed Asner is starring in his new comedy stage-play, A Man and His Prostate, bringing awareness to men’s health in a comical and poignant show at Unity Church of Naples on March 15 and March 16 at 7 p.m. Last seen on the Broadway stage in Craig Wright's tragicomic play Grace, Asner costarred with Paul Rudd. Asner is one of the most honored actors in television history, with 16 Emmy nominations, five Golden Globe Awards, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild. He is best 14 - February 2019
known for his praised role as Lou three Golden Globes and has Grant from The Mary Tyler Moore earned a Peabody Award. Show, and for voicing Carl Tickets for A Man and his Frederickson in the Pixar boxProstate at Unity Church of Naples office smash UP (which won an are $150 for VIP tickets (reserved Oscar for Best Animated Feature). seating and a meet-n-greet after He is also widely known for his telthe show) and $50 general admisevision roles in Roots, Rich Man sion for the 80-minute show. Poor Man, The Good Wife, Tickets for the show are available Ed Asner Criminal Minds, Mom, The Crazy at www.unitynaples.org. Ones, Chasing Life and Men at In partnership with Unity Work. Asner also starred in the blockbuster Church of Naples, The Naples Players is invitfilm Elf as Santa and All of My Heart. For the ing all for an interactive talk-back and Q & A stage, he toured across the country in his with the award-winning actor on Saturday, one-man, stage play FDR based on the life March 16 at 2 p.m. in TNP’s Blackburn Hall. and career of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Tickets are $20 and available by contacting A Man and His Prostate was created and writThe Naples Players box office at 239-263ten by award-winning Ed Weinberger, who 7990 or www.NaplesPlayers.org for this folhas been showered with nine Emmys and low-up event. Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 15
THEATRE
Pictured (back, from left) are And the Winner Is cast Dave Yudowitz, Todd Lyman, Michael Andrew, TJ Albertson; (front, from left) Danielle Channell & Maddy Hayes. Photo by Paula Sisk
Laboratory Theater of Florida presents
And the Winner Is ...
Keeping with the tradition of bringing fresh and edgy theater to the area, The Laboratory Theater of Florida announces the Southwest Florida premiere of Mitch Albom’s And the Winner Is. Tyler Johnes just wants to make it to the Oscars to accept his award for Best Supporting Actor. There's just one problem: he seems to be stuck in a bar where things are not quite ... normal. Seamus the bartender isn't helping matters, either. While Tyler continues to try to make it onto the red carpet, he is interrupted by unusual visitors. Filled with humor and emotion, this play will win your heart. Director Carmen Crussard says, “Mitch Albom's And the Winner Is ... is a hilarious comedy that is sure to arouse, not only some belly laughs, but some spiritual and philosophical introspection, as well. When an actor, Tyler Johnes (played by TJ Albertson) dies the night before the Oscars, an event that he has worked toward for his entire career, and forsaken everything in order to achieve, he is forced to re-evaluate the things that really matter in life. This is the best kind of comedy: one that lets us laugh at ourselves while also making us think about our own paths. Also: Strippers.” Lab artistic director Annette Trossbach says, “Known for Tuesdays With Morrie and 16 - February 2019
The Five People You Meet In Heaven, Mitch Albom brings us another heartwarming and hilarious story of the insatiable ego of a famous actor and an unusual event that helps him to reflect upon his life. This delightful and, at times, uproariously hilarious comedy will make you laugh, think, and be grateful for the special people in your life.” The Lab has new seating. Rows A, B, and C are on the floor. Rows D and above are on risers. And The Winner Is ... plays from Feb. 22 to March 16 at the Laboratory Theater of Florida. Performance dates are Feb. 22, 23, March 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.; and Feb. 24, March 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m. A half-price preview night will be Feb. 21. On Feb. 23, pizza with cast and crew and a free show for teenagers, starts at 6:30 p.m. (reservations required). A community talkback will immediately follow the performance on Feb. 28. Tickets are available to purchase on www. Brownpapertickets.com or by calling the box office at 239-218-0481. For additional savings, guests may purchase a 2018-2019 Season Pass. For more information, visit online at www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com or the physical location at 1634 Woodford Ave. in the Fort Myers River District.
Machinal on stage at FGCU
The Theatre Program in the Bower School of Music & the Arts at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) presents Sophie Treadwell’s Machinal from Feb. 15 – Feb. 24 at FGCU’s TheatreLab. Assistant professor of theatre Dan Bacalzo directs a cast of FGCU students in this 1928 play inspired by the real-life case of Ruth Snyder, a convicted murderer. Sophie Treadwell’s expressionist drama is inspired by the real-life murder trial of Ruth Snyder. Set in the 1920s, the play concerns a young woman whose every choice in life seems predetermined, as if she is merely a cog in a machine that can fulfill only one purpose. While she initially succumbs to society’s expectations of marriage and childbirth, she yearns for something more. Refusing to submit to a life she does not want, she sets out to explore alternative paths to happiness. But as she attempts to break away from a life of conformity, will her efforts lead to freedom or punishment? Individual tickets to Machinal at FGCU are $10 for the general public and $7 for students. Tickets and further information are available online at www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab or the door. The TheatreLab is located in the Arts Complex on FGCU’s main campus at 10501 FGCU Blvd. S.
Every Brilliant Thing March 8 at BIG ARTS
BIG ARTS welcomes the accomplished Zoetic Stage theater company to Schein Hall on Sanibel with an exhilarating, interactive play that strikes a delicate balance between sobering loss and cathartic laughter. In this one-person tour de force, a man attempts to cure his mother’s depression by creating a list of the best things in the world. The list grows as he progresses from childhood on and it proves to be helpful to the son in ways that it could never be for the mother. Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan Macmillan with Johnny Donahoe is both moving and heartwarming. The performance is at 7:30 pm. March 8. For tickets, call 239-3950900 or visit www.bigarts.org. Happenings Magazine
The Butler Did It CULTURAL PARK THEATER
opens Feb. 1 in Cape Coral
Tommy O pays tribute to Darin & Dino
By Michael Moran
Murder mystery and comedy The Butler Did It opens at Cultural Park Theatre in Cape Coral on Feb. 1. Massachusetts playwright Tim Kelly wrote this play after graduating from Emerson College. Directed by Christi Wengerter, a cast of nine adults and teens round out the talented production. The Butler Did It parodies every English mystery play ever written, but it has a decidedly American flair. Miss Maple, a dowager with a reputation for “clever” weekend parties, invites a group of detective writers to eerie Ravenswood Manor on Turkey Island where they are to impersonate their fictional characters. The hostess has arranged all sorts of amusing incidents: a mysterious voice on the radio, a menacing face at the window, a mad killer on the loose. Who is that body in the wine cellar anyway? Why do little figurines keep toppling from the mantle? Then a real murder takes place, and Miss Maple is outraged. She offers an immense reward to the “detective” who can bring the killer to justice. And what an assortment of zany would-be sleuths! When they’re not busy tripping over clues, they trip over each other. Laughs collide with thrills, and the climax is a real seat-grabber as the true killer is unmasked, and almost everyone turns out to be someone else. Happenings Magazine
The Butler Did It plays Feb. 1 through Feb. 10 with Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m., and Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. Contact the box office for tickets to this madcap adventure soon. Tickets are $21 for adults, $18 for seniors and $15 for students, and we have group rates available. Round out your Valentine’s Day weekend and see the incredible Tommy O as he takes to the Cultural Park Theatre concert stage Feb. 15, 16 and 17 in his concert “Remembering the legends of Dino and Darin.” Tommy O, (Tom Organiscak) is an outstanding performer, a truly gifted talent. He is adored by his audience and is always begged for an encore. The performance offered by Tommy O consists of great versatility and encourages audience participation. This performer is perfectly poised with immense stage presence. He has been nicknamed "Elvirotti" which implies his vast range from that of Elvis to Pavarotti. The Tommy O performance is a guaranteed display of impeccable, extraordinary showmanship and talent, leaving the audience with the generous gift of indelible joyous memories. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and matinees at 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. All seats are $21. The Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. in Cape Coral. Call the box office at 239772-5862 for reservations. Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company. February 2019 - 17
Tenderly THEATRE
FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE
Musical pays tribute to Rosemary Clooney
Florida Repertory Theatre’s was involved in the inception of the production of Tenderly: The company, and was honored to appear Rosemary Clooney Musical by in the premiere season here in Fort Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Myers and have watched it grow into Friedman, is playing now through the success it is today.” Feb. 24 in the ArtStage Studio “Michael Marotta is an outstanding Theatre to sold-out crowds and talent who has distinguished himself critical acclaim. as a performing artist, a choreograThe production stars Susan pher, and stage director,” said Florida Haefner and Michael Marotta, Rep artistic director Greg who are reunited in the Florida Longenhagen. “It’s no surprise that he Rep production after originating was recruited to dance with Golden their roles in the 2014 world preGlobe winner, Rachel Brosnahan, miere. who plays the title character in the hit Longtime Florida Rep guest Amazon show. He shines in the part, artist and New York-based and is also a delight to watch on Michael Marotta recently made a stage.” featured appearance on Susan Haefner makes her third Amazon’s hit series, The appearance as Clooney in Florida Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, dancing Rep's production after originating the with the show’s Golden Globerole in an extended, sold-out run at winning star, Rachel Brosnahan. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and “I've loved The Marvelous another successful run at Vermont's Mrs. Maisel since its inception, Weston Playhouse. The now long before it won five Emmys, Vermont-based actress is a regional and knew I would be a good fit theatre veteran whose Broadway for its style and period,” Marotta appearances include State Fair, said. “The storytelling, attention Thoroughly Modern Millie and 42nd to detail, production values and Street, as well as national tours of design elements are the best in Billy Elliott and Damn Yankees, which the industry, and the talent pool is also played on London's West End. too!” "We couldn't be more honored to Marotta went on to say, have Susan in this role," “When I saw the casting notice Longenhagen said. "She brings so for the role I played, I asked my much richness to Rosemary's harrowagent to submit me. Her ing story and embodies the famous response was not promising! I singer's brashness and warmth beauremained undeterred and did tifully. Also, she and Michael have something I hadn’t done in years; undeniable chemistry together. I am I attended a dance call for the delighted to welcome Susan to our same episode. The choreograstage." pher recognized my ability and Tickets are priced at $55 and are Susan Haefner and Michael Marotta in Florida Repʼs producrecommended me to the creators available online at tion of Tenderly. Photo by Nick Adams immediately. The star of the show www.FloridaRep.org and through the couldn’t have been lovelier, more box office at 239-332-4488. gracious or happier for my participation as her dancing partner.” Performances are Tuesday - Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday and Marotta’s extensive work with Florida Rep goes back to the comSaturday at 8 p.m., and 2 p.m. on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. pany’s first season in 1998. He most recently appeared in Cabaret Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical is by Janet Yates Vogt last year, and worked as a director on I Loved, I Lost, I Made and Mark Friedman. Spaghetti”and Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End” both of which enjoyed Florida Repertory Theatre performs in the Historic Arcade Theatre record-breaking runs in the ArtStage Studio Theatre. and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson & “I have always considered Florida Rep a home away from home. I Hendry with limited free parking in the Fort Myers River District. 18 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Gulfshore Playhouse: In the Next Room opens Feb. 16 at Norris Center in Naples
There’s a buzz building at Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples. That’s thanks to its fourth production of the 2018-19 season, In the Next Room or The Vibrator Play. Running from Feb. 16 to March 10, the provocative Tony Award–nominated comedy is sure to get audiences talking. Written by American playwright and essayist Sarah Ruhl, In the Next Room explores the nature of love, intimacy and electricity. Set in 1880, a well-to-do Victorian doctor’s innocent invention to treat female “hysteria” sends a shock wave through the lives of his patients and his own marriage. His machine gets everyone buzzing throughout the lighthearted but thought-provoking production, especially his young and lively wife, who begins to wonder what her husband is up to in the next room as she tends to their newborn baby. The show shines a spotlight on questions of intimacy and ultimately forces the doctor and his wife to examine their own relationship with naked honesty. The show is directed by Broadway veteran and Gulfshore Playhouse associate artistic director Jeffrey Binder, who appeared earlier in the season in the theater’s one-man production of An Iliad. In the Next Room marks Binder’s main stage directorial debut at Gulfshore Playhouse.
Happenings Magazine
William Connell
Hanley Smith
The production stars real-life married couple William Connell and Hanley Smith from last season’s Leading Ladies, who take on the roles of Dr. Givings and his wife, Catherine. Connell also starred in the Broadway revival of A View from the Bridge and The Coast of Utopia at The Lincoln Center. Smith’s credits include Venus in Fur and Les Misérables at The Fulton. The cast also includes: - Alex Trow (Sabrina Daldry), whose New York credits include London Wall, Flamingo, Straight and Scarlett Fever as well as roles on TV’s The Good Fight, Blue Bloods and Twenty Five; - Evan Sibley (Leo), from Antony and Cleopatra at Bard City at Classic Stage in New York, and Intriguing Engagements at
New York Fringe; - Mhari Sandoval (Annie), past resident with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and recently played the voice of the Nerberdine recruiter on the Netflix hit series Maniac with Jonah Hill; - Christopher Russo (Mr. Daldry), previously in the Madison Square Garden production of ELF: The Musical and Grapes of Wrath on Broadway; and - Ashley Bufkin, whose credits include Pride and Prejudice with Pittsburgh Public Theater, A Doll’s House Part Two with Barrington Stage Co, and Julius Caesar at the Shakespeare’s Globe. In addition to Binder, the creative team for In the Next Room includes scenic designer Kristen Martino, costume designer Whitney Locher, production stage manager Jamie A. Eckhold, lighting designer Kendall Smith and sound designer Christopher Colucci. Evening shows begin at 8; and matinees begin at 3 p.m. at The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S. in Naples. Tickets begin at $42; all tickets are $37 two hours before a performance. For tickets, call 866-811-4111 or visit www.GulfshorePlayhouse.org. For more about Gulfshore Playhouse, visit www.GulfshorePlayhouse.org or call 239-261PLAY (7529).
February 2019 - 19
Gulfshore Opera annual gala, THEATRE
Don Pasquale and more concerts
Gulfshore Opera is midway through its fifth year of serving the three coastal counties of Southwest Florida. Now recognized as the touring opera festival of Southwest Florida, the cities of Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples and Marco Island all look forward to what’s coming next. This year’s tour schedule includes 30 concerts with a wide variety of musical and social offerings with nationally recognized professional artists in residence and guest artists. “It’s more than just opera” explains general director Steffanie Pearce. “We have a program or event for everybody in the Southwest Florida community from at-risk kids to seniors on a limited budget.”
Songs of Love will be performed Feb. 13 at Artis–Naples and Feb. 17 at First United Methodist Church in Punta Gorda.
February community concerts include a Valentine’s Day offering, Songs of Love at Artis—Naples on Feb. 13 and Feb. 17 at First United Methodist Church in Punta Gorda. Songs of Inspiration will be presented at a March 10 matinee concert at First Christian Church in Fort Myers. You will recognize many moving melodies like “The Impossible Dream,” “Theme from Exodus” and traditional sacred songs, plus touching scenes of prayer from the great operas. Tickets for Songs of Inspiration start at $35. The $75 concert & dinner package includes a gourmet buffet at The Marina at Edison Ford, nearby. A touring production of Don Pasquale runs Jan 31 – Feb. 10 in Marco Island, Naples, Sanibel and Port Charlotte. It is a comic opera about a stuffy old rich guy whose only heir is his rather deadbeat nephew. He threatens to disinherit his nephew for trying to marry
A touring production of Don Pasquale runs Jan 31 – Feb. 10 in Marco Island, Naples, Sanibel and Port Charlotte.
Norm Lewis performs March 2 at the fifth anniversary opera gala in Naples.
an "unsuitable." Pasquale then decides to find a proper wife for himself and produce his own heirs. It’s a full production with sets and costumes. Projected translations will be displayed. Veteran bass Tony Dillon joins Gulfshore Opera in the title role of Don Pasquale. A versatile artist, his repertoire ranges from the most dramatic to the highest comedy roles. As a non-profit with a very active social initiative (the Harmony Choir), Gulfshore Opera places great importance on their annual fundraising opera gala and has earned a reputation for hosting one of the best fundraisers in the area. The Fifth Anniversary Opera Gala will be held on March 2 beginning with an Opera Meets Broadway concert featuring one of Broadways top stars, Norm Lewis. The concert takes place at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. It is followed by a gala dinner in the ballroom of the Naples Hilton. Concert only tickets start at $28 with gala package premium seats, reception and gala dinner at $250. For tickets to any of the events, visit www.gulfshoreopera.org or call 239-529-3925.
Gulfshore Opera presents La Boheme at Mann Hall in 2020 After five years of service to seven distinct communities (from Marco Island to Port Charlotte), Gulfshore Opera is moving its grand opera productions to the largest professional theatre in Southwest Florida, the Barbara B. Mann in Fort Myers. The first scheduled grand opera production is La Boheme on March 18, 2020. Gulfshore Opera’s Steffanie Pearce made the milestone announcement on Jan. 14, at a press conference at the Collaboratory in Fort Myers. “The 1,871-seat theatre features a full proscenium stage, orchestra pit and state-
20 - February 2019
of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The Barbara B. Mann is also centrally located. Our patrons can enjoy the trip to and from the theater on one of party buses which the company will arrange from the outlying areas,” says Pearce. Puccini’s La Boheme is the most frequently performed opera in America. Much loved for its exquisite romantic melodies and relatable storyline, La Boheme is especially appropriate for Gulfshore Opera because it incorporates the company’s longstanding commitment to diversity and artistry.
Songs of Inspiration will be presented March 10 at First Christian Church in Fort Myers.
Happenings Magazine
ArtFest
ART
Fort Myers
Feb. 2 & 3
Spend a few hours, all day or a weekend being surrounded by imagination, inspiration and incredible talent. ArtFest Fort Myers brings 200 exceptional professional artists to the heart of downtown Fort Myers, encourages 300 talented local high school artists to pursue their artistic dreams while providing an opportunity for children, parents and grandparents to try their hand at creating a masterpiece. Join the fun on Feb. 2 and 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an opening night party on Friday, Feb. 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. during Fort Myers Art Walk. A jury panel of professional artists determines which 200 artists will exhibit at ArtFest from the 900 artists who apply. The artists are traveling from 43 states and many foreign countries to share their work. Amazing ceramics, a gorgeous array of jewelry, handbags, clothing plus remarkable glass, unique paintings, and decorative await you at ArtFest Fort Myers. The Commemorative Poster and T-shirt,
Chris Hartsfield
available for purchase at the fine art festival, feature the fabulous work of Ellen Negley. Joining ArtFest Fort Myers from West Palm Beach, Ellen created “Fort Myers Flavor” to capture the downtown riverfront in her own distinctive and delightful style. All new in 2019, ArtFest Fort Myers is harnessing the power of art to increase awareness and challenge behavior inspiring the recycle, re-use, upcycling movement and conserving our natural resources. We Are Overflowing, a professional sculpture created from re-purposed, discarded and cast-off materials recycling will spark your imagination and, perhaps, begin a conversation about rethinking waste. Bring the entire family to this free outdoor
fine art festival. Take time to enjoy the talented high school artists’ work at the Art Under 20 exhibit and competition and prepare to be astonished as the students create large street paintings in the Chalk Block. The Publix Art Yard and Youth Stage are full of opportunities for children of all ages to create a masterpiece of their very own, while enjoying a variety of great performances. Join the VIP Club for $125 and take advantage of reserved weekend parking, admission to the Friday night opening VIP tent with delicious food and drinks, plus unlimited access to the VIP tent with breakfast treats, a delightful lunch & beverages all weekend long. For more festival information, visit online at www.ArtFestFortMyers.com.
New exhibits open at BIG ARTS BIG ARTS presents two new exhibits: Vagrant: The Process of Being by sculptor Todd Andrew Babb (Phillips Gallery) and Revealed by printmaker and painter Barbara
22 - February 2019
Barbara Yeomans
Yeomans (Founders Gallery). An artists reception will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 1 for both exhibits. Both shows will run Jan. 30 through Feb. 24. The Lifecycles exhibit featuring award-winning abstract artists Judith Brust and Sue Pink (Phillips Gallery) and Homage to the Square exhibit (Founders Gallery) will be on display Feb. 27 through March 28. An artists reception will be held March 2 for these two exhibits. The Lifecycles exhibit featuring artists Judith Brust and Sue Pink (Phillips Gallery) and Homage to the Square exhibit (Founders Gallery) will be on display Feb. 27 through March 28. BIG ARTS is located at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. For more details, call 239-395-0900 or visit online at www.bigarts.org.
Todd Andrew Babb
Happenings Magazine
Pine Island Art Association’s
ART SHOW & SALE 47th Annual
Naples Fine Art Studio & Gallery
paintings by Edward Park
“Great Blue” by Lyn Wightman
Saturday & Sunday
February 9 & 10 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Matlacha Community Building Matlacha Community Park 4577 NW Pine Island Road, Rt. 78
Just west of the Pine Island Bridge (on the south side of Pine Island Road)
25 Year Anniversary Special February - March 1719 Trade Center Way, Suite 9, Naples
(north of Pine Ridge Road, west of Airport-Pulling Road)
239-293-8237
(cell) Open Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday & Sunday appointment only
www.edwardparkfineart.com Happenings Magazine
This show includes the work of more than 100 local artists. You will find watercolors, oil paintings, acrylics, pastels & drawings. Many are Florida-themed pieces, all matted, framed and ready to hang. There will also be more than 500 matted, original mini paintings.
