March 2021 Happenings Magazine - SW Florida by SW FL Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Music • Calendar

MARCH 2021

FREE

LIVE &

LOCAL MUSIC Deb Biela of Deb & The Dynamics

Naples • Fort Myers • Cape Coral • Port Charlotte • Bonita Springs

Publisher’s Spotlight

It’s show time

Despite the pandemic continuing, we still have plenty of theatrical venues putting on shows in a safe environment for audiences and their casts and crew. The Naples Players are doing their final production outside before hopefully returning to the indoors of Sugden Theatre in April. Footloose is being presented at Baker Park Feb. 25 through March 7. Clue will be on stage at Hinman Auditorium in Bonita Springs March 26 28. The Off Broadway Palm is wrapping up its final performances of ‘Til Theft Do Us Part. That show runs through March 6. Next up on the Off Broadway Palm stage in Fort Myers will be Nana Does Vegas, playing March 11 through April 25. In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater is reprising its first play from when they first opened their doors 58 years ago. Gore Vidal’s comedy Visit to a Small Planet will be presented on stage March 25 through April 4. The Laboratory Theater of Florida has returned to in-person performances. Botticelli in the Fire is being performed Feb. 26 through March 14 in Fort Myers. TheatreZone is moving forward with its next production in the 2021 Showstopper Series. Those Were the Days will be staged March 4 - 14 at the G & L Theatre in Naples. On Your Feet has opened at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers. This musical follows the journey of Gloria and Emilio Estefan and is on the local stage now through April 10. The Charlotte Players present Neil Simon’s Proposals March 11 through March 28 at the Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte. For the mystery lovers, the Murder Mystery Dinner Train is back up and running in Fort Myers. Meanwhile, the FGCU Theatre Program is hard at work on an upcoming virtual production. Sweet and Sad will be presented April 16 April 25.

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IN THIS ISSUE

theatre

Sanibel Music Festival

March is usually a grand month on the island of Sanibel for chamber and classical concerts. Unfortunately, the pandemic continues its grip on the arts scene, and the Sanibel Music Festival will not be producing six or seven big concerts this year. Instead, the organizers have decided to promote the talents of emerging local artists from Florida Gulf Coast University. Two outdoor concerts are scheduled for March 23 & 30 featuring young talent. The SMF plans to be back in full swing with a very powerful 2022 concert schedule.

More concerts

Some of our concert venues are picking up the pace on national entertainers coming to Southwest Florida. Hertz Arena in Estero welcomes the Little River Band on March 28 for a socially distanced show. This is not a rescheduled or postponed concert. Meanwhile, Hertz Arena’s revised concerts include Toby Keith on April 30, Brit Floyd on May 27, Alabama on June 11, Casting Crowns on Oct. 22 and Chris Stapleton on Nov. 11. The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers is keeping busy with some rock and country concerts. The Ranch schedule includes Parmalee on March 5, The Red Clay Strays on March 13, Collie Buddz on March 18, Tracy Lawrence on March 19, The Lacs on April 3, Craig Morgan on April 10, Joe Nichols on April 17, Pryor and Lee on May 7, Mike Tramp & John Corabi on May 25, Kix & Vixen on June 17, Sebastian Bach on July 2 and Slaughter with LA Guns on July 24. The Tedeschi Trucks Band’s rescheduled show for Aug. 20 is still on the books at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. Unfortunately, no concerts have been announced yet from our friends at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. We’re keeping our fingers crossed. Rock on,

Jamie

art

music

dining

54 Publishers & Owners

Jamie & Kathy Kuser

Contributors: Holly Zammerilla, Michael Moran, Kathy Kuser, Dan Mearns, Bob Williams Advertising sales: Jamie Kuser & Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Distribution: Jeff Morrill & Aley Enterprises Happenings A&E Magazine is owned, published & distributed monthly in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties by KMK Publishing Inc.

MAILING ADDRESS:

PO Box 9285, Fort Myers, FL 33902

(239) 278-5236

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THEATRE

The Naples Players present

Footloose at Baker Park

The Naples Players’ alternative, outdoor season of events comes to a close with the production of Footloose: The Musical live and outdoors at Baker Park in Naples Feb. 25 through March 7. The beloved movie-musical bursts onto the live stage with direction and choreography by the well-known husband and wife duo, Dawn Lebrecht Fornara and Charles Fornara. With dynamic new songs augmenting the powerhouse hits from its bestselling Oscar-nominated score, Footloose celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness. The high-energy cast is led by local artists Adam Fasano and Lindsay Walsh, both of whom were cast in 2019’s summer musical Mamma Mia! at The Naples Players. “Continuing to provide opportunities for our community to safely Adam Fasano experience the arts has been a chal-

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lenge to say the least,” said TNP executive artistic director and CEO Bryce Alexander. “But we’ve been able to safely produce magnificent shows and Footloose in Baker Park will be a great bookend on this outdoor season.” To alleviate the concern and spread of COVID-19, patrons are asked to bring their own outdoor seating and are required to maintain social distance from other parties. Volunteers and staff will be on site to help mark specific seating circles in the grass for each party. VIP tickets will have socially distanced seating arranged for them. Digital playbills will also be provided via email or download at the event to read on your smart phones or tablets. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday and both general admission and VIP tickets are still on sale at the TNP box office. Those interested can visit online at www.NaplesPlayers.org or call the Lindsey Walsh box office at 239-263-7990.

Happenings Magazine

Clue on stage at Hinman Auditorium

The Center for the Arts Bonita Springs presents Clue on stage March 26 – 28. Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn, Clue is written by Sandy Rustin with additional materials by Hunter Foster and Eric Price. Based on the iconic 1985 Paramount movie which was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. The tale begins at a remote mansion, where six mysterious guests assemble for an unusual dinner party where murder and blackmail are on the menu. When their host turns up dead, they all become suspects. Led by the Wadsworth—the butler, Miss Scarlett, Professor Plum, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard race to find the killer as the body count stacks up. Clue is the comedy whodunit that will leave both cult-fans and newcomers in stitches as they try to figure out…Who did it, where and with what? The play will be presented at Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road. For tickets, call 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY

A MOMENT

TIME

FEATURING

ROBERT GONNELLI Robert will take you back in time with his vast catalog of artists featuring songs from the 1940s till today’s greatest hits!

MARCH 5 - 7

The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s

BROADWAY SERIES

Nana Does Vegas at Off Broadway Palm

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre is rolling the dice and bringing the laughs with Nana Does Vegas playing March 11 through April 25. If you loved Nana’s Naughty Knickers, you’re sure to love this hysterical sequel. Get ready because Nana is back and this time, she’s taken a gamble and moved to Las Vegas with her sidekick Vera. When Nana gets an offer she cannot refuse, she and Vera begin making costumes for the hottest show in Vegas! What could possibly go wrong? Well, everything! The Off Broadway Palm has adjusted its seating arrangement and is operating at a 50% capacity. For a list of the extensive health and safety measures the theatre has taken, please visit www.BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking including during the performance. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $42 to $62 with discounts available for groups of 20 or more. 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. Happenings Magazine

Special thanks to our theatre sponsors

Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

CALL FOR

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

MARCH 2021 - 7

THEATRE

Botticelli in the Fire on stage Leonardo da Vinci (Steven Michael Kennedy), Sandro Botticelli (Steven Coe), and Poggio di Chullu (Daniel Sabiston) enjoy every minute.

at Laboratory Theater of Florida

The Laboratory Theater of Florida will present the regional premiere of Jordan Tannahill’s extravaganza, Botticelli in the Fire Feb. 26 – March 14 in Fort Myers. Sandro Botticelli is the promiscuous life of the party. While painting his masterpiece, The Birth of Venus, the plague rages outside and a conservative preacher is blaming the sodomites. Set in a 15th century that has skinny jeans and cell phones, will the famous artist sacrifice his painting or his young apprentice, Leonardo da Vinci? Director Annette Trossbach says, “Sassy, sexy, funny, heartbreaking, timely Botticelli in the Fire is the most revolutionary theater I've read since Hamilton. Author Jordan Tannahill excavates the queer history of Sandro Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci to tell the story of the creation of The Birth of Venus with all the 8 - MARCH 2021

political machinations, fear, urgency, hysteria, and privilege experienced by the main actors at the time. Set in the 15th century, Jordan Tannahill employs casual vernacular and modern elements (cell phones, skinny jeans) as well as 15th and 20th-century music to tell this historicallybased story, which is a masterpiece in modern theater. Guests will see parallels to today's world in the plague, the rise of extremism, classism, and the scapegoating of sex and sexuality for political agendas.” This show features Steven Coe as Sandro Botticelli, Steven Michael Kennedy as Leonardo da Vinci, Daniel Sabiston as Poggio di Chullu, Madelaine Weymouth as Clarice Orsini, F. Scott Davis as Girolamo Savonarola, David Cooley as Lorenzo de’ Medici, and Renée Freeman as Madre Maria. Costumes by Casey and Ariana

Davis. Lighting design by Jonathan Johnson. Stage management by Margaret Cooley. This show features adult language, nudity, sexual situations, and mature themes. No one under 18 will be admitted. For the protection of the cast, which will not be masked during the performance, the theater requires that all patrons wear their masks over their noses and mouths during their entire stay at the theater. For further information on what the theater is doing to keep its casts, crews, and guests safe, visit the website and review the pandemic protocol. Seating is limited and sold by section for safety. For tickets, please call the box office at 239218-0481 or online at www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com. The theater is located at 1634 Woodford Avenue, in the Fort Myers River District. Happenings Magazine

Visit to a Small Planet to be

staged at Cultural Park Theater

By Michael Moran

Cultural Park Theatre Company continues with it salute to its 58th season with Gore Vidal’s quirky and humorous sci-fi satire, Visit to a Small Planet. Directors Christi Wengerter and Joy Ursillo bring to the stage a story of a flying-saucer spaceman with psychic Michael Moran powers who discovers love, pain and war on Earth. Kreton, an alien who lands on Earth hoping to catch a glimpse of the American Civil War, finds that something went wrong with the machine and has landed in Virginia outside the Spelding family home. Upon learning that it is not 1861, Kreton nevertheless decides to stay and observe human behavior. “You are my hobby,”

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he tells the Speldings, “and I’m going native.” Visit to a Small Planet was originally set to open Nov. 23, 1963, as the theater company’s (known then as The Cape Coral Community Players) first production. The show’s opening night was canceled back then as many will remember that was the date President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Out of respect to the president, the show canceled and opened the following weekend launching our then fledgling company to a prestigious 58 years of operation. Performances are March 25 through April 4 with Thursday and Friday evening performances and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Times are Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. with weekend matinees at 3 p.m. For additional information and tickets, call our box office at 239-772-5862 and visit our website at www.Culturalparktheater.com.

Robert Gonnelli March 5 – 7

Also before we take off on our Alien adventure be sure not to miss Robert Gonnelli in concert with A Moment In Time, Robert is one of Southwest Florida’s best vocalists and he will take you back in time with his vast catalog of hits from all genres from the 1940s to 2020. Robert is a musician, vocal entertainer and overall music lover. Robert has been entertaining at different hotels, dinner clubs, gated communities for years. Robert has entertained people in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, cruise ships and sang with some great artists in different states. This concert will be on stage March 5 through March 7 with performances Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. All tickets are $21. Call the box office at 239772-5862 for more information. Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. in Cape Coral. Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company.

