November 2019 Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Comedy • Music

NOVEMBER 2019

FREE

RUNAWAY JUNE

CASSADEE POPE

NIGHTBIRD

DAVID LEE

MURPHY

Naples • Fort Myers • Cape Coral • Port Charlotte • Key West

Publisher’s Spotlight

Theatre season here

Our theatre houses are getting busy again throughout Southwest Florida with a variety of productions being staged.

Always .. Patsy Cline continues at the Florida Repertory Theatre in Fort Myers through Nov. 24.

In Cape Coral, the Cultural Park Theater presents On Golden Pond now through Nov. 3.

Finding Neverland continues now through Nov. 16 at Broadway Palm in Fort Myers.

Next up for the Broadway Palm will be Sounds of Christmas on stage Nov. 21 through Dec. 25.

Saint Joan is being presented by Gulfshore Playhouse now through Nov. 3 at The Norris Center in Naples. That will be followed by It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Nov. 16 through Dec. 29.

The Charlotte Players will perform Jack of Diamonds Nov. 7 - 20 at the Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte.

FGCU TheatreLab presents Mystery Cycles now through Nov. 3.

A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play is being presented Nov. 14 - Dec. 25 at the Off Bradway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers.

Laboratory Theater of Florida continues its run of Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man through Nov. 16 in Fort Myers.

A Fox on the Fairway will be staged at Florida Repertory Theatre Nov. 1 through Nov. 20.

The Naples Players presents Escanaba in Da Moonlight now through Nov. 17.

Also in Naples, the Studio Players will stage three one-act comedies: Saved by the Bell, Where is Man and The Zoo Story Nov. 15 to Dec. 1 at the Golden Gate Community Center.

Theatre Conspiracy’s Five Lesbians Eating A Quiche runs now to Nov. 3.

It’s official, Bob and Carrie Cacioppo have started a new theatre group called Players Circle Theatre. They will perform at The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers, and the first show of the inaugural season will be Ho! Ho! Ho! The Christmas Show Dec. 3 - 22.

Also in December, New Phoenix Theatre in Fort Myers and TheatreZone in Naples will have new shows.

4 - November 2019

More festivals

We have some more great festivals coming this month featuring some wonderful food and super entertainment.

CROW’s annual Taste of the Islands is set for Nov. 10 on Sanibel.

Cape Coral’s Coconut Festival is scheduled for Nov. 7 - 10 and will feature some great country and rock music.

The Coral Head Music Festival will do a special event Nov. 2 in Pinellas Park and feature Vince Neil, Sebastian Bach and Slaughter.

It appears the Rotary Club’s Taste of Bonita is evolving into Bonita Fest and will take place Nov. 23 at Riverside Park.

Taste of Lee will be held Nov. 2 at Centennial Park in Fort Myers.

The Sanibel Blues and Jazz Festival will be Nov. 3.

Mindi Abair’s Wine and Music Festival is Nov. 15 - 17 in downtown Punta Gorda.

On a sad note, the Junior League of Fort Myers has decided not do its annual Taste of the Town this year.

Music cruises

The clock is ticking and cabins are selling very well for two music cruises celebrating the music of the 70s. The Ultimate Disco Cruise sails Feb. 10 - 15 out of Miami on board the Celebrity Infinity and features KC and the Sunshine Band, The Jacksons, Commodores and many more. The cruise website shows that only 100 cabins remain. To save some money on your cabin, use promo code “Happenings” when you book at www.ultimatediscocruise.com/happenings. As for the 70s Rock and Romance Cruise Feb. 15 - 22 from Miami, the cabin choices are even slimmer. The website shows less than 60 cabins remain for this cruise featuring America, Cheap Trick, Don Felder, Randy Bachman and more. You can save some money on this cruise too by using the promo code “Happenings” at rockandromancecruise.com/happenings.

If you like live music and love to cruise, these are the perfect getaways for you.

Act now before they sell out ... again.

Rock on,

Jamie

IN THIS ISSUE

theatre

6

art

20

music

42

dining

66 Publishers & Owners

Jamie & Kathy Kuser

Contributors: Holly Zammerilla, Michael Moran, Kathy Kuser, 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

swfHappenings@earthlink.net

HappeningsMagazine.net

Happenings Magazine

THEATRE

A Fox on the Fairway Matthew Goodrich, Betsy Helmer, Kate Hampton & David Breitbarth in Florida Repʼs A Fox on the Fairway. Photos by Joe Dafeldecker.

FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE

Florida Repertory Theatre announces the opening of Ken Ludwig's farce, A Fox on the Fairway, playing in the Historic Arcade Theatre Nov. 1 – 20.

The run includes four nearly sold-out previews Oct. 29 - 31.

A Fox on the Fairway is a zany and hilarious farce that turns a stuffy country club on its head. Mistaken identity, slamming doors, and romantic escapades keep audiences in stitches in this madcap adventure about love, life, and man’s eternal love affair with golf!

From the renowned comic author of previous Florida Rep hits, "Lend Me a Tenor" (2012) and "Moon Over Buffalo" (2006), this is a signature Ken Ludwig Farce where Marx Brother’s hilarity meets country club politics.

"A farce is the best way to kick off our season in the Historic Arcade Theatre, and this is one of the best of Ken Ludwig's farces," said Florida Rep artistic director Greg Longenhagen. "Our 22nd season is off to a running start with a salute to a country icon running in the ArtStage and now a madcap farce about to open in the Arcade. We've assembled an allstar cast of returning ensemble members and some comic powerhouses making their Florida Rep debuts, and I promise this production will keep you in stitches."

A Fox on the Fairway features a cast led by Florida Rep ensemble members David Breitbarth, Kate Hampton, Patricia Idlette and William McNulty 6 - November 2019

alongside New York actors Matthew Goodrich (Florida Rep newcomer) and Betsy Helmer, who returns after appearing in last season's Steel Magnolias.

David Breitbarth returns to the Arcade stage after star turns in previous farces Rumors, Social Security and Florida Rep's last outing with Ken Ludwig, Lend Me a Tenor. Kate Hampton was seen most recently in The Miracle Worker and How the Other Half Loves, and made her Florida Rep debut in Lend Me a Tenor. Patricia Idlette is a fixture at Florida Rep and stages across Southwest Florida, and appeared in last season's Steel Magnolias. William McNulty returns after appearances in The Miracle Worker, Twelve Angry Men and as Mark Rothko in Red, among others.

Florida Rep’s Chris Clavelli directs the production after recently helming Florida Rep's Becoming Dr. Ruth, Outside Mullingar and Ken Ludwig's Lend Me a Tenor in 2012.

Tickets start at $55/$49 for regular performances and $35/$29 for previews. Tickets are available online at www.FloridaRep.org and through the box office at 239-332-4488.

Performances are Tuesday Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Florida Rep performs in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay St. between Jackson & Hendry with limited free parking in the River District.

Happenings Magazine

On Golden Pond, concert series at Cultural Park

By Michael Moran On stage Nov. 1 through Nov. 3, a cantankerous curmudgeon, his resentful daughter and her search for love, it must be it must be the classic On Golden Pond.

The Cultural Park Theater’s production of Ernest Thompson’s 1979 play opens nearly four decades after Henry Fonda and Katherine Hepburn won Oscars for their roles in the film adaptation, the story remains a poignant tale of aging and love lost and found.

Despite the serious underpinnings—poor parenting, dementia, death—the script is full of humor, which the veteran cast makes deft use of, for example, Norman’s interrogation of the new boyfriend feels effortlessly, cringingly, laughably awful.

On Golden Pond is the directorial debut for Gwen Salata, "I like to think this show teaches us never to forget to show love to those about whom you care because it might be the last time you have the chance to do it,” she reminds the audience. Tickets cost $22 for adults and $10 for children under 12, $16 for students with ID and $19 for seniors.

Following On Golden Pond, the theater opens its 2019-2020 Concert Series with a long awaited welcome back to the voices of Johnny and Patti

Russo as they bring their “Country Harvest U.S.A.” concert to stage Nov. 8 - 10 for three performances only. Join these dynamic singers as they pay tribute to the music of Patsy Cline, Ray Stevens, Alan Jackson, Crystal Gayle, Dolly Parton and more of country’s biggest hits to the stage. Show times are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m. All tickets are $21.

Next on stage, Nov. 15 – 17, Cultural Park Theater is thrilled to be welcoming two of Southwest Florida's best voices to its stage for a weekend of “Dueling Pianos.” Sarah Hadeka and Dave Rode have been delighting local audiences for years. Sarah's wide-ranging vocal styles and Dave's powerful voice never disappoint. For Dueling Pianos, they'll be turning over control of the concert to the audience who will be able to request songs all night long. Who will come out on top?

You'll have to show up and find out for yourself. Show times are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. All tickets are $21.

For those with the acting and singing bug, Cultural Park will hold open auditions for its Spectacular Christmas Revue on Nov. 16 & 17 from 10 a.m. till 1 p.m. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the seasons most anticipated productions once again we take your favorite holiday songs, add some pop music and sprinkle in a cast of children, adults and Santa Claus and you have a recipe for a most “spectacular” Christmas show!

Cultural Park Theatre Company is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd.

Cape Coral. For further information or to purchase tickets, call 239-772-5862.

The cast of On Golden Pond

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 7

THEATRE

LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA

Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man at Laboratory Theater After its wildly successful run off Broadway, Laboratory Theater presents the first licensed U.S. production of Matt Murphy’s Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man, now through Nov. 16.

The play is set at Lab Community College’s auditorium where the Contemporary Literature Department holds its monthly Meet the Authors series.

Things take a turn towards hilarity when the originating professor dies just before curtain, and her replacement is more than a tad uncomfortable with the subject matter of the book titled Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man. What ensues is a book club talkback meets bachelorette party event that is perfect for date night fun.

Director Randall Kenneth Jones says, Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man won’t Steven Michael Kennedy, Michael Burnett and unify a politically divided country, relieve pain and suffering, help you Madeline Weymouth. track the 4,983 passwords required to live in today’s ultrayou are willing to be a bit naughty — and wired world or bring Will & Grace back for share your enthusiasm in a public forum another season. In playwright Matt — you should be good to go. So, with Murphy’s uproarious prattle of the sexes— tongue firmly planted in cheek—and in regardless of the team you play on—the celebration of laughter’s proven medicinal only casualties are those who are too faculty—welcome to Lab Community frigid (a.k.a. frozen) to let it go.”

College, the Home of the Fighting Jones adds, “Will Sex Tips make you a Beavers, a very special place where readbetter lover? Please email us and let us ing is much more than just FUNdamental.” know! Will Sex Tips make you laugh? If

8 - November 2019

Artistic director Annette Trossbach adds, “We are delighted and honored to be presenting the first licensed production in the country of this saucy and hilarious show. It's been a delight working with playwright Matt Murphy and we look forward to hosting him for opening night! This is the absolute perfect date night show, sure to have audiences squealing with laughter.”

The play features Steven Michael Kennedy, Madelaine Weymouth and Michael Burnette with stage management by Suzanne Davies.

There will be an opening night reception starting at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25. There is no special teen event for this production since no one under 16 will be admitted.

There will be an audience talkback immediately after the performance on opening night.

Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man will play from Oct. 25 – Nov. 16 at the Laboratory Theater of Florida.

Performance dates are Oct. 25, 26, 31 and Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.; and Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m.

Purchase tickets online at www.Brownpapertickets.com or by calling the box office at 239-218-0481. For more info, visit LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com or the physical location at 1634 Woodford Ave. in the Fort Myers River District.

Happenings Magazine

Players Circle Theatre

coming to Shell Factory Bob & Carrie Cacioppo launch new theatre

The Shell Factory & Nature Park has announced its newest tenant, Players Circle Theatre, located at 16554 N. Cleveland Ave. in North Fort Myers.

In partnership with the Actors Equity Association (contract pending), its inaugural season is slated to kick off in December and will include five professional shows.