Sponsored by The Pine Island Art Association PO Box 136, Matlacha, FL 33993
Additional information available on our website.
www.pineislandart.com
239-283-4432 February 2019 - 23
ART
Naples National Art Show Feb. 23 & 24
The Naples Art Association ed $5 donation at the gate that is the place where artists gathgoes to provide funds for educaer. It’s where people discontional art programming at the nect for a few minutes and NAA, this is the most cost-friendly, view a local – or even national outdoor event in the area. – art exhibition. It’s where a Save the date for the final big five-year-old or 60-year-old show of the season, the Naples picks up a paint brush for the Downtown Art Show. Scheduled first time and learns to express for Saturday, March 23 from 10 his or her creative side. And, it a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, March is a place where artists can 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in show and even sell their work. Cambier Park and 8th Street One of the opportunities South in Naples, the Naples offered to artists is the NAA’s Downtown Art Show is a favorite outdoor art shows, which are for art enthusiasts and collectors. hosted each January, February Ranked #34 on Sunshine Artist and March in downtown magazine’s 100 Best Classic & Naples. Contemporary Craft Shows list, Just last month, more than the Naples Downtown Art Show is The Naples National Art Show is Feb. 23 & 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 20,000 people flocked to the a juried art show that features in Cambier Park. Pictured is artist Kelly Tracht at the 2018 show Naples New Year’s Art Show to 250 artists applying in categories meet 200 artists from around the including painting, jewelry, watercountry (and right here in color, ceramics, metal, sculpture, Classic & Contemporary Art Shows; and Naples) and purchase their artwork. Artists wood, and more for cash awards. ArtFairCalendar.com’s America’s Best Art applauded this as one of the best shows of And, for those who can’t wait for one of the Fairs – The Top 50, the NNAS is a juried art the year – so far. larger NAA outdoor art shows, Art in the Park show with artists applying in 18 categories for And, not to be outdone, the always popular takes place on the first Saturday of the month awards and cash prizes. Again, over 20,000 Naples National Art Show is scheduled for from November through April from 10 a.m. to attendees are expected to gather for this Saturday, Feb. 23 and Sunday, Feb. 24 all 4 p.m. in Cambier Park. Art in the Park has event because of the high quality of the art, around 5th Avenue South and Cambier Park been around since 1957 and is believed to be the engaging personalities of the artists, and in Naples from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, the first outdoor art show held in Naples. This the festive atmosphere. with a special concert by the Blu-Tones at the is a smaller, more intimate show that carries New this year, attendees are sure to love a Cambier Park Bandshell from 5 to 7 p.m. on on the tradition of providing the community more walkable layout; extended hours on Saturday. access to the very creative fine art and craftSaturday; small bites available from Artichoke Recently named one of Art Fair work of local artists. The next Art in the Park and Company and Naples Smoked BBQ; bevSourceBook (AFSB)’s Blue Chip 100 Fine Art will be Saturday, Feb. 2. erages available from Rip Tide Brewery and Events for 2019 based on net average sales For more information about the NAA or The Wine Store; and the live music from the in fine art and fine craft; ranked #24 on any of the outdoor art shows, visit Blu-Tones mentioned above. With a suggestSunshine Artist magazine’s 2018 100 Best www.NaplesArt.org.
NAA hosts exhibition Feb. 7-9 in conjunction with Cars on 5th
The Naples Art Association will partner with additionally, the images trigger memories of HW Gallery to host the Karen Barrow: Art of people, places, and events. When people interthe Automobile exhibition from Feb. 7 - 9 in the act with my work, stories inevitably unfold and Frederick O. Watson Gallery at the NAA, locatthat is always exciting. In a way, the viewers ed at 585 Park St. in Naples. This exhibition is memories complete the painting.” held in conjunction with Naples 14th Annual Pulling inspiration from her upbringing in Cars on Fifth. the auto-manufacturing hub of mid-Michigan A special reception will be held at the NAA and family weekends spent at Sebring on Friday, Feb. 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The International Raceway, Barrow’s work focuses reception is free for NAA donors with a sugon the relationship between people and cars. gested donation of $10 per person for the genHer work layers images from vintage auto eral public. Wine and light refreshments will brochures, her own photographs, stencils, be provided. paint, mediums, and sometimes auto parts. “As someone who began her art career at Combining the best of digital photography and the NAA by volunteering for the original Gators the gestural movement of the abstract expresGalore Project - my gator still sits in front of sionists, Barrow creates her own digital expresYabba on 5th Avenue South – and attending sionism. She layers and scrapes clear mediart classes, I have truly come full-circle as an ums and paint on her digital images, allowing artist with this exhibition,” said Barrow. “With chance to play an important role in her Karen Barrow all of my work, I subscribe to (Bob) process. Her work encourages the discovery Rauschenberg’s philosophy that the artist’s job of both automotive and personal history. is to be a witness to his time in history. With this particular exhibition, For more information about the Naples Art Association, visit I not only document the changing technologies of the industry, but www.NaplesArt.org or call 239-262-6517. 24 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
A Variety of Unique Original Art
by 20 Award Winning Artists
Celebrating over 30 years as your fine art gallery
113 W. Marion Ave. • Downtown Punta Gorda (941) 575-1718 • www.SeaGrapeGallery.com Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 25
ART
Harbour View Gallery features
Sue Ann Simon, Susan Zablocki
Susan Zablocki
Harbour View Gallery in Cape Coral will welcome featured artists Sue Ann Simon (paintings) and Susan Zablocki (shell art) at a reception on Tuesday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. Sue Ann Simon is a realist painter with an appreciation and awareness for rustic settings, colors and textures. The detail with which she renders the feathers on a decoy or the stones on a barn is exceptional. In most of her paintings, the attention is focused on the object or the landmark itself, on giving it life and character. The subjects of her realistic watercolors are historic buildings and scenes associated with boats, seashells, birds, hunting decoys and carousel horses. Having done artwork from an
Sue Ann Simon early age, Sue has also studied at the Columbus College of Art and Design, Northern Virginia Community College and numerous art seminars. She has exhibited in art shows in eight different states on the east coast and in the Midwest, and her paintings have been collected by many patrons
and other artists. Born in Manhattan, Kansas, and grew up in Columbia, Missouri, Susan Zablocki attended Stephens College, where she focused on the arts, design and humanities. The natural beauty of Missouri landscape and wildlife was a great inspiration for her artwork. Throughout her career, her passion for art extended to the graphic arts, interior design and retail store environment industries. Susan now lives in Cape Coral, where her love for the ocean and sea life influence her unique designs. Their work will be on display through February. The gallery is located at 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, suite 104, in the Shops at Cape Harbour in Cape Coral.
DAAS Co-Op showcases art of Karen Gozzo Nolan
DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts vowed to follow her passion. Once in is hosting a meet and greet recepFlorida and fully recuperated, she tion for founding member Karen decided to pursue her lifelong dream. Gozzo Nolan in February. Shortly after making the move, Gozzo The exhibition, entitled Nolan began to paint. Distraction, showcases a collection Primarily self-taught, this abstract of the artist’s music-driven, largeexpressionist artist is influenced by scale abstracts created in between music, the emotion that comes from it, 2018 and early 2019. The opening and her love for vibrant colors. For reception is scheduled for Saturday, her, painting is an outlet of escape Feb. 9 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. The and her distraction from life, as well as exhibition will be on display through a place of total meditation and peace. March 2. “The paint and brush become my Karen Gozzo Nolan was born in instrument and my art is the song it Connecticut, where she resided plays." – adds the artist, who joined until the age of 28. She relocated to DAAS Co-Op as a founding member Vermont and later to Florida in in April of 2016 and has remained one 2013. She describes herself as of the gallery’s most influential and born creative and an art lover. active participant. However, life circumstances preFor more information about the vented her the time to follow her gallery, visit www.daascoop.com or dreams of becoming an abstract call 239-590-8645. DAAS Co-Op Art artist. While living in Vermont, Gallery & Gifts is located in the Royal Gozzo Nolan held some creative Palm Square in the heart of the SoCo Karen Gozzo Nolan positions such as manager of a Cultural District (www.socoswfl.com), home decorating center for over 13 at 1400 Colonial Blvd., suite 84, in years, where she worked with paint and colors and selecting Fort Myers. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday from color pallets for contractors. After battling a rare disease, she 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 26 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Sissy Blakslee
Annual Pine Island Art
Show & Sale Feb. 9 & 10
Save time this month to visit the Pine Island Art Association’s 47th Annual Art Show and Sale which is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 9 and 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show is located inside the Matlacha Community Building in Matlacha Community Park, 4577 Pine Island Road, just west of the Pine Island Bridge. It is Greater Pine Island’s biggest art event of the year. Southwest Florida residents, art collectors and tourists look forward to this weekend knowing it will be their opportunity to view the current work of so many talented local artists. Artists familiar with the area and comfortable depicting the vibrant colors and flavor of Southwest Florida. You will find works large and small in acrylic, pastel, watercolor, drawings and oil paintings. You will be able to choose from Florida landscapes, seascapes, flowers, birds, wildlife, beach scenes, boats and sunsets. Paintings that just seem to belong in your home. All the work has been beautifully framed and ready to hang in your home. The special Small World category is always a popular section and will be well represented at this show. There will also be more than 500 of the popular PIAA 3 ½ inch X 4 ½ inch mini paintings. Each one has been double matted and signed by the artist. The paintings are just Happenings Magazine
$10. Special metal or wood frames for the minis are available for $10 or $15. These paintings are beautiful displayed alone or in a group. You will be greeted by the members at the door and made to feel welcomed. You’ll meet the artists, chat with the locals and will be invited to sample our home baked delights. Sit awhile and enjoy old Florida hospitality. A visit to the PIAA Show provides you an opportunity to spend some time in Matlacha. This historic district, once a fishing village, is a thriving arts community. Old fishermen’s cottages have been converted into brightly painted galleries, shops, restaurants and fresh fish markets. The feeling is old fashioned, warm, friendly and wonderful.
February 2019 - 27
ART
Sea Grape showcases Barb Albin, Sam Harris
From Feb. 7 to March canvas and see where it 7, Sea Grape Gallery will leads me.” Barb’s paintbe featuring two of their ings are in several permaartists, Barbara Albin nent college collections, a (contemporary watercolcounty government center orist) and Sam Harris and in many private and (custom hand carved corporate collections knife designer). across the country. Barb Albin has loved Sam Harris graduated art since a very young college with a degree in age. Living in Illinois and biology and chemistry. attending college there, Ever since a young age, she sold her first two he had an interest in the paintings to Northern construction of knives and Illinois University during the materials that were her freshman year. After used in their construction. moving to Florida, Barb During his time spent in the has truly immersed herservice of our country, he self in the art world by was exposed to many difbecoming a member of ferent edged weapons and Barb Albin many local art organizatools. After retiring from a tions in Southwest career as a commercial airFlorida. line pilot, he decided to She has taught watercolor painting, juried focus on designing knives as an art form – not many art shows, presented at art workshops, just to be used as a household tool. Sam uses and has been in over 400 Juried and bone, ebony and many semi-precious materiInvitational Shows herself. Water and the natals in all types of artistic knives including huntural beauty of Florida inspires Barb to create ing knives, kitchen knives, folding knives, art that captures the magical colors of the carving sets, and beautiful letter openers. All area which is so evident in her artwork. As the knife blades are stainless steel as well as Barb explains, “I love splashing paint unto a some high carbon and Damascus steel. As
Sam Harris Sam has said “all my work is designed to be used, not merely set aside to be looked at”. Sam’s knives are with owners in the U.S., Chile, Ireland, England, France, Germany and Norway. Many of Barb’s beautiful paintings and Sam’s creative knives and accessories are prominently on display at the Sea Grape Gallery. In addition, more of their art and the artworks of all Sea Grape artists can be viewed at www.seagrapegallery.com. Sea Grape Gallery is located at 113 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, and can be reached at 941-575-1718. The gallery is always open until 8 p.m. during downtown Punta Gorda’s Third Thursday Wine Walk.
Hirdie Girdie welcomes Lucas Century Hirdie Girdie Gallery is continuing its 25th anniversary celebration with February guest artist Lucas Century. A reception featuring Lucas’ glass etching art will take place on Feb. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m., and all are invited. The reception will be in conjunction with neighboring Tower Gallery. An early interest in photography led Lucas to develop his own innovative method of glass etching using a photographic process. Lucas’ first major art project using his pioneering photo-etching technique was to assemble a team and etch the 58,000 names into the granite surface of Maya Lin’s renowned Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. in 1982. He has been etching glass,
28 - February 2019
Lucas Century
stone and tile for more than 42 years, with his major public art commissions at FGCU, Florida Museum of Natural History, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Sanibel Public Library, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Hope Hospice, Haven Hospice and several other institutions nationwide. Lucas has also developed a line of etched glassware reverencing our native wildlife, which is available on vases, bowls, and wine and water glasses. In addition, he creates sculptures, doors, windows, tables, and glass elevators. Donor walls and signage have been a specialty for many years. Hirdie Girdie Gallery is located at 2490 Library Way, Sanibel. For more about the gallery, call 239-395-0027 or visit online at www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com.
Happenings Magazine
ART
Florida Artist Group, MiMi Stirn at ACT Gallery Arts for ACT Gallery will feature the Florida Flag Artist Group in the main gallery and artist MiMi Stirn in the white gallery in February. Also showing will be new works from the gallery co-op artists. An opening reception will be held Friday, Feb. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m in conjunction with the monthly Art Walk. The Florida Artist Group was incorporated as a non-profit organization of practicing artists who had gained recognition nationally or statewide and whose works would contribute significantly to its exhibitions. The purpose of the group is to stimulate attainment of the highest standards of creative art with the state of Florida. FLAG members are juried into the organization and include representational and abstract artists pro-
ducing traditional and contemporary art in a variety of media and style. Several notable artists in the Naples and Fort Myers are members of the local FLAG chapter. They include Joan Sonnenberg, Joan Klutch, Cheryl Fausel, Honey Costa, John Merchant, Peter Zell, Anna Rac, Richard Rosen, Joel Shapses and Christina Wyatt. The group has a strong abstract expressionist style and all have won recognition for their art either nationally or internationally. MiMi Stirn’s cherished tools are knives. However, she is a resin art master. Both knives and the resin are unforgiving yet clear and finite when used. Working within the acrylic family is enjoyable for her, but working with modeling paste and resin is where the art begins; free form and each application is a form of sculpting. What she loves best about creat-
Anna Rac of FLAG
MiMi Stirn
30 - February 2019
ing art is the freedom of expression without fear of consequence. MiMi’s style centers on both working in circular and straight line motions, while respecting Fibonacci sequences in the placement of each element. Bright light, layers of color, and use of metallic pigments are her standard. What she does dif-
ferently from what she was taught is dirty brushing. Her brushes and knives during the painting process are usually lapped with new colors without washing. These exhibits continue until Feb. 25. Arts for ACT Gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more details, call 239-337-5050.
Happenings Magazine
Fine Art & Crafts Show Presented by Naples Artcrafters
Saturday, February 9th
More Than 80 Local Juried Artists
Cambier Park
580 8th Street South, Naples just south of 5th Avenue
Celebrating Fine Art & Artists for 50 Years! 10 am to 5 pm Free Admission & Parking
www.NaplesArtcrafters.com Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 31
ART
Migration art exhibit challenges stereotypes Them: An Anthology of Migration group art show collects works from some of Southwest Florida’s best immigrant artists. This new exhibition features Mila Bridger, Mariapia Malerba, Danielle Branchaud, Reynier Llanes, Juan Diaz, Cesar Aguilera, Aimee Perez, Ndola Penzy and Brian Weaver and opens Friday, Feb. 1 during Art Walk. Them: An Anthology of Migration was curated by Cesar Aguilera in hopes of shining a light on the contributions of immigrants in America to the arts, humanities, sciences, business and more. Aguilera said, “The social and environmental demands of our time are extraordinary. Humanity is confronted with the real implications these demands have in the future survival of all life on Earth. Instead, here in America, we have chosen to deny the real dangers of a collapsing environment and those of an eroding democracy, choosing to elevate petty, childish and largely unfounded arguments to
the level of a national crisis in an effort to focus our attention away from what is actually causing those dangers.” Aguilera goes on to say, “America is a country founded by immigrants, and many of the most successful companies in the U.S. were created and founded by immigrants, such as Tesla, Google, Ebay, Yahoo, Dupont, Kraft Foods, Intel, among others. Here in Southwest Florida, we have great examples of this too; we have immigrant artists whose work is well known and whose cultural contribution is positive proof to the contrary of the divisive rhetoric. This exhibit highlights the work of some of those amazing artists, and celebrates the spirit that has created one of the greatest nations in the history of the world.” The exhibit will hang in the grand atrium of the center until Feb. 21. The center requests a $1 entry donation to view the exhibit. An art talk with the artists will take place Saturday, Feb. 2 from 3 – 5 p.m.
Danielle Branchaud
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District. For more info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.
Artist Trading Card exhibit returns to Davis Art Center
The group exhibition Carded: Miniature Masterpieces returns this February to the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers. The Artist Trading Card (ATC) project builds on different traditions. Miniature art has been in existence for centuries tracing its heritage back to the illustrated manuscripts of scribes in the Far East and Europe prior to the 15th century. The origin of the modern trading card is associated with cigarette cards first issued by the US-based Allen and Ginter tobacco company in 1875. They were the precursors of the sports cards and other trading cards. However, the first artist trading card dates back to 1997 in Zurich and started as a col32 - February 2019
Pam Trent
laborative cultural performance. In Carded: Miniature Masterpieces, Southwest Florida artists create their own artist trading cards for exhibition in the second floor Capital Gallery. An important influence on the ATC concept were art movements of the 20th century which advocated a more popular art: Art not for museums or auctions but from and within everyday life. In this respect, the ATC project has an affinity with the Fluxus movement and with Robert Filliou’s notions of a “fête permanente,” a “création permanente,” or an “eternal network.” The “art of participation” as an interactive process
can be traced back to the 1950s, and it developed within different genres like performance art and happenings, action art, mail art, or later computer art. Artist Ndola Pensy introduced the artist trading card idea to Southwest Florida in 2017 with great reception among artists of different mediums in the area. Artists contribute small trading card style works to be viewed and traded. Don’t miss this unique show, opening Friday, Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. during Art Walk. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District.
Happenings Magazine
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Heron’s Glen is located 4 miles north of The Shell Factory on US 41 in North Fort Myers. www.HeronsGlenArtistGroup.org Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 33
ART
Exhibit, annual art festival in Bonita Springs The Center for Visual Arts in Bonita Springs has two new art exhibits and its second fine art festival of the season in February. On Feb. 1, a campus wide open house will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. The Annual Members Only Exhibition will be on display Feb. 1 – 21 at the center. The next of three Bonita Springs National Arts Festivals
will be held Feb. 9 and 10 at Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Road in Bonita Springs. The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The final juried outdoor festival of the season will be held March 2 and 3. The Center for Visual Arts is located at 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. For more details, call 239-4958989 or visit online at www.artscenterbonita.org
If you were to wander through the studios at the Centers of the Arts Bonita Springs on any given Monday morning, you would find that there’s a hum coming from the pottery studio. This hum is in part the sound of the electric motors that keep the potter’s wheels spinning, but there’s also the hum of creativity and excitement that has enveloped the people who come together each week to stretch and shape not only a lump of clay but also their own abilities and experiences. The pottery, or clay, studio at the Centers for the Arts Bonita
Springs stays fairly busy, and Monday mornings have been set aside for a class called “Extreme Functional Pottery.” At the center of the activity is master potter Sandy Lawson, who begins preparing for each five-week session of “Extreme Functional Pottery” well before the course begins. Schedules, descriptions of classes and more info can be found online at www.artcenterbonita.org, by calling 239-4958989 or by dropping by the arts center, 26100 Old 41 Road in Bonita Springs.
Extreme functional pottery and more
The Bonita Springs National Art Festival is Feb. 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Riverside Park on Old 41 Road. Pictured is “Island Elephants” by John Leben.
Images needed for photography exhibit
A Week in Paradise digital photography exhibit will be featured on display at visualartcenter.org, plus alongside Pictures in Paradise at The Visual Arts Center March 31 - April 24. Photographers, hobbyists and art enthusiasts anywhere in the world are invited to join the exhibition. Any type of digital camera, even your cell phone, can be used. There are no requirements to participate, except you must register. Registration opens online only at visualartcenter.org Feb. 1 and will remain open until midnight on March 23. Entry fee is $20 ($16 for VAC members) due at the time of your online registration. Photographs for the event must be taken during the week of March 17 - 23. Original photographs taken during the week should represent whatever you consider “Your Paradise,” whether in Southwest Florida or anywhere. See rules and regulations online. The selected photos will be featured on a revolving screen in the Pictures in Paradise photo exhibit at the Visual Arts Center March 31 - April 24. They will also be displayed online in a revolving digital display at visualartcenter.org and printed in a book, available for purchase in the VAC Gift Shop and online. 34 - February 2019
Past Member Winners exhibit opens Feb. 2 in Punta Gorda Debra Peterson
The Visual Arts Center Past Member Winners exhibit features award winners from previous years’ exhibits, on display in the Goff Gallery Feb. 2 – 28 at the Visual Arts Center, located at 210 Maud St. in Punta Gorda (across from Fishermen’s Village). Gallery and gift shop hours are Monday Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, visit online at www.visualartcenter.org or call 941-6398810.