MARCH 2021 - 9

THEATRE

Those Were the Days Chris Lewis

TheatreZone will present Those Were the Days March 4 - 14 as the fourth event of its Season 2020-21 Showstopper Series. Those Were the Days will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on March 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13 and 14; and at 2 p.m. on March 6, 7, 13 and 14. “We continue to take innovative measures to keep our patrons, performers and staff safe this season,” said TheatreZone founding artistic director Mark Danni, “and we are so excited to see audiences enjoying live performances and taking their minds off their troubles for awhile.” The Showstopper Series includes five 60-minute, themed concert-style events with professional live music and choreography. Those Were the Days is a fun show taking the audience on a journey through the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. The talented cast will not only perform hit songs from throughout the decades, but also a showstopping television theme song medley in an unforgettably entertaining evening. The cast of Those Were the Days includes Gerritt VanderMeer (Baby, Bravo Broadway!), Adolpho Blaire Adolpho Blaire 10 - MARCH 2021

Carolina Ordonez

THEATREZONE IN NAPLES

Gerritt VanderMeer

(At The Movies, Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera), Carolina Ordonez (Wonderful Town, Bravo Broadway), Sarah Cammarata (At The Movies), Chris Lewis (Urinetown), and American Idol Season 9 finalist Paige Miles (Beehive, The '60s Musical). The Showstopper Series wraps up with The Best of Bacharach April 15 - 25, starring Larry Alexander. In order to safely resume indoor live performances during the 2020-21 season, TheatreZone instituted stringent protocols for all areas of operations. These guide-

Paige Miles

lines, which are available on TheatreZone’s website, provide specific line-item mandates for all areas, from stage doors, back of house, restrooms, common areas, dressing rooms, hair and make-up, to front of house (including the box office, ushers and volunteers). For example, audiences are limited to a maximum of 108 patrons per performance, and masks are mandatory throughout the duration of each Sarah Cammarata performance. Doors will open 45 minutes prior to show time and there are no intermissions, which aids in social distancing by reducing foot traffic. In the theatre, air conditioning units are equipped with hospital-grade filters and increased fresh air intake to aid in circulation and sanitation. Tickets range from $50-$65 with premium seats available at $85. For more information and tickets, call the box office at 888-966-3352 x1, visit www.theatre.zone or email info@theatre.zone. TheatreZone is a nonprofit, professional equity theatre located in-residence at the G&L Theatre on the Community School of Naples campus, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Happenings Magazine

On Your Feet at Broadway Palm Theatre Broadway Palm is thrilled to present On Your Feet playing now through April 10. The inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent, and each other, to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. This thrilling production follows their incredible journey from anonymity in Cuba to stardom in the United States. Everybody gather round now, let’s Conga! The story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan will arrive on stage in an exhilarating musical that won the hearts of critics and audiences alike, with the Chicago Tribune saying, “It’s a hit!” and The New York Times cheering, “The very air in the room seems to vibrate in this undeniably crowdpleasing musical!” “If you aren’t humming a Gloria Estefan hit when you leave the theater, it might be time to check your pulse!” praises the Associated Press. Hear Rhythm is “Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On

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Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “Coming Out Of The Dark,” “1-2-3” and more. Broadway Palm is continuing to follow CDC guidelines while providing a delicious meal and exceptional entertainment in a safe and socially distanced environment. For a list of the extensive health and safety measures they have taken, visit www.BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. On Your Feet plays at Broadway Palm now through April 10. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. Tickets are $48 to $73. Children and group prices are 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.

MARCH 2021 - 11

Charlotte Players start month with Neil Simon’s Proposals THEATRE

Sister’s Easter Cathechism March 26

COVID-19 forced the Charlotte Players to close its production of Neil Simon’s Proposals back in March of 2020. After months of work, and many volunteer hours, preparing the office and theater with numerous virus precautions, the community theater staged its first production since the shutdown, Baggage, in mid-July. Now, after a string of successful plays at the Langdon Playhouse and shows at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, Proposals is returning. “Director Jesse Reter-Choate did an amazing job last March, and her cast was outstanding,” said Charlotte Players executive director Sherrie Moody. “The play was a real hit with the handful of audiences who got to see it.” Reter-Choate is again at the helm for the Proposals revival, which opens on Thursday, March 11, for a 15-show run through March 28. There are evening performances (Wednesday through Saturday) at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Matinees and evening shows will be held on Saturday, March 27. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students and may be ordered at

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www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling 941-255-1022 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Langdon Playhouse is located at 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. “The name Neil Simon attracted me to the play,” said Reter-Choate. “However, it is not your typical laugh-aminute Simon play. It’s more of a memory play much like his Brighton Beach trilogy. He is a master at his craft and discovering his many fine layers of character and story-telling is invigorating.” One of America’s most prolific and popular playwrights, Simon wrote more than 30 plays and received more combined Oscar and Tony Award nominations than any other writer. Proposals takes place near a resort in the Pocono Mountains, not-too-many miles but a world away from the New York abodes that are the backdrop for most of Simon’s works. The Simon wit and humor are very much in evidence in Proposals, and the outdoor set designed and built by Chris Smith and Jimmie Choate (husband of the director and also serving as stage manager along with sound and lights) evokes a mellow and magical atmosphere. There are jokes, of course. Loads of them. But there’s much more.

March comes in and goes out like a lion for The Players. Mentalist Bill Gladwell takes the stage for a 2 p.m. show at the Langdon on Sunday, March 7. A Players regular in recent seasons, Gladwell is not a mind-reader, psychic or magician. He calls himself a “thought-reader,” having mastered the unique art of reading and influencing people. “During his 90-minute performance, Bill will seemingly pull thoughts directly from your mind, predict what you’ll say before it comes out of your mouth, and read you like an open book,” said Moody. “Mind Games with Bill Gladwell” was rated number one on Hilton Head Island and in Gatlinburg, Tenn., where he went up against more than 60 other shows. He has performed for audiences as small as 10 people and as large as 45,000. Trip Advisor calls his performance “a mind-blowing show with lots of big laughs.” Tickets for the Langdon are $22 for adults and $11 for students. On Friday, March 26, Denise Fennel returns as “Sister” for one night only at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. This time, she is celebrating the Easter season with Sister’s Easter Catechism, answering such timeless questions like “Why isn’t Easter the same day every year?” and “Will my bunny go to heaven?” During her 2 1/2-hour show, Sister will also unearth the origins of Easter bunnies, Easter eggs, Easter bonnets, Easter baskets, and of course, Easter Peeps. Classroom participation is a must, so don’t forget to wear your Easter bonnet and join Sister for this seasonal treat. The fun starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $37 and $42 and may ordered through the Players website. Happenings Magazine

BOTTICELLI IN THE FIRE THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA PRESENTS

LIVE ON STAGE!

Sponsored by Ar lene Foreman

FEB. 26 & 27, MARCH 4, 5, 6 MARCH 11, 12 and 13 at 8 pm

FEB. 27 & 28 MAR 6, 7, 13, 14 at 2 p.m.

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 13

Calendar sales support food banks as Naples THEATRE

Players prepare to perform indoors again

“Inspiring our community. Defining our culture.” Those are the words that hang above the entrance to The Naples Players community theatre in the heart of downtown Naples. The iconic 5th Avenue South location temporarily closed its doors in March 2020, but they were far from shut down during the last 12 months. The cancellation of their entire 2020 show season and subsequent loss of nearly $1.6 million in revenue did not stop the non-profit theater from continuing to inspire the community. In addition to creating an alternative season of outdoor performances, arts events, and collaborations with other nonprofits like The Naples Zoo and Naples Botanical Garden, the team at The Naples Players also saw a unique opportunity to address the growing concern of food insecurity in Collier County. So, how do you tie together a theatre and local food banks? Through a calendar, of course. What started as a collaborative charity project to coincide with TNP’s upcoming production of Calendar Girls, evolved into a much more meaningful task when the heads of several other local non-profits came together. The show Calendar Girls is based on a true story about a group of women who developed a risqué calendar to raise money for a loved-one battling cancer. In staying true to the storyline, TNP gathered 12 local ladies in non-profit leadership roles who were willing to risk going (almost) nude for a collaborative fundraising calendar in late 2019. In early 2020, local photographer Charlie McDonald worked with the women to create stunning images that represent their organizations, and that also show off a little skin. When completed, TNP planned to provide each of the organizations with a supply of calen14 - MARCH 2021

Calendar Girls is set to open at Sugden Theatre in Naples April 28. dars they could give away with donations, but when the pandemic hit in April and the original production of Calendar Girls was postponed, the project came to a halt. As 2020 pressed on, many local nonprofits in Collier County felt the pressure of tightening budgets and continuing services while maintaining health and safety guidelines. It wasn’t until late fall that the project resurfaced with a new intensity and purpose. In a unanimous decision amongst the organizations, it was agreed that proceeds from the calendars would support a number of local food banks experiencing an unprecedented surge of services. “This calendar started as a fun and purposeful way to collaborate with our fellow non-profits in the area, but it has taken on a much larger role that is still in-line with our mission to inspire our

community,” said Bryce Alexander, CEO and executive artistic director at The Naples Players. In late 2020, The Community Foundation of Collier County stepped in to help regulate the sale of the calendars and subsequent distribution of funds. As of February 2021, more than $40,000 was distributed to eight different local food banks. Calendars are still on sale and the support continues to roll in for this unique and inspiring collaboration. Those interested in purchasing a calendar can visit online at www.NaplesPlayers.org/CalendarGirls. As for the show, it is finally set to open at The Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre on April 28, 2021. Note: A greatly reduced number of seats are available to maintain safe distancing.

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 15

ART

Sea Grape welcomes guest artists Annual courtyard sale March 12 & 13 to benefit food bank

Sea Grape Gallery announces that during the month of March it will be showcasing the artworks of Carolyn Dlouhy Walega, acrylic painter; Sheryl Unwin, scratchboard artist; and Kathy Erickson, pine needle basket artist. Carolyn Walega is a painter of leaves, trees, and Kathy Erickson organic forms which recur often in many of her paintings accenting nature, the which are animals and abstract, and flow of spiraling nature. As Sheryl says, “I or pirouette-like movelove to draw from the Carolyn Walega ments. As a colorist with a largest of wildlife creatures full ranging palette, she to the smallest of domestic engages charcoal to add pets.” In addition, Sheryl the element of line. As Carolyn explains, also enjoys drawing portraits of people. “in the subtropical environment of southKathy Erickson spent many years in west Florida, I find inspiration in its beau- the teaching profession, however, always tiful banana and palm trees”. Carolyn’s admired and collected many pieces of artworks are primarily on gessoed paper fine art. After retirement, she began or canvas. focusing on creating her own artwork. Sheryl Unwin lived in England for Kathy strives to develop innovative many years prior to moving to Florida. designs and blend the aspects of differHer professional background is a ent styles of basketry. She works into Graphic designer. However, her true her baskets objects of nature and hand passion is creating realistic scratchboard, spun wool into her pine needle and hand color and graphite pencil and pen and processed native grass creations. In ink drawings of her favorite subjects addition, she may incorporate agate

Bonita Springs National Art Festival March 6 - 7 The next Bonita Springs National Art Festival will take place Saturday, March 6 and Sunday, March 7 at Riverside Park, Old 41 Road in Bonita. This is the third of three annual art festivals put on by the Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs. Enjoy the artwork of national and interna-

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tional artists while supporting the many programs of the Centers for the Arts. The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. For more information, call the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs at 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

Sheryl Unwin

slices or stone slabs into the bases, sides, and covers of her pine needle baskets. The beautiful and unique artwork of all three of these artists can be viewed on Sea Grape’s website at www.seagrapegallery.com. Sea Grape Gallery is located at 113 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. To learn more about Sea Grape’s guest artist program call 941-575-1718. Sea Grape Gallery is having its annual Spring Courtyard Sale on March 12 & 13 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. A portion of this year’s sale will benefit the Harry Chapin Food Bank as the artists will be donating special pieces of art where all proceeds on sales of those items will go directly to Harry Chapin Food Bank.