Led by well known, awardwinning Southwest Florida theatre juggernauts, Carrie and Robert Cacioppo, the venue will be a flexible black box theatre with shows performing in the round (audiences on four sides), three quarter thrust (three sides), alley (two sides) and proscenium (two sections facing the set) configurations.

Seating up to192 guests, the intimate performances will place the audience close to the action and never more than five rows from the stage. The acoustically rich space will have a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, accompanied by a Bluetooth loop hearing aid system and hearing headsets at no charge.

Adjacent to the theatre, a spacious elegant lobby adorned with more than two dozen vintage chandeliers and full-service marble top bar will double as an intimate cabaret space.

The1,000 square-foot space will seat 50-plus, and the walls will showcase180 framed vintage Broadway playbills ranging from the 1920s through today.

Prior to the show, audiences can experience the newly revamped restaurant, Southern Grill, where they will be introduced to the savory home-style food menu and a sommelier selected wine list with available corkage.

Performances will include Broadway-level entertainment with prices starting at a modest $25 per person. VIP seating and subscription packages are Happenings Magazine

also available.

Known as the faces of theatre in Southwest Florida for over 35 years, the Cacioppos have a proven track record of success in the theatre industry, including being the founding members of the Florida Repertory Theatre.

Currently, donations are being accepted and show sponsors are needed. Chaired by Dr. Jerry Laboda and vice chair Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, the theatre has already raised more than $200,000 in donations.

Its three-fold mission is to create a home for a variety of theatre employing an ensemble of professionals who will form longterm working relationships to become an outlet for community involvement in the arts, and to enrich, educate, inspire and entertain the community with classes and performances.

“We are very excited about the Shell Factory’s partnership with the Cacioppos to bring a state-of-the-art venue and topnotch entertainment to SW Florida,” said Pam Cronin, owner of the Shell Factory & Nature Park.

“If someone hasn’t visited us in a while, I think they will be surprised and delighted at all we have to offer. The addition of the theatre is another opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to the community and our visitors to provide them with the best overall customer experience.”

The first season includes Ho! Ho! Ho! The Christmas Show Dec. 3 - 22, The Dining Room Jan. 10 - Feb. 2, Laughter on the 23rd Floor Feb. 15 - March 8, Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime March 20 - April 12 and Miracle on South Division Street April 24 - May 17.

For more information, email at info@PlayersCircle.org or visit www.PlayersCircle.org.

November 2019 - 9

Mystery Cycles at FGCU TheatreLab THEATRE

Four short Medieval plays The Bower School of Music & the Arts at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Theatre Program will present Mystery Cycles directed by theatre professor Barry Cavin in TheatreLab in the Arts Complex at FGCU now through Nov. 3.

FGCU Theatre presents four short Medieval plays taken from collections that were performed on wagons and in the streets to the amusement of the common folk during times of upheaval and plague.

The cycle plays or mysteries were sourced from Bible stories and produced by local trade guilds to

10 - November 2019

everyone’s delight. The FGCU production revives these old texts and, with very little alteration, brings them to life on the stage.

Remaining performances will be Oct. 26, Nov. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 27, Nov. 2 and 3 at 2 p.m.

There will also be a discussion with the cast and crew following the 2 p.m. performance on Nov. 2.

Tickets for this event are $10 for the general public and $7 for students and are available for purchase online at www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab or at the door, based on availability.

Happenings Magazine

NEW PHOENIX THEATRE 2019-2020 SEASON

A comedy by Daniel Sullivan

Dec. 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 8 pm Dec. 8, 15, 22 at 3 p.m.

TICKETS

Jan. 16 - Feb. 2

Feb. 27 - Mar. 22

make great holiday gifts!

April 16 - May 3

May 28 - June 14

13211 McGregor Blvd. #1 & 2, Fort Myers

239-284-5214 • BUY TICKETS ONLINE www.NewPhoenixTheatreFortMyers.org

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 11

THEATRE

Saint Joan

on Gulfshore Playhouse stage now through Nov. 3

Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples kicked off its 20192020 season in a big way by presenting Bedlam’s Saint Joan. The lauded production from the critically acclaimed New York–based theatre company runs now through Nov. 3.

Bedlam’s bold and humorous adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s play about the famed French military heroine turned martyr stars Dria Brown as Joan. Brown has played the role in Bedlam’s national tour of the production and previously appeared at Gulfshore Playhouse in The Revolutionists.

Other cast members include Andy Rindlisbach, who is making his Gulfshore Playhouse debut; Edmund Lewis, a founding member of Bedlam who has played roles in a number of the theatre company’s productions; and Mike Labbadia, a New York actor, writer, and producer who has appeared in Bedlam’s Saint Joan at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Eric Tucker directs the stripped-down production (recognized as a top critic’s pick in Time magazine and The New York Times), and Jimmy Lawlor serves as lighting designer.

Mike Labbadia, Edmund Lewis, Dria Brown and Andy Rindlisbach in Saint Joan. Photo courtesy of Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Andy Rindlisbach, Edmund Lewis and Mike Labbadia in Bedlamʼs Saint Joan. Photo courtesy of Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

12 - November 2019

“We’re thrilled to present this intimate production from the esteemed Bedlam theatre company as the first show of our new season,” said Kristen Coury, producing artistic director for Gulfshore Playhouse.

“Audiences will enjoy seeing Bedlam’s take on the legendary story of Joan of Arc and her quest to restore France to greatness.”

Evening shows begin at 7 p.m.; matinees begin at 3 p.m. Show subscriptions are available and include priority seating, exclusive events and discounted pricing. Tickets start at $42; all tickets are $38 two hours before a performance.

For purchase information, visit www.GulfshorePlayhouse.org or

contact 866-811-4111.

A free pre-show discussion will take place Oct. 30, where Gulfshore Playhouse artistic staff lead conversations about themes and topics related to the production. Audience members can also stick around for post-show conversations on Oct. 27.

Gulfshore Playhouse currently performs in The Norris Center located at 755 8Th Ave. S., Naples.

Plans are currently underway for the new Gulfshore Playhouse Theatre and Education Center at GoodletteFrank Road and First Avenue South, which will include two theatres and an education wing to support programming for children, adults and families.

Happenings Magazine

THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA

Sex Tips for Straight

Women from a Gay Man

By Matt Murphy

Oct. 25, 26, 31 Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.

Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m.

Sponsored by Arlene Foreman

24-Hour Playwriting Project Nov. 23 at 8 p.m.

Playwrights are assigned a theme, a director and actors. Within just 24 hours, you will see the fruits of their labor when we stage all of their 20-minute one-act plays!

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 13

THEATRE

The enchanting Broadway musical, Finding Neverland, soars onto the Broadway Palm stage now through Nov. 16.

The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash is “A spirited, tuneful, nimbly staged delight! says TIME Magazine. Based on the Academy Award-winning Miramax motion picture by David Magee, and the play The Man Who Was Peter Pan

by Allan Knee, Finding Neverland follows the relationship between playwright J.M. Barrie and the family that inspired Peter Pan - one of the most beloved stories of all time.

Finding Neverland tells the incredible story of how playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers.

With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever.

The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event. Critics raved that Finding Neverland is “far 14 - November 2019

and away the best musical of the year!”

(NPR) and Vogue cheered, “It’s a mustsee you’ll remember for years to come!”

Diane Paulus’ Finding Neverland will have her direction recreated by tour director Mia Walker and associate choreographer Camden Loeser. The musical has a book by Olivier Award-nominee James Graham, music and lyrics

by Gary Barlow (Take That) and Grammy Award- winner Eliot Kennedy, and original choreography by Emmy Award-winner Mia Michaels (“So You Think You Can Dance,” Cirque du Soleil’s Delirium). Finding Neverland is packed with mesmerizing visuals, irresistible songs and plenty of laughs making it a timeless story about the power of imagination… and spectacular proof that you never really have to grow up.

Remaining performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. Tickets are $48 to $73 with children and group prices available. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-2784422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers. Following the run in Fort Myers, Finding Neverland will head out on the road for a national tour throughout the U.S. and Canada. The tour is produced by APEX Touring.

Happenings Magazine

Off Broadway Palm to present A

Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play on stage Nov. 14 through Dec. 25.

The Charles Dickens classic comes alive on stage, but with a twist! The entire family will enjoy this unique theatrical experience that will take you back in time to the days of radio plays.

The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his discovery of the true meaning of Christmas is reimagined and told as a 1940s radio broadcast complete with vintage commercials, live sound effects and musical underscoring. The small cast brings dozens of characters to life as three ghosts take Scrooge on a thrilling journey through Christmas past, present and future.

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY

The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s

BROADWAY SERIES

NOW through

NOV. 3 The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate 100-seat theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm.

Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees.

Ticket prices range from $42 to $62 with discounts available for children and groups of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-2784422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

2019-20 Concert Season

Nov. 8 at 8 p.m.

Nov. 9 at 8 p.m.

Nov. 10 at 3 p.m.

DUELING PIANOS with David Rode and Sarah Hadeka

Book of Mormon returns to Mann Hall Back by popular demand, The Book of Mormon returns to Fort Myers for a limited engagement Dec. 31 through Jan. 5 at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. The Book of Mormon features book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone. The production is choreographed by Casey Nicholaw and is directed by Nicholaw and Parker. The show also features set design

by Scott Pask, costume design

Happenings Magazine

by Ann Roth, lighting design

by Brian MacDevitt and sound design by Brian Ronan.

Orchestrations are by Larry Hochman and Stephen Oremus. Music direction and vocal arrangements are by Stephen Oremus.

The Book of Mormon is the winner of nine Tony Awards.

Tickets are available at the box office, online at www.bbmannpah.com or by calling 239-481-4849.

You pick the song, We play them.

Request your favorites.

A different show every time!

Nov. 15, 16 & 17

Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

CALL FOR

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

November 2019 - 15

Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play THEATRE

Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples will present a heartwarming holiday classic for the entire family, It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play at The Norris Center Nov. 16 - Dec. 29.

Andrea Prestinario Presented as a 1940s radio show, this beloved story is enhanced with a lush soundscape performed by the actors live on stage. Bedford Falls and the Bailey family have never sounded better than in this fresh retelling.

After a series of financial hardships, a small-town banker contemplates suicide on a snowy Christmas Eve in 1945. George, who wishes he had never been born, receives the aid of a guardian angel who is assigned the task of saving George’s life. Perfectly timed for the Holiday season, this timeless masterpiece reaffirms the inherent value of all people with an enchanting, theatrical twist.

With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, complete with a live sound effects artist, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play is the perfect treat for the entire family.

The show is directed by Peter Amster, a seasoned director whose award-winning productions include Once on this Island, The World Goes Round, The Rothschilds and Pride and Prejudice.

In addition to Amster, the creative team includes Kristen Martino, scenic designer; Jimmy Lawler, lighting designer; Devon Painter, costume designer; Joel Abbott, sound designer; and John Patrick, vocal coach.

Brian Owen

James Learning

Jeffrey Binder

The cast includes: • Jeffrey Binder as idealistic George Bailey. Binder is a 15-year Broadway veteran, whose New York credits include Zazu in Disney’s The Lion King and George Banks in the hit musical Mary Poppins, both performed at the New Amsterdam Theatre on 42nd Street. Television credits include Damages, Law & Order and Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Guiding Light, and All My Children. He’s also the associate artistic director for Gulfshore Playhouse.

• Brian Owen, whose credits include the world premiere of Dog Man: The Musical, four productions of Hound of the Baskervilles: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, The Turn of the Screw, Shakespeare in Love, Sweeney Todd, The Matchmaker and Both Your Houses.

• James Learning, a founding member of American Blues Theatre in Chicago. He has performed at renowned national theatres including Steppenwolf, Writers’ Theatre and The Goodman. National tour productions

include Defamation and Botanic Garden, as well as This Wonderful Life, a solo version of It’s A Wonderful Life.

• Andrea Prestinario, whose Keri credits include Fun Safran Home at the Baltimore Center Stage and Weston Playhouse.

She previously starred as Eliza in the Asolo Rep production of My Fair Lady and as Maureen in RENT at the Paramount Theatre Aurora.