Kim Seidell Happenings Magazine
Naples Artcrafters Feb. 9 in Cambier Park
The Naples Artcrafters will host their next juried fine art and craft show of the season on Saturday, Feb. 9 with extended hours during the annual Cars of 5th show. The event showcases the work of 90 juried local artists and craftsmen who will be selling their paintings, jewelry, pottery, art glass, sculptures and more in lovely Cambier Park, which is located on 8th Street South, just one block south of 5th Ave South in downtown Naples. Meet well known and emerging Naples’ artists in this celebration of creativity. It will be a wonderful opportunity to shop local and support your artists. Admission is free, and free parking is nearby. The Feb. 9 show runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Naples Artcrafters was founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the support of local artists and the encouragement of the development of artistic endeavors in the Naples area. They are committed to promoting excellence in fine arts and crafts within the community. The group provides local artists and craftsmen a venue for displaying and selling their work by sponsoring juried outdoor shows during the season. Each year, the organization provides financial contributions to area schools with six grants. The remaining 2018-19 season has shows scheduled for March 9 and April 13 (the final show of the season). For more information about the local group, visit www.naplesartcrafters.com.
Bonita Springs Art Festival
Feb. 16 & 17 at The Promenade The Bonita Springs Invitational Art Festival will be Feb. 16 and 17 at The Promenade in Bonita Bay. This is a superior location for an intimate art fest. The event will take place Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Info on the festival including parking and directions can be found at www.boulderbrook.net or by calling 239-293-9448.
Happenings Magazine
Gerardo Leccese
Cars on 5th show
The Naples Chapter of the Ferrari Club of America announces the 14th Annual Cars on 5th show in Naples is set for Saturday, Feb. 9 on Fifth Avenue South from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Cars on 5th show is also about helping the community and giving to those in need. Donations from the attendees and individual contributions to our featured charities have raised over $1.1 million over the past 14 years. And of course, over 125 Ferraris will be on display with a fine mix of vintage and current V-8s and V-12s from Maranello that are guaranteed to please the crowds. We expect to have several new 488 GTBs and Spiders on display. The British contingent will include Jaguar, Lotus, Triumph and the stately Bentleys. Porsches will be plentiful including some rare race cars. American cars will not be overshadowed, with over 60 Corvettes and other muscle cars expected.
Bird photography, fused glass on display at Cape Coral Library
The new exhibits in the Cape Coral Public Library art gallery will run from Feb. 2 - 27. Birds of Different Feathers, an exhibition by four French Connection photographers will be featured in the gallery of Cape Coral Library in February. The exhibition marks a return engagement of the talented group who are French-Canadian snowbirds, coming back each winter to their homes in Cape Coral. Each of the photographers has received numerous awards and recognition in shows at the Cape Coral Art League where they are all members. The French Connection photographers include Claude
Chalut, Estelle Chartrand, Marie Elise Mathieu and Andree Morin. Fused glass art created by Lois Johnston will be featured in the display cases in the gallery of the Cape Coral Library. She has taught glass fusing classes at AAE Glass, Cape Coral Art League, Fort Myers Art League and Arts of the Inland in LaBelle. She has been teaching at the Cape Coral Arts Studio for the past 14 years. The library is located at 921 SW 39th Terrace. The monthly shows are organized by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library. Call 239-258-2991 or monica4608@comcast.net for more information.
February 2019 - 35
FEBRUARY CALENDAR FRI - 1
Tribute To The Grand Ole Opry Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 pm 941-625-4175
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Singer Chris G, 5-9 p.m. center court. 941-575-3007
Marty Stokes Band Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Gulfshore Playhouse presents The Revolutionists Through Feb. 3 Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples, 866-811-4111 ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Florida Artist Group and MiMi Stirn, 6 - 10 p.m. during Art Walk. 239-337-5050 David Belling exhibit René Miville Gallery @The Franklin Shops 2200 First Street, Fort Myers, 239-333-3130 Saturday Night Fever Through Feb. 9 Broadway Palm Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical Through Feb. 24 Florida Repertory Theatre 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-332-4488 The Naples Players: Don’t Dress For Dinner Through Feb. 10 Sugden Community Theater 701 5th Ave. S, Naples 239-434-7340 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 All Stars Motown Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Up Close and Unimaginable, Cliff Evans and Gregory Green Exhibition Feb. 1 - 28 Wasmer Art Gallery, Arts Complex, FGCU, Fort Myers 239-590-7199
Gulfshore Playhouse presents The Revolutionists now through Feb. 3 at The Norris Center in Naples. For tickets, call 866-811-4111. Les Misérables Feb. 1 - 3 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1900 Ghost Tours Feb. 1-2 The Koreshan State Historic Site 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero Tours begin at 6:45, 7, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45 and 8 pm. free park admission. 239-992-0311 Friday Night Concert Series: Neon Summer Miromar Outlets, Estero 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza, 239-948-3766 Charlotte County Fair Feb. 1 - 10 Charlotte County Fair, 2333 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte, Don't miss rides, entertainment and food galore. www.CharlotteCountyFair.com
Eagles tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
“Them” Group Art Show Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Them features works by Mila Bridger, Mariapia Malerba, Danielle Branchaud, Reynier Llanes, Juan Diaz, Cesar Aguilera. Opening 6 p.m.; closing Feb. 21. 239 333 1933
Jimmy Carpenter with Mark Telesca The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225
The Butler Did It Through Feb. 10 Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, 239-772-5862
Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.,239-540-8454
Carded: Miniature Masterpieces 2 Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers 6 p.m.; closing Feb. 21. 239 333 1933
Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 -10 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com 36 - February 2019
Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
“Vagrant: The Process of Being” Todd Andrew Babb & “Revealed” Barbara Yeomans Artist Reception BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, 5:30 p.m. 239-3950900 Jory Lyle The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Annual Members’ Only Exhibition-Reception & Campus Wide Open House Center for Visual Arts, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs A dynamic exhibition of aweinspiring artwork in a wide array of media. Reception 6-8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Paul Reiser Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 The Temptations, The Four Tops Seminole Casino Hotel 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m. 239-658-1313 The Charlotte Players: Right Bed, Wrong Husband Through Feb. 17 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market St., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022 Eli Young Band, Runaway June The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
SAT - 2
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Singer Michael Hirst, noon-4 p.m. & Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 ACSWF Winner's Circle exhibit Feb. 2 – 28 Visual Arts Center, 210 Maud St in Punta Gorda Showcase featuring the work of artists/craftspeople who have won awards at ACSWF member organizations’ art exhibits during the past two years. 941-639-8810 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Past Member Winners exhibit Visual Arts Center, 210 Maud St. in Punta Gorda Features award winners from previous years’ exhibits on display in the Goff Gallery 941-639-8810 Alter Ego, Atilio Marinelli Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Motown Girls of Galaxy The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 ArtFest Fort Myers Saturday & Sunday· Downtown Fort Myers Sat & Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Preview Feb. 1, 6 - 9 p.m. www.artfestfortmyers.com Johnny Sansone The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Them Exhibit Art Talk Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers 3 - 5 p.m., 239 333 1933
Side Show Bob, Joe Best (2-5) Iconic (7-11 p.m.) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454 Steve Cipriano (noon-3 p.m.) Cindy Crowley (4-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Comediannettes Lee County Alliance for the Arts. 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Join us for a night of side-splitting comedy hosted and produced by funny and fierce females! 8 p.m. 239-939-2787 John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band Center Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs $45 Premium Seats, $40 Center Seats, $35 Side Seats. 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 German Fest 2019 Our Savior Lutheran Church, Naples, 11 a.m. 239-597-4091 Bonita Brew Fest Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 4 - 7:30 p.m. www.bonitabrewfest.com Beaches and Byways exhibit Phil Fisher Gallery, 810 12th Ave. S., Naples New artwork by Jan Ellen Atkielski, Phil Fisher, Jeff Fessenden, Nolen Fisher, Janet Kirby, Kevin Barton and Natalie Guess. Come and meet the artists. 6 – 9 p.m. 239-403-8393 GreenMarket Every Saturday Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 239-939-2787 Art in the Park Cambier Park, Naples The Naples Art Association proudly connects artists with art shoppers in another exciting season of Art in the Park. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 239-262-6517 Ford Antique Car Show Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers $20 (includes admission) 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 239-334-7419 Happenings Magazine
Polka (1-4 pm) Eric Malibu (5-9 pm) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454
SAT - 3 CONTINUED m-pact BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, 8 p.m. 239-395-0900
Southwest Florida Symphony: Vive La Mer Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Arts and Crafts Show Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 941-625-4175 Sunset Celebration Hester Prynn Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 We Are Rocking and Rolling South County Regional Library 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Musical performance by local musician Tommy Barr. Bring a folding chair or blanket and hear the best of old-time rock-and-roll and more. 2 p.m. 239-479-4636 ACMA presents Escaping Pavement All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org
SUN - 3
Musical Moment Series Music to Touch the Heart Center for Performing Arts- Moe Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs $25. 3 - 5 p.m. 239-495-8989 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Joe Delaney & Don Mopsick - Jazz Brunch The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225 Paul & Quinten (1-3 p.m.) Steve Cipriano (3-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Wind Orchestra & Symphonic Band Lamb of God Church, 19691 Cypress View Dr., Ft. Myers Free, 3 p.m. 239-745-4268 NY Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 3 - 6 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com 38 - February 2019
Nicole D’Andrea The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141
The Lee County Community Band performs Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. at Cape Coral High School. Island Jazz BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 3 p.m. 239-395-0900 Car Cruise-In Miromar Outlets, Estero 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 239-948-3766 Jazz Society Concert Cambier Park, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-254-9674
MON - 4
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Mark Gorka, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Shell Factory Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 TGIM Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Every 1st Monday from August February, experience fresh indie films at Thank God for Indie Movie Mondays (TGIM)! This monthly event features films submitted to the Fort Myers Film Festival. Take part in deciding which movies make the cut for the 2019 festival! Tickets: $10 for adults; $8 for students and seniors. Visit www.sbdac.com or call 239 333 1933 for more info. Stardust Memories Big Band Cambier Park, Naples 7 - 9 p.m. stardustmemoriesbigband.com The Magic of Manilow and Midler Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Barry Manilow and Bette Midler come to life in this incredible tribute featuring British entertainer Terry Davies and the amazingly talented Sherie Rae Parker. Hear Mandy, Copacabana, Can’t Smile Without You, Hero, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Wind Beneath My Wings and more! 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 239-278-4422
Best of Broadway Starring Jerilyn Hilse, Debbie Marino, Mark Sanders, Lee Van Asten St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 12171 Iona Road, Fort Myers 7 p.m. Tickets $20. Donation in the Parish Office and at the door 239-489-3973 Doo Wop Project Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Crank Ups Duo Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454 Phil Coulter & Geraldine Branagan The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 6 p.m. seating begins 239-405-8566
TUE - 5
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Island Sounds of Jimmy G, noon-3 p.m. & Bruce & Tiki D, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Harbour View Gallery artists reception Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral, Artists Sue Ann Simon and Susan Zablocki, 6 - 8 p.m. 239-540-5789 All That Jazz Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. 239-597-1900 Collaboration Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 The Sogheads Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
Dave Tecce The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com David Feherty Feb. 5 - 6 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Mrs. Edison's Hymn Sing First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers, Second and Lee Streets 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The doors will open 30 minutes prior to performance. 239-334-2261 Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, 7 p.m. stardustmemoriesbigband.com Monty Python's SPAMALOT Feb 5 - 10 Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 239-481-4849 The Celtic Voyage East County Regional Library 881 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres Jan and Jeff Ausfahl of “Cracked Walnuts” perform traditional Irish and Scottish songs, tunes and sea shanties. 2 p.m. 239479-4636 Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
WED - 6
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Paul Nagel, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Beach Boys tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Cahlua & Cream The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Neil Diamond tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Bee Gees tribute Ter-Tinis 1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers Dinner 5:30 p.m., show 7 p.m. 239-344-6147 Kenny Giardino Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 SWFL Symphony BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 7:30 p.m. 239-395-0900 Naples Players presents Marjorie Prime Through March 3 Sugden Community Theater 701 5th Ave. S, Naples 239-263-7990 Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Sunset Celebration The Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Pkwy Celebrate the beauty of a SW Florida sunset, while listening to live music on the beach from 47 p.m. There will also be food trucks, vendors selling arts & crafts, jewelry, gift items & much more! 239-574-0806 Scotty Bryan Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
THU - 7
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m. & Muttini Mingle at 5:30 p.m., center court. 941575-3007 Saxophone & Piano Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $10 for public and $7 for students, fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 The Goldtones Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Nette The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Happenings Magazine
Dan Miller, Lew DelGatto Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 TheatreZone presents Aida Through Feb. 17 13275 Livingston Road, Naples 888-966-3352 x1 Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Travis Tritt Seminole Casino Hotel 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m. 800-218-0007 Karen Barrow: Art of the Automobile Exhibition February 7 - 9 The Naples Art Association 585 Park Street, Naples This special 2-day exhibition is held in conjunction with Naples 14th Annual Cars on Fifth. Exhibited in the Frederick O. Watson Gallery. Reception Feb. 8. 239-262-6517
AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Dinner with Artists: Robina Gilarranz Naples Art Association 585 Park Street, Naples $130/person $250/couple and 10% off if entire series is purchased. www.NaplesArt.org 239-262-6517
A Band Called Honalee Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 6 & 8:30 p.m. 239-597-1900
Deb & The Dynamics Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Mercato Nights Music Series: NostalJah Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples NostalJah delivers a positive message through Roots Reggae with a twist of R&B and Neo soul. Lead by powerhouse vocalist Drea, bass player Nick, Nostajah's progressive style makes room for them to reach variety of listener. 6 p.m. 239-254-1080
COCO Gallery reception COCO Art Gallery at Coconut Point, 8074 Mediterranean Drive, Estero, 5 - 7 p.m., 239-949-3073
Southwest Florida Symphony Series: Appalachian Spring The Village Church on The Island Shell Point Retirement Community 15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. $25, 239-454-2067 "Wild About Wildlife" Reception Cape Coral Art League 516 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral February 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. Serving wine and hors d'oeuvres. 239-772-5657 Thursday Night Live Concert Series: The Island Doctor Bell Tower Shops, Daniel Parkway and US 41, Fort Myers 6 - 8 p.m. www.thebelltowershops.com Del Prados Cape Coral Yacht Club, 5819 Driftwood Pkwy., Pre-registration required. $12 advance, $15 day of show. 6:30 p.m. 239-574-0807 Gulfshore Opera Presents Don Pasquale Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 The British Invasion concert Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts in The Propeller Lounge at Fish-Tale Marina, 7225 Estero Blvd. 7 p.m. www.fmbarts.org Marian, or the True Tale of Robin Hood Feb. 7 -17 Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Only the arrows fly straight in this hilarious take on the classic legend where Robin Hood is, and always has been, Maid Marion in disguise. 239-939-2787 Happenings Magazine
ACMA Songwriters at Sunset Beach BBQ and Acoustic Concert Lovers Key State Park 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, Seating is available for the first 80 people. Additional seating is also available on the sand. 4:15 p.m. Tim McGeary, Carlene Thissen, Marie Nofsinger www.friendsofloverskey.org
FRI - 8
Jörgen van Rijen Trombone Masterclass and Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers Free, 7:30 p.m. 239-745-4268 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Live music featuring Country Express Band, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Stranger Danger Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Johnny & Patti - 6 p.m. Galaxy - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Friday Night Concert Series: The Silver Sneakers Miromar Outlets, Estero 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza 239-948-3766 Journey & Bon Jovi tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 February 2019 - 39
FEBRUARY CALENDAR Rev. Raven & The Chain Smoking Alar Boys The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 10 p.m. 239-333-2225
FRI - 8 CONTINUED Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141
Cape Vendor Craft & Art Fair Cape Coral Moose Lodge 2199 155 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral A family friendly fun event! A vendor, craft & art fair, food, tiki bar, live music, face painting, children’s activities & more! Free admission. Open to the public. 10 a.m. LLSN@comcast.net
Bridget Kelly Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Neil Zirconia The Norris Center 755 8th Ave S., Naples 7 p.m. 239-213-3049 Spring Fling Art Show & Sale Feb. 8 - 9 Coastal Commons at Coastal Links, Shell Point Retirement Community, 15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers Discover creative, original art by Shell Point's talented resident artists and artisans during the inaugural Spring Fling Show & Sale. Free. 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. 239-433-7923 Dvoák’s New World Symphony Feb. 7 - 8 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Mystery Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6-8 p.m. Registration begins at First and Hendry Streets in front of Iberia Bank. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Nonagenarians of Shell Point Exhibit Feb. 8 - March 2 Lee County Alliance for the Arts. 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 239-939-2787 Everglades Seafood Festival Feb. 8 - 10· Everglades City This popular, traditional event is free to attend and for all ages. Hear great live music, eat delicious seafood, and browse among the dozens of craft booths while the kiddies enjoy the carnival rides. www.evergladesseafoodfestival.org Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers CityGate Church 1735 Jackson St, Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-560-9512 40 - February 2019
John Lodge (of the Moody Blues) will be in concert Feb. 10 at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. For tickets, call 800-514-ETIX. Improv Tonight! Center for Performing Arts, Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs Bonita City Improv performs musical improv, games and scenes that include suggestions provided by you, the audience! $15. 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
SAT - 9
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, National Slide Guitar Champion Kraig Kenning, noon4 p.m. & Singer Dan Meadows, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Pine Island Art Association Annual Art Show & Sale Saturday & Sunday Matlacha Community Building, 4577 NW Pine Island Road 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.pineislandart.com Buddy Holly, Everly Brothers, Jerry Lee Lewis tribute Ter-Tinis 1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers Dinner 5:30 p.m., show 7 p.m. 239-344-6147
Frankie Valli tribute, Classix Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Karen Gozzo Nolan exhibit at DAAS Co-Op Gallery DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1400 Colonial Blvd, ste 84, Fort Myers, 6 p.m., 239-590-8645 Jersey Boyz tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Steve Cipriano (noon-3 p.m.) Cindy Crowley (4-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Rocker Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Mutt Strutt Hendry Street between Edwards and Bay, Fort Myers. Dog lovers, families, vendors and pet agencies gather for fun, food. Pooches and owners in costumes or their finest bling. Noon - 4 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org
17th Annual Cracker Fair Pioneer Plaza, 300 W. Dearborn St., Englewood A Celebration of Old Florida! Festivities for the whole family: kids’ games, crafts, food and more. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. 941-474-2007 Bonita Springs National Art Festival Feb. 9 & 10 Riverside Park 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs Free (donations welcome) 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-495-8989
Puddle Of Mudd, Saliva and Flaw Dixie Roadhouse 1023 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 7 p.m. 239-541-7900
15th SWFL Asia Fest "Year of the Boar" Celebration Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 10 a.m. www.APASWFL.org
Edison Garden Festival Feb. 9 - 10 Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, Free Event (does not include tours, museum or lab) 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-334-7419
Fine Craft Expo Feb 9 - 10 Cape Coral Arts Studio 4533 Coronado Pkwy, Join the Southwest Florida Craft Guild and the Arts Studio as we present a Fine Craft Expo. 239-574-0802
The music of Santana meets British Blues Rock! The Alex Lopez Express Moonflower Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 The Hot Club of San Francisco BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 8 p.m. 239-395-0900
Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Feb. 9 - 10 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1900
Musical Duo Cracked Walnuts Cape Coral Lee County Public 921 S.W. 39th Terrace Join musical duo Cracked Walnuts for a fun afternoon featuring the music of Vaudeville. 1 p.m. 239-479-4636
Fort Myers Food Truck and Craft Beer Fest Downtown Fort Myers 2125 1st Street The Edison Festival of Light Food Trucks and Craft Beer event will be returning and serving cuisine by some of the most creative food trucks with different craft beers available. 2 - 9 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org
Sunset Celebration with Double Standard Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Craft Show Cambier Park, Naples 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.naplesartcrafters.com
NEAPOLAPALOOZA The Norris Community Center 755 8th Ave S, Naples An evening of art and music 7 p.m. 239-213-3049
Cape Coral Bike Night The City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation department is proud to bring you Cape Bike Night! Motorcycle enthusiasts can get together and listen to live bands, eat great food, and just have fun at this great event! 5 - 9 p.m. www.ccbikenight.com