Christine Adele Moore

Happenings Magazine

SW Florida Watercolor Society ART

featured at COCO Art Gallery March 3 - 16

The Southwest Florida Watercolor Society is hosting its annual exhibit from March 3 to March 16 at the COCO Gallery at Coconut Point in Estero. Founded in 2015, it quickly grew into a group of enthusiastic watercolorists who are at all learning levels. We host formal meetings once a month from January to April, and also schedule field trips, plein air outings, and Gallery Tours, designed to expand our knowledge of the wide world of Watercolor. The watercolor society’s mission is to: • Promote, stimulate and foster creative painting with watercolors.

Christine Reichow

• Encourage and promote watercolor artists in their professional growth and success. • Impart instructive programs and activities with exhibit opportunities. • Promote fellowship with watercolor artists. • Promote public awareness and education about watercolor painting. Operated by the Art Council of Southwest Florida, COCO Art Gallery is located at 8074 Mediterranean Drive, next to Panera. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info, call 239949-3073 or visit online at www.cocoartgallery.com.

Hirdie Girdie showcases

art of JoAnn LaPadula

Hirdie Girdie's guest artist for March is JoAnn LaPadula, a member of the Alliance for the Arts and the Fort Myers Beach Art Association. After 30 years as a graphic artist, JoAnn now has a second career creating very unique watercolor paintings in a style she developed after lessons with watercolor artist Liam Zhen. She starts with three primary colors specifically a brilliant yellow called gamboge nova, vermillion red, and transparent Antwerp blue. After pouring small amounts of each color onto the watercolor paper, she blows them around with a straw. She continues until she sees the possibility of a subject. She then stops that process and continues painting the subject and

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background in the more traditional way. She does not have the subject in mind when she begins painting, but because of her years as a graphic artist, she is quick to grasp and retrieve the images from her memory. JoAnn describes her style as colorful abstract/realist. Her finished work is always exciting, fresh, and very professionally executed, and Hirdie Girdie is pleased and fortunate to have her exhibit there this month. Hirdie Girdie Gallery is located at 2490 Library Way on Sanibel. For more information, call the gallery at 239-395-0027 or visit online at www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com

JoAnn LaPadula

Happenings Magazine

B.A. Mintz at Arts for ACT Gallery

Arts for ACT Gallery will feature dreamscape painter B.A. Mintz in the main gallery in March. An opening reception will be held Friday, March 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. in conjunction with Art Walk. ACT co-op artists will also be displaying a variety of new works. Mintz is a painter of landscapes, dreamscapes, sculpture, graffiti and more. As her paintings evolve, figures or objects emerge. “The beauty of nature, and the sensuality of paint are the perfect combination. Living in Southwest Florida, as well as being able to travel the world, has added subject and inspiration,” says Mintz. “Color and shapes in a stream of consciousness fashion have allowed me to produce paintings that hang in collections across the country. While, I first started exploring painting with acrylics, I now, paint in oils. My first formal instruction in wall art was with SW Florida’s own Gale Bennett. I still hear his voice in my head when I paint, and am an advocate for his method of teaching. The summer before the COVID shutdown, I taught a workshop in Gale’s beloved Giverny, France. This exhibit continues to March 29. The gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more info, call 239-337-5050.

Canvas to fashion with Yvonne Krystman at DAAS Co-Op Gallery & Gifts in March

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts "Portable Gallery." is featuring a very special exhibition Katarina Danks is a contortionist, by member artist Yvonne Krystman hand balancer and performance artist, in March. collaborating with Krystman's Art 4 Wear The exhibition will feature a line. During her performance, she will mufti-layered visual experience with stage an artistic fusion between acrobata deeper focus on a complementary ic movement and visual expressions of dialogue between material, content, art. the exhibition space and the Danks is originally from Pittsburgh encounter with the viewers. and she is trained in both Mongolian Krystman's wearable art is shapeand Western contortion techniques, shifting visual artwork into new learning from the world’s most prestiforms to inspire new perspectives. gious trainers and performers from The opening reception is scheduled Europe, Canada, the U.S.; and circuses for Friday, March 5 from 6 to 9:30 like Cirque du Soleil, the Big Apple p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Circus, Ringling Brothers, and Circus Fort Myers Art Walk. A special perRoncalli. She has performed locally for formance by contortionist Katarina Circus Transform US, the Fort Myers Danks is scheduled for the opening Film Festival, Telemundo Television, night. The exhibition will be on disHSN, Papa John’s and others. play through March 27. DAAS invites all Southwest Florida Yvonne Krystman is a contempoart collectors, supporters and enthusirary mixed media visual artist and asts to join them for the opening recepfashion designer. She is experition. DAAS Co-Op is located at 1815 menting with a wide variety of mateFowler St. in the Butterfly Estates comrials to express the ideas she plex in Fort Myers. The gallery’s tempoexplore, and that includes, but is not rary business hours are Wednesday to Wearable art by Yvonne Krystman limited to, mixed media works on Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More canvas, clay, conceptual photography information about the venue and how to and more. In addition, she often photographs her work and become a member can be found at www.daascoop.com or by transfers it into award winning fashion - a concept she calls calling 239-590-8645. Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 19

Peace River

ART

National Art Festival March 20 & 21 in Laishley Park

Howard Spielman

Tetiana Belyae

A kaleidoscope of artistic creativity will be presented at the Annual Peace River National Art Festival March 20 and 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Laishley Park in Punta Gorda. Nationally recognized artists will participate with various mediums including art glass, fiber arts, jewelry, leather goods, metal work, oil paintings, photography, pottery, stone sculptures and watercolor. Live music, a variety of food and beverages complement the art show and create a fullday cultural experience. Artwork will be offered for sale in a variety of price points. Entry is $5 per person at the gate to benefit the Visual Arts Center. For more info visit www.visualartcenter.org or call 941-639-8810. Dennis Collins

Bokeelia Art Gallery is a gem on Pine Island Bokeelia Art Gallery is a gem perched at the tip of Pine Island overlooking beautiful Charlotte Harbor. Plan a day-trip out to the north end of the Island, in Bokeelia, to find unique art in all mediums for your home or office. The gallery features more than 60 artists, many of whom reside in Lee County. Art lovers will be captivated by the wide array of exceptional paintings from watercolor to oil, abstract to super-realism yet all fitting the luxurious tropical environment of Southwest Florida. The gallery also carries a wide spectrum of designer crafts: glass, wood, and pottery to enhance any home or office, from functional to pure decoration. For a personal touch, explore the

20 - MARCH 2021

Roland Ruocco

unsurpassed collection of jewelry from 24K gold to hand made glass beaded earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The gallery also carries a colorful, fun selection of wearable art: dresses, scarfs, shirts, tote bags and more. The gallery is so loved by its exhibiting artists that it is not at all unusual to run into one of them when you walk in the door. Carol Garske, owner of the gallery, will be happy to introduce you. March hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Check out their Facebook and Instagram pages as well as their website for the latest in new acquisitions or updates on art events. Visit www.bokeeliaartgallery.com or call 239-738-5280 for more info. Happenings Magazine

Love Your Rebellion Zine Library reopens at Neenie’s House Love Your Rebellion’s Zine Library at Neenie’s House in East Fort Myers, will reopen on Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. and will feature a café with free guest WiFi. LYR originally opened the library in November of2019, featuring over 150 DIY art and writing booklets, and four public art installations. In early 2020, the library closed due to the pandemic. The time off gave LYR the chance to reorganize and reopen with more to offer the public. Patrons can expect lattes, teas and a few treats like Loveboat Ice Cream and homemade chocolates. The café will also have free WiFi access for visitors. Angela Page, LYR’s founder, says, “Our hope is to create a community library and café that can offer folks a unique place to work and

Janeen Vanko, owner of Neenieʼs House, and Angela Page, founder of Love Your Rebellion

spend their free time.” And Neenie’s House will also be adding a new feature of having local artisans sell their creations in the shop. Each artist will have a small space to keep their wares, so anyone can come in and buy them at any time. The reopening is possible due in part by a fundraiser by the Offbeats Twitch community, and Janeen Vanko, owner of Neenie’s House, who continues to be a generous sponsor. Join LYR for a soft opening Feb. 24, from 2 to 6 p.m., and receive a free chocolate sample with the purchase of a beverage. The library will then be open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. For more info, visit www.loveyourrebellion.org/lyr-zine-library. Neenie’s House is located at 481 Marsh Ave. in Fort Myers (just off Palm Beach Boulevard). For more about Neenie’s House, call 224-6784901 or visit www.neenieshouse.com

ANNUAL SPRING COURTYARD SALE with a Special Selection of Art

to benefit Harry Chapin Food Bank

MARCH 12 & 13 from 10 am to 4 pm

• Sale will continue indoors through March 31 •

113 W. Marion Ave. • Downtown Punta Gorda (941) 575-1718 • www.SeaGrapeGallery.com Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 21

ART

Naples Art hosts Art in the Park on the first Saturday of every month from November to April. Above is artist Isack Kousnksy who was a participant in the Feb. 6 Art in the Park. For more details about his unique artwork that combines seashells, acrylic and resin, visit www.isack-art.com or call 917-405-4726. The next Art in the Park will be Saturday, March 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Cambier Park.

Naples Art: Shows, classes & more

The fourth annual Scene to be Seen fundraiser was held Feb. 5 at Naples Art.

22 - MARCH 2021

On the heels of a successful Scene to be Seen, the Naples Art building is back to humming with classes for adults and youth learning and working on a fantastic array of subjects. Whether you’re a curious beginner, weekend painter, or accomplished artist, Naples Art has something for you! A sampling: Paint Naples, Paint Like Monet, Abstract Painting, Beginning Drawing, Clay Hand Building, Mosaics, Collage, Stained Glass, Watercolor, Pastels, Plein air and so much more. One- and two-day adult workshops are in full swing with subjects like printmaking, a variety of watercolor, drawing basics, a variety of oil painting and felting! Naples Art’s youth offerings include Art for Kids, Art for Teens, Clay for Kids, Elementary Art Adventure, and Junior Art Adventure. Reduced class size allows for generous social distancing. Naples Art has initiated enhanced cleaning protocols, mandatory mask wearing, extensive signage, sanitizers, and comprehensive protocols for keeping students, teachers, and staff safe. Online registration for the March session and the rest of the Season is open. Visit www.naplesart.org/classes/. The details page for adult classes & workshops indicates the level; Happenings Magazine

youth classes indicate the age range. Each session is four weeks; classes meet once a week.

Art in the Park March 6

For decades, Naples Art has hosted seasons of some of Naples’ – and the nation’s – favorite and best outdoor art shows. Naples Art welcomes 40 juried, local artists to Art in the Park in downtown Naples. Art in the Park takes place in Naples Art’s backyard in Cambier Park on Saturday, March 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with original painting, jewelry, ceramics, photography and more. The last Art in the Park of the year will be held in Baker Park on Saturday, April 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; it also features 40 juried artists offering original painting, jewelry, ceramics, photography and more.

Naples Downtown Art Show March 20-21

Naples Art’s national outdoor shows consistently win the most prestigious awards in the country, including the Sunshine Artist’s 200 Best for 2020. The next show and the last major of the season is the 33rd annual Naples Downtown Art Show, March 20 – 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along historic 5th Avenue South with 170 artists from across the country working in 17 different media. Safety and health precautions for artists and attendees are paramount and include: • Health screenings (non-invasive procedures) for artists, assistants, contractors, and volunteers at check-in • All attendees are asked to wear a mask upon entering the Art Show, with the exception of children aged 2 and under • Mandatory masks worn by artists, assistants, employees, volunteers, and contractors • Maximum capacity restrictions within each 10 x 10 booth • Hand sanitizer stations strategically located throughout the area Visit www.naplesart.org for more details.