• Keri Safran, who recently starred in Forbidden Broadway at Gateway Playhouse. Other recent credits include Singin’ in the Rain at the Zach Theatre, and City of Light at the Connelly Theatre. She was also in the recent Sundance film Imaginary Order and has been featured on TV’s The Blacklist and Netflix’s upcoming Soundtrack.

Gulfshore Playhouse performs in The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave., Naples. Evening shows begin at 8 p.m.; matinees begin at 3 p.m.

Show subscriptions are available and include priority seating, exclusive events and discounted pricing. Tickets start at $42; all tickets are $38 two hours before a performance.

For purchase information, visit www.GulfshorePlayhouse.org or contact 866811-4111.

Holland Taylor to speak at Gulfshore Playhouse luncheon

Holland Taylor

16 - November 2019

Gulfshore Playhouse and event chairs Christine and Terrance Flynn announced Broadway, film and television actress Holland Taylor as the keynote speaker at “Rising Stars,” a glamourous, red carpet luncheon to benefit Gulfshore Playhouse education on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples at 11 a.m.

Taylor, who will speak about the “Crisis of Cultural Education in America,” was nominated for a Tony Award for her portrayal of Gov. Ann Richards in the play Ann, which she also wrote. Taylor received an Emmy Award for her role as Judge Roberta Kittleson in The Practice; starred in The Front Page on Broadway opposite Nathan Lane; and

will soon star in the Netflix sequel to To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. She is also a four-time Emmy Award nominee for Best Supporting Actress in Two and a Half Men. “Education is a vital component of our mission,” said Kristen Coury, founder and producing artistic director for Gulfshore Playhouse. “From in-school residencies and preprofessional theatre training to community partnerships, audience engagement, and student matinees, Gulfshore Playhouse has introduced tens of thousands of SW Florida students to the life-changing power of the arts.”

For details about tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org or call 239-261-PLAY. Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 17

THEATRE

Charlotte Players will stage Jack of Diamonds at Langdon Playhouse

Charlotte Players is going all in with Jack of Diamonds, a comedy opening on Nov. 7 for eight performances and running through Nov. 20 at the Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte.

The silliness concerns Jack, a former jeweler who made his living buying and selling diamonds via late-night TV ads. He lives in a rather luxurious, privately owned retirement home along with his fellow residents, including the visually challenged techno-wizard Rose, the artistically gifted but forgetful Flora and the narcoleptic beauty Blanche.

Unbeknownst to the four of them, the man to whom they’ve entrusted their life savings – a smooth-talking financial advisor named Barney Effward – has been arrested for bilking his clients out of their savings through a Ponzi scheme. Faced with financial ruin, the four suddenly find themselves confronting the author of their miserable fate when Effward is unexpectedly delivered among them. along with several million dollars in diamonds.

Pandemonium ensues as the four retirees try to find a way to exact their revenge, recoup their losses, and keep the authorities from discovering their plans.

Jenni Elliott is directing the comedy, written by Marcia Kash and Douglas E. Hughes. The authors have collaborated on five plays, the first of which, Who’s Under Where?, has been translated into six languages.

This is Jenni’s second directorial effort with the Charlotte Players, having helmed last season’s hit Jack Benny’s Not 39 Anymore. An actor and director for years in her native Australia, she has maintained both roles with the Charlotte Players and Lemon Bay Playhouse since arriving in Florida from Melbourne

just six years ago.

“I believe theater should be first and foremost entertainment, and I don’t think audiences will be disappointed with Jack of Diamonds,” she said.

The first of the Langdon Playhouse’s special events for the current season arrives on Wednesday, Nov. 20, when the popular Peace River Trio hits the stage at 7:30 p.m. for a one-night-only show. John Welsh, Marsha Carpenter and Dave Heveron present songs by the great folk artists of our generation, including John Denver, Peter, Paul and Mary, The Kingston Trio, Judy Collins and many more.

Their music, made popular in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, is what Donny and Marie called “a little bit country and a little bit rock-n-roll.”

Langdon artist in residence Bill Gladwell returns for two 7:30 p.m. shows in November, the first on Thursday, Nov. 21, and the second on Saturday, Nov. 30. No two of Bill’s shows are alike, as he seemingly pulls thoughts directly from audience members’ minds, predicting what they’ll say before it comes out of their mouths Bill’s “Mind Games” show 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.”

Langdon Playhouse tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students. A complete schedule is available at the Charlotte Players website a www.charlotteplayers.org. You can buy your tickets there or by calling 941-255-1022 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

Escanaba in Da Moonlight runs through Nov. 17 in Naples The Naples Players present the hysterical comedy, Escanaba in Da Moonlight, in the Tobye Studio Theatre.

Written by Tony Award and Oscarnominated actor Jeff Daniels, Escanaba in Da Moonlight, is set in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where the beer flows freely, and the pasties are a staple of the local diet. TNP invites Naples to the Soady deer camp where it is Opening Day of deer season, the best day of da’ year!

Forty-five-year-old Reuben Soady is still as they say in the U.P. “without venison” leaving him bound and determined to finally bag his buck this year.

Escanaba in da Moonlight is a hilarious

18 - November 2019

tale of humor and heart as Reuben goes to any and all lengths to remove himself from the wrong end of the family record book.

“You will fall in love with the Soadys and you will laugh the entire evening,” says director Jessica Walck, “My hope is that everyone learns a little bit about this corner of the country and walks away a little lighter having had the laugh of a lifetime.”

Escanaba in Da Moonlight performances run Wednesdays - Sundays, now through Nov. 17. Tickets are $40 and available at the box office at 701 5th Ave. S., by calling 239-263-7990 or online at www.NaplesPlayers.org.

Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 19

Turf Wars: Art Speaks for the Earth at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center ART

Four local photojournalists on display in Capital Gallery

The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center hosts two incredible exhibits opening during Art Walk on Friday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m.

“Turf Wars: Art Speaks For The Earth” will feature a juried group exhibition and a collection of Clyde Butcher’s work that illuminates the beauty of Florida.

The Capital Gallery (upstairs) will showcase a photojournalist exhibition called “A Moment In Time” featuring Jamie Kuser, Amanda Inscore Whittamore, Andrew West and Kirk Erwin.

Weavers of Char-Lee members Rose Young and Marci Mills put out a call to artists to participate in a group show that focuses on the environment. This group of juried artwork will be juxtaposed with a collection of Clyde Butcher photographs entitled “Living Waters,” on loan from the Aquatic Preserve Society. Also included in the exhibition is a 60 foot installation titled “Currents of Destruction” that will be displayed on the exterior of Davis Art Center building.

The weavers guild and the general public created large fiber rings symbolizing cyanobacteria pollution to call attention to the problem of water pollution in SW Florida and create a buzz about the exhibit inside.

Awards and prizes will be announced for the “Turf Wars” juried exhibition during open-

Paulette Karlin

20 - November 2019

Patricia Turner

ing night directly following a Trashion Fashion Show featuring recycled, repurposed, reimagined material that has been transformed into wearable art and accessories at 7:00 pm.

Also taking place to celebrate the month long exhibition are free workshops from 1 to 3 p.m. every Wednesday in November. On Nov. 6, join them for hands-on mural painting with Zan Lombardo titled “Way Will Open” help create a 4 foot x 30 foot environmental mural. On Nov. 13, be a part of an interactive lecture and discussion with Nobel Peace Prize winner; Dr. Terry Root titled “Climate Change And Global Warming.” And on Nov. 20, join Susan Hedge for “Principles Of Creation,” a gallery talk that relates artwork in the gallery to existence; the nature of things.

“Artists are calling attention to Mother Nature's need for better stewardship. Local

artwork cries for citizens to wake up, fight for change and better protect what we are losing in global warming, greenhouse gases, pollution and apathy. Opening night reception includes Trashion Fashion Show, demonstrating better use of trash into garments,” adds fiber artist Rose Young.

Fiber Art Walk on Nov. 1 in the River District highlights weaver, spinner and quilter demos along First Street in downtown Fort Myers with Zan Lombardo's "Can-Man and Baggie Maggie” dancing down First Street to the Davis Art Center.

In the upstairs Capital Gallery, get an in depth look at some meaningful and historical images captured and take notice of the story being told in the exhibit “A Moment In Time.” Photojournalism is a different kind of art. Many of its creators do not see themselves as artists, but as truth-tellers who bristle at the notion that they could be creating salable art objects. Yet their work, is realism in its purest expression, straight from nature; it’s creative; it withstands the test of time; it moves us and inspires us to see things differently. The exhibit features works by photographers Jamie Kuser, Amanda Inscore Whittamore, Andrew West and videographer Kirk Erwin.

The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.

Andrew West

Happenings Magazine

ART

Art in the Park returns, new exhibits open at Naples Art

By Aimee Schlehr Naples Art is in full swing with a fabulous lineup of exhibitions and events already in progress for the 2019-2020 season.

In addition, Naples Art continues to offer hundreds of diverse art classes and workshops for those who just want to try something stress-free and fun, to those who want to hone their advanced skills. There truly is something for everyone and an extraordinary instructor to help get you there.

The longest running and most beloved among locals, Art in the Park has remained the favorite monthly outdoor show showcasing the talents of local artists for decades.

Believed to be the first outdoor art show held in Naples in 1957, Art in the Park carries on the tradition of providing the community access to the very creative fine art and craftwork of exceptional local artists. Naples Art is proud to host this juried art show held on the first Saturday of each month from November through April. The first one of the new season will be Saturday, Nov. 2 at 10 a.m.

Look at the exhibition calendar, from now through Nov. 17, enjoy the exhibition America: What it Means to Me. Revel in the beauty of America: Its people, places, history, traditions.

Following the extraordinary Scene to be Seen event on Nov. 1, the wearable art that graced the runway at that extraordinary event is going to be showcased as an exhibition for the first time ever from Nov. 5 – 26.

Fashioning Wearable Art: 2019 Scene to be Seen Collection will be on display at Naples Art.

Diana Lange

22 - November 2019

Penelope Breen

Also exhibiting is Narrative Interplay: The Photographic Images of Penelope Breen from Nov. 7 - 30. Her black and white photographs resemble film stills and visual narrative is essential in her photography. She often includes blurred movement to engage the viewer, create mystery and build anticipation.

Join us in celebrating these diverse and wonderful exhibitions Nov. 14 for the reception for America, Fashioning Wearable Art and Narrative Interplay Exhibitions, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Naples Art. For those who enjoy speaking engagements, we offer several opportunities for learning. ART Focus presentations focus on art. A variety of presentations are made throughout season by exhibiting artists, collectors, art professionals and exhibition jurors. We also offer 104 Gallery Talks, informal and available to all Gallery 104 jury process participants. The talks are conducted by Gallery 104 manager Olena Skiba and include general information on artwork, exhibiting and the jury process, as well as specific information on choosing the right work to enter into a jury process and proper presentation of an artwork. Join us Nov. 19

from 10 to 11 a.m,. for ART Focus with Penelope Breen, photographer, and on Nov. 22 from 1 - 3 p.m. for our 104 Gallery Talk with Olena Skiba.

WaterWorks: Artistic Celebration of Our Most Vital Resource will be on display Nov. 26 through Jan. 5. See the exceptional ways artists represent water in various types of media from paintings to pottery, glass, fiber art and more.

The last and most beloved exhibition of the year, 53rd Founders Exhibition will run from Dec. 6, - Jan. 9. Founders exhibitions commemorate the founding of the first nonprofit visual art organization in Collier County. The exhibitions are held each evennumbered year and serve as a platform for local artists to share the spotlight with their peers at the national level. A reception for WaterWorks and 53rd Founders Exhibitions will be held Dec. 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Naples Art. Naples Art is located at 585 Park St. For more details, call 239-262-6517 or visit www.naplesart.org.

Aimee Schlehr is CEO and executive director of Naples Art.

Happenings Magazine

Hirdie Girdie Gallery opens for season

Nancy Giffin

Happenings Magazine

Hirdie Girdie Gallery on Sanibel Island will open for the season on Nov. 4 and will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

The gallery welcomes two new artists this season: basket artist Nancy Giffin and oil painter Martha Dodd.