Josh Gracin The Ranch Concert Hall 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Chatham County Line Center for Performing Arts, Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Brother Love Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Art After Dark Galleries of Crayton Cove, where 8th St. S. & 12th Ave. S. meet at the flagpole, by the Bay, An evening of art and live music by Michael Colligan & Friends. 6 – 9 p.m. GalleriesOfCraytonCove.com Happenings Magazine
FEBRUARY CALENDAR SAT - 9 CONTINUED 125th Anniversary of the Koreshan Unity in Estero Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero We will celebrate this anniversary with a festival including, HistoricTours, presentations, music, a Cyrus Teed Look-alike Contest, as well as select food vendors from 8 a.m. - noon. JoAnne Luce will be presenting on the Utopians at the Art Hall at 11 a.m. 239-992-0311 ACMA presents Heather Pierson Trio All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org
SUN - 10
The Naples Concert Band will perform Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. at Cambier Park in Naples. Alfredo Muro with Natasha Farny BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 3:30 p.m. 239-395-0900
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
Naples Concert Band Cambier Park, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 513-582-4031
Paul & Quinten (1-3 p.m.) Steve Cipriano (3-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Joe Delaney & Don Mopsick - Jazz Brunch The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225 Shore Patrol Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Blues & Bloodys Concert Series The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, noon www.thecenterbar.com The Red Dress Party Laboratory Theater of Florida 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers The McGregor Clinic presents The Red Dress Party: Red Dresses on Broadway-- A benefit to support McGregor. Hors d'oeuvres, drinks, raffle and a Broadway musical review -- in drag! 6 p.m. 239-218-0481 42 - February 2019
WED - 13
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Michael D’Amore Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Buddy Holly tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Sinatra & Martin tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
ABBA tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Polka (1-4 pm) Eric Malibu (5-9 pm) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454
Certified The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Nicole D’Andrea The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141
Songs of Love Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1900
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Island Sounds of Jimmy G, noon-3 p.m., Coffee Café & Bruce & Tiki D, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Singer Paul Nagel, 1-5 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
John Lodge Seminole Casino Hotel 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m. 1-800-514-ETIX
TUE - 12
Tom & Michelle Becker Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte Sure, a solo artist can have a hit, but when you’ve got two voices singing in harmony, that’s pure musical MAGIC! 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 Lee County Community Band “Music, the Language of Love! Cape Coral High School 2300 Santa Barbara Boulevard 3 p.m. www.leecountyband.org Charlotte Symphony Orchestra presents Creston, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda 7:30 p.m. 941-205-5996
Jazz Ensemble U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers Free, 3 p.m. 239-745-4268
MON - 11
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group, 11:30-1 p.m. & Acoustic Music by Mark Gorka, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Temptations, Four Tops tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Crank Ups Duo Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454 Shell Factory Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141
Edison Festival of Light Junior Parade, Run & More Downtown River District Over 100 units including floats, marching bands, dancers, street performers, clowns and dignitaries parade their way around the Downtown River District. 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org
Jazz Society Artist Series: Peter and Will Anderson Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175
Bee Gees tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Edison' Birthday Celebration Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, Free Event (does not include tours, museum or lab) 10 a.m. 239-334-7419
Gulfshore Opera presents Don Pasquale Sanibel United Church of Christ, 2050 Periwinkle Way, 7 p.m. 239-529-3925
Patti LaBelle Barbara B. Mann Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849
Naples Big Band Cambier Park, Naples 7 to 8:45 p.m. 239-597-3240
Dave Tecce The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Jodie DeSalvo Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1900 A Life of My Own: Meeting Eleanor Roosevelt Lakes Regional Library 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers Linda Kenyon stars in this onewoman show about the life of Eleanor Roosevelt. Registration is required. 1 p.m. 239-479-4636 Fort Myers Community Concert: Russian National Orchestra Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 The Sogheads Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Songwriters on the Plaza Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort Myers Amphitheater. Joe Virga, Bill Metts and Bruce Gallant. Free, 6 p.m. 239-479-4636
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Chris G performs live music, 11:30-2:30 p.m. & Singer Mike Archer, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Vinyl Vibes: Mersey Beatles Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., 239-333-1933 Shell Point Concerts & Conversations Series: Con Brio Quartet, Strings Grand Cypress Room at the Woodlands, Shell Point, 15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers International quartet is made up of musicians from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and Mexico. $30, 7 p.m. 239-454-2067 Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Trying To Quit Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Scotty Bryan Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
THU - 14
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Happenings Magazine
Lucas Century exhibit Hirdie Girdie Art Gallery, 2490 Library Way, Sanibel Opening reception, 5 - 8 p.m. 239-395-0027 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Dan Miller, Lew DelGatto Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 Motown Girls of Galaxy The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Heart tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Evenings and 5th and Sidewalk Sale 5th Ave. South, Naples An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of 5th Avenue South, plus dining, shopping and more. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. 239-692-8436 New Shanghai Circus BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 7 p.m. 239-395-0900 Eirinn Abu & Manny Lopez Center for Performing Arts, Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs $35. 7:30 p.m. 239-495-8989 Opera in Art Exhibition February 14 - March 3 The Naples Art Association 585 Park Street in Naples Artwork created by NAA adult students and Collier County high school students interpret Opera. 239-262-6517 Guys and Dolls Through March 30 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422
Del Prados The Shell Factory and Nature Park, 2787 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, 5:30 dinner, 6:30 music- In the Dolphin Room, $9 at the door. Reservations, 239-995-3999 Old 41 The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Nette The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Deb & The Dynamics Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
FRI - 15
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Singer Vini Contreas, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Jersey Boyz tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Richie C - 6:30 p.m. Electric Lipstick - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Eagles tribute-The Long Run Ter-Tinis 1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers Dinner 5:30 p.m., show 7 p.m. 239-344-6147 Bucking Wild Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454
Brandon Maddox The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Jazzy Nights presents Aiyb Dieng Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Internationally celebrated performer Aiyb Dieng. 7 pm. 239-333-1933
Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Friday Night Concert Series: Karibbean Groove Miromar Outlets, Estero 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza, 239-948-3766
Lotela Gold Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 60s & 70s rock and roll show 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 Little River Band Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849
JL Fulks The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 The Second City Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. 239-597-1900 Fort Myers Crafts on the River Feb. 15 - 17 Centennial Park 2000 W First St, Fort Myers Centennial Park is transformed into a craft lovers dream with over 100 exhibitors displaying their hand-crafts and gifts during the three-day Edison Festival event. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org Hay Fever by Noel Coward Through March 6 Florida Repertory Theatre 2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers 239-332-4488 The Orchestra starring former members of ELO Seminole Casino Hotel 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m., 800-218-0007 Tommy O - Dino & Darin trib. February 15 -17 Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral, 239-772-5862 Neal McCoy The Ranch Concert Hall 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839
Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Legally Blonde the Musical Jr February 15 - 17 Center for Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium 239-495-8989 Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6-10 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Funk Fest 10th Anniversary Feb. 15 and 16 · City Marketplace Downtown Punta Gorda 2 Stages, Food Trucks, and Vendors! Lettuce, Papadosio, Here Come the Mummies, The Werks, Joe Marcinek Band, Melvin Seals (Jerry Garcia Band), Alan Evens (Soulive), Tony Hall (Dumpstaphunk), Funk You, Voodoo Visionary, Hedonistas, The Floatiez, and Banyan will setting the party off! www.FunkFestPuntaGorda.com Kate Keys Band Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Machinal Through Feb. 24 TheatreLab, Arts Complex, FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab
SAT - 16
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Bruce & Tiki D, noon-4 p.m. & Tiki Tom and L.A. Daniels, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Temptations, Four Tops tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Eagles tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Side Show Bob, Joe Best (2-5) Deb & The Dynamics (7-11 pm) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454 Cody Jinks The Ranch Concert Hall 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Coconut Point Art Festival Feb. 16 -17 Coconut Point 23106 Fashion Dr, Estero 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-992-9966 American Pie Revisited Featuring John Reno Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte Acclaimed musician, John Reno, pays tribute to the singer-songwriters of the early 1970s. 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 Rusty Wright Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225
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FEBRUARY CALENDAR SAT - 16 CONTINUED Bonita Springs Invitational Art Festival Feb. 16 and 17 The Promenade at Bonita Bay 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.boulderbrook.net Grand Parade Fort Myers High to Downtown Fort Myers Named as the largest night parade in the Southeast year after year, the Grand Parade brings the entire community out in celebration of the life and achievements of winter resident, Thomas Edison. 7 – 10 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org ACMA Songwriters at the Library South County Regional Library 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero, Featuring Alan Bradford, Joyce Knake, Bill Steel, 2 p.m. 239-479-4636 Southwest Florida Symphony: Super Diamond The Neil Diamond Tribute Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 The Naples Players presents William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream Feb. 16 - March 10 The Baker Stage in Sugden Plaza, 701 5th Ave. S, Naples Saturdays at 2 p.m., Sundays at 6 p.m. performed outdoors www.NaplesPlayers.org Music of the Knights Feb. 12 - 16 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1900 Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Hooray for Hollywood Dinner Dance Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Parkway, Cape Coral at the Music by Erich. Open to the public. 5:30 - 10 p.m. Reservations taken at the Yacht Club or on the web at www.capecoralsocialclub.org or by phone 239-203-7875 Gulfshore Playhouse: In The Next Room (or The Vibrator Play) Through March 10 The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 866-811-4111
44 - February 2019
Sunset Celebration - Wild Boyz Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Steve Cipriano (noon-3 p.m.) Cindy Crowley (4-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 CREW Concert & Auction Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs Music by High Voltage Band, 5 - 9 p.m. www.crewtrust.org
SUN - 17
Joe Delaney & Don Mopsick - Jazz Brunch The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225
Sunday Funday with The Woodwork Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-254-1080 Third on Canvas 3rd Street South Naples Each February, carefully chosen artists paint the wonderful buildings, original cottages, fountains, plazas, and courtyards of the Third Street South area including the beaches, The Pier, Crayton Cove and The City Docks which surround it. Painting days are Feb. 17 & 18 with the art auction Feb. 21, at the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club. www.thirdstreetsouth.com Michael Bolton Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1900
Symphony Orchestra U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers Free, 3 p.m. 239-745-4268
Island Jazz BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 3 p.m. 239-395-0900
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
Jeff Little Trio Cypress Lake UMC, 8570 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. The “Piano Man of the Blue Ridge” performs with banjo and upright bass. 4 pm. 239-482-1250
Uptown Express The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Paul & Quinten (1-3 p.m.) Steve Cipriano (3-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Singer Dan Meadows, 15 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 NY Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 3 - 6 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Big Band Concert Miromar Outlets, Estero 3 to 5 p.m. near the Restaurant Piazza 239-948-3766 Gulf Coast Big Band Cambier Park, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-877-6090
Bonita Springs Concert Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs Guest conductor Rick DeJonge with Roger Ingram on trumpet and Mark Sanders as guest soloist. 2 p.m. www.bonitaspringsconcertband.com. Ford T-Bird Car Show Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, $20 (includes admission) 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-334-7419 Gulf Coast Symphony: Time for Three Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Biergarten Fest German American Social Club 2101 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral. Come and enjoy a great day with family and friends Noon to 5 p.m. 239-283-1400 Fort Myers Classic Car Show Downtown Fort Myers Hundreds of classic vehicles line Edwards Drive for a day of nostalgia and pride. Cruise in with your classic, browse others and meet the owners. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. hotchilirods@aol.com to enter! www.edisonfestival.org
Gulfshore Opera presents Songs of Love 507 W Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, 3 p.m. 239-529-3925 ACMA presents Gurf Morlix All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org
MON -18
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Music by Chris G, 11:302:30 p.m. & Singer Mike Archer, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin trib. The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Crank Ups Duo Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454 Shell Factory Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Stardust Memories Big Band Cambier Park, Naples 7 - 9 p.m. stardustmemoriesbigband.com SW Florida Historical Society’s Annual Cracker Dinner Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Dinner at 5:30 p.m., program at 7:15 p.m. $35 at Barbee & Sons, 1936 Grace Avenue in Fort Myers, Sam Galloway Ford, 1800 Boy Scout Drive in Fort Myers, and SW Florida Historical Society, at 10091 McGregor Blvd. 239-939-4044 Sarasota Jazz Project Presents The Big Band Girl Singers Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 Hope by Song Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort Myers Amphitheater. 6 p.m. 239-479-4636
TUE - 19
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Island Sounds of Jimmy G, noon-3 p.m.&t Bruce & Tiki D, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Collaboration Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Polka (1-4 pm) Eric Malibu (5-9 pm) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454 Nicole D’Andrea The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs, 7 p.m. stardustmemoriesbigband.com Dave Tecce The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Mersey Beatles Theatre Zone, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. Tickets $50, $60 & $75 VIP available. www.theatre.zone Celebration of Poetry Center for Visual Arts, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 6:30 p.m. and is Free to attend. Advanced reservations are suggested. 239-495-8989 Joe Bonamassa Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7:30 p.m. 239-948-7825 Waitress Feb. 19 - 24 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1900 Les Misérables Feb 19 - 24 The Musical Phenomenon Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 239-481-4849 Linda Ronstadt & Friends Tribute Show Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. For more information, call 941-625-4175 or visit www.theculturalcenter.com
Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 45
FEBRUARY CALENDAR TUE-19 continued
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
The Sogheads Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
Andrew Focks, piano Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $10 for public and $7 for students. fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268
Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 The Mersey Beatles TheatreZone, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples, 4 and 8 p.m. 888-966-3352 x1 Jonathan T. Posadas, viola Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $10 for public, $7 for students fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268
WED - 20
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Nagel, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Eagles tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Neal Diamond tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Kenny Giardino Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454 SW Florida Storytellers: Great Outdoors Storytellers Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Parkway A microphone. And the power of a true story told well. As residents of SW Florida, we know how the outdoors are a big part of living here. 7 p.m. 239-242-3816 Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com 46 - February 2019
The Stardust Memories Big Band will perform Feb. 18 at Cambier Park in Naples and Feb. 19 at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. Both concerts are at 7 p.m. ArtPoems 2019 Alliance For The Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Eleven artists and eleven poets get together at a meeting in the fall with five of his or her works of art or poems in hand. 7 - 9 p.m. 239-939-2787 Mersey Beatles Englewood Event Center, 3069 S. McCall Road, Englewood 7:30 p.m. Tickets $32 & $49 VIP available www.etix.com Vinyl Vibes presents Gypsy Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Gypsy, the renowned Stevie Nicks tribute act featuring Casey Weston from The Voice. 239333-1933 International Women’s Exhibition February 20 - April 20 Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 California Toe Jam Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte Farewell Celebration with California Toe Jam Rock 'n Roll Favorites of the '60s - '80s. 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 Shinedown Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7 p.m. 239-948-7825 We are Rocking and Rolling South County Regional Library 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero David Hunter performing popular hits from Paul Simon, Tom Petty, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.2 p.m. 239-479-4636
Around the World with Flutes Captiva Memorial Library 11560 Chapin Lane on Captiva Emmy and Peabody award-winning composer, flutist and storyteller, Kat Epple, will transport the audience to exotic locales with a treasure trove of indigenous flutes that she has collected from her extensive travels around the world. Registration is required. 3 p.m. 239-479-4636 The Great Mr. Swindle's Traveling Peculiarium and Drink-Ory Garden City Marketplace, 115 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda February 20 - 26 7 p.m. 888-718-4253 Almost AHBA tribute Ter-Tinis 1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers Dinner 5:30 p.m., show 7 p.m. 239-344-6147 Scotty Bryan Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
THU - 21
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mike Archer, noon-3 p.m., & Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941575-3007 Mally Khorasantchi, Recent Paintings 2019 Exhibition ArtLab in the west side of the Library building, FGCU, Fort Myers Opening reception at 5 p.m. Exhibit runs through March 28 239-590-7199
Rod Stewart tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Beach Boys tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Mo Cuervo Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Nette The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Tecce & Hunter The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Dan Miller, Lew DelGatto Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 Cape Coral Art League hosting Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Cape Coral Art League 516 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. with free art demonstrations, raffles, refreshments, music and more! 239-772-5657 Third Thursdays on Third 3rd Street South, Naples 5 - 8 p.m. 239-649-6707 Bonita Springs International Film Festival February 21-24 Center for Performing Arts – Moe & Hinman Auditoriums 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs, 239-495-8989 The Carpenters And More… Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte A true child of the Seventies, Zan Reid is a warm and lively performer hailing from South Florida. 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 www.theculturalcenter.com
Art & Poetry Networking Event Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Join Gulf Coast Leisure at SBDAC for the Art & Poetry Networking Event! Mixed media artists, music, spoken word, and vendors are all highlighted each month. Starts at 8 p.m. www.sbdac.com 239-333-1933 Third Thursday Wine Walk (formerly Alive After Five) Downtown Punta Gorda Live music, artists and demoing, food trucks, other entertainment 5 - 8 p.m. 941-391-4856 L’Isola Disabitata Feb. 21 - 23 Wang Opera Center 2408 Linwood Ave, Naples Opera Naples will be presenting the Joseph Haydn charming opera, L’Isola Disabitata (The Deserted Island) at 7:30 p.m. 239-963-9050 Thursday Night Live Concert Series: Faded Roots Bell Tower Shops, Daniel Parkway and US 41, Fort Myers 6 - 8 p.m. www.thebelltowershops.com
FRI - 22
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Musician Steve Flagg, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 And The Winner Is... Through March 16 Laboratory Theater of Florida 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Richie - 6:30 p.m ABBA tribute - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Brandon Santini The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Lucky Buzzards The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Happenings Magazine
Rollings Stones tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 44th Annual Greek Festival Feb. 22 - 24 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 8210 Cypress Lake Drive., Fort Myers 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. 239-481-2099 Chamber Music Series presents Calidore String Quartet Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-333-1933 Jamey Johnson The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 Judy Collins BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 8 p.m. 239-395-0900 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Musician Steve Flagg, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Rhythm on the River Maksin-Gonzalez Cello Guitar Duo Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers $25 advance purchase online or $30 at the door. 6 p.m. 239-334-7419 Mentalist Show with Brent Gregory The Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Pkwy Be prepared to be amazed! Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase before and during the event. BYOB and outside food are welcome. Reservations are recommended, as space is limited. 7 p.m., Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $15 in advance, $18 day of event. 239-574-0806 Electric Lipstick Miromar Outlets, Estero 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza 239-948-3766
SAT - 23
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Nagel, noon-4 p.m. & Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Dean Martin & Don Rickles tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Fleetwood Mac tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Half Step Down Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Steve Cipriano (noon-3 p.m.) Cindy Crowley (4-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Shaw Davis & The Black Ties The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Del Prados The Shell Factory and Nature Park 2787 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers The Del Prados are back! 5:30 p.m. dinner, 6:30 p.m. music starts- In the Dolphin Room, $9 at the door, Reservations, 239-995-3999
Coconut Point Concert Series Coconut Point 23106 Fashion Dr, Estero Free, 6 p.m. 239-992-9966.