Hamilton Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 23

Davis Art Center features Dharma Lafevre ART

Dharma Lefevre’s solo exhibition Oneiros will be featured in the Capital Gallery at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in March. The opening night reception takes place during Art Walk on Friday, March 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. and will be on display through March 25. Opening night will feature a special treat with a storytelling walk through with Dharma. With this opportunity, she welcomes the viewer to walk with her as she shares the lore behind each piece taking those that are willing into the heart of these dreams, ideas and visions that have now become her own reality. Blue is the color of peace, which is why all dreams begin to take form from ‘out of the blue’. Oneiros is the Greek word for gates of dreams, and the Oneiri are the dream-keepers. This is the sacred and ancient place where all dreams pour forth. Fall as they may, sprinkled over the world as visions, transcendental states, lessons, prophecies and inspiration.

Oneiros is where all dreams find their conduits to become realities through the peoples of all time. Everyone dreams, our children, the ancient shamans, even our modern day world leaders receive new notions through this gate of dreams. Everything starts as a dream or an idea, it is just a matter of finding the perfect dreamer to bring such to life. Dharma Lefevre is one such perfect dreamer, as she has always known that thoughts become things. From her humble beginnings, she has carried within her a deep respect and love for the esoteric, lore, and ancient religions. This love of the esoteric has only grown more vast through the years as she developed boundless techniques that seem to flow from her breath onto the canvas inspiring new life into each piece. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First Street in downtown Fort Myers. For more info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239333-1933.

Dharma LeFevre

Cheryl Costley fiber exhibit in Bonita Springs The Center for the Arts Bonita Springs will display an Abstract Fiber Composition exhibit by Cheryl Costley March 5 – 25 at the Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Road. Marco Island resident artist Cheryl Costley works in her island studio, close to the mangroves, where she makes original art quilts and fiber wall hangings. She considers it a luxury to spend so much time creating her distinctive artwork, which is ever evolving and reflective of her as a person. Costley creates art with fiber and fabric. She uses the traditions of art and sewing in her unique works that push new boundaries. She is inspired by much that is

24 - MARCH 2021

real—nature, people, events, literature, emotions and music. Her works convey the impression of space and proportion through the use of strong colors and textures which give the viewer latitude to make their own interpretation of intent. Costley has spent years studying under distinguished fiber artists who guided her in cultivating her own distinct, award-winning style. She is a consummate learner and experimenter. Costley continues to take classes in all art mediums, expanding her knowledge base and incorporating these techniques into her process. For more details, call 239-4958989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org

Happenings Magazine

Molly Deckart is new Alliance for the Arts executive director

The Alliance for the Arts welcomed Molly Deckart Feb. 1 as the organization’s new executive director. “Since our search process began, the board sought candidates who shared our vision for the future of the Alliance for the Arts. Molly has the taste, mind, passion and fearlessness that will drive the Alliance to new frontiers,” said Alliance for the Arts Board president Jonathan Romine. “Over the last decade, she’s been a champion for the arts. We’re really looking forward to working with her.” Molly Deckart has spent the last 15 years working in the nonprofit arts sector. Driven by a belief that the arts can culturally and economically transform a community, Molly’s focus has been to advocate for and elevate artists and the arts by giving voice to the importance of the arts and culture sector, providing mentorship and resources to artists at all levels, and helping creatives build incredible careers to make their ideas happen. With a degree in fine arts from Boise State University, Molly’s background as both a visual artist and as an executive director has given her a unique understanding of both the challenges and rewards that come with fostering a

Happenings Magazine

Molly Deckart

vibrant arts and culture scene. “I am excited to delve into Southwest Florida’s diverse arts and culture scene,” said Deckart. “Equally as exciting, I look forward to meeting all of the Alliance’s patrons that make up this amazing community.” Deckart is currently welcoming community members, artists and art lovers to schedule times for a responsibly distanced meet-and-greet outdoors in the

Alliance ArtsPark. Those interested in connecting can do so by emailing Molly at Molly@ArtInLee.org or calling 239939-2787. Molly joins the Alliance for the Arts from Boise, Idaho, where she was named one of Idaho Business Review’s Women of the Year in 2020 for her work in the arts. In Boise, Molly founded and served as the executive director for both the Boise Film Foundation and the Idaho Horror Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in the state of Idaho. Having grown both organizations from the ground up, Molly is excited to bring her vast knowledge of organizational growth and arts advocacy to the Alliance and in Southwest Florida. She looks forward to collaborating on creative initiatives that will help make life in southwest Florida more meaningful, authentic, and connected while furthering the mission of the Alliance for the Arts to transform lives and improve our community through the arts. Deckart replaces long-time executive director Lydia Black who recently retired after serving 13 years at the helm. For more information about the Alliance, visit replaces.ArtInLee.org or call 239-939-2787.

MARCH 2021 - 25

Lorne’s Gallery and Frame Gallery & Gifts are longtime assets to local arts community ART

Lorne's Gallery is situated at The Westin and next door to Pinchers Crab Shack at Tarpon Point Marina. Gallery owners Barbara and Lorne Hosack have spent most of their lives producing and selling coastal art. This family operation located at Tarpon Point Marina is an extension of their imagination. Aside from being extremely interesting to pass through and look at all the sundries at Lorne's Gallery the view of all the wonderful boats and restaurants is something that looks like it should be in Naples. If you spend five minutes sauntering through the 3,000 square-foot gallery, you won't have seen it all. There's so much to see. With over 500 pictures stacked here in there and over 20,000 images in print exclusive to Lorne's Gallery and their other gallery, Frame Gallery and Gifts, there's too much to comprehend. Additionally, the galleries offer high end printing. They have thousands of images that are exclusive to them. “That means that we own the originals, we own the printing rights, and we do the printing ourselves,” says Lorne. “The newest process is called giclee printing. After scanning the original and

26 - MARCH 2021

color correcting it in the computer, we are able to change the size and color of anything that they print. And then after printing, they are the framers we frame small we frame big and we frame with our customers in mind. We are picky with our art and with the framing process.” He adds, “For example, we do small things, we do big things, we do the hard jobs that most people shutter about doing; we make it easy. Barbara is excellent at color matching. She can find the right color blend of mats to produce a wonderful extension of the artwork that you want framed.” Lorne says, “One of our favorite pieces of art that we do is our local charts. These charts are nautical charts

that we put artwork on. … It's not just a map, it's a piece of art then we print and frame this wonderful piece of art. The end result is something that is informative because you can show your guests where the names are of all the places you want to go and it still decorative.” The main gallery, that's been located on Del Prado Boulevard in Cape Coral for 30 years, is across from Wal-mart and approximately 5,000 square feet. For those customers who have a hard time deciding what image they will like in their home, they offer something called a 24 hour check out. This allows the buyer to take a framed piece of art home or several and look at that them in their own environment. This really helps an individual find the perfect piece for their home. Some of the many artists the galleries represent include David Belling, CP Wyatt and Rick Kelley. Frame Gallery and Gifts is located at 1830 Del Prado Blvd. in Cape Coral, and can be reached by calling 239574-5111. Lorne’s Gallery is located in unit 105 at the Marina Village at Tarpon Point in Cape Coral and can be reached by calling 239-945-0866. Visit online at www.framegalleryandgifts.com

Happenings Magazine

FashionSmack

Jessica Wajoli models one of her new clothing designs during FashionSmack Feb. 6 at Neenieʼs House in Fort Myers.

Naples Fine Art Studio & Gallery

paintings by Edward Park

New exhibits opening at The Baker Museum in March, April Artis—Naples announced three exhibitions that will continue the celebration of the 20th anniversary season of The Baker Museum. Blurring Boundaries: The Women of American Abstract Artists, 1936Present and a companion show, Making a Mark: American Women Artists open on March 28, while Marcus Jansen: Two Decades of Relevance opens on April 24. All three exhibitions will be on view at

Happenings Magazine

The Baker Museum through July 25. Kathleen van Bergen, CEO and President, said “We are thrilled to have already welcomed over 8,000 visitors to The Baker Museum this season, and we look forward to safely welcoming more guests this Spring to experience the new exhibitions, as well as the beauty of our museum and Norris Garden. For more info, visit online at www.artisnaples.org

27 Year Anniversary Special through 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

MARCH 2021 - 27

MARCH CALENDAR MON - 1

AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Sound Machine with Larry Wells The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Botticelli in the Fire Through March 13 Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481

Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Madonna Maves and Jeff Ocasio exhibit Through March Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, suite 104, Cape Coral www.harbourviewgallery.com

Soulixer Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples lawn chairs welcome, no coolers, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., 239-254-1080

Stardust Memories Big Band Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave S., Naples 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 SW Florida Reading Festival March 1 - 13 A free virtual event for all ages www.readfest.org

TUE - 2

Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240 On Your Feet Through April 10 Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422 Gulfshore Opera: Taste of Opera Isles Yacht Club, 1780 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda 5:30 p.m., $90, 239-529-3925 David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 28 - MARCH 2021

FRI - 5 Cultural Park Theater in Cape Coral welcomes Robet Gonnelli in concert March 5 - 7. For tickets and details, call the box office at 239-772-5862.

Michael Dutra The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com ‘Til Theft Do Us Part Through March 6 Off Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

WED - 3

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Naples Players present Footloose Through March 7 Baker Park, 50 Riverside Circle, Naples, 239-263-7990

High Tide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

THU - 4

Ben Allen Band Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Outside, free, 7:30 p.m. 239-333-1933 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 -10 p.m. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Claire Liparulo Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

TheatreZone: Those Were The Days March 4 - 14 G & L Theatre, 13274 Livingston Road, Naples 888-966-3352 x1

The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

Dharma Lafevre exhibit opens Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Opening 6 - 10 p.m. 239-333-1933

Smokin Aces Trio Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Darrell Scott Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m., 239-495-8989 Happenings Magazine

MARCH CALENDAR FRI - 5 CONTINUED

Brunch music with David Rojas The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 239-219-6463

Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Trevor Earl - 1 p.m. Johnny Orr - 4 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901

Yvonne Krystman exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers, 6 - 9:30 p.m., special performance by Katarina Danks, 239-590-8645

Jim Blackburn Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

Parmalee The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers B.A. Mintz exhibit, 6 - 9 p.m. 239-337-5050 A Moment in Time: Robert Gonnelli March 5 - 7 Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862

Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute will perform Saturday, March 6 at Hinman Auditorium in Bonita Springs. For tickets and info, call 239-495-8989.