Nancy and her husband, Bill, are originally from Massachusetts, and have always been inspired by American history. For over 25 years, their artistic commitment has been to preserve American heritage by creating authentic reproductions of Nantucket baskets and Shaker boxes in their Cape Coral studio.

Nancy and Bill work as a team to produce art pieces that are timeless in their simplicity, beauty, and usefulness. They also enjoy designing and creating custom pieces of these traditional art forms.

Always interested in art and horses, Martha Dodd earned a degree in animal science, and became a physical therapist for racehorses.

She spent her spare time drawing and painting the horses, which lead to a decision to pursue a career as an equine artist.

She soon discovered that she loved to paint birds, fish, and people as well. Her work is diverse. She has been a muralist for many years, and is now focused on portraits, but con-

Martha Dodd

tinues to create traditional landscapes and seascapes. Her work is noted for its photorealism, detail, and passion.

Hirdie Girdie Gallery is located at 2490 Library Way, Sanibel.

For more gallery info, call 239 395-0027 or visit online at www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com

November 2019 - 23

DAAS Co-Op Gallery showcases art of ART

Jay Gardner, Colin Orion & John Nazario

Continuing a trend of out-of-the-box exhibitions and displays, DAAS Co-Op has invited three local artists to showcase their inspiring works during the month of November. An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m. The reception party is in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk. The artists will be present for a meet and greet, during the event hours.

Jay Gardner is a professional tattoo artist, illustrator and designer by trade. “My love for visual art and drawing began at a very early age when I became fascinated with the idea of capturing reality on paper. From my very first cave scribbles on my bedroom walls as a child, to pieces I work on today, I have always loved creating details and forms that convince the eye of depth and realness. That simple obsession led to a world of design and art theory. Since then my style is one that is moving and shifting swiftly as I learn and explore new possibilities. In no simple terms can I begin to explain what I represent as a fine artist. I just create art that I love.” – says Gardner, who incorporates dynamic facial

Jay Gardner

expressions as well as unique objects to help sink his characters deeper into their own fantastical worlds. His photo-realistic works are full of fantasy and vibrancy, not to mention strikingly beautiful.

Colin Obrien and John Nazario are joining Gardner in this exhibition. Their works complement each other in a cohesive and mesmerizing display.

Additionally, DAAS Co-Op would like to invite artists from the area to participate in this year’s “Small Format” exhibition. The full prospectus is available on the gallery’s website at daascoop.com. There is a size limitation of twelve inches on any side and artists can submit up to three pieces for the show. Delivery of submissions starts on Nov. 26. Last day for entries is Nov. 30. A people’s choice award will be granted to the best piece.

DAAS Co-Op is located at 1815 Fowler St. inside the Butterfly Estates of Fort Myers. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the first Sundays of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more info,, visit www.daascoop.com or call 239-590-8645.

MiMi Stirn, Kim Kraft Beckler at ACT Gallery

Arts for ACT Gallery will feature the work of MiMi Stirn and Kim Kraft Beckler in November. The gallery will host an opening reception on Friday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 10 p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk MiMi Stirn’s cherished tools are knives. However, she is a resin art master.

Both knives and the resin are unforgiving yet clear and finite when used. Working within the acrylic family is enjoyable for her but working with modeling paste and MiMi Stirn resin is where the art begins; free form and each application is a form of sculpting. What she loves best about creating art is the freedom of expression without fear of consequence. When Stirn can say her work has turned out well, it is the moment when she can return to the finished piece over the course of several days and repeatedly be transported into the picture itself.

MiMi’s style centers on both working in circular and straight-line motions while respecting Fibonacci sequences in the placement of each element. Bright light, layers of color, and use of metallic pigments are her standard. What she does differently from what she was taught 24 - November 2019

is dirty brushing. Her brushes & knives during the painting process are usually lapped with new colors without washing. The blends are one of a kind. MiMi Stirn brings art is pure symbolism and surrealism embodied in 2D mixed media resins. Stirn holds her degree in business and art from the University of Phoenix and is a certified marketing strategist through Cornell University.

When not in the studio, Stirn is a business consultant for the Florida SBDC at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Kim Kraft Beckler is a naïve artist that has won numerous awards. She is trained in commercial art. Her works are in Kim Kraft Beckler corporate, personal and celebrity collections here and abroad. She paints on canvas, gourds and furniture.

Come view these creative artworks from the guest artists and support ACT Gallery. This exhibit continues through Monday, Dec. 2. Arts for ACT Gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers.

For more details, call 239-337-5050.

Happenings Magazine

Naples Artcrafters next show Nov. 9

The Naples Artcrafters will host their second juried fine art and craft show of the season on Saturday, Nov. 9.

The event showcases the work of 90 juried local artists and craftsmen who will be selling their paintings, jewelry, pottery, art glass, sculptures and more in lovely Cambier Park, which is located on 8th Street South, just one block south of 5th Ave South in downtown Naples.

Meet well known and emerging Naples’ artists in this celebration of creativity. It will be a wonderful opportunity to shop local and support your artists. Admission is free, and free parking is nearby. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Naples Artcrafters was founded in 1966 as a non-

profit organization dedicated to the support of local artists and the encouragement of the development of artistic endeavors in the Naples area.

The group provides local artists and craftsmen a venue for displaying and selling their work by sponsoring juried outdoor shows during the season. The remaining 2019-20 season has shows in Cambier Park scheduled for Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8, March 14 and April 11. The March 14 show will be in Fleischman Park.

For more about the artcrafters group, visit online at www.naplesartcrafters.com.

Ilyas Kirkan exhibit in November at Ollie Mack Gentry Photography

Ollie Mack Gentry Photography will host Dancing in Deep Waters exhibit by Kurdish artist Ilyas Kirkan in November.

Meet the artist at an opening reception on Friday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. during Art Walk. A second reception will be held during Music Walk on Friday, Nov. 15.

Ollie Mack Gentry Photography is located at 1528 Jackson St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more details, visit www.olliemackgentryphotography.com or call 239-440-0061.

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 25

ART

Collier County Museums presents We Never Left - Artists of Southeastern Indian Tribes

Discovery of the “New World” unleashed centuries of disease and violence that decimated American Indian populations. But it was settler colonialism—the hunger for land that drove America’s expansion—that increasingly drove American Indians from their homelands.

For those living in the Southeast, the Indian Removal Act of 1830 was its ultimate expression, resulting in the forced removal of an estimated 65,000 to “Indian Territory” west of the Mississippi (today’s Oklahoma). En route, as many as ten thousand people are estimated to have perished on what is now remembered as the Trail of Tears.

Removal, however, was far from complete. Estimates of Indians who remained range from as few as 4,000 to as many as 14,000—a discrepancy, scholars explain, due to who government officials counted. (A reluctance to come forward was certainly understandable.)

How did they manage to stay?

By fleeing to, or already living on, inaccessible or “undesirable” land.

Relying on existing state or federal

Keith, 2010. Ashley Minner, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. Photograph by Sean Scheid.

Text by E. Keith Colston (Lumbee/Tuscarora).

Archival inkjet print. Courtesy of the artist.

treaties (usually resulting in further loss of territory). Assimilating through intermarriage and acculturation. And armed resistance.

We Never Left exhibit celebrates contemporary artists descended from these American Indians who, against all odds, remained in the Southeast as tribes who continue to live in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

Their highly diverse artwork addresses a variety of issues, including cultural preservation, language revitalization, personal identity and expression, community pride, and threats to homeland and the natural environment.

This exhibition was organized by the Museum of Arts and Sciences, Daytona Beach, Florida and curated by Walter L. Meyer, independent curator.

We Never Left – Artists of Southeastern Indian Tribes will be on display Nov. 16 – Jan. 11 at Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Gallery hours are Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. admission is free.

For more information about Collier County Museums, visit online at www.colliermuseums.com or call 239-252-8476.

Reception Nov. 10 at Guess

Fisher Gallery in Naples

On Sunday, Nov. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m., the GuessFisher Gallery will host an artist reception for the opening of the gallery show: "Naples, What It Used To Be" featuring paintings by Phil Fisher, Natalie Guess, Jeff Fessenden and Jan Ellen Atkielski.

The GuessPhil Fisher Fisher Gallery is located at 810 12th Ave. S, Naples. To find out more, call 239-403-8393 or visit www.Guess-FisherGallery.com 26 - November 2019

Birthday bash Nov. 2 at Naples Depot The Naples Depot Museum presents Motors & Mud: 70 Years of Swamp Buggy Culture exhibit on display now through Nov. 30. Join them for a Birthday Bash, in collaboration with by Swamp Buggy Inc, immediately following the 70th Swamp Buggy Parade on Nov. 2. Come get up and personal with all the Swamp Buggies before their big race the following weekend. The Naples Depot Museum is located at 1051 5th Ave. S. For more information, contact the museum at 239-252-8419 or visit www.CollierMuseums.com/Exhibits.

Happenings Magazine

Arts On Tap Nov. 9 at Alliance

The Alliance for the Arts announces the return of its annual fundraiser Arts On Tap on Saturday, Nov. 9 on the Alliance campus at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Now in its third year, Arts On Tap is a taste of creativity in the Alliance gallery featuring the craft of local brewers and hand-selected wines benefiting the Alliance for the Arts.

This year includes tasty treats from culinary favorites The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen, Downtown House of Pizza, Kings Kitchen, The Standard, and more.

Participating crafters include Big Blue Brewing, Bury Me Brewing, Coastal Dayz Brewery, Eight Foot Brewing, Millennial Brewing Company, Momentum Brewhouse, Naples Beach Brewery, Palm City Brewing, and Point Ybel Brewing Company. For one night only, guests can delight their senses with locally-handcrafted beers, hand-selected wines and culinary creations in our

vibrant gallery. The evening will also feature an exclusive new brew born from a creative collaboration between the Alliance and the awardwinning brewmasters at Momentum Brewhouse.

“Arts On Tap is the chance to explore the Alliance after dark and experience your notso-typical fundraiser,” says development and marketing director Jessica Wisdom. “As our local art scene and craft beer scene has grown, so has Arts On Tap. The evening is all about celebrating local artists, artisans and businesses redefining southwest Florida.”

Last year, Arts On Tap attracted 200 guests and raised over $40,000. Tickets are $100 and include unlimited tastings from participating breweries, culinary creations, gallery admission, music, a silent auction and games. Arts On Tap is for ages 21 and older. A state-issued form of I.D. is required.

For more information, call 239-939-2787 or visit www.ArtInLee.org/OnTap.

Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show

Della Boynton wins best of show

at Dia de los Muertos exhibit

Local through Nov. 2 at artists from 10091 McGregor around Blvd. Fort Myers.

Southwest Della Boynton Florida and was awarded beyond sub$250 for Best in mitted more Show for her than 100 acrylic piece, pieces for “Rituals.” Terry consideration Lynn Spry won in the Alliance second place for for the Arts her piece, Dia de los “Gemela” and Muertos Mariapia Malerba Exhibit. won third place After confor “One Night He sideration Came Back Della Boynton from the juror, Singing.”

60 pieces For more info were unveiled to the public durabout this exhibit, visit ing an opening reception on www.ArtInLee.org or call 239Oct. 4. The exhibit will continue 939-2787.

Happenings Magazine

Saturday, November 9th 10 am to 4 pm

Free Admission & Parking

Cambier Park

580 8th Street South, Naples

www.NaplesArtcrafters.com November 2019 - 27

Annual ACT gala Nov. 12 ART

Tickets are now on sale for the Arts for ACT Gala and Fine Art Auction, presented by Bill Smith Appliances and Electronics.

The popular night out and auction, which will be held on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 5 until 10 p.m., benefits Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. (ACT) a non-profit agency serving victims of domestic and their children and survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking in Lee Hendry and Glades counties for the past 41 years. ACT’s mission is to provide protection, education, and support for victims of domestic violence and their children, survivors of sexual assault, and human trafficking in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties, Florida.