Fossil Fest Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers Games, prizes, kids dig, vendors, live entertainment, museum and exhibits and more! Free admission. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-995-2141
The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
TobyMac Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7 p.m. 239-948-7825
Nuevo Soul Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454
Sunset Celebration - Wild Boyz Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Naples Art, Antique & Jewelry Show Feb. 22-26 Naples Exhibition Center, 850 Goodlette-Frank Road 561-822-5440 Happenings Magazine
Naples National Art Show Feb. 23 & 24 Cambier Park, Naples 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.NaplesArt.org 239-262-6517 Brother Love Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
February 2019 - 47
FEBRUARY CALENDAR SAT - 23 CONTINUED The Screaming Orphans Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers The Rotary Club of Fort Myers is ready to dance the night away with The Screaming Orphans! 6 - 10 p.m. 239-939-2787 ACMA presents Verlon Thompson All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org
SUN - 24
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, The Band Anastazja, 1-5 p.m., center Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 7 p.m., 239-282-3232 Jersey Boyz tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Joe Delaney & Don Mopsick - Jazz Brunch The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro, 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225 Paul & Quinten (1-3 p.m.) Steve Cipriano (3-7 p.m.) The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 NY Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 3 - 6 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Southwest Florida Veg Fest Riverside Park 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs Featuring expert speakers, cooking demos, vendors, and animal rescues – with entertainment and activities for the whole family! 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.CityofBonitaSprings.org The Drifters with Danny & The Juniors Seminole Casino Hotel 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m. 800-218-0007 Parker Quartet BIG ARTS 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 3:30 p.m. 239-395-0900 48 - February 2019
The Southwest Florida Concert Band will perform Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at South Fort Myers High School, 14020 Plantation Road. The Roy Orbison Experience Feb. 24 - 25 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422
Buble and Manilow tribute Ter-Tinis 1901 Crystal Dr., Fort Myers Dinner 4:30 p.m., show 5:30 p.m. 239-344-6147
The Voices of Naples presents: Singing for Scholarships Naples United Church of Christ 5200 Crayton Road, Naples Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. 3 p.m. 239-455-2582
FGCU University Choir Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral Free, 3 p.m. 239-745-4268
MON - 25
George Burns & Friends Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. For more information, call 941-625-4175 or visit www.theculturalcenter.com
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group, 11:30 – 1 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Nexx Level Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454
Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Car Cruise-In Downtown Fort Myers noon - 4 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
Crank Ups Duo Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454
Southwest Florida Concert Band Fort Myers High School, 14020 Plantation Rd, Fort Myers Performing a concert featuring the music of John Williams and more. 2 p.m. www.SWFLConcertBand .org Music of romantic Russian composers Alexander Glazunov and Pyotr Koreshan State Park 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero Tchaikovsky will be featured at the Koreshan State Park’s historic Art Hall. Tickets are available at $42. Reservations 646257-0003 or emailingrcc@rccnaples.org Gary & Kerri Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 3 p.m., 239-282-3232
Shell Factory Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Moe Bandy Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 or visit www.theculturalcenter.com Naples Big Band Riverside Park 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs 7 p.m. www.cityofbonitasprings.org Maksin-Gonzalez Cello Guitar Duo Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way 7 p.m. 239-472-2155
Fort Myers Community Concert: Russian National Ballet Theatre "Cinderella" Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849
TUE - 26
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Island Sounds of Jimmy G, noon -3 p.m., Coffee Café Bruce & Tiki D, noon-3 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232 Elvis tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Temptations, Four Tops tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Polka (1-4 pm) Eric Malibu (5-9 pm) Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 239-540-8454 Nicole D’Andrea The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 The Beach Boys: Now and Then Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849
Dance Theatre of Harlem Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Jodie DeSalvo Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1900 Mozart and Hummel Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 3 p.m. 239-597-1900 Connie Francis & Roy Orbison Tribute with Frankie and Donna Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 www.theculturalcenter.com Shell Point Performing Arts Series: Vienna Boys Choir The Village Church on The Island, Shell Point Retirement Community, 15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers $40 per ticket. 7 p.m. 239-454-2067 Dave Tecce The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Sogheads Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
WED - 27
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Chris G, 11:30-2:30 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Happenings Magazine
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Fleetwood Mac tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Erich Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Calypso Magic on the Dock Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 12:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
Trying to Quit Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 5 - 9 p.m.,239-540-8454
AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
”Lifecycles” – Judith Brust & Sue Pink Feb. 27 - March 28 BIG ARTS - Phillips Gallery 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 239-395-0900 Sinatra & Martin tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Homage to the Square Feb. 27 - March 28 BIG ARTS - Founders Gallery 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 239-395-0900 Everything Everly: An Everly Brothers Experience Presented by The Guthrie Brothers Cultural Center Theater 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 www.theculturalcenter.com Stayin' AliveOne Night Of The Bee Gees Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Barynya Balalaika Musical Duo North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 N. Recreation Park Way 3:30 p.m. 239-479-4636 All That Jazz Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. 239-597-1900 Old 41 The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com David Foster Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Scotty Bryan Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 6:30 p.m., 239-282-3232
THU - 28
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Island Sounds of Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Happenings Magazine
Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Deb & The Dynamics Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Dan Miller, Lew DelGatto Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 Chicago Symphony Orchestra Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 The Del Prados The Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Pkwy Pre-registration required and all seats are assigned. $12 per person in advance, $15 day of show. Reservations are required. For more information, call the Rotino Center at 239-574-0807 Blood Sweat & Tears Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee 506 S 1st St, Immokalee 8 p.m. 239-658-1313 Nette The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Mama Won’t Fly Through April 28 Off Broadway Palm Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Benise - FUEGO! Spirit of Spain Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 Southwest Florida and Lee County Fair February 28 through March 10 Lee Civic Center Grounds, 11831 Bayshore Rd, North Fort Myers Rides, games, cotton candy, clowns, shows & more. 239-543-8368 Bryan Lee Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill, 4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha, 7 p.m., 239-282-3232
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MUSIC
Southwest Florida Symphony presents
Masterworks III with pianist Xiayin Wang
The Southwest Florida Symphony continues its 58th season on Saturday, Feb. 2 with Masterworks III: Vive La Mer at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. Masterworks III: Vive La Mer is conducted by the Southwest Florida Symphony’s internationally renowned music director Maestro Nir Kabaretti and features George Bizet’s dramatic L’Arlésienne, a composition befitting Southwest Florida; Claude Debussy’s La Mer and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 performed by returning guest artist, internationally acclaimed Xiayin Wang. Pianist Xiayin Wang is an artist of keen musicality and sweeping virtuosity. Praised by The New York Times for her “estimable grasp of pianistic color and her ability to maintain and illuminate a strand of melody within the thickest of textures,” Wang has released numerous celebrated recordings and performed throughout the world, from New York’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, to music centers in South America, Europe, and Asia. As Musical America put it: “She can be at one moment sensual and the next rhythmically driving…with such assuredness, such delicacy, that one forgets the difficulties inherent in the performance, and is left breathless in musical awe.” Recent highlights include orchestral debuts with the Minnesota Orchestra, Pacific Symphony and Chicago Philharmonic
Orchestra; solo recitals in North and South America; performances/recording of Tchaikovsky & Khachaturian Piano Concertos with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Peter Oundjian; a recital with the Fine Arts Quartet in Milwaukee for the Saint-Saëns Piano Quintet in A minor, Op. 14; and a return solo recital at New York City’s celebrated International Keyboard Institute & Festival at Hunter College’s Kaye Playhouse. Her 2018-19 season includes debuts with the Aiken Symphony Orchestra performing the Gershwin Concerto in F, the Southwest Florida Symphony performing Rachmaninoff’s Concerto No. 3, and the Spanish National Orchestra performing Britten’s Piano Concerto, as well as a UK tour of the Gershwin with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Tour and chamber music concerts in California with violinist Alexandra Soumm. Also in the 2018-19 season, Wang joins the distinguished faculty at The New School’s Mannes School of Music as an instructor of piano. The performance happens at 7:30 p.m., with Maestro Kabaretti’s highly popular preconcert lecture taking place at 6:30 p.m. These lectures are offered in order to better educate audiences about the pieces being performed and often feature a guest artist Q & A and demonstrations. Tickets cost
Xiayin Wang performs Feb. 2 between $25 and $105 per person and may be purchased online at www.swflso.org, by visiting the Southwest Florida Symphony Box Office located at 8290 College Parkway, Suite 103 in Fort Myers, by calling the Symphony Box Office at (239) 418-1500 or at the door, one and a half hours prior to the concert. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is located at 13350 FSW Parkway in Fort Myers.
Greek Fest Feb. 22-24 in Fort Myers
Yassou! Prepare for another weekend There will be a carnival for children, of fun and food as Annunciation Cathedral complete with rides and games as well as in Fort Myers presents its 44th Annual vendors selling Greek specialties, clothGreek Festival Feb. 22, 23 and 24 on the ing, jewelry and gifts. Church tours will cathedral grounds at 8210 Cypress Lake introduce you to the ancient beauty of this Drive. Byzantine faith. Gyros, moussaka, lamb, baklava and Curbside carryout is available from 11 all your favorite Greek foods and pastries a.m. – 2 p.m. on Friday if you want to will fill you up while you watch traditional take some Greek meals home for dinner dance performances and listen to live after a long work week. There will even music. You’ll be transported to the Greek be free parking and an onsite shuttle to Isles as you visit the authentic Greek transport straight to the Grecian fun. Taverna, sip Greek coffee or whet your Enter to win your choice of a 2019 Lexus The Greek Company Orchestra whistle with the traditional liqueur, Ouzo. IS350 or $25,000. The Greek Company Orchestra will Adult admission of $5 lets you in for entertain festival goers. Showcasing a the entire three-day event and kids under wide variety of Hellenic music styles, The Greek Company can excite 12 are free. Not only will the entire family enjoy the weekend, you can any crowd with a colorful blend of dance music and easy-listening feel good knowing a portion of net proceeds will benefit Community tunes. Combining the sweet sounds of bouzouki duets, the mesmerizCooperative and Golisano Chidren’s Hospital. ing lilt of the keyboard and the hard-driving rhythm of the drums and Festival hours run from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday the bass makes everyone want to dance. And of course, unleashing and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. Get your Greek on at Fort Myers the hypnotic sounds of the clarinet and the violin brings back the Annual Greek Fest Feb. 22 - 24. For more information, call 239-481Greek traditions that we’ve all grown to love. 2099 or visit www.greekfestfortmyers.com 50 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Americana Community Music Association Inc.
Americana
Acoustic Shows
Escaping Pavement
Feb. 2 Ricky Baker, Jason Peters open
Heather Pierson Trio Feb. 9 Bruce Gallant opens
Gurf Morlix
Feb. 17 David Hintz opens
Verlon Thompson Feb. 23 Mike McMillan opens
Verlon Thompson tickets $20 at ACMA website
Pay at the door. The ACMA is a not for profit and funded by tax deductible donations. Check website for more info & visit YouTube on any of these artists. $10 - $15 donation per concert.
Concerts held at All Faiths Unitarian Congregation
2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Show at 7 p.m.
INFO: 239-691-4069 Happenings Magazine
Verlon Thompson
Songwriters at Sunset Lovers Key State Park
Feb. 7 at 4:15 pm Tim McGeary, Carlene Thissen and Marie Nofsinger
free
Songwriters on the Plaza Library, Downtown Fort Myers Feb. 12 at 6 pm - free
Joe Virga, Bill Metts, Bruce Gallant
Songwriters at the Library South County Library, Estero Feb. 16 at 2 pm - free
Alan Bradford, Joyce Knake, Bill Steel
www.AmericanACMA.org February 2019 - 51
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ACMA: Verlon Thompson, Gurf Morlix The Americana Community Music Association has some more amazing shows lined up for February including renown artists Gurf Morlix and Verlon Thompson The ACMA rents the All Faiths Congregation on McGregor Boulevard for its touring artists shows. Each show has a local songwriter open for the headliner. The ACMA also host very popular free concerts in three more locations that present three local songwriters in a round robin format.
Shows at All Faiths The ACMA welcomes Escaping Pavement on Feb. 2. Hailed as "one of the most dynamic Americana groups out of Detroit,” Escaping Pavement masterfully blends and blurs the lines of Bluegrass, Folk, and Americana. Their unique joint front person arrangement, with Emily Burns and Aaron Markovitz sharing equally in singing, songwriting, and guitar playing allow for astounding, harmony-driven, musical interplay that has earned them slots on bills with the likes of Justin Townes Earle, Mountain Heart and Joan Osborne. With multiple festival appearances scheduled, over 500 shows under their belt, a new EP set to release in 2017 comprised of music inspired by the National Parks, and a non-stop touring schedule, this duo is ready to spread their roots-based message, far and wide. Americana fans will find a lot to love in Escaping Pavement. Ricky Baker and Jason Peters will open the Feb. 2 show. The ACMA is excited to finally have Heather Pierson and her group back to the ACMA stage on Feb. 9. The Heather Pierson Acoustic Trio are a rare bunch – three musicians from three very different backgrounds, bringing their skills, their quiet charm, and their down-to-earth honesty to bear on songs that bring to life the sounds of the streets of New Orleans and the valleys of Appalachia. Their recordings (2015’s Still She Will Fly and 2017’s Singin’) and live performances feature Heather’s multi-genre songwriting, their instrumental virtuosity, and stirring three-part vocal harmonies. Heather Pierson (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, tenor banjo, piano) is an award-winning singer/songwriter, pianist and performer. Bruce Gallant will open the show on Feb. 9. Bruce Gallant has been writing songs for over 30 years. His songs reflect the different times in his life, and he considers them his journal. The ACMA presents Gurf Morlix in concert on Sunday, Feb. 17 (for a suggested donation of $15-$20). Visiting planet Gurf has always been an enlightening experience. After all, this Gurf Morlix fellow – Buffalo born, Texas bred – has provided us with countless indelible musical moments in the last 40-plus years: his exemplary guitar and production work with Lucinda Williams; his instrumental accompaniment to artists ranging from Blaze Foley to 52 - February 2019
Murray, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, Del McCoury, Sam Bush, Trisha Yearwood and many more. Equally important in his songwriting and live performances, Verlon's guitar work cannot go unnoticed. His guitar can be heard on recordings by Restless Heart, Pam Tillis, and many more, including, and especially Guy Clark. Mike McMillan opens the Feb. 23 show. Mike is a student of the blues, and plays regularly on Fort Myers Beach with the Pearl Street Band.
Verlon Thompson Warren Zevon; his production of watermark albums for artists such as Ray Wylie Hubbard, Robert Earl Keen and Mary Gauthier – and, since 2000, a series of eight solo records that have a singular worldview and can be both harrowing and heartening, often at the same time. Now, prepare yourself for “The Soul And The Heal.” Gurf Morlix’s ninth album is another chapter in a songbook that pithily relates the human condition. ACMA member David Hintz opens the show. David Hintz has been performing and writing songs since the mid 1960s. For reasons he will never quite understand, he put away pen and guitar for many years until the early 21st century. Verlon Thompson returns to the ACMA stage on Feb. 23. This show also has a special event pricing will likely sell out in advance. Advance tickets are required and available at All Faiths shows and online at www.americanacma.org Thirty years as a professional songwriter and traveling troubadour serve as credentials. As a solo performer, and as the trusted sidekick of Texas Americana songwriting icon Guy Clark, Verlon Thompson has viewed the world from stages everywhere from Barcelona to Binger (his hometown in Oklahoma). Along the way Verlon Thompson compositions have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Anne
Songwriters at Sunset The next Songwriters at Sunset will be Feb. 7 at 4:15 p.m. at Lovers Key State Park on Fort Myers Beach and feature local songwriters Tim McGeary, Carlene Thissen and Marie Nofsinger. Be sure to give yourself an extra 30 minutes to park and take the tram to the beach. The show is free parking is $8 per car. Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. has joined with The ACMA to offer free concerts of all original music. The concerts will take place in the large gazebo located right on the beach. Seating is available for the first 80 people. Additional seating is also available on the sand. The FOLKS group will offer a beach BBQ fundraiser at the show. Tim McGeary’s dedication to his muse has never faltered, and now, even after a couple of decades of plying his craft, that passion is as intense as ever. It’s the spiritual essence of making music that elicits his enthusiasm…that drives him to connect with his listeners…and that makes it so essential for him to express his emotions and desires. Carlene Thissen is a singer, songwriter and author from Naples. Her voice reminds us of her influences, Judy Collins, Joni Mitchell, and Joan Baez. From Woodstock memories to her passion for Immokalee's farm workers, Carlene's music will take you back and may even inspire you to Go Change the World. Award winning songwriter, national touring performer and recording artist Marie Nofsinger will take you on a journey into the soul of America. Tales of outlaws, anarchists, the common working man, Jesus and broken hearts fill her original repertoire. Lilting melodies, swamp stomp rhythms, as well as jazzy swing tunes carry the lyrics into your memory.
Songwriters on the Plaza Songwriters on the Plaza takes place Feb. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Cornog Plaza Amphitheatre at the Fort Myers Regional Library on First Street. This month’s free concert features local songwriters Joe Virga, Bill Metts and Bruce Gallant (see article on page 72). Songwriters at the Library Songwriters at the Library will be Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. South County Regional Library at continued on page 53
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ACMA
continued from page 52
21100 Three Oaks Parkway in Estero and feature Alan Bradford, Joyce Knake and Bill Steel. Alan Bradford is a unique guitarist, and an old soul singer/songwriter. He performs throughout the east coast of the United States. Whether at a country club, a bar, a national festival, a house concert, or an assisted living; his music is a wonderful addition to any function. Multi-talented ACMA member Joyce Knape (guitar, banjo, paintings, pottery) continues to amaze and inspire us with her wonderful original songs, and creations. Bill Steel retired in 2008 and has been wintering in Fort Myers ever since. Bill draws from his travels through Central America, as well as everyday life experiences as the source for his songwriting and tries to bring out the humor from them. Singer songwriters circle is held every Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at All Faiths. The circle is for acoustic songwriters of all levels. The ACMA is a non-sectarian not for profit organization. Most concerts are held at All Faiths Congregation located at 2756 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. all shows start at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.americanacma.org.
Happenings Magazine
Mastersingers presents concert as part of Edison Festival of Light
The Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers is as well known for its wideranging artistic collaborations as it is for its excellence in choral music. In February, the group is teaming up with the Edison Festival of Light to present an imaginative concert as part of the annual celebration of Thomas Edison’s birthday entitled, Edison Celebration of Light Concert. The program for the evening will focus on light themed musical selections while investigating the creative process. With a nod toward the inventor of the phonograph, there will also be a discussion about the science of sound. The concert will be held on Friday, Feb. 8 at CityGate Church, 1735 Jackson St., Fort Myers at 7 p.m. The concert is free with a good will offering taken up during the evening. The program will be presented by the full Mastersingers chorus of over 80 singers along with several selections by the group’s Chamber Chorus under the direction of long-time Artistic Director Jeff Faux. Janet Carter on the piano will lend her virtuosic accompanying talents to the mix. The musical selections for this program reflect the long-held Mastersingers mission of performing classic masterworks along with the best of contemporary composers. The program will include selections from
Gabriel Faure’s stunning Requiem, as well as pieces by Eric Whitacre, Z. Randall Stroop, and Loreena McKennitt. “It may be an overused expression, but it’s never been truer, there is something for everyone in this concert,” according to Director Faux. He continues, “using such a diverse repertoire in one concert will allow us to consider the many ways that the creative process comes to life in music.” As a celebration of the kind of creativity that allows the arts and sciences to thrive, the concert will also include the premiere performance of Zack Stanton’s, Before You Kissed Me. This work is the winning composition in the group’s inaugural SanibelCaptiva Trust Prize for New Composers. This latest community outreach from the Mastersingers is the brain child of the group’s bass section leader and FGCU professor, Dr. Jason Bahr. Himself an acclaimed composer, Bahr says, “we opened the competition hoping to attract a few scores and ending up with something that the group could perform. We were shocked when we received over 200 entries and an incredible composition as the winning piece.” More information about the Fort Myers Mastersingers is available at the group’s website, www.mastersingersfm.com.
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MUSIC
Stardust Memories Big Band launches 2019
outdoor concert season in Bonita, Naples
The Stardust Memories Big Band returns for its fifth season and Zentner Big Band, The Chick Corea World Tour, The Airmen of Note, opens its 2019 outdoor concert series on Feb. 4 in Cambier Park in and performances with artists including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Naples and Feb. 5 in Bonita Springs’ Riverside Park with a show Doc Severinsen, Quincy Jones, Johnny Mathis, Nathalie Cole, Steve titled “Big Band Classics.” and Eydie Gorme, Nat King Cole, Ann Hampton Callaway, Tom The first show of the season features many of the legendary Jones, Lou Rawls, Barry Manilow, The Temptations, The Four Tops, arrangements made famous by Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Les and numerous orchestras and Broadway shows. Brown, Woody Herman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, The Tonight The band’s primary mission is to provide the best big band enterShow Band, and many others. tainment available to audiences in SW Florida. Recent written comThe 2019 outdoor schedule consists ments received from audience memof ten shows, with five shows at bers include: Cambier Park in Naples and five shows “The City of Naples is extremely in Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. fortunate to have this kind of high-qualAdditional shows include “Latin Theme ity big band performing in our city. Show” (Feb. 18 & 19), “Glenn Miller They are a rarity in the performing arts Show” (March 5 & 11), “Buddy in the US today” Rich/Maynard Ferguson Show” (Mar. “I don’t think there is any better 18 & 19) and “Best of the Season by quality or more professional group in Request” (Apr. 1 and 2). See the the country that plays big band music band’s full 2019 outdoor schedule like The Stardust Memories Big Band” advertisement contained in this maga“Never have I been exposed to this zine (on page 3). level of stellar musicians.” All shows are from 7 to 9 p.m. and “Attendance at Stardust Memories each individual show will be advertised Big Band shows is by far the highlight in The Naples Daily News “In the 239”, of our winters” in The Bonita Banner, and on The SMBB is a 501(c)(3) non-profit WAVV101.1 FM. organization. For 2019, the SMBB will A $5 per person suggested contricontinue an important mission objecStardust Memories Big Band performs at Riverside Park bution is requested at each concert. tive by providing direct financial supin Bonita Springs. The Stardust Memories Big Band is port to Music for Minors Foundation, the vision of founder and band leader and The Music Foundation of SW Craig Christman, and brings together some of Florida's finest jazz Florida. These two local area non-profit organizations provide instrumusicians (Naples, Fort Myers, Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and ments, summer training camps, and scholarships to young and aspirMiami). ing musicians from our local schools. These working professionals have a collective resume that To learn more about and listen to The Stardust Memories Big includes The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra under Buddy Morrow, The Si Band, visit online at www.stardustmemoriesbigband.com. 54 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Lee County Community Band
Prepare for an afternoon of romance and nostalgia on Feb. 10 as the Lee County Community Band presents Music, the Language of Love! The concert is set for 3 p.m. at Cape Coral High School. Under the direction of Richard Bradstreet, the band will perform a selection of romantic Gershwin tunes, including “Embraceable You” and “Somebody Loves Me”, “Highlights from Carousel,” and a medley of romantic favorites including “For Me and My Gal” and “Pretty Baby.” The program also will feature lively marches, a sing-along, and a presentation by vocalist Norman Jones. The band performs six concerts between November and April; all take place at Cape Coral High School, 2300 Santa Barbara Blvd., beginning at 3 p.m. The concerts are free (donations accepted) and open to the public. Additional concert dates are March 10 and April 7. The 50-member adult band is comprised of musicians from all walks of life. The band welcomes new members every year. Persons interested in joining may phone John Fenn at 239454-6430. For additional information, visit www.leecountyband.org.
Naples Concert Band
The Naples Concert Band’s next Concert in the Park will feature professional concert pianist Jodie DeSalvo and vocalist Janine Klaassen on Sunday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. at Cambier Park in Naples. DeSalvo will play the challenging third movement of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18. Klaassen will sing Puccini’s “O Mio Babbino Caro” and Bob Merrill’s Big Band arrangement of “Mambo Italiano.” A special presentation of Michael Donovan’s new composition “Whistle Stop Junction” will also be featured. “Orpheus” by Jacques Offenbach, Jerry Bilik’s “American Variations”, and the NCB trombone quartet's rendition of Meredith Willson's "Seventy-Six Trombones" provide the band with plenty of room to flex its musical muscles. NCB music director and conductor Harris Lanzel says, "This concert has it all - fantastic soloists; impressive and challenging arrangements; and the 80 plus member band playing at its peak." Admission to all Naples Concert Band performances is free, with donations appreciated. For more information, call 239-270-1221 or visit www.NaplesConcertBand.org. For those interested in becoming a member of the band, contact Frank Burgeson at 239-598-2082.
Southwest Florida Concert Band The Southwest Florida Concert Band will perform a concert featuring the music of John Williams and more on Sunday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at South Fort Myers High School, 14020 Plantation Road, Fort Myers. The 50-member band will open the concert with the Midway March from the 1976 acclaimed movie of the same name. A medley of John Williams music will follow include the theme’s from the movies The Mission, Olympic Spirit, Jaws and E.T. The band
will perform music from Jurassic Park and then one of our flute players will play a solo from the haunting beautiful main theme of Schindler’s List. They will change the style with a medley of music from the Jersey Boys including their hits “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” Hear the dramatic and impressive music from the 1972 movie The Cowboys starring John Wayne which will bring out your cowboy spirit. The second half will start
Gulf Coast Big Band
The Gulf Coast Big Band has been performing since 1991. The band will play Sunday, Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. at Cambier Park in Naples. It plays big band and jazz standards to the delight of thousands at Sunday afternoon concerts in the park at Cambier Park in Naples. The band plays a wide range of big band music from traditional swing and blues to bebop and AfroCuban. Audiences enjoy songs from a large variety of jazz greats including Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Tadd Dameron, Stan Kenton, Sonny Rollins, and Thelonious Monk. For more info, call 239-877-6090 or visit www.gulfcoastbigband.com Happenings Magazine
with music of adventure from Indiana Jones with The Raiders March and move on to a medley of movie music from everyone’s favorite hero Superman. They have thrown in a Latin trumpet solo called Tico Tico to change the style and an astounding clarinet solo featuring a guest clarinet player from Canada playing Viktor’s Tale from the Terminal. The program will conclude with a medley of music from Star Wars films. All concerts are free with donations accepted. Information can be found at www.SWFLConcertBand.org.