Gulf Coast Symphony-Evita March 5 and 6 Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700

Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show

Legends Concert Series: Jimmy Buffett and Beach Boys tribute Sugden Park, Naples 6 - 10 p.m. www.legendsconcertseries.com

SAT - 6

10 am to 4 pm

Free Admission & Parking

Fleischmann Park

1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples

www.NaplesArtcrafters.com 30 - MARCH 2021

Bonita Springs National Art Festival Saturday and Sunday Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-495-8989 Kraig Kenning Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples in front of Bravo, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-254-1080

Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463

SUN - 7

Patchouli Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., 239-939-2787

Saturday, March 13

Riverside Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901

New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Art in the Park Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesart.org Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Beach Boys tribute Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m., 239-495-8989

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Blues Series: Paul Nelson Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901 Naples MotorFest Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., live music from Hot Club of SRQ and The Freecoasters, 239-254-1080 Makeup & Mimosas Drag Show The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers noon, 239-219-6463 Gulf Coast Symphony presents Sarasota Music Conservatory Faculty String Quartet Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Happenings Magazine

Left Bank Art Fest The Esplanade, 760 Collier Blvd., Marco Island, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 239-290-7927 Sean Paxton The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Brunch, music with Stolen Fruit The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. 239-219-6463 The Del Prados Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-540-8454

MON - 8

Sound Machine with Larry Wells The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

TUE - 9

Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Pitbull of Blues Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com High Tide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

THU - 11

Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

Nana Does Vegas Through April 25 Off Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Slightly Soapy Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Gulfshore Opera: Cheek To Cheek Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 Heathwood Drive 7 p.m., $40, 239-529-3925

WED - 10

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Happenings Magazine

Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Smokin Aces Trio Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Charlotte Players present Neil Simon’s Proposals Through March 28 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 MARCH 2021 - 31

FRI - 12

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Carling Witt Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Gulf Coast Symphony presents Mahler Symphony No. 4 Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 Fire & Ice The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Iconic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Annual Courtyard Sale Friday and Saturday Sea Grape Gallery, 113 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., 941-575-1718 New Beginnings exhibit Through April 14 Visual Arts Center, 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda, 941-639-8810

SAT - 13

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Garden Club of Cape Coral presents March in the Park Jaycee Park, 4125 SE 20th Place, Cape Coral, Plant and garden art sale, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., 239-257-2654 32 - MARCH 2021

MARCH CALENDAR CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m. Dazzling Del Rays - 6 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Craft Show Fleischmann Park 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesartcrafters.com Brian Markley Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Claire Liparulo Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples in front of Bravo, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-254-1080 Spin Zone The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Torched Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 The Swinging Clique Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., 239-939-2787 The Red Clay Strays The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com Bike Night The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers Music by Bad Latitude 6 - 10 p.m., 239-219-6463 Brunch music with Hallie & Rob The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 239-219-6463

Gulf Coast Symphony: Jazz tribute to Herbie Hancock & Chick Corea Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 The Heights Foundation: Irish Casino Night The Heights Center, 15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers 6:30 – 10 p.m., outdoor pavilion 239-482-7706

SUN - 14

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 All Star Music Fest Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 8 p.m., 239-990-9901 Symphonic Chorale Memorial Concert The Moorings, Naples 4 p.m., for free ticket go to www.symphonicchorale.org Blues and Bloodys Concert Series The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, noon - 7 p.m., Hector Anchondo Band at 1 p.m., Kat Riggins and Blues Revival at 4 p.m. www.thecenterbar.com

Gulf Coast Symphony: Stars of Disney Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Brunch, music with Julie Ve The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. 239-219-6463

MON - 15

TUE - 16

Keith Bass and Florida Bluegrass Express Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 3 p.m., 239-939-2787

Michael Dutra The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Taco Fest Centennial Park 2000 W. First St, Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.bscevent.com

David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Drag Queen Karaoke The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m., 239-219-6463

WED - 17

Collaboration Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Punta Gorda Symphony: Strings in the Garden Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda, 2 and 5 p.m. 941-205-5996

St. Paddy’s Day Celebration The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, noon - 6 p.m., music by Chuck Peterson, costume contest, reverse raffle, 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Happenings Magazine

MARCH CALENDAR Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065

WED - 17 CONTINUED

St. Patrick’s Day Party with MacSilver’s Irish Pirates The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901

St. Patrick’s Day with Bad Latitide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 10 p.m., 239-540-8454

Kraig Kenning Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples in front of Bravo, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-254-1080

THU - 18

Gary Greenstein Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065

BIG ARTS welcomes Veronica Swift in concert on March 26 at 4 and 8 p.m. For tickets and info, visit www.bigarts.org

Disney on Ice March 18 - 21 Hertz Arena, 1100 Everblades Parkway, Estero 239-948-7825

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Deb & The Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Smokin Aces Trio Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Collie Buddz, Keznamdi & 4th Orange The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

FRI - 19

Fort Myers Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 p.m. www.explorefortmyers.com 34 - MARCH 2021

The Balloon Glow Tour March 19 - 21 Sandlot Off-Road Adventure Park 39450 Bermont Road, Punta Gorda Tickets are priced per vehicle and include parking. Guests must preregister to attend. www.Balloonglowtour.com

Sean Paxton The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Not Guilty Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065

Tracy Lawrence The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463

Vinyl Vibes: Stevie Wonder tribute Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., 239-333-1933

High Voltage Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

SAT - 20

Fort Myers Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 p.m. www.explorefortmyers.com Jenny Vereline Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Brunch music with Douglas Coventry The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 239-219-6463 Jory Lyles The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Peace River National Art Festival Saturday & Sunday Laishley Park, Punta Gorda 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., 941-639-8810 Half Step Down Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Music & Art Night Lorne’s Gallery, Marina Village at Tarpon Point, unit 105, Cape Coral Featured artist Lorne Hosack, 5 - 8 p.m., 239-945-0866 Naples Downtown Art Show Saturday & Sunday 5th Avenue South, Naples 10 a.m. - 5 pm. 239-262-6517

SUN - 21

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Blues Series: Memphis Lightning Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901 Kraig Kenning Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-939-2787 Happenings Magazine

The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

TUE - 23

Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Drag Queen Karaoke The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m., 239-219-6463

Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

Bonita Springs Concert Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 2 p.m. bonitaspringsconcertband.org

Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240

Thunder Beach Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Brunch, music with Hallie & Rob The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. 239-219-6463

MON - 22

Sound Machine with Larry Wells The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Stardust Memories Big Band Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave S., Naples 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240 Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Fire & Ice The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Slightly Soapy Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Sanibel Music Festival: Bower String Quartet and the Chamber Strings Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 11 a.m., www.sanibelmusicfestival.org Gulfshore Opera: The Carmen Gala St. Leo Catholic Church, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs 5 pm., reception, dinner, concert, 239-529-3925

WED - 24

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065

Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com High Tide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

THU - 25

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Deb & The Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Smokin Aces Trio Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Visit to a Small Planet Through April 4 Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 A Night of Discovery Welcome & Discovery Center Lovers Keys State Park 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach 6 – 9 p.m., Advance tickets $100, 239-405-8115

FRI - 26

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Clue: On Stage March 26 - 28 Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-219-6463 Paula Canon Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Flora Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

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MARCH CALENDAR Charlotte Players present Sister’s Easter Catechism Charlotte Harbour Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda, 7:30 p.m., 941-255-1022

Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Gulf Coast Symphony: She Loves Me March 26 - 28 Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 239-277-1700

TUE - 30

Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

Rhythm on the River: Jimmy Buffett tribute band Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-334-7419 Veronica Swift BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 4 and 8 p.m. 239-395-0900

SAT - 27

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m. Iconic - 7 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Hot Works Fine Art Show March 27 and 28 Naples-Italian-American Club, 7035 Airport Pulling Road, Naples outside, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. www.hotworks.org Brunch music with Michael Jay The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 239-219-6463 CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Alan Small Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 36 - MARCH 2021

Hotworks.org will host an open air art festival March 27 and 28 at the Naples Italian-American Club, 7035 Airport-Pulling Road, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. For more details, visit online at www.hotworks.org. The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Sean Paxton The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Collaboration Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Girls of Motown Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-540-8454

Gator Nate Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples in front of Bravo, 6 - 8 p.m.,

ACMA: Roy Book Binder Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 4 p.m. www.eventbrite.com

Garlic Fest Centennial Park, 2000 W First St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.bscevent.com

SUN - 28

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Blues Series: Harper & Midwest Kind Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901 Drag Me to Church The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers Show noon 239-219-6463 Little River Band Hertz Arena, 1100 Everblades Parkway, Estero 7:30 p.m. 239-948-7825

Drag Queen Karaoke The Standard Restaurant, Page Field Commons, 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m., 239-219-6463

MON - 29

Stardust Memories Big Band Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave S., Naples 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240

Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Sanibel Music Festival: The Symphony Orchestra Strings Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 11 a.m., www.sanibelmusicfestival.org

WED - 31

Rick Russell on the piano The Veranda, 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-332-2065 Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Laurie & Rusty Wright Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com High Tide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Happenings Magazine - SW Florida

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 37

Gulf Coast Symphony MUSIC

presents Evita March 5 & 6

Gulf Coast Symphony presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning musical Evita on March 5 and 6 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. Evita follows the life of Argentine political leader Eva Perón and features hit songs such as "Don't Cry for Me Argentina," "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" and "You Must Love Me." Mariand Torres joins the Gulf Coast Symphony in the lead role as Eva Perón. Torres is best known for playing the role of Elphaba on Broadway and the National Tour of Wicked, and most recently collaborated with Stephen Schwartz on the film version of his musical Snapshots, which was produced in collaboration with ACT of Connecticut. She was also part of the original cast of Broadway’s first acappella musical, In Transit. The role of Che is performed by Dan Domenech, a veteran touring vocalist. Domenech has toured with productions of RENT, Wonderland, Sister Act, Rock of Ages, and Kinky Boots, plus has made guest appearances in several television roles, including Glee and Gotham. Gulf Coast Symphony is following stringent health and safety protocols. Temperature checks, facial coverings, and socially distanced seating are required for all events. Tickets are available at www.GulfCoastSymphony.org or by calling the Barbara B. Mann box office at 239-4814849. 38 - MARCH 2021

Gulf Coast Symphony performances in March Evita

March 5 and 6 at 7 pm. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers

Mariand Torres

Sarasota Music Conservatory Faculty String Quartet March 7 at 7 p.m. Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers

Mahlerʼs Symphony No. 4

March 12 at 7 p.m. Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers

Jazz at the Center: Tribute to Herbie Hancock & Chick Corea March 13 at 7 p.m. Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers

Stars of Disney

March 14 at 7 p.m. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers

Dan Domenech

She Loves Me March 26 - 28 Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers

Happenings Magazine

Singer-songwriter Darrell Scott

in Bonita Springs March 5

Award-winning singer-songwriter Darrell Scott comes to Bonita Springs Friday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. Scott has toured the world with Robert Plant and the Zac Brown Band, produced albums for Malcom Holcomb and Guy Clark, and written some of the most iconic songs in popular music—like “Long Time Gone” and “It’s a Great Day to Be Alive.” Darrell Scott mines and cultivates the everyday moment, taking the mundane and allowing it to be surreal and candidly honest and resonating. The words he fosters allow us to make sense of the world and our place in it. And ultimately, Darrell knows the sole truth of life is that love is all that matters, that we don’t always get it

Happenings Magazine

Darrell Scott

right, but that’s the instinctive and requisite circuitous allure of things, why we forever chase it, and why it is held sacred. Darrell Scott comes from a musical family with a father who had him smitten with guitars by the age of 4, alongside a brother who played Jerry Reed style as well. From there, things only ramped up with literature and poetry endeavors while a student at Tufts University, along with playing his way through life. This would never change. The concert will take place at Performing Arts Center, Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. For tickets and info, call the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs at 239-495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org.