The 31st Annual Arts for ACT “The Greatest Showman” Gala and Fine Arts Auction will take place at the Hyatt Regency at Coconut Point.

This year’s “Greatest Showman” theme will take on a whole new sound-

track for party goers, featuring a dinner, entertainment and dancing after the one-of-a-kind fine art and luxury item auction. The cocktail hour will feature a silent auction and entertainment where guests can enjoy mobile bidding and a signature drink from Republic National Distributing and Bouvet Ladubay.

Chairs of this year’s event are Marc Collins and Maureen Green along with honorary chairs Sandra Stilwell and Pamela Cronin.

One of the main highlights of this signature event is the live art and luxury item auction, led by auctioneer Scott Robertson with emcee Kellie Burns, evening anchor at NBC2. Prizes include luxury excursions, hotel stays, and art donated by many award winning local, national and international artists.

Tickets are $175 each and $1,800 for a reserved table of ten.

Guests may purchase tickets by visiting www.artsforactfineartauction.com or calling 239-939-2553.

Art League of Fort Myers

to help local food bank

Looking for an enjoyable way to help the Harry Chapin Food Bank?

The Art League of Fort Myers is inviting everyone to the opening of its new exhibit Friday, Nov. 1.

Original artwork, treats and wine “Harriet Plus One” by Eileen (donation Amster won the peopleʼs appreciated) choice award in October at the will be offered.

Art League of Fort Myers Guests will also have the opporwelcome to join artists tunity to bring in non-perwho share their creativity ishable food items that with each other in a stimwill be donated to the ulating, yet relaxed food bank for families in atmosphere. Regular need. Alternatively, gallery hours are checks or cash will be Thursdays through happily accepted.

Saturdays from 4 - 8 pm.

The exhibit will open The Art League of during Art Walk from 6 to Fort Myers is located at 10 p.m. The gallery is 1451 Monroe St. on the open every Wednesday ground level under the from 9:30 am to noon for Palms parking garage. open paint. The public is 28 - November 2019

Marcus Jansen

SW Florida Fine Craft Guild exhibit at Cape Coral Library

Hand in Hand Art, an exhibition showcasing original handmade art pieces created by members of the Southwest Florida Fine Craft Guild will be featured in the gallery of Cape Coral Library located at 921 SW 39th Terrace Nov. 2 through Dec. 30.

The gallery, sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library, is designed to give local artists the opportunity to share their work in a public forum without fees or commissions.

The SWFFCG is the only 3-D art guild in Southwest Florida and has been encouraging high standards of performance and accomplishment in fine crafts since 1971, according to Christine Vogensen, guild president who is a mixed media artist. Members create art employing metal, glass, wood, stone, fiber, clay, mixed media and photography. Currently there are more than 70 active members of the Guild. Within the art community they provide teaching demonstrations, art

scholarships and local exhibitions. Guild meetings are held monthly at the Cape Coral Arts Studio, on Coronado Parkway.

“Each work in the exhibition represents an artist’s feelings, thoughts and imagination which they use to manipulate an art medium or mediums to craft a handmade art piece,” Vogensen explained. “Some pieces are individually created while others may be a collaboration of two or more artists. The results are unique art objects crafted by creative hands and minds.” All work in the guild’s exhibition is strictly juried and must be original, she emphasized. Pieces made from kits, commercial patterns, molds, decals or patterns that are the dominant design are not acceptable. No giclees or reproductions are permitted in guild member shows.

Exhibitions at the library may be viewed during regular business hours.

For more about the library gallery, email monica4608@comcast.net.

Happenings Magazine

Updates from the Visual Arts Center

in Punta Gorda

Three Art Guys exhibit continues through Nov. 8 at the Visual arts Center. The exhibit features art Ralph LaGro, Doug Michalski and Dave Kelley.

The Florida Watercolor Society will be showcased in November at the Visual Arts Center in Punta Gorda.

View the Florida Watercolor Society on display Nov. 12 – Dec. 5 in the Goff Gallery at the Visual Arts Center.

The Visual Arts Center's galleries, gift shop, and art supply store are located at 210 Maud St., across from Fishermen’s Village. Gallery and gift shop hours are Monday - Friday, 9 am – 4 pm & Saturday 10 am -2 pm.

In December, the center

will host its Holiday Market, a three-day Holiday shopping extravaganza with gifts, delicious treats and holiday items made by local artists.

The market runs Dec. 6 – 8.

Hours are Friday noon to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Off the Wall will be on display Dec. 10-19 at the Visual Arts Center. Art will be priced $200 or lower.

Artwork will be removed as soon as it sells - it will come “Off the Wall.”

VAC members will present a 3D Member's Show (pottery, jewelry, sculpture) on display Dec. 10 - 24 at the Visual Arts Center.

For more, info visit www.visualartcenter.org or call (941) 639-8810.

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November 2019 - 29

NOVEMBER CALENDAR FRI - 1

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mike Archer, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 A Fox on the Fairway Through Nov. 20 Florida Repertory Theatre, Bay Street, Fort Myers 239-332-4488 Sex tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man Oct. 25 - Nov. 16 The Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Jay Gardner, Colin Orion & John Nazario exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers, Opening reception, 6 10 p.m. 239-590-8645 ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Artists MiMi Stirn and Kim Kraft Beckler, 6 - 10 p.m. during Art Walk 239-337-5050 Ilyas Kirkan exhibit Ollie Mack Gentry Photography, 1528 Jackson St., Fort Myers Opening reception at 6 p.m. in conjunction with Art Walk 239-440-0061 Gulfshore Playhouse: Bedlam’s Saint Joan Through Nov. 3 The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 866-811-4111 On Golden Pond Through Nov. 3 Cultural Park Theatre 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Florida International Air Show Nov. 1 - 3 Punta Gorda Airport The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be performing on Saturday and Sunday. Gates open at 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. on Saturday & Sunday. www.floridaairshow.com Sailor Larry - Noon Iconic - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 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 30 - Noveber 2019

Bluegrass Indoor Concert Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, Lineup: Andy Wahlberg, Justin Mason Band and Keith Bass. 2 - 5 p.m. 239-939-2787

Exhibition Opening Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road Artists of all mediums and subjects are asked to submit their latest works! Awards will be assigned to artworks that demonstrate both conceptual and technical proficiency. 6 - 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Murder & Mayhem: Live at the Cabaret Center for Performing Arts Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs Our new Youth Players Cabaret series will see our Teen Players, with help from talented area adults, presenting an evening of musical theatre numbers about murder, dying, and general mischief. 8 p.m.

239-495-8989 Escanaba in Da Moonlight Through Nov. 17 The Naples Players, 701 5th Ave S, Naples, 239-263-7990 Sebastian Bach The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-985-9839 Finding Neverland Through Nov. 16 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Turf Wars Art Speaks For The Earth Nov. 1 - 25 Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First Street, Fort Myers, Reception: Nov. 1, 6 - 10.

239-333-1933 A Moment in Time: Photojournalism as Art Nov. 1 - 25 Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers Photojournalism is a different kind of art. Features photographers Jamie Kuser, Amanda Inscore Whittamore, Andrew West and videographer Kirk Erwin. Reception: Nov. 1, 6 - 10.

239-333-1933 ALFM exhibit Art League of Fort Myers, 1451 Monroe St., Fort Myers Reception in conjunction with Art Walk, 6 - 10 p.m. www.artleaguefortmyers.org The Sunset Celebration Hill Billy Ryson Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche Through Nov. 3 Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-2787

Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

Bad Latitude - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901

Sebastian Bach, Jackyl, Slaughter and others will perform Nov. 2 at the Coral Head Music Festival in Pinellas Park. Vince Neil (above) canceled his current tour Oct. 24 and will not perfrom Nov. 2. For tickets, visit online at www.coralheadmusicfest.com Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers Always on the First Friday, visit the many exciting galleries, exhibitions, and performances.

Free to the public with many venues featuring additional attractions and specials. Rain or shine. 6 -10 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Betty Fox Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Neil Diamond tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Mystery Cycles Through Nov. 3 TheatreLab, Arts Complex, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S, FGCU, Fort Myers www.fgcu.edu Always ... Patsy Cline Through Nov. 24 Florida Repertory Theatre 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-332-4488

SAT - 2

Bucklers Craft Fair Nov. 2-3 Lee County Civic Center 1831 Bayshore Rd, North Fort Myers 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.bucklercraftfair.com

The East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Featuring Alice & Rose Boutique, Diane's Garden of Bromeliads & Edibles, Ice Cream Creations by Vilma, fleamarket, garage sale, items, plants, art, jewelry, produce.

Sellers inside & outside, booth space available $10. Rain or shine, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224678-4901 Patchouli in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org 80 Caliber Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Cindy Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, karaoke, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Alyssa Chermak Jr Vocal Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, This recital is free and open to the public.

7:30 p.m. 239-745-4268 Josh Abbott Band The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m.

239-985-9839 Journey, Bon Jovi tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566

GreenMarket Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd.

Enjoy live entertainment by local musicians and fun activities for kids, gardening classes and live cooking by local chefs. The GreenMarket hosts neighbors and small growers who bring seasonal, very limited crops to market. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

239-939-2787 Sammy Hagar & The Circle with Night Ranger Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero 8 p.m. 239-948-7825 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com WINK Taste of Lee Centennial Park 2000 W First St, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. $10 for ages 3 and up. 239-214-6009 Art in the Park Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples Naples Art proudly connects artists with art shoppers in another terrific season of Art in the Park. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesart.org Gin Blossoms Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 8 p.m. 239-658-1313 Health & Wellness Expo Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Expo from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Live music with singer Mike Archer, noon-4 p.m. & singer Steve Flagg, 5-9 pm., center court.

941-575-3007 Sunset Celebration - MFYF Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Swamp Buggy Parade Naples Depot Museum 1051 Fifth Avenue South, Naples 10 a.m. to noon. 239-252-8421

Happenings Magazine

NOVEMBER CALENDAR SAT - 2 CONTINUED

Jazz Jam Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000

Swamp Buggy Birthday Bash Naples Depot Museum A 1051 Fifth Ave South, Naples Noon - 2 p.m. 239-252-8421

Anthony Offerle, baritone Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers Tickets are $10 for the general public and $7 for students and are available at fgcu.edu/concerts 7:30 p.m.

Alter Ego DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326

SUN - 3

Alice Cooper Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 8 p.m.

239-481-4849 50 Years of Rock & Roll Part 2 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock and Roll, 7 p.m. 239-597-1111 Steve Cipriano The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 1 - 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 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 Electric Lipstick Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 1 - 4 p.m.

239-990-9901 Gulf Coast Big Band Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-877-6090 Girls of Motown Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Beginning with Beethoven Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians 3 p.m. 239-597-1111 Left Bank Art Fest Greater Family Marco Island YMCA, 101 Sand Hill St. Outdoor event in the green.

Juried artists include photography, jewelry, oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, ceramics, wood, bronze, glass, and more. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free admission and free parking.

239-290-7927 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 4-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 32 - November 2019

The Seminole Tribe of Floridaʼs Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum will stage its annual American Indian Arts Celebration (AIAC), Nov. 1 - 2, on the museumʼs festival grounds in Big Cypress Reservation. For more information, visit www.ahtahthiki.com/events.

Sanibel Blues & Jazz Festival Bailey’s Center in the Backyard, corner of Periwinkle Way & Tarpon Bay Rd, Sanibel Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club presents a day of live music with Matt Schofield, Sean Chambers, Marty Stokes Band and Johnny Jensen. Doors at noon. Music starts at 1 p.m. $20 GA, $100 VIP www.sancapoptimist.org Car Cruise-in Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero See your favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. near WINK Playland.

239-948-3766 Lani Molina Mercado Jr Viola Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This recital is free and open to the public.

3 p.m. 239-745-4268 Musical Moments Series: Rock Around the Clock Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs Join the Night Train Band for chart-topping Rock ‘N’ Roll hits from ‘50s greats. 3 - 5 p.m.