Charlotte Co. Concert Band
The Charlotte County Concert Band season continues this month with a performance Friday, Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center in Punta Gorda. The band is led by artistic director Bob Miller. The Feb. 8 concert is entitled “See the USA.” Along with a special rendition of the National Anthem, guests will be treated to a tour of the USA with musical selections from coast to coast. Remaining concerts this season include From Bach to Broadway on March 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Strike Up the Band on April 14 at 3 p.m. Single concert tickets are $15 online and $17 at the box office. For tickets and info, call 941-218-0022 or go to www.charlottecountyconcertband.com.
Bonita Springs Concert Band
The next concert by the Bonita Springs Concert Band will be Sunday, Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Park in downtown Old Bonita. Popular guest conductor Rick DeJonge will lead the band in a tribute to Harry James, and then a tribute to the city of Chicago. Rick has been writing music for orchestras and wind ensembles for over 20 years travelling the world conducting his premieres. Rick has worked with over 500 artists including Willie Nelson and Liza Minnelli. Roger Ingram will perform on trumpet in each piece. Roger has played trumpet for the orchestras of Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman (when he was 19 years old), Ray Charles and Harry Connick Jr. February’s guest soloist is Mark Sanders. Mark was seen as Perchik on the Broadway national tour of Fiddler on the Roof and recently in My Way: A salute to Frank Sinatra. He has starred in Carousel, South Pacific and Oklahoma at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. He will sing in “Sinatra in Concert” and “Bring Him Home.” The concert band will perform the Warner Brothers soundtrack to Wonder Woman. Other featured songs include “Blues Brothers Review” and “Duke Ellington in Concert.” The band is under the direction of Gary Smith, who retired after 24 years as conductor of the University of Illinois Marching Illini Band. Find out more info at www.bonitaspringsconcertband.com.
Naples Big Band
The Naples Big Band is comprised of 19 professional musicians under the skillful musical direction of James (Jim) Castaldi, seasoned trumpet and flugelhorn player. In addition to admission-free concerts for the public, the band is also available to hire for private parties, fundraisers, festivals and special events of all types. This month, the Naples Big Band will perform Monday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. at Cambier Park in Naples and on Monday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. For more info, visit www.naplesbigband.com or call 239-777-0416. February 2019 - 55
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The British Invasion hits Fort Myers Beach Feb. 7 “The British Invasion Years” brings the ‘60s to the Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts Winter Concert Series on Feb. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Propeller Lounge at FishTale Marina, 7225 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. It won’t be a hard day’s night in February when “The British Invasion Years” captures the music from that era like The Monkees, Tommy James and the Shondells and the personalities of those four lads from Liverpool, The Beatles. The Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts mission is to promote and support theater, music, culinary and visual arts on Fort Myers Beach and
the surrounding community with a vision to make the arts on Fort Myers Beach accessible for all to enjoy and discover. Tickets are $25. Purchase tickets and find out more information about FMB Friends of the Arts and the entire 2019 Winter Concert Series by visiting www.fmbarts.org or connect on Facebook. All series shows will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the FishTale Marina Propeller Lounge on Fort Myers Beach. The winter concert series began in December and wraps up March 14 with Atlantic City Boys, a tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
The British Invasion
Everglades Seafood Festival Feb. 8 - 10
Seafood lovers mark your calendars for the 2019 Everglades Seafood Festival to be held Feb 8, 9 and 10 in Everglades City, gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands. This very popular, traditional event is free to attend and for all ages. People come from all over Florida to hear great live music, eat delicious seafood, and browse among the dozens of craft booths while the kiddies enjoy the carnival rides. Founded in 1970, the event is in its 49th
year and is 100% charity event that helps the community of Everglades City. The festival is organized by the Betterment Association of the Everglades Area. Friday’s music includes Charlie Pace & Sloan Wheeler, The Lost Rodeo, Let's Hang On (Frankie Valli tribute) and Tim Elliott. Saturday’s entertainment lineup is Charlie Pace, Jordan Guess, Tim Charron, Tim Elliott, Rambler and Electric Lipstick.
The Sunday music schedule includes Nadia Turner (American Idol), Gator Nate Gladezmen, Lauren Mitchell and The Petty Hearts (Tom Petty tribute). There is limited free parking in the city. Several charitable organizations offer parking for a small fee. Handicapped parking is at the Community Church on the circle. Dogs are not allowed. For more info, call 239-695-2277 or visit www.evergladesseafoodfestival.org
Great music continues at BIG ARTS
The diverse lineup of music continues in February at BIG ARTS on Sanibel Island. M-pact performs Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. Island Jazz will play at 3 p.m. on Feb. 3 and again on Feb. 17. BIG ARTS welcomes the Southwest Florida Symphony at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 6. The Hot Club of San Francisco brings their jazz sounds to Schein Hall Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. Alfredo Muro Alfredo Muro with Natasha Farny will perform Feb. 10 at 3:30 p.m. Alfredo Muro is an international Peruvian concert guitarist whose passionate, enthralling performances 56 - February 2019
have thrilled audiences the world over. He has represented Peru and the United States in major international festivals around the world including Peru, Brazil, Canada, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Norway. American cellist Natasha Farny made her concerto debut with the Boston Symphony Orchestra at age 17. After completing her master’s and doctoral Judy Collins degrees at the Eastman School of Music and the Juilliard School she received a fellowship for study in Leipzig, Germany. The legendary Judy Collins will perform two sold-out shows on Feb. 22. The Parker Quartet rounds out the month’s music lineup with a performance Feb. 24 at 3:30 p.m. BIG ARTS is located at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. For tickets and more details, call 239-395-0900 or visit www.bigarts.org.
Happenings Magazine
prings
International Irish Singing Star Phil Coulter Feb. 4
TRIBUTE BANDS in Bonita S
FEB 1 - Eagles tribute FEB 2 - Motown Girls of Galaxy FEB 4 - Phil Coulter & Geraldine Branagan FEB 5 - Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison tribute FEB 6 - Neil Diamond tribute FEB 7 - Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute FEB 8 - Journey, Bon Jovi tribute FEB 9 - Jersey Boyz tribute FEB 10 - Bee Gees tribute FEB 11 - Temptations, Four Tops tribute FEB 12 - Sinatra and Martin tribute FEB 13 - ABBA tribute FEB 14 - Motown Girls of Galaxy FEB 15 - Jersey Boyz tribute
Happenings Magazine
SUNDAY BRUNCH 10 am to 2:30 pm
FEB 16 - Eagles tribute FEB 17 - Uptown Express FEB 18 - Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin tribute FEB 19 - Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison tribute FEB 20 - Neil Diamond tribute FEB 21 - Beach Boys tribute FEB 22 - Rolling Stones tribute FEB 23 - Fleetwood Mac tribute FEB 24 - Jersey Boyz tribute FEB 25 - Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute FEB 26 - Temptations, Four Tops tribute FEB 27 - Sinatra and Martin tribute FEB 28 - Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin tribute
www.thestagebonita.com 239-405-8566 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs
February 2019 - 57
Bluegrass, rock, love and more MUSIC
CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS IN BONITA SPRINGS
The Center for Performing Arts in Bonita Springs presents a wide variety of musical performances in February. The John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band will play Hinman Auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. J2B2 is an all-star bluegrass supergroup featuring four legendary, award-winning musicians – John Jorgenson on acoustic guitar, mandolin and vocals; Herb Pedersen on banjo, acoustic guitar and vocals; Mark Fain on bass; and Patrick Sauber on acoustic guitar and vocals – delivering bluegrass like no one has ever heard it before. The band’s undeniable live shows have received stellar reviews and have the bluegrass world buzzing. The four combine forces to form a spot-on union of impeccable musi-
cianship, incomparable songwriting, incredible harmony vocals (a fresh twist combining bluegrass with elements of West Coast folk rock) and seasoned showmanship. Chatham County Line is scheduled to perform Saturday, Feb. 9 at 8 p.m. at Moe Auditorium. Based on looks alone, Chatham County Line conjures a sepia-toned timelessness by huddling around a single microphone on stage, playing traditional string band instrumentation while clad in suits and ties. But for nearly two decades, the Raleigh, NC-based outfit has consistently crafted top-notch, original modern acoustic music that draws upon American roots forefathers like bluegrass inventor Bill Monroe and folk innovator John Hartford while acknowledging its own members’ backgrounds in rock ‘n’ roll bands. Eirinn Abu and Manny Lopez will play Moe Auditorium Thursday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. Saxophone recording artist Eirinn Abu gives the saxophone a new voice and sound. His peers call him the instrumental version of Andrea Bocelli. Eirinn has recorded eight successful CDs including two with guest artist Dolly Parton. International guitarist Manny Lopez has been recording guitars for major record companies for over 30 years with over 500 album
Chatham County Line credits with artists such as Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Ricky Martin, Michael Bolton and many more. Opening night of the Bonita Springs International Film Festival (Feb. 21 - 24) will feature Mercury: A Story and Celebration of Freddie Mercury’s Life & Music. The opening night film and Mercury performance will be in Hinman Auditorium Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. Mercury features international opera star Terry Barber, a former member of the two-time Grammy Award winning group Chanticleer. The Center for Performing Arts is located at 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. For tickets and more information, call 239495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org.
Time for Three joins Gulf Coast Symphony Feb. 17
Time for Three (Tf3) transcends traditional classification, with elethe Czech Philharmonic and BBC Proms, and an appearance on the ments of classical, gypsy and jazz idioms forming a blend all its own. ABC prime time hit show “Dancing with the Stars.” Time for Three They are unique singer songwriters who bring their classical training traveled throughout Europe as a highlight act of the 2016 Night of to the forefront to create a contemporary experience that blends traThe Proms tour. ditional classical instruments with pop idiom. In 2014, Time for Three released their debut Universal Gulf Coas Symphony welcomes Time for Music Classics album, Time for Three, Three for a performance on Sunday, Feb. 17 at which spent seven consecutive weeks at 7 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts the Top 10 of Billboard’s Classical Hall at FSW in Fort Myers. Crossover Chart. The ensemble has also Tf3 members — Nicolas (Nick) Kendall, vioembarked on a major commissioning prolin; Charles Yang, violin; and Ranaan Meyer, grams to expand its unique repertoire for double bass — carry a passion for improvisasymphony orchestras, including Concerto tion, composition, and arrangements. Tf3’s high4-3, written by Pulitzer-Prize winning comenergy performances are free of conventional poser Jennifer Higdon, Travels in Time for practices, drawing instead from the members’ Three by Chris Brubeck, and Games and unique musical backgrounds. Their music Challenges by William Bolcom. Their latest appeals to audiences of all ages, and all musical project includes a three-year residency with tastes. the Sun Valley Summer Symphony where The group has performed hundreds of they premiered Elevation: Paradise in engagements as diverse as its music. Recent August 2015 and Free Souls, in July 2016. highlights include Carnegie Hall, appearances Tickets for the Feb. 17 concert start at with the Boston Pops, Baltimore Symphony $29 and may be purchased online at Orchestra, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Hong www.GulfCoastSymphony.org or by calling Kong Philharmonic, Melbourne and Sydney the Barbara B. Mann box office at 239Time for Three Symphony Orchestras, sold-out concerts with 481-4849. 58 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
Southwest Florida Symphony pays
tribute to Neil Diamond Feb. 16
The Southwest Florida Symphony continSeattle, Ogden Theatre in Denver, 930 Club ues its 58th season of pops concerts with in Washington DC, Irving Plaza in New York Super Diamond – A tribute to the much and many festivals, fairs, theaters and perloved, international pop icon Neil Diamond. forming arts centers. Super Diamond has Super Diamond performs the timeless clasalso appeared on The Late Show with David sics including “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” Letterman, CNN, Fox News, VH1 and have “Cherry Cherry;” “Song Sung Blue,” “Forever been featured in Rolling Stone Magazine, in Blue Jeans” and many more. The concert Spin and The New York Times. In 2011, takes place on Saturday, Feb. 16 at Barbara Super Diamond performed with the San B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. Diego Symphony during the Summer Pops Super Diamond’s success in America is Concert Series. unprecedented for a tribute band. With a Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is nod from Neil (the man himself), Super located at 13350 FSW Parkway in Fort Diamond has been embraced by the long Myers. Tickets cost between $25 and $105 time Neil Diamond fan-base and also found per person and are available by calling the Super Diamond huge popularity in the hip rock clubs of Southwest Florida Symphony box office at America. 239-418-1500, by visiting the Southwest Over the last ten years, Super Diamond has consistently sold out Florida Symphony Box Office located at 8290 College Parkway, Suite shows at most of America’s coolest rock venues such as The 103 in Fort Myers, by calling the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Fillmore and Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco, The House of Blues Hall box office at 239-481-4849 or online at www.swflso.org. Tickets (located in multiple major cities across the US) Showbox Theatre in are also available at the door one hour before the performance.
Aiyb Dieng at Davis Art Center Feb. 15
Aiyb Dieng
Jazzy Nights invites acclaimed musician Aiyb Dieng to downtown Fort Myers for a special concert. Dieng will be featured alongside some his longtime accompanists on Friday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. Joining Aiyb are Amina Claudine Myers, American jazz pianist, organist, vocalist, composer and arranger; Pheeroan akLaff, American jazz drummer; Charles Burnham, American violinist and composer; and Rachella ParksWashington, American saxophonist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist. Dieng was born and raised in Senegal, West Africa. By the age of 14, he was playing professionally in a band
that consisted of nine relatives. Dieng received his first album credit on Brian Eno and Jon Hassell's 1980 Fourth World, Vol. 1: Possible Musics, playing percussion on conga drums and a clay drum called ghatam. Soon after, he worked with jazz pianist Masabumi Kikuchi on Susto. Dieng also played on Mick Jagger's solo project, She's the Boss. Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 day of show. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District. For tickets and info, call 239-3331933 or visit www.sbdac.com.
Annual CREW concert, auction Feb. 16 in Bonita Springs
CREW Land & Water Trust will host the programs and provides resources used to 2019 CREW Concert Under the Stars on teach students of all ages about the imporSaturday, Feb. 16 from 5 to 9 p.m. at tance of preserving the Corkscrew Regional Riverside Park, located at 10451 Old 41 Ecosystem Watershed.” Road in Bonita Springs. High Voltage Band returns for this year’s This year’s concert will raise funds for concert, playing everything from Motown’s the Dr. David R. Cooper Education Fund, greatest hits to today’s Top 40 songs. named for the CREW Trust’s longest-servThe Rotary Club of Bonita Springs will ing volunteer, Dr. David Cooper, who sell wine and a selection of craft beer from passed away in May 2018. Momentum Brewhouse. Food vendors will “Dr. David was instrumental in introducalso be on site. Guests are encouraged to ing CREW to so many people and educatbring lawn chairs and blankets to sit and High Voltage ing them on the value of this important enjoy the concert; dogs and outside food watershed,” explained Brenda Brooks, and drink will not be permitted. executive director for CREW Land & Water Trust. “The education fund Sponsorship opportunities are available and include access to the was established in 2014 and renamed in January 2018 to honor Dr. VIP café. General admission tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the David and continue his passion for education. His legacy lives on gate; children 12 and under are free. through this fund, which provides support for our expanding education To purchase tickets or for more info, visit www.crewtrust.org. Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 59
MUSIC
Con Brio Quartet, Vienna Boys Choir at Shell Point
Paul Nadler to conduct Gulf Coast Symphony on March 3
The Gulf Coast Symphony welcomes guest conductor Paul Nadler on Sunday, March 3 at 7 p.m. Maestro Paul Nadler is an exciting and highly respected symphonic and operatic conductor who has led the Metropolitan Opera company in over 60 performances since his debut in 1989. In addition to being conductor emeritus of the Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, which he headed for 16 years, and principal guest conductor of the Filarmonica de Stat “Moldova” Iasi (Romania), he has conducted opera performances and led symphony orchestras throughout the United States and Canada, in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Maestro Nadler founded the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, where he remained as Music Director and Conductor through 1983. He is also the cofounder and music director of the International Vocal Arts Institute, where he returns each summer to teach at the prestigious professional workshop. In recent concerts with the Bucharest Philharmonic, Maestro Nadler has conducted Robert Schumann’s Third Symphony and the premiere of the piano concerto Lebenskraft by the Romanian composer Livia Teodorescu Ciocanea. Other recent engagements include: Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette at the Metropolitan Opera and Faust, Tosca, and The Barber of Seville with Opera Naples, as well as opening the season of Opéra Montréal with Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro. The March 3 program will include Schubert Rosamunde Overture, incidental music which has stood the test of time, despite the original play it was commissioned for being long lost; Dvo ák Symphonic Dances Op. 46 Nos. 1, 3 & 8, an impressive and ambitious orchestration that seeks to immortalize the Slavic rhapsody in a dance form, and Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 in c minor, Op. 68, which took Brahms a lengthy 21 years to perfect. Tickets for this concert featuring guest conductor Paul Nadler with the Gulf Coast Symphony March 3 start at $29 and may be purchased online at www.GulfCoastSymphony.org or by calling the box office at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW in Fort Myers at 239-481-4849.
Con Brio Quartet
The Shell Point Concerts & Conversations Series welcomes the Con Brio Quartet, Strings, on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. at The Grand Cypress Room at The Woodlands. Con Brio is a young ensemble comprised of four international musicians – violinists Valentin Mansurov and Marina Lenau, violist David Pedraza and cellist Aziz Sapaev. This young, global quartet has been thrilling audiences throughout the United States and abroad. Tickets cost $30 and may be purchased by calling the box office at 239-454-2067, or online at www.shellpoint.org.
The Shell Point Performing Arts Concert Series presents the Vienna Boys Choir on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. at The Village Church on The Island. Prepare for a heavenly evening with this venerable choir that has roots dating back five centuries. The Vienna Boys Choir singers, between the ages of 10 and 14, hail from dozens of nations and tour in Vienna Boys Choir groups of 25. The choir’s repertoire includes medieval, contemporary and experimental music. Individual tickets cost $40 and may be purchased by calling the box office at 239-454-2067, or online at www.shellpoint.org.
The Mersey Beatles at three SW Florida venues
The Mersey Beatles
60 - February 2019
The Mersey Beatles return to Southwest Florida in February with performances scheduled at three different venues. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Abbey Road, the band will play the entire album live followed by a set of greatest hits. This year the band will be joined by Julia Baird, the younger sister of John Lennon and the director of the Cavern Club in Liverpool, England. She will be meeting fans during the meet & greet, introducing the show, and signing copies of her book at the general merchandise table before and after the show, and during intermission.
Performances include the following: Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. Tickets $45 & $59 VIP available www.sbdac.com Tuesday, Feb 19 at 4 and 8 p.m. at TheatreZone, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples Tickets $50, $60 & $75 VIP available at www.theatre.zone Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Englewood Event Center, 3069 S. McCall Road. Tickets $32 & $49 VIP available www.etix.com Happenings Magazine
Cape Coral Irish Fest March 2 & 3
It’s that time again – for the Cape’s liveliest international family festival packed with Irish and Celtic sights and sounds March 2 and 3. Wear something green and head for the German American Social Club. The 15th annual Cape Coral Irish Festival entertainment includes great live Irish music. See the Screaming Orphans, Brendan Nolan, Jameson Celtic Rock, Rathkeltair, Albannach, West of Galway, Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfetones, the Lee County Pipes & Drums and Irish Step Dancers. The festival takes place at the
German American Social Club, 2101 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral. Parking is free and there’s lots of it. Sorry – no pets and no coolers. A children’s tent will have activities for kids 3-12. The Cape Irish Festival is sponsored by the Cape Coral Irish American Club. Check the website for details at capecoralirishfestival.com. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Satuday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday (mass at 10 a.m.). Pets and coolers are not allowed. Admission is $10 for adults, and those 12 and under are admitted free.
Screaming Orphans
Maksin-Gonzalez cello guitar duo Feb. 22 & 25
The Gulf Coast Symphony presents the Maksin-Gonzalez Cello Guitar Duo, in partnership with the Sanibel Community House and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Cellist Ian Maksin partners with Miami-based guitarist Michael Gonzalez for an evening of a music that spans a wide variety of musical genres: jazz, blues, flamenco, rock, R&B and world music, blending many styles together using cello as the common denominator. The first of two performances will be Friday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers (in their river pavilion). The Edison Ford river pavilion offers a beautiful river view and a chance to see a spectacu-
Michael Gonzalez
Ian Maksin
lar sunset. A limited number of seats will be provided; guests are encouraged to bring a
folding chair for the outdoor concert. Cash bar and free parking will be available. Tickets for this performance are $25 general admission or $20 for Edison Ford Winter Estates members. Buy online at www.GulfCoastSymphony.org or call 239334-7419 The second performance is set for Monday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. at the Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way. Tickets for this performance are $35. There will be space to dance if the mood strikes you. Refreshments and drinks will be available for purchase. For tickets, call 239-472-2155 or online at www.GulfCoastSymphony.org. For more information, call 239-277-1700. Tickets also available at the various venues.