MARCH 2021 - 39

Sanibel Music Festival to feature local MUSIC

artists from FGCU in open air performances

Sanibel Music Festival will launch the Emerging Artist Series this year in March. The series will feature the FGCU Bower School of Music Chamber Ensembles performing in open air daytime performances on Sanibel Island. “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Kyle Szabo and the talented Bower School of Music artists to Sanibel,” said Jana Stone, Sanibel Music Festival President. “The Emerging Artist Series will showcase promising talent in a beautiful outdoor island venue, while allowing strict observance of public health standards.” Sanibel Music Festival Emerging Artist Series concerts will be Tuesdays, March 23 and March 30, at 11 a.m. at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, 1451 Middle Gulf Drive on Sanibel Island. The venue offers socially distanced seating, easy accessibility via the Tiki Bar and plentiful on-site parking. indoor evening performances with an outstanding proThe Mrch 23 concert will feature The Bower String gram including the multiple award-winning Emerson Quartet and the Chamber Strings. The March 30 perString Quartet, honored with nine Grammys.” formance will feature The Symphony Orchestra Strings. A five-member music committee led by board member Register at www.sanibelmusicfestival.org for compliSue Pick reviews every composition considered for presmentary, guaranteed socially distanced seating, and to entation. "Our goal is to make a free will donation. Walk-ins are welcome as carefully craft a balanced, yet diverse program," space permits. All donations are tax deductible and will explained Pick. “We are working with Dr. Kyle Szabo, support the Bower School of Music. Concert goers can Orchestra Director and also register by callHead of String Studies ing 239-344-7025 or at the Bower School of writing to Sanibel Music, on an exciting Music Festival, PO program for March, Box 1623, Sanibel, including some Florida 33957. beloved favorites." Donation checks are “Sanibel Music welcome by mail or Festival is a great partwith a contact-free ner,” said Dr. Krzysztof donation in a collecBiernacki, director of tion box at the conthe Bower School of cert. Music & the Arts. “The Concern for Covidschool serves as the 19 conditions caused hub of campus cultural the festival to postlife while preparing stupone the well-known dents to excel as proannual seven-concert fessionals in the arts series featuring chamand related fields,” ber music, piano continued Biernacki. recital, and vocal “Performing in the ensemble. “I’m lookcommunity is a rich ing forward to enjoymusical opportunity for ing music in the openstudents and allows us air this year,” said to contribute to the Nina Orrell, festival impressive cultural texvice president. “The ture of Southwest 2022 season is Sanibel Music Festival 2021 Music Committee Jana Stone, Michael Newhouse, Florida.” planned to return to Nina Orrell, David Conrad, and Sue Pick

40 - MARCH 2021

Happenings Magazine

Vinyl Vibes welcomes Stevie Wonder tribute March 19 at Davis Art Center

Vinyl Vibes is a retro records series that features some of the nations best tribute acts at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center. The Hotter Than July: Stevie Wonder Tribute Show is scheduled for March 19, and Turnstiles: The Billy Joel Tribute band will perform April 16. Hotter Than July is a Stevie Wonder tribute band that is a high energy, soulful group of talented and experienced musicians. Led by professional musician Gerry Williams, in honor of the man believed to be one of the most incredible and complete recording artists of all time, is an unbounded vocalist and percussionist who brings funk on the keys. This is a band audiences can't help but to get on their feet and groove to. Backed by rhythm and horns, performing Stevie's greatest hits from “Sign Sealed Delivered” to “I Wish,” this band knows how to entertain a crowd.

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Stevie Wonder is beautifully portrayed by Williams, an industry veteran vocal coach with a background in artist development that garnered him the reputation as the ‘boy band guy’ since the onset of the pop groups that emerged in the mid ‘90s. Several of his vocal students are Grammy and Dove Award Winners - Mandy Moore, Jordan Knight (New Kids on the Block), Jeff Timmons (98 Degrees), Chris Kirkpatrick (N’Sync), to name a few. Williams has also produced and written songs for artists such as Jordan Knight and C’Note. He has also been a featured vocal coach on the reality TV shows, Mission Man Band and Big in America. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for cocktails and the concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. General admission is $50 and VIP is $65. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the Fort Myers River District. Call 239-333-1933 or www.sbdac.com for more details.

MARCH 2021 - 41

MUSIC

Coconut Falls hosts weekly blues

The blues are alive on Sundays at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill in Fort Myers. The popular blues concert series continues in March with th Paul Nelson Band on March 7; All Star Music Fest on March 14; Memphis Lightning on March 21; and Harper and Midwest Kind on March 28. All shows run Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 with $5 off your entree purchase.

Paul Nelson Band Paul Nelson is recognized as one of today's top guitarists/songwriters and producers not only having the distinction of being the hand picked fellow guitarist to the legendary rock/blues icon Johnny Winter but he has toured the world over performing and or recorded along side an endless who's who list of top artists from Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy to Slash, Billy Gibbons, Ben Harper, Robben Ford, Vince Gill, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, James Cotton, Joe Perry, Susan Tedeschi, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, John Popper, Dr. John, Larry Carlton, Leslie West, Joe Bonamassa, Sonny Landreth, Dickey Betts to Joe Walsh and more. Nelson received a Grammy award for his work performing on and producing Winter's "Step Back" release on Megaforce/Sony winning "Best Blues Album of the Year" highlighting his already long list of Grammy nominations. As well as the BMA Blues Music Award for Best Blues/Rock Album reaching #16 on the Billboard Top 200 and staying at #1 on the Billboard Blues Charts for weeks. He is also a recipient of the Blues Foundation's KBA Keeping The Blues Alive Award.

Memphis Lightning - March 21

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Paul Nelson - March 7

Memphis Lightning Memphis Lightning was born out of tradition with a pedigree second to none. Having played with the blues legend Eddie "Blues Man" Kirkland, Memphis Lightning are the real deal. At 12 years old, Darren "Lil Bluesman" Thiboutot was riding shotgun and playing ol' school, rock solid, tasty guitar on stage with the late great blues legend Eddie Kirkland, and Buddy Guy. Now as an adult, he is the youngest member to fly the funky skies with Memphis Lightning. On the skins, riding the back beat, and the backbone of Memphis Lightning is Grammy nominated and international touring and recording artist Darren "Big Red" Thiboutot. As the eldest statesman Rick "Slow Driver" McLennan has been laying down the bottom end for the Piners, the Late Great Eddie Kirkland, and now Memphis Lightning. Harper & Midwest Kind Born in England, Peter D. Harper’s musical journey began early, performing in brass bands playing the trumpet and euphonium. At the age of ten, his family moved half way round the world to Perth, Western Australia and his grandfather introduced Harper to the harp. In

Perth, one of the most isolated cities in the world, there was a thriving blues and folk scene. The blues had a rawness, an honesty and a passion of the soul which spoke to Harper deeply. Then, like every blues/ folk lover, Harper began his journey backwards to discover the deeper roots of the music. "I think Muddy Waters really hit me hard. There was something incredibly special about his sound, his powerful voice and his songs. I also really dug Sonny Boy Williamson II as well. I loved his rhythmic use of his harp. I was also inspired by a pretty wide range of players and styles like Little Walter, Sugar Blue and Stevie Wonder who guide me in my harmonica playing.” Fascinated with the spirituality and culture of the American Natives, he found the same intrinsic qualities present in the Australian Aborigines of his homeland. On adding the native didgeridoo to his music, Harper says "It is a sound I grew up with, so it seemed natural to add it to my songwriting particularly when the lyrics related to the plight of the Aborigines in Australia. When I added the didgeridoo to more traditional instruments, it worked. The deep woody qualities and its haunting drone seemed to enhance the emotional quality of my stories.” Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill is located at 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers. For more info, call 239-990-9901, visit www.coconutfalls.com or follow them on Facebook.

Harper - March 28

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Punta Gorda Symphony: Strings in the Garden March 14

After four successful outdoor concerts in December and February, select Punta Gorda Symphony musicians will perform newly added chamber concerts at two new locations in Punta Gorda: Strings in the Garden: Baroque + Beatles + Wine at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens on March 14 and Harborside Brass at Four Points by Sheraton on April 11. “Our February concerts were entirely sold out and audiences gave us two standing ovations – they keep asking us for more,” says executive director Craig Badinger. After months of navigating the pandemic, the community has been starved for live cultural entertainment. Punta Gorda Symphony plans to Ming Gao will perform with cellist Si-Cheng meet the demand and continue its Liu and pianist Charis Dimaras safe, outdoor, and socially-distanced live concert arrangements guided by CDC recommendations. concerts. Punta Gorda Symphony also “We’re continuing to offer two differoffers a special youth and student tickent concert times to accommodate as et price available through the office. many patrons as possible, but due to Strings in the Garden: Baroque + limited capacity, we advise all interestBeatles + Wine on March 14 will feaed patrons to act now – tickets are ture a trio of violin, cello, and piano led selling fast” says Badinger. Tickets are by Punta Gorda Symphony’s $30 and are on sale online for both

Concertmaster Ming Gao. Attendees will have the option to purchase wine and beverages at the gardens and to enjoy discounted entry to the full gardens experience. Expect everything from a rendition of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons: Summer to Ming Gao’s own arrangement of “Beatles Mania: A Celebration Medley.” The program will also feature arrangements of Led Zeppelin hits and rock staples “Kashmir” and “Stairway to Heaven.” Other contrasting works like “Oblivion” by Argentine tango composer will transport audiences from the rock halls to the deep undercurrents of Buenos Aires in the 1980s. Concerts will be limited to sociallydistanced audiences of 150, and will follow standard COVID-related health and safety guidelines. All patrons are required to wear a mask upon arrival and throughout the duration of the concert apart from drinking or eating refreshments within a patron’s own seating area. Advanced ticketing is required for Strings in the Garden and Harborside Brass. For more information and tickets, visit www.PGSymphony.org, or call the office at 941-205-5996.

AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION Fort Myers home for original Americana music!

Check our Facebook page

Americana Community Music Association and our website

www.americanacma.org for updates on all Events

Roy Book Binder - March 28

4 p.m. - Alliance for the Arts, Fort Myers Advance tickets only. www.eventbrite.com

The ACMA continues to promote original music with Live Streaming and in person Concerts.

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MARCH 2021 - 43

Gulfshore Opera’s Carmen Gala MUSIC

Reception, concert and dinner set for March 23

Gulfshore Opera’s signature fundraising gala usually begins with a concert featuring an international star. The original plan for this year’s annual opera gala originally included Irish tenor Anthony Kearns on Feb. 28, but international travel restrictions shut that plan down. The company then adjusted the plan to an outdoor concert with another international artist, this one with an American passport, but he has been held over in Germany. By her third try, Gulfshore Opera general director Steffanie Pearce learned her lesson on the third try. She explains, “I called my most trusted New York agents and told them that I have 24 hours to come up with a new gala plan, and I need top level talent that is in Florida, driving distance from us.” The search revealed mezzo soprano Elise Quigliata, a renowned Carmen residing in Miami, and international tenor Adam Diegel, who has recently performed the role of Don Jose in Carmen with Elise. He will based in Tampa for the month of March. Tampa based baritone Jean Carlos Rodriguez, who has been performing concerts with Gulfshore Opera this winter, will complete the love triangle. Gulfshore Opera’s six voice women’s ensemble, the GO Divas will join in as Carmen’s gypsy, cigarette factory working friends. This semi-staged pre-dinner concert will take place outdoors on St. Leo’s lakeside patio. This year, Gulfshore Opera’s entire fundraising event, including concert and gala dinner, will take place on the campus of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Bonita Springs. To ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience, the church has graciously offered its expansive Parish Life Center and outdoor patios, which creates scope for very generously spaced tables and optional outdoor dining setting. This plan offers the convenience of keeping all gala activities at one location, allows for maximum social distancing with seating arrangements and includes an outdoors dining option. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with a pre-concert wine reception and first peek at the auction items in the fireside room. The open air concert highlighting the dramatic story of Carmen follows. Patrons will 44 - MARCH 2021

Elise Quigliata

then enjoy the gala dinner, catered by Delicious by Design (whose profits benefit St . Matthew’s House). Quigliata and Diegel will address the audience at the gala dinner, sharing stories from their careers. A Carmen in Seville photo booth will be set up for patrons’ keepsake photos. During the evening, light entertainment will be provided by the GO Divas, there will be a silent auction featuring local experiences and a cork pull, which will complete the Gulfshore Opera signature fundraising event. Guests may reserve tables set for four and six. Elise Quagliata, mezzo-soprano, has gained notice over the past decade for the unique beauty of her voice, her musical

Adam Diegel

Jean Carlos Rodriguez

intelligence, theatrical range and the riveting effect she has had on audiences everywhere. Regularly appearing as Carmen in the past several seasons for New York City Opera’s tours of Carmen in Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East, the artist reprised the role with Utah Opera and for City Opera’s second summer at New York City’s Bryant Park. In 2019, she performs Carmen with the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera. Korean American tenor Adam Diegel regularly earns international acclaim for his impassioned dramatic sensibilities, powerful voice, and for his classic leading man looks. Diegel made his Metropolitan Opera début as Froh in Robert Lepage’s landmark production of Das Rheingold conducted by Maestro James Levine. Further appearances at The Met include Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly under Plácido Domingo and Ismaele in Nabucco under Paolo Carignani. He returned to The Metropolitan Opera in Norma and Madama Butterfly in 2019. Diegel has performed the lead tenor role of Don José in Carmen literally around the world. Dominican born baritone Jean Carlos Rodriguez is known for his colorful resonant voice and charismatic stage presence. Rodriguez made his professional operatic debut with Opera Tampa in 2017 as Count Paris in Gounod’s Romeo et Juliette; that same year he portrayed the role of “Vidal Hernando” in Torraba’s Luisa Fernanda and the title role in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro with the Savannah Voice Festival as well as “Fiorello” and “Ufficiale” in Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia with Opera Tampa in 2018.