239-495-8989 Bonita Springs Concert Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 2 p.m. www.bonitaspringsconcertband.com

MON - 4

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

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mike Archer, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007

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

WED - 6

Florida Rep Theatre Event Lakes Regional Library 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers Meet artistic director Greg Longenhagen and company from the Florida Rep as they discuss their show Always …Patsy Cline. Registration is required. 2 p.m. 239-479-4636

TGIM Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center.

2301 First Street, Fort Myers Watch short indie films and get a look at how the Fort Myers Film Festival views submissions for independent films and participate in the selection process.

Doors: 6:30 p.m., Films: 7 p.m.

239-333-1933

Capt. Paulie acoustic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454

TUE - 5

The Moots Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 & 10 p.m.

239-204-9949

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G, 1-4 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Visiting Artist Reception Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, Suite 104, Cape Coral Reception for Colin Peck and Jeff Hammond 6 – 8 p.m. www.Harbourviewgallery.com Pearl & Princess DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 Cirque at the Movies Nov. 5 -9 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic & Naples Philharmonic Chorus.

Spellbinding cirque-style performers create an imaginative visual landscape as Jack Everly leads the Naples Philharmonic in some of cinema's favorite music. 239-597-1111

Greg Miller & the Tributes Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000

46th Annual Christmas Walk & Tree Lighting Fifth Ave. South, Naples 6 - 10 p.m. www.fifthavenuesouth.com ART ALIVE-1st Wednesday Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours “ART ALIVE” evening consists of over 50 professional artists, who will be showcasing their recent works of art and demonstrating their medium. Meet the artist, party and bring home unique treasures for your home. Look for the magenta and white art flags. 5-8 p.m. www.NaplesArtDistrict.com for directions.

Lili Sagi Jr Piano Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers This recital is free and open to the public.

7:30 p.m. 239-745-4268

Sunset Celebration Yacht Club, 5819 Driftwood Pkwy, Cape Coral Celebrate the beauty of a Southwest Florida sunset, while listening to live music on the beach from 3pm to sunset.

There will also be food trucks, vendors selling arts & crafts, jewelry, gift items & more! 3 p.m. - sunset. 239-574-0806 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Chris G, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Classics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 9 p.m.

239-990-9901

THU - 7

Pride and Patriotism Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m. www.thecenterbar.com COCO Art Gallery reception Coconut Point Mall, 8074 Mediterranean Drive, Estero 5 - 7 p.m. 239-949-3073 Michael D’Amore Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Space Jam Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 p.m. - midnight 239-204-9949 Everly Brothers Experience Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road Brothers Zachary and Dylan Zmed along with their partner and drummer Burleigh Drummond, celebrate the pivotal music and history of The Everly Brothers legacy.

7:30 p.m. 239-495-8989 Go for It reception Cape Coral Art League 516 Cultural Park Blvd.

5 – 7 p.m.

239-772-5657 Happenings Magazine

Fjelstul Art Lecture with Dr. Alfred Acres Making a Self: Jan van Eyck and the Origins of the Artist U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This lecture is free and open to the public with a light reception to follow. 5 p.m.

More information can be found at fgcu.edu/artevents Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, noon-3 p.m. & singer Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m.

Muttini Mingle from 5:30-8 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 BADFISH "A Tribute to Sublime” The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-985-9839 Coconut Festival Nov. 7 - 10 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral The festival is an annual celebration of Cape Coral's uniqueness to the Southwest Florida area. The event includes national entertainment, carnival rides, games, food, contests, fireworks and much more.

5 - 10 p.m. www.cocofest.com

Happenings Magazine

Torched Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 10 p.m.

239-990-9901 Travel Show AAA Naples office, 5401 Airport Pulling Road 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Register to at www.aaa.com/travelevents or 239-594-5006 x 2254 Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Elvis, Celine Dion, Patsy Cline, Connie Francis tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 The Seagull Nov. 7 – 9 and Nov 14-16 FSW Black Box Theatre, Building L-119, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers www.brownpapertickets.com Charlotte Players: Jack of Diamonds Through Nov. 20 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte 941-255-1022

FRI - 8

Family Feud Live: Celebrity Edition Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m.

239-481-4849

Sailor Larry - Noon Deb & Dynamics - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901

Richie C - 6 p.m.

Electric Lipstick - 7 p.m.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000

Charlotte County Concert Band - Sounds of America Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda Join the CC Concert Band for their Sounds of America concert 7.30 p.m. 941-218-0022

TC Band Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Ft Myers, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

239-204-9949

Johnny & Patti Nov. 8 - 10 Cultural Park Theatre, 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral 239-772-5862

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141

Confessions of a Cuban Artist: Ciro Quintana Nov 8 - 30 Lee County Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-2787

Jersey Boys tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Staged Readings Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Moe Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road Staged Readings come from short stories, essays, plays, speeches, the inside of fortune cookies, or anywhere else we feel the written word might be made more impactful as read by local thespians. 7:30 p.m.

239-495-8989

Rock for Equality Palace Pub and Wine, 1317 Cape Coral Parkway East No. 3 Craft Brews & Beer, 8 p.m., $5 www.loveyourrebellion.org The Fair at Fenway South Nov. 8 - 24 JetBlue Park, Fort Myers The family-friendly Fair at Fenway South takes place over three weekends: November 8 10; November 15 - 17; and November 22 - 24. Gates open at 5 p.m. on Fridays and at 1 p.m. on weekend days, and the fair closes each night at 11 p.m. www.fairatfenway.com.

Jennifer Gilmore Sings Musical Tributes “I Did it...Broadway!”

Norris Center in Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S. Naples Broadway Tribute featuring songs from Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Sound of Music, Cats, Chorus Line, Les Misérables & many more.

7 p.m. $25. 239-213-3058 The Gulfshore Tenors St. Leo Parish Life Center, Bonita Springs, These talented young men combine their classical training with a smooth jazz trio accompaniment to create a unique singing sensation. 7 p.m., Tickets $25/$40 w/reception. www.gulfshoreopera.org

November 2019 - 33

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

FRI - 8 CONTINUED Black Maria Film Festival Edison Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Ft. Myers Join Edison Ford, in partnership with Florida SouthWestern State College, in welcoming the 38th annual Black Maria Film Festival. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Limited seating is available; visitors are advised to bring a chair. 6 p.m.

239-334-7419 Friday Night Concert Series Miromar Outlets, Estero The Ex-Bachelors bring on Memphis soul and rock n’ roll!

6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza. www.MiromarOutlets.com Walker Hayes The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, doors open 7 p.m.

239-985-9839 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Country Express Band, 5-9 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 Tiger Blue Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Coconut Festival Country Night Sun Splash grounds,400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral David Lee Murphy, Runaway June and Cassadee Pope 239-573-3123 Tiny Art Exhibit Reception Cape Coral Arts Studio, 4533 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral The Cape Coral Arts Studio Fine Arts Gallery Exhibition is host to many wonderful local artists.

The exhibit will be on display from 1 Nov. 1 - 21, with a free reception to meet the artists on Friday, Nov. 8 from 5-7 p.m.

239-574-0802 Sunset Celebration-High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Beach N' Brews Craft Beer Event Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach 5 p.m. 239-463-4588 Ollie Mack Gentry exhibit Through Nov. 12 West Elm, Coconut Point, 23101 Fashion Drive, suite 101, Estero Opening reception at 6 p.m.

239-440-0061 34 - November 2019

SAT - 9

Southwest Florida Symphony: MW1 Interstellar Symphony Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Bill Mize in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org Fall Open House Englewood Art Center, 350 South McCall Road 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 941-474-5548 ABBA tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 COCO Art Gallery featured artist Sharon Shaw Saturday & Sunday Coconut Point Mall, 8074 Mediterranean Drive, Estero noon - 5 p.m. 239-949-3073 The East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Featuring Alice & Rose Boutique, Diane's Garden of Bromeliads & Edibles, Ice Cream Creations by Vilma, fleamarket, garage sale, items, plants, art, jewelry, produce.

Sellers inside & outside, booth space available $10. Rain or shine, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

224-678-4901 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

Silver Sneakers - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 The Classix Band Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6 p.m., 239-549-3000 Adrian Legg Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Fine Arts & Craft Show Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples Naples Artcrafters is an association of artists and craft artisans 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., www.naplesartcrafters.com

Stand-up Comedy Night Norris Center 755 8th Ave S. Naples Funny Fellas Comedy presents a night of stand-up comedy with headliner, Carmen Vallone. Also performing is nationally touring comedian, Larry Venturino, and hosted by Christopher Cowles (Yakov Smirnoff's writer). 7 p.m., $18 in Advance, $20 at the Door, $22 VIP Seating. 239-213-3058 Coconut Festival Rock Night Sun Splash grounds, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral The festival is an annual celebration of Cape Coral's uniqueness to the Southwest Florida area. The event includes national entertainment, carnival rides, games, food, contests, fireworks and much more.

Noon - midnight. cocofest.com 239-573-3123 The Gulfshore Tenors Military Heritage Museum’s Gulf Theater, Punta Gorda These talented young men combine their classical training with a smooth jazz trio accompaniment to create a unique singing sensation. 7 p.m., $25/$35. www.gulfshoreopera.org Veteran Community Support Fair Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Fair from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. live music with Jimmy G, Noon-4 p.m. & singer Paul Roush, 5-9., center court. 941-575-3007 Arts on Tap Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-9392787 Sunset Celebration - Remedy Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Patriotic Musical Celebration Saturday Norris Center in Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S. Naples 34102 (Featuring all the songs you know and love that celebrate this amazing country we live in and the people who serve and have served in the Military. This concert includes a special trilogy as well as songs from the Andrew Sisters and WWII songs of the era. 4 pm • $25. 239213-3058 Not Guilty Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Concert in the Park Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. salute to veterans, military, first responders and more. Music by Lindsey Graham, food and more. www.estero-fl.gov Funk, Soul, Motown & R&B Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

239-204-9949 Cindy Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, karaoke, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141

SUN - 10

Mustang Car Show Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Car show from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Live music with singer Chris G, 4-8 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 Naples ...What it Used to Be exhibit Guess Fisher Gallery, 810 12th Ave. S., Naples 5 - 8 p.m. 239-403-8393 Steve Cipriano The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 1 - 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Blues & Bloodys Sunday The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, noon-7 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Terry Fator Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1111 The Del Prados Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Annual Veteran’s Day Parade Downtown Fort Myers The RDA is pleased to host the 6th annual Veterans Parade in the River District. The parade will begin on Jackson Street at the American Legion and will proceed through the streets (Jackson Street, Main Street & First Street) of downtown ending with a commemorative program in front of the SBDAC. Guests are invited to line the streets to view the parade at 1 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com

Taste of the Islands Sanibel Community Park 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Join the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) for a day of great friends, groovy tunes and of course, delicious food from your favorite island restaurants! noon and close at 5 p.m.

Admission is $7 and children younger than 12 years of age are free. noon - 5 p.m.

239-472-3644 Naples Concert Band Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-597-3240 Autoberfest 2019 Bonita Springs Dog Track, Bonita Springs This unique community celebration features 25 award-winning food trucks, a luxury car show, KIDS ZONE, live music from the Ben Allen Band & Matty Jollie, a tractor-trailer of beer and wine! 11 a.m.

239-302-3837 Shall We Dance M & N Dance Studio, 12450 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers Benefits the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers, 2 - 5 p.m. www.mastersingersfm.com Lee County Community Band Cape Coral High School, 2300 Santa Barabra Blvd.

3 p.m. www.leecountyband.com

MON - 11

Vintage Car Club Car Show Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 941-575-3007 AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Veteran's Day Parade Cape Coral Parkway - westbound from Del Prado to Chester Street, Cape Coral Join us as the community honors our American Heroes and pays tribute to those who lost their lives, those who served honorably and those who are still proudly serving our country.