Casey Weston pays tribute to Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac
Vinyl Vibes brings Casey Weston of The Voice to downtown Fort Myers when Gypsy: The Music of Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac will feature Weston singing all of their greatest hits on Wednesday, Feb. 20. When natural talent finds a home with passionate artistry and intense work ethic, the results are captivating. Casey Weston is proof. Currently 24 years old, she’s been writing songs and performing on stage for over a decade. First hitting the stage in her early teens in Naples, it wasn’t long before she had a loyal following that showed up to see her at coffee shops, bars and local events. Casey kept working on her songwriting and guitar skills and, just like hard work is known to do, it paid off. At only 17 years old, Casey won the Colgate Country Showdown in Arcadia, and by 18 she had already opened for Justin Moore, James Otto, John Anderson and Craig Morgan. It wasn’t long before nationwide exposure opportunities began knocking on Casey’s door. The first major opportunity came in the form of a new show on Happenings Magazine
NBC called The Voice. Competing under the coaching of Maroon 5’s Adam Levine, Casey finished as a semifinalist, gaining incomparable live performance experience and inevitable, wide-ranging international exposure. After performing with other Season 1 contestants on the season’s first live tour, Casey began collaborating with music makers (established industry greats and innovative newcomers alike) in her new home of Nashville. In 2015, Casey received her first major accolade as a songwriter, selected as one of only 17 songwriters for that years ASCAP GPS class. Currently headlining 70 shows a year, Casey is focusing on collaborating with other songwriters when she’s off the road in her home of Nashville. General admission tickets are $45 and VIP are $59. Cocktails starts at 7 p.m., and the performance is at 8 p.m. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District. For tickets and info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.
Casey Weston February 2019 - 61
MUSIC
Cher rocks Hertz Arena
Nile Rodgers opened the show Jan. 17.
Cher wowed a full house Jan. 17 at Hertz Arena in Estero as part of her Here We Go Again tour. Photos by Jamie Kuser
Air Supply at Seminole Casino Hotel Air Supply featuring Russell Hitchcock (left) and Graham Russell (right) gave a spectacular performance Jan. 12 in front of a sold out audience at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. Photos by Jamie Kuser
62 - February 2019
Happenings Magazine
LOCAL & LIVE MUSIC IN
Backstreets
SW FLORIDA
915 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 239-945-7555
The Barrel Room
2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-333-2225
Bert’s Bar & Grill
4271 Pine Island Rd Matlacha • 239-282-3232
Blue Flame
2059 Tamiami Trail East Naples • 239-774-6060
Blue Monkey Bar & Grille
7550 Mission Hills Drive suite 326, Naples 239-597-2583
Buckingham Blues Bar
5641 Buckingham Road Fort Myers 239-693-7111
The Buddha Bar
12701 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-482-8565
Cape Cabaret
4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000
The Cigar Bar
Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers 239-267-6020
The Center Bar at The Promenade
26811 S. Bay Drive #128 Bonita Springs 239-325-3583
The Cottage
1270 Estero Blvd., Ft Myers Beach 239-765-5440
Hotel Indigo
1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 239-337-3446
Hurricane Charley’s
300 W. Retta Espl, Punta Gorda 941-639-9695
Jacaranda
1233 Periwinkle, Sanibel 239-472-1771
The Keys Bar & Grille
9905 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers 239-433-3323
Lakehouse Bar & Grill
3401 Bay Commons Drive, Bonita Springs 239-948-4400
Lansdowne Street
24851 S. Tamiami Tr #7 Bonita Springs 239-495-3800
The Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd. Cape Coral 239-541-5600
Nervous Nellie’s 1131 First St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-8077
19030 San Carlos Blvd. Fort Myers Beach 239-313-6012
The Shell Factory 2787 N. Tamiami Trail North Fort Myers 239-995-2141
Smokin Oyster Brewery 340 Old San Carlos For Myers Beach 239-463-3474
Sneaky Pete’s
3465 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs 239-498-8887
The Stage
9144 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs 239-405-8566
Ter-Tini’s
1901 Crystal Drive, Fort Myers 239-344-6147
Tiki at Wyndham Garden
Paradise Tiki Hut at Dolphin Key
18051 S. Tamiami Trail Fort Myers 239-267-7900
255 13th Avenue S., Naples • 239-649-8200 1502 Miramar St. Cape Coral 239-540-8454
Fathoms
Pete’s Time Out
2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-3257 1005 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5900
Rhythm House Fishermen’s Village The 16440 S. Tamiami Trail 1200 W. Retta Esplan. Punta Gorda 941-639-8721
Shark Bar & Grill
6890 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5711
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
5785 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral 239-542-0123
506 S. 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007
Old Naples Pub
Dixie Roadhouse
1023 SE 47th Terrace Cape Coral 239-541-7900
Seminole Casino Hotel
Fort Myers 239-466-8326
Tiki Bar at Days Inn Twisted Vine Bistro 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-226-1687
The Village Pub
4360 Gulf Shore, Naples 239-262-2707
Whiskey Park
3380 Mercantile Ave., Naples • 239-263-6777
Yucatan Beach Stand
250 Old San Carlos Fort Myers Beach 239-333-4386
Some of the places to hear live music in SW Florida.
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 63
IN CONCERT
PERFORMANCES
MAR. 3
Gin Blossoms
IN SW FLORIDA
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
MAR. 8 & 9
Bonita Blues Fest
Riverside Park, Bonita Springs
FEB. 1
Eli Young Band
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
The Temptations & The Four Tops
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
FEB. 2
Tommy Castro & The Painkillers
MAR. 13
Steve Miller Band
Suncoast Credit Union Arena at FSW, Fort Myers The Eli Young Band will perform Feb. 1 at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers. For tickets, visit online at www.theranchfortmyers.com or call 239-985-9839.
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 15 continued
Little River Band
FEB. 22
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
Jackyl
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 23
FEB. 7
Paul Thorn Travis Tritt
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
FEB. 8
Alan Doyle
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 9
Josh Gracin
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
Al Di Meola
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 10
John Lodge
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Phil Vassar
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 11
Patti LaBelle
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
FEB. 15
Neal McCoy
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
The Orchestra
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee 64 - February 2019
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
FEB 15 & 16 Funk Fest
Downtown Punta Gorda
FEB. 16
The Zombies
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
Cody Jinks
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
FEB. 17
Los Lobos
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
Michael Bolton Artis–Naples
FEB. 19
Joe Bonamassa Hertz Arena, Estero
Dave Mason & Steve Cropper
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 20
Shinedown
Hertz Arena, Estero
Southside Johnny & The Asbury Dukes
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
Jamey Johnson
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
TobyMac
Hertz Arena, Estero
FEB. 24
The Drifters, Danny & The Juniors Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
FEB. 26
The Beach Boys
B. B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
FEB. 27
David Foster Artis–Naples ʻ
FEB. 28
Blood, Sweat & Tears Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
MAR. 1
Mark Chesnutt
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
MAR. 2
Wayne Newton
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
The Platters, Cornell Gunterʼs Coasters Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
MAR. 16
Stephen Bishop
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
MAR. 17 Chris Botti
B. B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
Lonestar
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
MAR. 20
David Allan Coe
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
Winger, Firehouse
MAR. 21
B. B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
MAR. 24 Clint Black Artis–Naples
MAR. 27
John Mellencamp
B. B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
MAR. 28
Jefferson Starship
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
MAR. 30 Tracy Byrd
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
APR. 5
John Michael Montgomery
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
APR. 6
KC & The Sunshine Band, Village People Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Happenings Magazine
Josh Gracin, Jamey Johnson,
Neal McCoy at The Ranch
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in play April 5 as part of the Sam Galloway Fort Myers has a full schedule of conConcert Series. Craig Campbell will percerts for the next few months. form May 4 at The Ranch. The Sam Galloway Concert Series The Sam Galloway Concert Series welcomes Josh Gracin on Feb. 9. A was started in the fall of 2014 to help Michigan native who grew up listening bring awareness to Community to country and R&B music, Josh Gracin Cooperative (The Soup Kitchen) and the catapulted to fame after auditioning for good work they do in the community. the second season of the hit television The concert series features rock and series American Idol. Josh, who was country artists on a regular basis at the serving in the United States Marine venue. Portions of the profits of each Corps at the time, quickly became a fan concert go to help Community favorite and won the hearts of viewers Cooperative feed the community. For with his strong fourth place finish on every pound of food donated, Sam Idol. Galloway Ford donates $1 to Following his appearance on the Community Cooperative. Concert goers series and the completion of his military are also encouraged to bring canned service (he was honorably discharged in food items to the concerts at The 2004), Josh Gracin released his selfRanch. titled debut album that summer. Three Other shows on the concert schedTop Five singles on the Billboard Hot ule at The Ranch include Eli Young Josh Gracin performs Feb. 9 at The Ranch as part of Country Singles & Tracks chart later, Band on Feb. 1, Cody Jinks on Feb. 16, the Sam Galloway Ford Concert Series. the Recording Industry Association of Mark Chesnutt on March 1, Collie America certified the album gold. Buddz on March 27 and Doug Stone on Neal McCoy will perform Feb. 15 as May 3. part of the Sam Galloway Concert Series. For tickets & details, visit www.ther2005 from his self-released That’s Life. Neal McCoy has released 15 studio albums anchfortmyers.com. The Ranch can be Adam Calhoun and Demun Jones will on various labels, and has released 34 sinreached at 239-985-9839. For most concerts, bring their Crazy White Boy Tour to The gles to country radio.In 1993, Neal McCoy the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Ranch on Feb. 21. broke through with the back-to-back number Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Deuterman Productions presents Jamey 1 singles No Doubt About It and Wink from Fort Myers. Johnson in concert on Feb. 22. Eleven-time his platinum-certified album No Doubt About Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter It.His commercial success continued into the Jamey Johnson is “one of the greatest late 1990s with two more platinum albums country singers of our time,” according to and a gold album, as well as six more Top the Washington Post. He is one of only a Ten hits. A seventh Top Ten hit, the number few people in the history of country music 10 Billy’s Got His Beer Goggles On, came in to win two Song of the Year Awards from both the CMA and ACMs. His 2008 album, That Lonesome Song, was certified platinum for 1 million in sales, and his 2010 ambitious double album, The Guitar Song, received a gold certification. Chris Lane performs March 23 as part of the Sam Galloway Concert Series. The Sam Galloway Concert Series welcomes Tracy Byrd to The Ranch on March 30. Tracy Byrd became a household name on the country music scene in 1993 when his third single, called “Holdin’ Heaven,” off of his MCA Records, self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the Billboard country charts. The album also included the remake hit of Johnny Paycheck’s “Someone to Give my Love to” cementing Byrd as a traditional country troubadour. The debut album went on to be certified Deuterman Productions presents Jamey gold, a reward signifying sales in Johnson in concert on Feb. 22 at The Ranch. The Sam Galloway Ford Concert Series welcomes excess of 500,000 copies. Photo by Jamie Kuser Neal McCoy on Feb. 15. John Michael Montgomery will Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 65
IN CONCERT
10th annual Funk Fest Feb. 15 & 16 in Punta Gorda
Edgewater Events announced Funk Fest will celebrate its 10th anniversary Feb. 15 and 16 in downtown Punta Gorda. Lettuce is scheduled to headline Funk Fest and perform Saturday, Feb. 16. Other festival musical acts include Papadosio, Here Come the Mummies, The Werks (Funk The Red Hot Chili Peppers), The Floatiez (Jamiroquai Jam), Voodoo Visionary, Joe Marcinek Band (featuring Melvin Seals, Alan Evans and Tony Hall), Funk You, Hedonistas and Banyan. New this year is Captain Nemo's Nautilus Lounge. This is a newly themed VIP experience for the tenth anniversary. It
Lettuce will headline Funk Fest Feb. 15 & 16 in Punta Gorda.
Here Come the Mummies
Bonita Blues Fest to be March 8 - 9
The date is set, the lineup complete and the tickets are on sale now for the 13th Annual Bonita Blues Festival, to be held on March 8 and 9 at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs. Both days will feature award winning blues music from around the country and a wide variety of food and other vendors. The March 8 schedule includes Gabe Stillman Band, Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Markey Blue Rick Latina Project, Albert Cummings and Southern Hospitality featuring Damon Fowler, JP Soars and Victor Wainwright. The March 9 schedule includes Eric Johanson, Angel Forrest Band, The Jimmys, Rusty Wright Band, Teresa James & the Rhythm Tramps and Johnny Rawls. Tickets to the festival are $60 in advance for a weekend pass, or $40 for Friday only or $45 for Saturday only. For tickets, visit www.bonitablues.com.
66 - Febraury 2019
comes complete with complimentary craft beer and boutique wine, cash liquor bar, bathrooms, leather couches, special effects, and up front stage access. Cash liquor bar, craft beers and boutique wines will be available in both VIP and general admission. The festival will also feature a food truck village, over 15 vendors and a larger festival grounds. For tickets and more event information, visit online at www.funkfestpuntagorda.com.
Hank Williams Jr. at Hertz Arena May 3
The legendary Hank Williams Jr. is coming to Hertz Arena in Estero on Friday, May 3 at 8 p.m. Hank Williams Jr.’s extremely impressive resume has spawned 70 million albums sold worldwide, six platinum albums, 20 gold albums, 13 No. 1 albums and 10 No. 1 singles. Marking 52 years since his first album in 1964, Hank Jr. released It’s About Time (Nash Icon Records) on Jan. 15. In addition to the historyHank Williams Jr. making “Are You Ready for the Country,” the project includes new tunes such as “Dress Like an Icon,” “Just Call Me Hank,” “It’s About Time,” and “The Party’s On” as well as re-recorded versions of classics “Mental Revenge” and “Born to Boogie” with Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore and Brad Paisley on guitar. It’s About Time is Hank’s 37th album in his five-decade career. For tickets, visit www.hertzarena.com. Happenings Magazine
Blood Sweat & Tears, The Orchestra, Lonestar The Orchestra - Feb. 15
Lonestar - March 17
and John Lodge at Seminole Casino Hotel
KC & The Sunshine Band, Village People April 6 at outdoor concert
Hotel Immokalee on Sunday, March 17 at 7 p.m., Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment has with doors opening at 6 p.m. Advance tickets are teamed up with Seminole Casino Hotel in on sale for $79. Immokalee and has a busy lineup of concerts in Frankie Avalon, Fabian and Bobby Rydell the next few months. (also known as Dick Fox’s Golden Boys) will be The Temptations and the Four Tops will perlive in concert Saturday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at form at Seminole Casino Hotel on Feb. 1 at 8 the Seminole Casino Hotel. Tickets are available p.m. This show has sold out. Also in February, for $110. Travis Tritt will play at Seminole Casino Feb. 7 at KC & The Sunshine Band with special guests 8 p.m. This show has also sold out. Village People will be live in concert at Seminole On Sunday, Feb. 10, John Lodge of the Moody Casino Hotel Immokalee on Saturday, April 6 at Blues will perform at 7 p.m. Tickets are available 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. All seats are for $59. John Lodge is bass guitarist, vocalist and reserved for this outdoor concert. Advance ticksongwriter for the iconic rock band The Moody ets are $60 and $25. VIP seating is available for Blues. Songwriter of such mega Moody Blues hits $139 and includes priority seating and complifrom “Ride My SeeSaw,” to “I’m Just A Singer (In mentary beer, wine and soda. A Rock and Roll Band),” “Isn’t Life Strange?” and KC & the Sunshine Band have been entermany more, Lodge has been performing and recording with The Moody Blues for more than taining audiences around the world for over 37 five decades, selling in excess of 70 million years, and have sold in excess of 100 million KC & The Sunshine Band - April 6 albums. records. Their first record, “Blow Your Whistle,” The Orchestra, starring former members of made the top 15 on the R&B chart. Their second Electric Light Orchestra, will be live in concert at album, “KC & The Sunshine Band,” was released Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Friday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m., in 1975, went triple platinum and contained the #1 hits “Get Down with doors opening at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are on sale for $79. Tonight,” “That’s the Way (I Like It),” “Boogie Shoes” and “Rock Your The Drifters with special guests Danny & The Juniors will perform Baby.” The group’s third album, “Part 3,” released in 1976, also went at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Sunday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m., triple platinum and contained the #1 singles “I’m Your Boogie Man,” with doors opening at 6 p.m. Advance tickets are on sale for $59. “Shake Your Booty” and “Keep It Comin’ Love.” Blood Sweat & Tears (BS&T) will be live in concert at Seminole For 40 years, the music of Village People has been putting Casino Hotel Immokalee on smiles on the faces of fans all Thursday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m., with around the world. Their hits have doors opening at 7 p.m. Advance become part of the international tickets are on sale for $69. songbook – and heard in commerThe Platters and Cornell cials from Pepsi to Wonderful Gunter’s The Coasters will perPistachios. In fact, the iconic form their iconic music at “Y.M.C.A” (along with its dance) is Seminole Casino Hotel featured at almost every party, wedImmokalee on Saturday, March 2 ding, bar mitzvah, and sporting at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 event. p.m. Tickets are available for $59. Tickets for all these shows are Jay Goldberg Events and available by phone at 1-800-514Entertainment presents Lonestar ETIX or online at www.moreinparVillage People - April 6 live in concert at Seminole Casino adise.com or www.jaytv.com. Happenings Magazine
Febraury 2019 - 67
FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
Jill Lindsay was the featured artist in the main gallery of Arts for ACT Gallery in January.
FIRST FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH (rain or shine) 6 - 10 PM
The next Art Walk is Friday, Feb. 1.
Digital surrealism artist Kathy Kuser was featured at Arts for ACT Gallery in January.
68 - February 2019
Guy Tieman was the featured artist at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in January with his exhibit “Connecting the Dots.”
Happenings Magazine
Ivy Cottage Antiques & Treasures 2259 Widman Way
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with our lovely scented candles.
Fort Myers River District (239) 226-0025
6,000 square feet filled with treasures
Fine Antiques to Shabby & Cottage Chic. Vintage Treasures of times gone by. Collectibles, Lighting, Candles, Home Decor and so much more.
Tuesday through Friday 11 - 5, Saturday 11 - 4
DIRECTIONS: Downtown Fort Myers ... Take MLK ... Look for the Oasis Restaurant. Turn on to Hendry Street, then left on Widman Way. We are directly one block BEHIND the Oasis Restaurant. FREE PARKING.
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 69
FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
New route for Edison Grand Parade Feb. 16
On Saturday, Feb. 16, people from all over the world will be lining the streets along US 41 and throughout the downtown River District to watch the biggest night parade in the Southeast. People have been watching the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade for more than 80 years. Some have had the same family spot for decades and mark their spots well in advance. This year, a few favorite viewing spots will change due to a new route to accommodate the construction for the newest downtown hotel. Some of those spots have already been marked off along Monroe Street. City of Fort Myers officials work closely with festival planners each year to solidify the best route for the Grand Parade given what is happening in the area at the time. Most years, the route doesn’t fluctuate. In 2010, the direction of the parade changed. The route stayed the same and the traditional viewing spots remained the same. 70 - February 2019
However the route was reversed; the Grand Parade began at Fort Myers High and finished in the downtown River District, which was beneficial to businesses and those participating in the parade. Marking your spot for the Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade? • DO NOT plan to sit on Monroe Street or Edwards Drive in front of Harborside Event Center. • Instead, mark your spot on Main Street or Hendry. (see route map) • Or find a prime spot on US 41 between Lions Park and MLK. • Additional reserved seats can be purchased from non-profit groups along the parade route. You can just show up on parade day and your spot and chair will be waiting. More than 200,000 people attend the parade and there are more than 200 units including floats, marching bands, trucks, dignitaries, and much more participating! For more information about the route or other Edison Festival of Light activities visit www.edisonfestival.org. Happenings Magazine
Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing Feb. 5
Celebrate the Edison Festival of Light and help feed the hungry by attending Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing Tuesday, Feb. 5 at The First Presbyterian Church in downtown Fort Myers at the corner of Second and Lee streets. It’s the 30th anniversary of the hymn sing, which is organized and sponsored by the Galloway Family of Dealerships. Because of the overwhelming popularity of the event, three performances are planned at 1, 4 and 7 p.m. The doors will open 30 minutes prior to each performance. Admission is free, but because of the increased need for food for the hungry, organizers are requesting that those who attend bring cans of non-perishable food and a voluntary cash donation, if possible, to benefit The Soup Kitchen of Community Cooperative. “We need to help The Soup Kitchen by donating as much canned goods and cash as we can to help families who most need it in our community,” said Sam Galloway, Jr., founder of Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing.
Community Cooperative provides 15,000 meals each month in addition to other services. “There are even more families who need our help. Do what God would want you to do and give what you can,” said the Rev. Dr. Paul deJong of First Presbyterian Church. Community Cooperative was started by First Presbyterian Church along with other downtown churches in 1984 to help alleviate hunger and suffering in Lee County. The church has continued to support its ministry there by providing volunteers in The Soup Kitchen and delivering hot meals to home-bound seniors. Galloway, who originated the hymn sing in 1989, said he wanted to do something to honor Mrs. Mina Edison during the Edison Festival celebration. “We hear a great deal about the wonderful work of Thomas Alva Edison, but we don’t do a lot to honor his wife who also volunteered a great deal of her time and talent to making Fort Myers what it is today. This hymn sing
is a way to honor her good work too,” Galloway said. This year’s event will feature the First Presbyterian Sanctuary Choir and many other singers, including members of the Mastersingers, Guest Soloists, along with a Piano-Organ Combination. In addition to Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing, the Galloway Family of Dealerships also sponsors the
Free Monthly
Acoustic Concerts Cornog Plaza Amphitheatre
very popular Christmas Carol Sing in December. Both events benefit The Soup Kitchen of Community Cooperative. For more information or directions to the church, call 239-3342261 or visit online at www.fpcfortmyers.org. For more information about Community Cooperative, call 239-332-SOUP or visit www.communitycooperative.com.