March 23 gala details

Reception and silent auction viewing 5 p.m. Carmen highlights concert at 5:30 p.m. Dinner and fundraising activities- 6:30 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $250 (Includes reception, open air concert, & dinner with complimentary wine pairing, silent auction and cash bar available) Purchase tickets by visiting www.gulfshoreopera.org or calling 239-529-3925.

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Celebration of Song Concert was held Dec. 13 at City of Palms Stadium

Symphonic Chorale

reschedules memorial

concert for March 14

The Symphonic Chorale’s Memorial Concert “Before the Morning Watch” dedicated to its founding president Alan Wioskowski was canceled suddenly last March due to Covid. The chorale has announced that it is now rescheduled for Sunday, March 14 at 4 p.m. in Naples. Admission is free, but tickets are required and available through the church’s website beginning Feb. 23. The concert is part of Moorings popular Hyacinth Series, celebrating its 39th season. The highlight of this Memorial Concert is the performance of John Rutter’s glorious Requiem accompanied by organist Thomas Goetz on the beautiful Nichols & Simpson Organ with over 4,300 pipes. “The acoustics and the organ at Moorings are spectacular,” said chorale artistic director

Happenings Magazine

Trent Brown. “It is a wonderful venue to perform in and even through everyone will be masked and spread out across the large altar area, it will be a powerful experience for everyone involved.” The chorale is inviting members of the SW Florida community to join with them at this Memorial Concert in remembering a deceased loved one with a memorial gift to the Chorale of $50 or more. Loved ones will be recognized on a large poster at the Concert and donors will be sent a Keepsake Certificate after the performance. Names must be received by March 3 to be included on the poster. For a link to request a free ticket to this concert or to get more information about making a memorial donation, visit online at www.symphonicchorale.org or call 239560-5695.

MARCH 2021 - 45

MUSIC

Bonita Spring Concert Band to perform March 21 with guest vocalist Jennifer Gilmore The next free concert with the Bonita Springs Concert Band will be Sunday, March 21 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Park in Downtown Bonita Springs. The guest vocalist is Jennifer Gilmore, known throughout Florida as “Golden Note.” Her extraordinary career shows her belief that music makes a difference. A dynamic vocal powerhouse, her stylistic diversity, natural charm, and soulful charisma has conquered the hearts of music fans of all ages. Jennifer will perform a tribute to Whitney Houston and from Les Miserable, “Bring Him Home.” She was a third round finalist for the TV show X-Factor. Jennifer’s newest themed show is “Dynamic Divas,” featuring her spot-on chill-inducing renditions of classics by

the seventh season divas like Barbra that Gary has led the Streisand, Whitney band. Gary says, “The Houston Karen talent of these musiCarpenter, Dolly cians is tremendous, Parton, Celine Dion, ranging in age from 15 Vicki Carr and Adele. to 94.” The band will play Become a “Friend “You Can’t Stop the of the Band” for just Beat” from Hairspray, $50. Find out more at John Philip Sousa’s www.boni“Semper Fidelis” and taspringsconcerthighlights from “La La band.org. The concert Land.” will also be available The band is half its Jennifer Gilmore on Facebook at Bonita normal size following Springs Concert Band. Covid guidelines for Bring a lawn chair and a friend social distancing. Members are under Sunday, March 25 to Riverside Park the direction of Gary Smith who retired on Old 41 Road. Attendees are asked after 24 years as conductor of the to wear a mask into the park and University of Illinois Marching Illini socially distance per CDC guidelines. Band and Symphonic Band. This is

The ACMA welcomes

Roy Book Binder

to the Alliance outdoor stage

46 - MARCH 2021

Roy Book Binder

The Americana Community Music Association and the Alliance for the arts present Roy Book Binder on the outdoor stage March 28 at 4 p.m. Roy Book Binder has been rambling around the world for the past 45 years. He gave up his Greenwich Village "pad" in the early 1970s and lived in his "tour bus" for the next 15 years criss-crossing the United States and appearing at festivals throughout Canada and Europe. Book Binder, travelled with the legendary Rev. Gary Davis in the late ‘60s. The Book recorded his first solo acoustic blues album in the

‘70s, which was the first to receive five stars in Downbeat magazine. In the late ‘80s, The Book was part of Bonnie Raitt's East Coast Tour, which included an appearance on The Grand Old Opry. That led to almost 30 appearances on Nashville Now’s Ralph Emory Show. In the ‘90s, he often appeared with Jorma Kaukonen (who recorded two of Roy's songs) The Alliance for the Arts is located at 10091 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.eventbrite.com. For more details, visit www.americanacma.org. Happenings Magazine

Allie Colleen

Country artist Allie Colleen performed Jan. 30 at The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers as part of the Sam Galloway Concert Series. Her debut album is expected out in April. Photos by Jamie Kuser.

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 47

PERFORMANCES IN SW FLORIDA,

IN CONCERT JUL 2

Sebastian Bach

Parmalee

The Ranch, Fort Myers

SUN COAST & KEY WEST

JUL 20

Pat Benetar & Neil Giraldo

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

FEB 27

Matt Stell

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUL 23

Firefall, Poco & Pure Prairie League

MAR 5

Parmalee

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Aaron Lewis

Parmalee will perform March 5 at The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers as part of the Sam Galloway Concert Series. For tickets and info, visit www.theranchfortmers.com.

Red Clay Strays

APR 10

MAY 22 & 23

AUG 5

Collie Buddz

Gary Puckett & The Union Gap

Foreigner

MAY 25

AUG 6

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAR 13

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAR 18

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAR 19

Tracy Lawrence

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAR 20 Paul Anka

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAR 25 & 26

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAR 28

Little River Band Hertz Arena, Estero

MAR 29

Joe Bonamassa

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

APR 3

The LACS, Demun Jones

The Ranch, Fort Myers 48 - MARCH 2021

Craig Morgan

The Ranch, Fort Myers BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

APR 17

Joe Nichols

The Ranch, Fort Myers

APR 30

Toby Keith

Hertz Arena, Estero

MAY 4

Old Dominion

Key West Amphitheater

MAY 7

Pryor and Lee

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 13

Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Mike Tramp, John Corabi

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 27 Brit Floyd

Hertz Arena, Estero

JUN 4

Allman Betts Band

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

JUN 11 Alabama

Hertz Arena, Estero

JUN 17

Kix, Vixen

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUN 27

Ringo Starr

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

JUL 24

Slaughter, L.A. Guns The Ranch, Fort Myers

Styx

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Slightly Stoopid

Key West Amphitheater

AUG 20

Tedeschi Trucks Band BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

Rebelution

SEP 19

Key West Amphitheater

OCT 22

Casting Crowns, Matthew West Hertz Arena, Estero

NOV 11

Chris Stapleton Hertz Arena, Estero

Due to COVID-19, concert dates subject to change

Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net

Happenings Magazine

Tracy Lawrence, Parmalee at The Ranch

The Ranch Concert Hall & album is a milestone for Lawrence Saloon has added more shows to its penning eight of the 12 songs fealong list of rock and country artists tured on the album. Lawrence’s last in the first half of 2021. studio album, 2017’s critically The updated Sam Galloway Ford acclaimed, Good Ole Days, hit the #1 Concert Series welcomes country position on the iTunes Country Chart. artists Matt Stell on Feb. 27, In addition to his chart topping Parmalee on March 5, The Red success, Lawrence hosts the Award Clay Strays on March 13, Tracy Nominated nationally syndicated Lawrence on March 19, The LACS radio show “Honky Tonkin’ With Tracy and Demun Jones on April 3, Craig Lawrence,” for which he has received Morgan on April 10, and Pryor and two ACM nominations for National Lee on May 7. On Air Personality of the Year. The Other concerts at The Ranch show features music from the 80’s, Concert Hall (not part of the 90’s and 2000’s and is heard on Galloway series) include Slaughter more than 115 affiliates. Tracy Lawrence with L.A. Guns on March 6, Collie Tracy is also the co creator of Buddz, Keznamdi and 4th & Orange Storming Heaven: The Musical, a on March 18, Ben Allen Band on April 2, Nightbird - The production based on the novel Storming Heaven. Tracy, along Ultimate Tribute to Stevie Nicks on April 9, Joe Nichols on April with others helped to develop the storyline of the musical and 17, Schism (Tool tribute band) on April 23, Mike Tramp and also composed songs for the drama. John Corabi on May 25, Kix and Vixen on June 17 and The Ranch is still adhering to limited capacity for concerts Sebastian Bach on July 2, Slaughter and L.A. Guns on July 24. and events. Schedules are changing constantly, and ticket buyOne of country music’s truest traditionalists, Tracy Lawrence ers are advised to always check with the venue before the has sold more than 13 million albums and has charted 18 No. event. For tickets & details, go to www.theranchfortmyers.com. 1 songs. The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839. He has garnered numerous CMA and ACM awards and For most concerts, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch nominations, as well as a Grammy nomination. Most recently, Concert Hall & Saloon, which is located at 2158 Colonial Blvd. Lawrence released his latest album, Made in America. The in Fort Myers.