The Veteran's Day Celebration is a cooperative effort of the City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation and other local supporters.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

239-573-3123

Happenings Magazine

NOVEMBER CALENDAR MON - 11 CONTINUED Naples Big Band Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S. Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-3240 Arbitrary Illusions Nov. 11 – Dec. 5 Fort Myers Beach Art Association and Gallery, 3030 Shell Mound Blvd., 239-463-3909

TUE - 12

Songwriters on the Plaza Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort MyersAmphitheater The Americana Community Music Association is committed to supporting original independent music and musicians with programs that expand community appreciation and education while fostering the creativity and diversity that influence Americana and Roots music. 6 p.m. 239-479-4636 Pearl & Princess DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 The Heights Party Band The Heights Center, 15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers 7 p.m., $10, www.heightsfoundation.org New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com String Chamber Ensembles Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This concert is free and open to the public.7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268 Chamber Music with a Twist Shell Point Retirement Community, 13921 Shell Point Boulevard, Fort Myers Chamber Music with a Twist is a premiere chamber group that performs user-friendly classical chamber pieces, artistically woven in with beloved popular tunes and Broadway gems. 7 p.m. in the Grand Cypress Room. 239-454-2067.

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G 1-4., center court. 941-575-3007 Jazz Jam Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000 36 - November 2019

WED - 13

Capt. Paulie acoustic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Flash Forward Duo Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 9 p.m.

239-990-9901 The Moots Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 & 10 p.m.

239-204-9949 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Erich Dance Party Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000

THU - 14

Kevin James Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com CSNY, James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Space Jam Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 p.m. - midnight 239-204-9949 Evening on 5th 5th Ave. South, Naples An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of 5th Avenue South, plus dining, shopping and more. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. 239692-8436, fifthavenuesouth.com Electric Lipstick Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 9 p.m.

239-990-9901

TUBA Christmas Fifth Avenue South, Naples A remarkable evening of music in Sugden Plaza from sousaphone, euphonium, tuba, and baritone horn players. 6:30 7:30 p.m., 239-692-8436, fifthavenuesouth.com Gardner's Park Christmas Sneak Peek Gardner's Park Downtown Fort Myers Get your holiday shopping done in Gardner's Park! Join us for an evening of new items, specials, refreshments, and fun! 8 of our neighborhood shops are participating (more may join, and will be announced here)! Participating shops include: Shoppe Around the Corner Wisteria Tea Room Thrifty Garden Sirena del Sol Vintage DAAS CO-OP Art Gallery & Gifts Remedies Parlor Rust Never Sleeps Sophisticated Second. 6 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Mystik-Magic & Variety Show Nov. 14 - 17 City Marketplace 115 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda Join us for an enchanting performance of incredible illusions and many amazing talents that will leave you in awe! www.mystikillusions.com Fall Festival Carnival Eagle Lakes Community Park 11565 Tamiami Trail E, Naples Get ready for the Fall Festival Carnival! Everyone is welcome!

Come get in on all the fun!

There will be plenty of carnival rides, games and food! Fun for the entire family! 6 p.m.

239-252-3527 Pearl & Sase Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 OMB! Open Mic Bonita!

Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Moe Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs On select Thursdays throughout the 2019-2020, the Centers will host OMB! (Open Mic Bonita!)

Songwriters, poets, slam poets, performance artists, playwrights, authors and short story writers, stand-up comedians…we want YOU! If writing words is your art, we want to give you five minutes of stage time to share with our audience AND there are prizes. The event is free for performers. 7 p.m. 239-495-8989 www.artcenterbonita.org

A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play Nov. 14 - Dec. 25 Off Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Michael Baron & Priscila Navarro, piano duo Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers Tickets are $10 for the general public and $7 for students and are available at fgcu.edu/concerts 7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268 Naples Philharmonic Symphonic Dances Nov. 14 & 16 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1111

FRI - 15

Straight No Chaser The Open Bar Tour Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 Red Hannah The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Johnny & Patti - 6 p.m.

Neil Diamond tribute - 7 p.m.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Eagles tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Chonda Pierce Still Laughing First Assembly of God, 4701 Summerlin Rd, Fort Myers Join Chonda Pierce, a stand-up comedian, television hostess, author and now actress, as she channels her life experiences into positivity, bringing laughter to audiences around the country. This is an evening you won’t want to miss. 7 p.m.

239-936-6277 Lisa Hamman Jr Vocal Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This recital is free and open to the public. 5 p.m.

239-745-4268

Stephen McMullan Jr Percussion Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers This recital is free and open to the public. 7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Sunset Celebration-High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers The River District comes alive on the third Friday of the month as local and regional musicians line the streets. From jazz and blues to rock & roll, many genres can be heard and vary each month. Free to the public with many venues featuring additional attractions and specials. 6-10 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Mindi Abair Wine + Music Festival Nov. 15 - 17 Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center 75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda Listen to excellent music, drink some awesome wines, attend a private wine+food pairing dinner with Mindi Abair and Reserve Tastings the night before, or the champagne brunch with Reverend Shawn the day. 941-833-5444 Rocket Man Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center.

2301 First Street, Fort Myers As featured at Legends In Concert, Hard Rock Live, House Of Blues & BB Kings – Rocket Man drives a night of Elton John's greatest hits.Cocktails at 7 p.m. & Concert at 8 p.m.

239-333-1933 Iron Butterfly Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts-Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 |www.artcenterbonita.org Dueling Pianos Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral Come see Dave Rode and Sarah Hadeka play all your favorite songs. They'll be taking your requests all night, playing the songs you want to hear.

8 p.m. 239-772-5862 Happenings Magazine

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

COCO Art Gallery featured artist Barbara Ellis Saturday & Sunday Coconut Point Mall, 8074 Mediterranean Drive, Estero noon - 5 p.m. 239-949-3073

Sailor Larry - Noon Riverside - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901

Eagles tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000

Karibbean Groove Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 p.m. - midnight 239-204-9949 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141

SAT - 16

Gulf Coast Symphony: Dvorak Symphony Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m. www.gulfcoastsymphony.org Gulfshore Playhouse: It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Through Dec. 29 The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 866-811-4111

Happenings Magazine

The East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Featuring Alice & Rose Boutique, Diane's Garden of Bromeliads & Edibles, Ice Cream Creations by Vilma, fleamarket, garage sale, items, plants, art, jewelry, produce.

Sellers inside & outside, booth space available $10. Rain or shine, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

224-678-4901 The Lacs & Black Stone Cherry with The Josephines The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m.

239-985-9839 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

Limited Edition - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901

Rod Stewart and Roy Orbison tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Cindy Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, karaoke, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Wolfstock Riverside Park, Bonita Springs Ben Allen Band will be performing a concert benefiting Shy Wolf. Opening act will be Justin Ross. Local craft breweries, food trucks, and music all while supporting Shy Wolf... can’t get better than that! 4 - 8 p.m. www.shywolfsanctuary.org AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Cultural Park Theater’s auditions for Spectacular Christmas Revue Nov. 16 and 17 Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral This is an Open Public Casting Auditions from 10 a.m. till 1 p.m. both days. 239-772-5862

Aviation Day 2019 Page Field, 4700 Terminal Drive, Fort Myers Aviation Day is an annual community event hosted by the Lee County Port Authority with the purpose of increasing awareness of our airports. The event is held on the ramp on the north side of Page Field off Airport Road, east of U.S. 41 and south of Colonial. Free admission, parking. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 239-590-4505 The Steepwater Band Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts- Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 ART ALIVE-3rd Saturday Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours “ART ALIVE” daytime consists of over 50 professional artists, who will be showcasing their recent works of art and demonstrating their medium. Meet the artist, party and bring home unique treasures for your home. Look for the magenta & white art flags. 11 am-4 pm www.NaplesArtDistrict.com Sunset Celebration Hill Billy Ryson Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Nathalie Veizaga Jr. Oboe & Jerika Copeland Jr. Flute Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This recital is free and open to the public. 3 p.m.

239-745-4268 Roaring 20’s Style Dinner Dance Cape Coral Yacht Club, 5819 Driftwood Pkwy, Suggested Attire Roaring 20’s but not required, dance the night away, . Music by “Sensations”, Catered by: Fowler Street Grill. BYOB Allowed. $30 per person, 5:30 - 10 p.m. Reservations Required 4 days before event, ccscreservations@gmail.com, capecoralsocialclub.org, 813-419-3613.

Five Finger Death Punch with Three Days Grace Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero 6:30 p.m. 239-948-7825 Holiday Lighting of the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Live music with John Patti noon4 p.m. Lighting at 5:30-9 p.m. featuring bag pipes, music, dancing, Santa and lights.

941-575-3007

November 2019 - 37

NOVEMBER CALENDAR SAT - 16 CONTINUED

All That Jazz Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra The Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is joined by vocalist Carla Cook for a night of sizzling jazz in Daniels Pavilion. 6 & 8:30 p.m. 239-597-1111

Funk, Soul, Motown & R&B Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

239-204-9949 The Del Prados DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 Gulf Coast Harmonizers Fall Extravaganza Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral Music by the Gulf Coast Harmonizers, Duly Noted and Cypress Lake HS TAG, $20 www.gulfcoastharmonizers.org or 855-425-3631 Joe Jencks in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org

SUN - 17

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G 4-8 pm., center court. 941-575-3007 Steve Cipriano The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 1 - 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Lash and Debussy Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians 3 p.m. 239-597-1111 Naples Dixieland Jazz Band Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-263-1113 Nostaljah The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Jazz Ensemble Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This concert is free and open to the public. 3 p.m.

239-745-4268 Southwest Florida Concert Band - Salute to our Veterans Unitarian Universalist Church 3411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers All concerts are free with donations accepted. 2 p.m. www.SWFLConcertBand.org Car Show Fleamasters Fleamarket, 4135 MLK Boulevard, Fort Myers 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.fleamall.com 38 - November 2019

Wind Chamber Ensembles Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This concert is free and open to the public. 7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268

The 33rd Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship will be Nov. 22 - Dec. 1 at Wyndham Garden Hotel, 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach.

For festival details, www.fmbsandsculpting.com Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Indoor Blues Fest DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers JP Soars & the Red Hots, Sean Chambers, Josh Rowand & the Pitbull Blues, Johnny Jensen, 1 - 7 p.m. 239-466-8326

MON - 18

FSW Student Concert Series: Concert Band Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m.

239-481-4849 Smalltown The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorda, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007

TUE - 19

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G, 1-4 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Percussion Chamber Ensembles Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This concert is free and open to the public. 7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268

Jazz Jam Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Pearl & Princess DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326

WED - 20

Florida Rep Theatre Event South County Regional Library 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero Meet artistic director Greg Longenhagen and company from the Florida Rep as they tell us about their show Always Patsy Cline. Registration is required. 2 p.m. 239-479-4636 N2L Trio Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 9 p.m.

239-990-9901 The Moots Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 & 10 p.m.

239-204-9949 Greg Miller & the tributes Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Capt. Paulie acoustic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Chris G, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

THU - 21

FSW Student Concert Series: Jazz Band Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Icons: Bronfman and Rachmaninoff Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Yefim Bronfman with the Naples Philharmonic. 8 p.m.

239-597-1111 Bob Seger, Lady Gaga, Cher, Billy Joel tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Symphonic Band Concert Estero High School, 21900 River Ranch Rd, Estero This concert is free and open to the public. 7:30 p.m.

239-745-4268 Sounds of Christmas Nov. 21 - Dec. 25 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush 12 noon-3 pm, Singer Jimmy G, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Third Thursday Wine Walk Downtown Punta Gorda , Every third Thursday from 5 to 8 the downtown merchants bring you live music, artists and demoing, food trucks, other entertainment through out downtown. We have many restaurants, pubs and places whereby you can duck in and out of the heat or rain.

Merchants stay open till 8 p.m. for your shopping pleasure. 5 8 p.m. 941-391-4856 Bike Night with Torched The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 5 - 9 p.m., 239-995-2141 The Chicago Mob Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6 - 9 p.m.

239-990-9901 The Ledge Band Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Space Jam Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 p.m. - midnight 239-204-9949

FRI - 22

Michael Carbonaro Live!

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Friday Night Concert Series Miromar Outlets, Estero The Echo Band performs the oldies with a modern twist. 6 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza. www.MiromarOutlets.com Rhythm on the River Peace of Woodstock Edison Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, 6 p.m. 239-334-7419 Jory Lyle & Co. The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Randy Houser The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m.