Songwriters
on the Plaza Fort Myers Library, First Street, Downtown
Second Tuesday of each month 6 to 7:30 pm
Bring a chair or blanket. Shows will be moved indoors depending on weather. www.AmericanACMA.org
ICHIBAN Japanese & Chinese Cuisine Ask about our
High Definition SUSHI Special
Six Day Lunch Menu!
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Saturday Noon - 11 p.m. Fast Friendly Service and Soft Music!
1520 Broadway • Suite 105
DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS Tel: (239) 334-6991 • Fax (239) 334-6591 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com Happenings Magazine
Located at the Entrance to the
Hotel Indigo
February 2019 - 71
FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
ACMA and library
Car show Feb. 2 at Edison Ford
Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show on Saturday, Feb. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each year, classic car owners and club members exhibit more than 100 cars on the Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River as a tribute to Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile industry. Along with the car show, there will be music, food trucks and visitors can tour the gardens, museum, laboratory and see the historic homes. This family event is free for Edison Ford members and $20 for non-members, which includes a self-guided tour of the entire site. A special combination ticket for the antique, Thunderbird and Mustang car shows is available for $30 (online only). A portion of the proceeds will benefit the restoration of the antique Ford car collection. Registrations are being accepted for Ford models 1980 and older. To register a car, visit www.EdisonFord.org and download the registration form. The deadline for registration is Jan. 30, and the fee is $20 for one car and $10 for each additional car (includes admission for the registered participant and one passenger).
present Songwriters on the Plaza Feb. 12
Songwriters on the Plaza will be Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 6 p.m. and feature Joe Virga, Bill Metts and Bruce Gallant. The Lee County Library has joined with The ACMA to offer free acoustic concerts of all original music. Concerts will take place in the amphitheater, which is located on South Cornog Plaza. Bring a chair or a blanket, shows will be moved indoors depending on weather. If needed the show will be indoor in the South Building that is attached to Talking Books Library. The address is 1651 Lee St., next to the Second Street Parking lot. Come hear great original music and the stories behind the songs in an intimate songwriters showcase. Be prepared to enjoy an evening of professional quality acoustic Americana music. Joe Virga is a founding ACMA member. Joe Virga Joe's unwavering support as much as his great voice and songwriting skills. Joe Virga Learned to play Guitar while serving his country on a helicopter carrier during the Vietnam war. Upon his return he began playing in the Greenwich Village at the legendary Folk City (Gurdies). He learned about the music cooperative while there and became a member. The coop became a Mecca for the second folk music scene in New York City. Its membership included such performers as Susan Vega, Rod McDonald, Michelle Shocked, Christine Laven, John Gorka, Cliff Eberhart, David
Roth, Dave VonRonk, Hugh Blumenfeld and Mark Dan. Tragedy struck Joe around that time when his wife passed away, and he was left with two small children to raise. Years later when his children were older, he began singing with Burgers & Mayo in the NY area which featured the late great Bob Mayo. Joe is a writer and guitar player and a great lead and background vocalist Bill Metts says, “I started playing guitar when I was 19 during the country blues revival of the late 60s. I fell in love with the music of Taj Mahall, Mississippi John Hurt, Doc Watson and others of that ilk. Just about everything that I have done since then has been in that down home finger-picking style. I had the honor of being asked to perform at the annual Mississippi John Hurt Blues Festival in Avalon, Ms., in 2011. All types of music move me I but prefer to play and sing traditional Americana roots music.” Bruce Gallant has been writing songs for more than 30 years. His songs reflect the different times in his life, And he considers them his journal. Bruce played in several original music bands And performed at many events. Bruce, along with his wife Cecile have 2 CD’s “Her and ME” and “Living in Paradise.” Currently, Bruce dedicates himself to Hope By Song And has written over 50 songs for HBS Visiit www.americanacma.org for more details.
Garden Festival Feb. 9-10 at Edison Ford Estates
On Feb. 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Feb. 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual winter Garden Festival on Feb. 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Feb. 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 40 garden vendors from all over the state of Florida will have exotic and tropical flowering plants and trees for sale. "If you're looking for a really unique plant that you don't already have, this is the place to find it," said Debbie Hughes, senior horticulturist with Edison and Ford Winter Estates. "I hope everyone will spend the day shopping for plants and enjoying some great music and food with us." The Edison Garden Shoppe will be open and stocked with unusual tropical, native and heritage plants that have been 72 - February 2019
proven to thrive in Southwest Florida. Ceramic flower pots, vegetable and flower seeds, garden art, and gardening gift items will also be available. Vendors will be on site with palms, fruit trees, vegetables, bromeliads, hibiscus, butterfly plants, African violets, orchids, air plants, herbs, succulents, cacti and many
hard-to-find species. Vendors will also offer garden supplies and gift items, such as mulch, trellises, pottery, cut flowers, hats, jewelry and artwork. The festival will feature live music, Millennial Brewing Company will have a special brew made from Edison Ford citrus, and several food trucks will be on site. There will also be a kids gardening activity for the little gardeners. A limited number of carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants. A designated plant holding tent and loading spot will be offered for anyone needing assistance. Parking and admission to the festival is free (tours of the homes, museum and lab are not included). For more information, call 239-334-7419 or visit www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.
Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
February 2019 - 73
DINING
IN
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Bert’s Bar & Seafood Grill
Deep Lagoon Seafood
Bert’s Bar offers dockside dining and live music with a million dollar view. Bert’s Bar is a one-of-a-kind waterfront restaurant offering delicious fresh seafood, Black Angus burgers, refreshing brews and beautiful views, all at reasonable prices. Savor all you can eat fried shrimp on Wednesdays (4 to 9) and all you can eat fish fry on Fridays (4 to 9). Enjoy steel drum entertainment on the dock during the day Wednesday to Sunday and live entertainment nightly from national bands and Southwest Florida’s favorite local bands. Boaters are welcome.
Nestled in the heart of Florida lies a place just off the beaten path where the drinks are colder, the fish is fresher and the food is tastier. Where you can breathe easy, be casual and take in the sights and sounds of everything that is “Real Florida.” A Fresh Twist on Coastal Casual, we feature a wide variety of menu options to satisfy the appetite of any guest. We offer the freshest product available, with daily deliveries from our local fishing partner Island Crab Company. Happy Hour from 11 am - 6 pm featuring small plates from $5 - $8.
Capt’n Fishbones Seafood Grill
EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill
4271 Pine Island Road, Matlacha 239-282-3232 www.BertsBar.com
Capt'n Fishbones at The Shell Factory has moderately priced lunches, dinners and a full selection of cocktails. We serve Florida favorites like shrimp, crab cakes, fish fries, burgers and sandwiches. Enjoy the great tropical weather at Dogbones Café or the Swamp Bar and Patio where even the four legged "children" are welcome. Large group rates are available for lunches, dinners, special events and meetings. We’re open daily at 11 a.m. with daily specials and Happy Hour all day, every day. Hear live entertainment in the Swamp Patio daily 4 7 p.m. Classic car shows every Thursday 4 - 7 p.m.
2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 239-995-2141 www.shellfactory.com
Cape Cabaret
Cape Cabaret offers dining, dancing and live music Tuesday through Saturday. We feature a full dinner menu prepared by executive chef Ryan Cook, two full bars, two hardwood dance floors and live music from the ‘50s to the ‘90s. See your favorite bands perform on our 30-foot stage equipped with the latest state of the art sound and light systems. Have your next private party or corporate event in our ballroom or banquet room. Happy Hour & Early Bird Specials 4 to 5:30 p.m. Entrees, house wines, wells all at 50% discount. Walk-ins always welcome or call reservation hotline.
4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000 www.capecabaret.com
74 - February 2019
10395 Tamiami Trail N, Naples 239-631-6266 14040 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-689-5474 www.deeplagoon.com
Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled a completely redesigned EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill that enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections. The new interior design of the EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill is elegant yet comfortable and features a theaterstyle kitchen that allows for transparency as chefs prepare dishes “from scratch” to the table. The EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill menu features contemporary regional cuisines utilizing the freshest selections of Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, and an array of locally-sourced produce. The wide-ranging menu offers pastas, house made soups, steaks, seafood and chef specialty items including award- winning fajitas, pork osso bucco and the ever-popular braised short rib pot roast.
506 South 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Lucky Mi
Asian-inspired upscale restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled several creative new menu items that further enhance the dining experience. In addition to Avocado Tempura, Sesame Seared Tuna, and Shanghai Ribs, Lucky Mi has added hot rocks house specials that allow guests to cook their own entrees to perfection at the table on volcanic rock heated to 575 degrees.
506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Happenings Magazine
Ichiban Japanese & Chinese
Located at the entrance to the Hotel Indigo, we offer a wide selection of Japanese and Chinese menu items. Stop by for lunch or dinner. They are open six days a week (closed Sundays).
1520 Broadway, #105, Downtown Fort Myers 239-334-6991 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com
Pinchers at The Marina at Edison Ford
Located on the historic Caloosahatchee River and offering the best riverfront dining experience and sunset views, Pinchers at the Marina at Edison Ford is the place for the freshest seafood. Caught from local waters by local fishermen, Pinchers brings the best catch from the water to the table. With 2 for 1 Happy Hour all day every day and kids eat free, Pinchers is Florida Seafood, Florida Style. Pinchers has 13 Florida locations including Key West, Tin City Naples, Bonita Springs, Tarpon Point Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Gulf Coast Town Center.
2360 West First St., Fort Myers 239-245-7049 www.pinchersusa.com
Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort
There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort. Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days. Kitchen open late.
1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 239-540-8454 www.dolphinkeyresort.com
Happenings Magazine
Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse
With a goal of bringing a first-class experience and barbeque product Texas Tony’s Rib and Brew House was born. Tony Phelan grew up in Texas, took those roots and his love of Texas barbeque and set out on a plan of introducing a unique brand of barbeque to Southwest Florida. Taking a combination of Hickory and Oak woods to smoke with and cooking at low temperatures, it created the perfect formula for Award-Winning Barbeque. Texas Tony’s barbeque is “all about the rub and the ring.” The rub is made from his secret recipe. The ring occurs when you smoke meat over a long period of time; the pink is where the smoke has permeated the meat.
4519 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 239-732-8392 www.texastonys.com
Twisted Vine Bistro
Twisted Vine Bistro located in downtown Fort Myers' historic River District, prides itself on an extraordinary dining experience. We offer only the freshest seafood, certified Angus Beef, and other unique innovative entrees. We also feature an extensive boutique wine list, with more than 30 wines by the glass. Twisted Vine Bistro grows our house herbs and spices in our courtyard garden! We can accommodate small private event parties for after hours, social gatherings or rehearsal dinners. Dinner is served seven nights a week. The Twisted Vine Bistro has expanded with the opening of The Barrel Room featuring live music and a late menu. The Barrel Room now offers a jazz brunch on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2214 Bay Street, Fort Myers 239-226-1687 www.twistedvinebistro.com
The Veranda
The Veranda's romantic setting in two turn-of-the-century homes, combined with our Southern Regional Cuisine, an extensive wine list, and first class service staff will provide you with the most unique dining experience in SW Florida. Celebrating 40 years in business, The Veranda is consistently honored as one of the most award-winning restaurants in the area.
2122 Second St., Fort Myers 239-332-2065 www.verandarestaurant.com February 2019 - 75
COMEDY CLUB CALENDAR
FEBRUARY FRI - 1
Matthew Broussand 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Steve Trevino 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Bobby Collins 8:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 2
Matthew Broussand 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Steve Trevino 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Bobby Collins 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SUN - 3
Steve Trevino 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
WED - 6
Sonya White 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe DeRay Davis 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Etta May 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 8 continued
THU - 14
SUN - 17
Etta May 8:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Kevin Nealon 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Kevin Nealon 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
ISMO 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
SAT - 9
Trish Keating 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe ISMO 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Etta May 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SUN - 10
John Carfi 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe ISMO 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
WED - 13
Mike Adams 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Frank Del Pizzo 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Mike Adams 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Frank Del Pizzo 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 15
David Merry 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Kevin Nealon 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Frank Del Pizzo 8:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 16
David Merry 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Kevin Nealon 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Frank Del Pizzo 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Laugh In Comedy Cafe 8595 College Parkway, Fort Myers 239-479-5233 laughincomedycafe.com
THU - 7
Trish Keating 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe ISMO 6 p.m. DeRay Davis 8 & 10 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Etta May 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 8
Trish Keating 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe 76 - February 2019
David Merry 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
WED - 20
Jimmy Keys 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Russ Nagel 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 22 continued Russ Nagel 8:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 23
Jen Kober 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Jon Rudnitsky 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Russ Nagel 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
THU - 21
SUN - 24
Jon Rudnitsky 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Jon Rudnitsky 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Jen Kober 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Russ Nagel 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 22
Jen Kober 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Jon Rudnitsky 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Michael Walters 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
MON - 25
Chad Daniels 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
TUE - 26
Lucas Bohn 8 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
WED - 27
Lucas Bohn 6:30 p.m. Gary Owen 8:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Mike Marino 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
THU - 28 Off the Hook Comedy Club 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, unit #1100, Naples 239-389-6901 offthehookcomedy.com
The Comedy Zone at Visani Restaurant 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte 941-764-3463 visani.net
Comedy Club calendar online at HappeningsMagazine.net
David Rosenblatt 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Lucas Bohn 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Russ Nagel 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
* schedules subject to change Happenings Magazine
KEY WEST
Little River Band will perform Feb. 13 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West. Little River Band features Wayne Nelson on bass and lead vocals, Chris Marion on keyboards and vocals, Colin Whinnery on guitar and lead vocals (left), Ryan Ricks on drums and vocals (center) and Rich Herring on lead guitar and vocals (right). For tickets, call the box office at 305-295-7676 or buy online at www.keystix.com. Photos by Jamie Kuser
Key West offers
destination concerts
Key West offers a great opportunity for travelers to explore the uniqueness of Key West and see some of their favorite national artists perform in concert (indoors and outside). At least four concert venues host national artists. They include the Tennessee Williams Theatre at 5901 College Road, the Key West Theater at 512 Eaton St., the cityowned Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park and the Sunset Green Event Lawn at 24 North Hotel at 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Little River Band returns to the Tennessee Williams Theatre on Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. Through the ‘70s and ‘80s, LRB enjoyed huge chart success with multi-platinum albums and chart topping hits like: “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” “Lonesome Loser,” “The Night Owls,” “Take It Easy On Me” and “Help Is on Its Way. For tickets, call 305-295-7676 or buy online at www.keystix.com At the Key West Theater, the music schedule includes Al Di Meola on Feb. 5, Travis Tritt on Feb. 6 (sold out), Gaelic Storm on Feb. The Beach Boys will play April 4 9, Los Lobos Feb. 14 (two shows), at 24 North Hotel. Justin Hayward on Feb. 18, Jake Happenings Magazine
Shimabukuro on Feb. 22, 10,000 Maniacs on March 7, Bret Michaels on March 17, Joan Osborne on March 23, Jefferson Starship on March 27, Richard Marx on April 14 and Martin Barre on May 2. For tickets and other show info at the Key West Theater, visit online at www.thekeywesttheater.com. As for the outdoor venues ... The Beach Boys will perform at the Sunset Green Event Lawn on April 4. At the Key West Amphitheater, The Revivalists with Rayland Baxter are scheduled to perform April 6. Located at the new Truman Waterfront, the Key West Amphitheater is situated near Fort Zachary with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico from the top of the lawn - don't miss the world famous Key West Sunset on show day. With a grassy general admission lawn, intimate reserved seats, and a one of kind panoramic backdrop, the amphitheater provides the perfect entertainment space for all music fans. For tickets to Rams Head concerts at Sunset Green Event Lawn at Sunset Green Event Lawn and Key West Ampitheater, visit www.keywestconcertseries.com. February 2019 - 77
KEY WEST
Old Island Days Art Festival Feb. 23 & 24
The Old Island Days Art Festival is a two-day juried outdoor fine art festival. This nationally recognized show brings over 100 fine artists to this beautiful historic area of Key West. Exhibitors will set up along Whitehead Street from Greene Street to Eaton, and on Caroline Street through the famous Presidential Gates into the beautiful Truman Annex. Set among historical attractions such as Audubon House, the Little White House and Mel Fisher Museum, the City of Key West closes two blocks of Whitehead Street and another block of Caroline Street to vehicle traffic for the show. Visitors can leisurely browse the beautiful displays of paintings from watercolor to oil and acrylic, decorative sculpture, photography and other fine arts from the selected artists. Tropical themes are abundant here, but contemporary and traditional styles make something for everyone! The show, which is in its 54th year, is sponsored by the Key West Art Center, and was originally held to raise money for the renovation of the building at 301 Front Street. That building is now home for the KWAC and displays works by the 60 plus local members. The first show was held on the sidewalk on Front Street, near the current gallery and artists used clothespins to
attach their work to the fence in front of the old Custom’s House. Since then the show has been held annually and grown from just local artists and now includes exhibitors from across the country and Canada. The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 23 and 24 at Whitehead and Caroline streets in Old Town Key West. For more information, visit online at www.keywestartcenter.com or call 304-294-1243.
GardenFest Feb. 16 - 17
The chance to explore a unique “living museum” and view and purchase rare plants awaits nature lovers Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 16 and 17, during “GardenFest Key West: The Green Market Place 2019” at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden. Themed “Re-greening the Keys,” the event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday in the historic garden at 5210 College Road. The property is acclaimed as the only frost-free tropical moist forest garden in the continental United States. Visitors can browse and buy a wide variety of tropical and native plants, including more than 150 species of native 78 - February 2019
plants in the garden’s nursery, as well as earth-based and nature-themed arts and crafts. Other planned attractions include exhibits by conservation-oriented nonprofit organizations, educational presentations and demonstrations, live music, a program for kids, refreshments and an on-site “beer garden.” At 1:30 p.m. Saturday, garden aficionados can expand their knowledge at a presentation titled “Hydro-Culture and Organic Gardening in the Keys.” The presenter is Marjorie Townsend, owner/operator of Key West’s Townsend Family Organic Farms. A highlight of GardenFest is the
chance to discover and learn about the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, which shelters many threatened and endangered species and showcases flora native to South Florida, Cuba and the Caribbean. Guided tours led by knowledgeable docents are to be offered twice daily. Rich in biodiversity, the garden features two wetland habitats, national and state champion trees, two butterfly gardens, seasonal flowers, a music garden and many other attractions for nature enthusiasts to explore. GardenFest is an annual fundraiser for the botanical garden. Admission is free. For more event information, visit online at www.keywest.garden For Key West visitor information, go to www.fla-keys.com/keywest Happenings Magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS
Conch Blowing Contest
March 2 An island tradition for over 50 years, this unique contest celebrates the historic importance of conch in the Keys and features contestants in several age categories attempting to make “music” with fluted conch shells. Contest located in the garden of the Oldest House, 322 Duval Street, free and open to all ages. Registration begins at 10 a.m., contest starts at noon. www.oirf.org
First Thursdays Art Walk
Feb. 7, March 7 from 6 - 9 p.m. Join Studios Key West and Guild Hall Gallery as they host receptions for new works, artists, designers, book signings and jewelry trunk shows. Key West Local Luxe presents a trunk show of the decorative arts which includes galleries and boutiques and design studios, spanning from Studios of Key West at Eaton and Simonton, to Guild Hall Gallery on Duval and all the galleries and boutiques in the 500 block of Fleming & neighbors. 305-296-0458
Happenings Magazine
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Mile 0 Fest Key West
KEY WEST Artisan Market
Jan. 29 - Feb. 2 Mile 0 Fest Key West is a new music festival considered a “must see” in the burgeoning Red Dirt & Americana music scene. Take in big shows at Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheatre, a state-of-theart facility located blocks off the hopping streets of Duval, or get into a stripped down acoustic set with your favorite band leader at one of the theaters or bars off Duval. Many activities and memorable experiences await. www.mile0fest.com
Feb. 10 & 24, March 10 & 24 Art, food, wine, craft beer, shopping and entertainment. Free admission, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at a new location, Higgs Beach. January dates are Jan. 13 & 27. Bring your reusable bags. facebook.com/keywestartisanmarket
Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Annual Ocean Fest
April 19 - 28
With activities such as a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, the Conch Republic’s 10day birthday party showcases the independent and eccentric spirit that characterizes the Florida Keys. www.fla-keys.com
Key West Home Tours
Feb. 15 - 16 & March 15 - 16 Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, the annual self-guided tours from 3 - 6 p.m. each day showcase festively dressed Key West homes and gardens. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 day-of-tour. Proceeds benefit the foundation’s museum and programs. www.keywesthometours.com April 13 From 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at NOAA’s Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center and Truman Waterfront. Underwater and outdoor enthusiasts, eco-travelers and families are encouraged to celebrate the marine environment as we explore conservation exhibits, view and purchase wares from local artists and vendors, experience touch tanks, and listen to live music all while raising funds for coral reef research and restoration. www.mote.org
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