Little River Band at Hertz Arena March 28

Little River Band is finally returning Whinnery on guitar/lead vocals. to Southwest Florida when Hertz Arena In 2020, Wayne Nelson (a former SW in Estero hosts them on March 28. Florida resident) observed a 40-year Tickets are on sale through affiliation with the band. In 1981, Nelson Ticketmaster and the Hertz Arena Box was recognized by world renowned Office. Ticket prices range from $40 up Beatles producer Sir George Martin to $115 for front row. Parking for the whom, while producing Time Exposure, show will be $20, cash only. chose Nelson to record lead vocals on The band was scheduled to play a two of the band’s biggest hits, “The Night rescheduled concert March 12 at Owls” and “Take It Easy On Me.” To Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall date, Nelson’s vocal and bass guitar talin Fort Myers, but that show has been ents are included on 23 Little River Band delayed until spring of 2022. albums/CDs. Through the ‘70s and ‘80s, LRB Looking back on the past 40 years, enjoyed huge chart success with multiNelson said most likely his predominant platinum albums and chart topping hits memory is a concert on his 30th birthlike “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” day (June 1, 1980). It was a stadium Wayne Nelson marked 40 years with “Lonesome Loser,” “The Night Owls,” show in Munich, Germany, in front of LRB in 2020 photo by Jamie Kuser “Take It Easy On Me,” “Help Is on Its 125,000 people. The concert also Way,” “Happy Anniversary,” “We Two,” included Fleetwood Mac, Bob Marley “Man On Your Mind,” “The Other Guy” and “It’s A Long Way There.” and Don McLean. A cold, windy and rainy day, the skies parted for Worldwide album and CD sales now top 30 million. And in about an hour while LRB took the stage, recalls Nelson. 1982, LRB set a record for having had Top 10 hits for six consecuLRB last played in SW Florida Feb. 15, 2019, at Mann Hall. Off tive years – In fact, they were the very first band to achieve that the road for the past year, the 2021 schedule for LRB looks to be remarkable plateau. According to BMI, “Reminiscing” has garnered rather aggressive. rare status with over 5 million air plays on American radio, and To ensure the safety of patrons, Hertz Arena has implemented a “Lady” is close behind with over 4 million air plays. mandatory mask policy throughout the facility. Masks must be worn Today, Little River Band is Wayne Nelson on lead vocals/bass, at all times while inside the facility. Patrons may remove their Chris Marion on keyboards/vocals, Rich Herring on lead masks at their seats while actively eating or drinking. guitar/vocals, Ryan Ricks on drums/percussion/vocals and Colin For more about the March 28 show, visit www.hertzarena.com Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 49

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

The Ben Allen Band includes (from left) Jeff Scheeler, Jay Phoenix, Ben Allen, Joe Fernandez and Bret Deising.

Ben Allen Band to play free outdoor concert March 5

The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center and the River District Alliance present the Ben Allen Band in concert alongside two art receptions in March. The 2021 International Baccalaureate Visual Arts Exhibition will be featured in the Grand Atrium and Dharma Lefevre’s solo exhibition, Oneiros, will be featured in the Capital Gallery. The opening night art reception takes place during Art Walk on Friday, March 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. and will be on display through March 25. The free outdoor concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Ben Allen of Estero, began competing on season 19 of NBC’s The Voice in October. Country star and judge Blake Shelton originally turned his chair and added Ben Allen to his team. After an elimination round, pop star and judge Gwen Stefani saved Ben and added him to

50 - MARCH 2021

her team. After some fierce competition, Ben Allen was part of the final nine semifinalists before being voted off. Allen found his passion for singing during an open mic night at the age of 31. After trying out as a duo, Allen founded his band, The Ben Allen Band. The Ben Allen Band is now one of the most popular bands in Southwest Florida and has opened for many national recording artists at The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers. The Ben Allen Band includes Ben Allen (vocals and guitar), Jeff Scheeler (guitar), Jay Phoenix (drums), Joe Fernandez (guitar) and Bret Deising (bass and vocals). The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more information, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.

Happenings Magazine

FIRST FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH

(rain or shine) 6 PM

THIRD FRIDAYS

The next Art Walk is set for March 5.

EVERY MONTH 6 PM

The next Music Walk is March 19.

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 51

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Southwest Florida

Reading Festival

virtual throughout March The 22nd annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival will be a monthlong, fully virtual celebration of the power of reading brought to the community by the Lee County Library System. Nearly 30 acclaimed authors will provide nightly programming March 1 - 12. Other highlights include the opportunity to video chat with headlining and local authors during the festival’s live booth hours from 1 - 3 p.m. Saturday, March 6, and Saturday, March 13. Grab-and-go crafts, a reading program with festival bingo and online S.T.E.A.M. contests featuring Lego builds, art and creativity challenges are also part of the fun. “Our library system is pleased to once again provide our signature event for the community,” said Mindi Simon, library director. “The online format allows us to extend the festival’s length and scope.” Patrons can log on to EventHub beginning Feb. 22 for a preview of the festival. Author presentations will broadcast weekday evenings March 1 - 5 and March 8 - 12, with youth and teen authors at 6 p.m. and adult authors at 7 p.m. Each interview is followed by an interactive, live meet & greet to interact with authors and ask questions via video or text chat. Additional opportunities to chat with authors will be offered during the

52 - MARCH 2021

Saturday live booth sessions at 1 p.m. After live events conclude on March 13, festival attendees will be able to watch recorded content on-demand through March 31. Participants are encouraged to sign up for the online reading and activity challenge or complete the paper-based reading bingo for chances to win prizes and book baskets with festival author book titles. The deadline to log reading and activities is March 31. S.T.E.A.M. contest prizes include numerous Lego sets, as well as arts and crafts supplies, with contest entries accepted through March 14. Online public voting will take place March 15 - 31. The eligible entries with the most votes will win the prizes for each category. The library system’s commitment to reading continues with providing each participating child and teen with a new, free book. This year, the free books will be distributed in age-appropriate grab-andgo craft bags, available while supplies last at the 13 Lee County Library System branches starting Feb. 22. Adults will receive a book in their craft kits as well, which will incorporate various patterns to become part of a folded book art craft. More info is available at www.ReadFest.org or by calling 239-533-4832.

Adult authors scheduled to participate:

Jennifer Chiaverini is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of acclaimed historical novels, including “Resistance Women,” “Mrs. Lincoln’s Dressmaker” and the beloved “Elm Creek Quilts” series. Her latest release is “Mrs. Lincoln’s Sisters.” Julie Clark’s debut novel, “The Ones We Choose,” was published in 2018, and has been optioned for television by Lionsgate.

Chanel Cleeton is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick, “Next Year in Havana” and “When We Left Cuba.” Ben Coes is the New York Times bestselling author of international espionage thrillers, including “Bloody Sunday,” “Trap the Devil,” “Eye for an Eye,” “Independence Day,” and “First Strike.”

Trish Doller has written several young adult novels, including the critically acclaimed “Something Like Normal” as well as “Float Plan,” her women's fiction debut releasing in March.

Rachel Hauck is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. Her latest release is “To Love a Prince.”

Eloisa James is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author and professor of English literature. Her latest release is “My Last Duchess.”

Gregg Hurwitz is the New York Times #1 internationally bestselling author of 22 thrillers including the “ORPHAN X” series. “The Kindest Lie,” a February 2021 release, is Nancy Johnson’s first novel.

Julie Klassen has written 16 historical novels which have sold over a million copies.

Jayne Ann Krentz, under various pen names, is the author of more than 50 New York Times bestsellers. With more than 40 million novels sold, she is one of the most commercially successful authors writing today. Kyle Mills is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of 19 political thrillers, including “Red War” for Vince Flynn and “The Patriot Attack” for Robert Ludlum.

Alisha Rai pens award-winning contemporary romances and her novels have been named Best Books of the Year by the Washington Post, NPR, Amazon, Entertainment Weekly, Kirkus and Cosmopolitan Magazine. Kim Vogel Sawyer told her teacher back in 1966 that someday people would check out her book in libraries. Her little-girl dream came true in 2006 with “Waiting for Summer’s Return” and now more than 50 of her titles grace library shelves.

Cat Sebastian lives in a swampy part of the South with her husband, three kids and two dogs. Before her kids were born, she practiced law and taught high school and college writing. Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

MARCH 2021 - 53

DINING

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

1st Street Deli

Diners at the Seminole Casino Immokalee will enjoy the 1st Street Deli. The authentic New Yorkstyle delicatessen brings a distinctly unique dining concept to the casino, featuring deli pickles, fresh bread and sandwiches bigger than your appetite. Offerings include piled high pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, reubens, hot paninis, hamburgers and salads. Opens 10 a.m. daily.

506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill

We are a family owned tiki bar and grill. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where you can have a mini vacation. We offer a wide range of American food with a tropical twist including appetizers, salads, wings, a mac bar, our signature coconut bowl, sandwiches, pasta and of course tropical themed dinner plates. We are introducing catering. Your beer is sure to be ice cold with our 12 tap glycol system and bottles kept on ice. We also feature a cigar bar under tiki roof, with cigars and accessories for sale. Last, but definitely not least, we offer a wide range of entertainment to ensure there is never a dull moment.

17200 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 www.coconutfalls.com

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee’s EE-TO-LEETKE Grill enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections. The interior design of the EETO-LEET-KE Grill is elegant yet comfortable and features a theater-style 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 awardwinning fajitas, pork osso bucco and the ever-popular braised short rib pot roast.

506 South 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

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Ella Mae’s Diner

Nostaglia served with a smile. A fun retroinspired eatery serving up comfort food and classic diner fare. Slide into a booth or pull up to the counter for a burger and milkshake or the best all-day breakfast you’ve ever had. Ella Mae’s provides a welcome twist to the classic southern diner. Celebrating Dr. Ella Mae Piper’s legacy, it’s here the community comes together to share stories as they enjoy a meal amidst vintage-inspired finishes and a bright color palette. Pictured, Ella Mae’s Eggs Benedict ($10.50) served with two poached eggs served with country ham on an English muffin, topped with hollandaise sauce and breakfast potatoes.

Luminary Hotel, 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers 239-314-3854 www.LuminaryHotel.com

Le Macaron French Pastries

Our true French macarons are the perfect delicacy, original and elegant made with Gluten Free ingredients; French gelato, French pastries, European style beverages and more! They can simply be described as "Little luxuries that make people smile" Come visit our location Downtown Fort Myers and treat yourself with one of our delicious pastries and flavored latte or mocha.

1540 Broadway, Downtown Fort Myers 239-789-1155 www.lemacaronfortmyers.com

Rib City

Rib City smokes Baby Back Ribs to fall off the bone perfection! Ribs so good, we guarantee them! If you have to pick up a knife to eat our Baby Back Ribs, we’ll pick up your meal! No bones about it! We’re open seven days a week proudly serving Baby Back Ribs and Real Barbecue throughout Southwest Florida. Visit us today at any of our 11 neighborhood locations in Lee and Collier counties! For locations and online ordering, visit Rib City.com

11 Locations throughout Southwest Florida www.ribcity.com

Happenings Magazine

Silver King Ocean Brasserie

The Standard

Crafted, yet casual. The signature restaurant at Luminary Hotel & Co., offering a menu and dining experience unlike any other restaurant in Fort Myers. The Silver King Ocean Brasserie showcasing the quality of fresh seafood through clean, simple preparations using classic techniques for a modern palate. Centered on an open kitchen, the sophisticated restaurant features a welcoming contemporary décor and additional outdoor seats to relax and indulge in the finest local seafood in Southwest Florida. Pictured, Silver King Ocean Brasserie’s Braised Pork ($29) served over preserved red cabbage with sage and noodles.

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, The Standard Restaurant Downtown has something for everyone. Walk through the doors and immediately be treated as a part of The Standard family. From drag queen bingo, drag karaoke brunch, live music, and a scratch kitchen serving a wide variety of delicious options for all to enjoy including homemade sausage, corn beef and pastrami, as well as house cut steaks and fresh seafood. Open 7 days a week! A second location just opened in Page Field Commons in Fort Myers.

Southern Grill

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill

Luminary Hotel, 2200 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers 239-314-3855 www.LuminaryHotel.com

The Southern Grill at the Shell Factory is a full restaurant including liquor, beer and wine. We have an outdoor bar and party venue. There is no entry fee to get into the Shell Factory store or restaurants. Parking is free. While you are here visit the Nature Park, Fun Park, Carousel and Soaring Eagle Zipline.

16554 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers 239-995-3999 www.shellfactory.com

Happenings Magazine

1520 Broadway, Downtown Fort Myers 239-219-6463 5031 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers www.thestandardfortmyers.com

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

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