239-985-9839 Happenings Magazine

The Classix Band - 6 p.m.

Elvis & more tributes - 7 p.m.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000

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

33rd Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship Nov. 22-Dec. 1 Wyndham Garden Hotel 6890 Estero Blvd Fort Myers Beach This is a fun-filled event that will include World Class Master Sand Sculptors, as well as amateurs. Other highlights include Quick Sand Speed Sculpting, Sand Sculpting Demonstrations, a kids activity a.m. - 5 p.m. info@fmbchamber.com

The Night Owls Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Ft Myers, 8:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.

239-204-9949 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141

Naples Balloon Glow Nov. 22 - 24 Collier Fairgrounds 751 39th Ave NE, Naples Hot air balloons glowing at dusk (weather permitting) and tethered rides also available (weather permitting). Event also features food vendors, retail vendors, kid activities and more!

239-455-1444 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007

Girls of Motown The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566

SAT - 23

The Sunset Celebration Double Standard Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Robert Gonnelli - 6 p.m.

The Goldtones - 7 p.m.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Cindy Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, karaoke, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Robin Williams tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs

Sailor Larry - Noon Deb & Dynamics - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 Marissa Wells Jr Piano Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU This recital is free and open to the public. 5 p.m. 239-745-4268

24-Hour Playwriting Project The Laboratory Theater of Florida 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers Playwrights will receive themes and instructions at 8pm on Friday night. They'll write all night long and then work with directors and actors to produce their plays for your enjoyment on Saturday night, starting at 8 p.m. 239-218-0481

The East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Featuring Alice & Rose Boutique, Diane's Garden of Bromeliads & Edibles, Ice Cream Creations by Vilma, fleamarket, garage sale, items, plants, art, jewelry, produce. Sellers inside & outside, booth space available $10. Rain or shine, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

224-678-4901 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

Electric Lipstick - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 Joe Marino & All The Kings Men DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Nov. 23-24 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1111 The Night Owls Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

239-204-9949 Official Blues Brothers Revue Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs - Center for Performing Arts - Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road 7:30 p.m. 239-495-8989 Aaron Burdett in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org

Garden Festival Nov. 23 and 24 Edison Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers For anyone who enjoys gardening, this is a must-see event!

Dozens of plant and garden vendors will have booths under the Banyan and other historic trees all around the museum and lab. This free event does not include tours of homes or admission to the museum and laboratory. 9 a.m. 239-334-7419 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, National Slide Guitar Champion Kraig Kenning 12-4 Visits w/Santa 1-5 Singer Dan Meadows 5-9 pm., center court.

941-575-3007 Bonita Fest 2019 Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St, Bonita Springs Free Concert and Admission at Riverside Park in Old Bonita.

Featuring The Caribbean Chillers (Jimmy Buffet Tribute band) and Iconic The Band, 3 – 9 p.m. www.bonitanaplesrotary.com Paradise Coast Wine & Food Experience featuring Martha Stewart Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 1 - 4 p.m. wineandfood.usatoday.com The Wildlings Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

SUN - 24

The Fab Four The Ultimate Tribute Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849

Beethoven and Schubert Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians 3 p.m. 239-597-1111 Supergold concert Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Doors at 6:30 p.m. six bands www.supergoldfl.com Shore Patrol Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Voices of Naples Presents the Seventeenth Annual SingAlong Messiah Naples United Church of Christ 5200 Crayton Road, Naples $15 in advance. $20 at the door.

3 p.m. 239-455-2582. www.voicesofnaples.org Marc Anthony Hertz Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero 7 p.m. 239-948-7825 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Michael Hirst 4-8 pm., center court. 941-575-3007 Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Steve Cipriano The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 1 - 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

MON - 25

The Four Italian Tenors Shell Point Retirement Community, 13921 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m. in the Village Church Auditorium. 239-454-2067

Happenings Magazine

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November 2019 - 39

NOVEMBER CALENDAR MON - 25 CONTINUED Hope by Song Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort Myers-Amphitheater The Hope by Song's mission is to help inspire people whose stories of abuse, addiction, homelessness or PTSD have not been heard to tell their stories. Their words are used to create songs to educate others dealing with similar issues to encourage new, more beneficial ways of thinking about their lives. 6 p.m.

239-479-4636 Christmas on Third Third Street South, Naples This beloved tradition features talented musicians, holiday lights, and Santa with his merry elves. Did we mention that SNOW will magically fill the air? 6-9 p.m. www.thirdstreetsouth.com Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Debbie Hoopes performs on the HandPan, noon -2 p.m., center court.

941-575-3007 AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

TUE - 26

Florida Rep Q&A Fort Myers Regional Library 2450 First St., Fort Myers Meet a member from the Florida Repertory Theatre who will discuss the current and upcoming seasons, do a free ticket giveaway and answer attendee questions. 6 p.m. 239-479-4636

Pearl & Princess DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 Christmas music & scenic snow shows Nov. 26, 27, 29, and 30 Third Street South, Naples There will be music up and down Third Street South, 5-8 p.m. with snow falling nightly at 7 p.m. www.thirdstreetsouth.com Beethoven and Schubert Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians. 3 p.m. 239-597-1111 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G 1-4., center court. 941575-3007

WED - 27

Erich Dance Party Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000

FRI - 29

Mystery Science Theater 3000 The Great Cheesy Movie Circus Tour Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Richie C - 6 p.m.

Soul System - 7 pm.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Grease, Manilow, Elvis tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566

Day & Evening on 5th; Sidewalk Sales, Music, & Entertainment 5th Avenue South & Sugden Plaza, Naples, Noon to 9:30 p.m. 239-692-8436

Grand Illuminations Tree Lighting Village Shops on Venetian Bay, Naples 7 p.m. Event is from 5 - 8 p.m.

239-961-1955

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

Red Hannah The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Rockin Horse Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 8 - 11 p.m.

239-990-9901

The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Jazz Jam Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000

Capt. Paulie acoustic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454

Cahlua & Cream The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 -10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

The Moots Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8 & 10 p.m.

239-204-9949

PRINT - WEB - MOBILE - SOCIAL

Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Frank Matyok, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Holiday Nights Through Dec. 30 Edison Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Ft. Myers Adults $20, Teens $10, Children age 6-12 $2. 5:30 p.m. 239-334-7419 Sailor Larry - Noon 80 Caliber - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 Moonchild Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., AJ Mullins Band Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 8:30 p.m - 1:30 a.m. 239-204-9949

SAT - 30 HappeningsMagazine.net

Entertaining Southwest Florida since 1995 40 - November 2019

Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 8 - 11 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Tony Bennett Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 The East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers, Featuring Alice & Rose Boutique, Diane's Garden of Bromeliads & Edibles, Ice Cream Creations by Vilma, fleamarket, garage sale, items, plants, art, jewelry, produce. Sellers inside & outside, booth space available $10. Rain or shine, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Soul City Classic Band DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 6:30 p.m. 239-466-8326 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

Red Hannah - 8 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, 239-990-9901 Jersey Boys tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Handel’s Messiah Nov. 30 & Dec. 3 Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd.

239-597-1111 Cindy Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, karaoke, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Jimmy G, noon-4 p.m. with the Hot Flashz Dancers performing at 2:30 p.m.

Singer Steve Flagg, 5-9 pm., center court.

941-575-3007 Scared Scriptless Comedy Lab Laboratory Theater of Florida 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers Formerly Bonita City Improv, this awardwinning comedy troupe offers a uniquely fun experience with each show. 7 p.m.

239-218-0481 Sunset Celebration - Remedy Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Annual Holly Daze Art Bazaar Nov. 30 - Dec. 21 Cape Coral Arts Studio, 4533 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral, 9 a.m. 239-574-0802 Archer Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 David C. Johnson Space 39 Art Bar & Martini Lounge, 39 Patio de Leon, Fort Myers, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. 239-204-9949 Jimmy Niteclub - 6 p.m.

Rod Stewart tribute - 7 pm.

Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Happenings Magazine

MUSIC

Shell Point concert season begins The Four Italian Tenors perform Nov. 25

Shell Point Retirement Community kicks off its 2019-2020 Fine and Performing Arts Series in November, which brings a variety of local and international performers to Shell Point’s campus in three distinct musical series: Fine Arts, Performing Arts, and Concerts and Conversations.

“The 17th season of the Shell Point Fine and Performing Arts Series is filled with an impressive array of talented artists and dynamic performances,” said Laura Slack, director of resident life at Shell Point Retirement Community. “With three distinct musical series, along with the skills of resident artists and artisans, this season offers something for everyone.”

The Fine Arts Series highlights the artistry of Shell Point resident artists and artisans with two annual shows, held during the 20192020 season. These free shows will showcase the creative work of many talented residents and ranges from photography and painting to three-dimensional sculptures and intricate quilts.

• Shell Point Artists and Artisans Holiday Bazaar – Friday, Nov. 1 and Saturday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Village Church on The Island at Shell Point.

• Two-Dimensional Art Show and Sale – March 20 and March 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Coastal Commons at Coastal Links.

The Performing Arts Series features five concerts including some of Broadway’s most well-known hits, classical pieces from an awardwinning ensemble and a big band musical performance from a group of internationally celebrated musicians. Concerts in this series will be held in The Village Church Auditorium on The Island at Shell Point and includes: • The Four Italian Tenors – Monday, Nov. 25 at 7 p.m.

• Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute – Thursday, Jan. 16 at 7 p.m.

• Embraceable You: The Music of George Gershwin – Thursday,

Anne Tormela Elaine Rinaldi Francisca Mendoza Chamber Music with a Twist will be presented Nov. 12

Feb. 27 at 7 p.m.

• The Queen’s Cartoonists – Thursday, March 5 at 7 p.m.

• Florida Gulf Coast University Wind Orchestra – Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m.

Individual tickets for the Performing Arts Series cost $40 with the exception of the FGCU Wind Orchestra concert, which costs $15.

Advance ticket packages are also available, providing savings up to $35.

Five Concerts & Conversations Series events will take place in the Grand Cypress Room at The Woodlands at Shell Point, which allows for an intimate, chamber-style performance, followed by refreshments and the opportunity to meet the performers. The Concerts & Conversations Series includes performances by: • Chamber Music with a Twist – Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.

• Duo Beaux Arts – Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.

• Peter & Will Anderson Jazz Trio – Thursday, Jan. 2 at 7 p.m.

• Penning & Langford – Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m.

• Peter Bergin, Ragtime Pianist – March 25 at 7 p.m.

Individual tickets for the Concerts and Conversation Series cost $30. Advance ticket packages are also available, providing savings up to $20.

Shell Point is partnering with the Southwest Florida Symphony to present three performances in the Southwest Florida Symphony Series. Tickets for this series range from $25 to $35.

• Holiday Pops Concert: Christmas in Paradise – Friday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.

• Stradi-Various – Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m.

• Transfigured Night – Thursday, April 2 at 7 p.m.

Events are open to the public, with tickets available online at www.shellpoint.org/concerts or by phone at 239-454-2067.

Sanibel Blues & Jazz Fest Nov. 3 In November 2016, the Sanibel-Captiva Optimists Club pioneered a new fund raising event – Sanibel Blues and Jazz Festival.

Again in 2017 and 2018, and now in 2019 for the fourth year, the fest features outstanding, award winning musicians. Past fests provided funding for the Optimists’ many charitable endeavors including their six college scholarships and Sanibel Recreation Center summer programs for kids.

This year’s festival will again be held at

42 - November 2019

the Bailey’s Center in the back yard (corner of Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel). The festival begins at noon and ends at about 7 p.m. The Sunday, Nov. 3 headliners are another outstanding group of musicians, some from past years and some new.

Johnny Jensen will be first on stage at 1 p.m. He will be followed by the Marty Stokes Band at 2 p.m. Sean Chambers will hit the stage at 3:30 p.m. The festival will see Matt

Schofield come on stage at 5 p.m. The day ends with a closing band jam.

Ticket donations are $20 for general admission and $100 for VIP admission.

Advance tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com or at Bailey’s General Store, the Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank, George and Wendy’s Seafood Grill, also available at the festival. Get more details at www.facebook.com/SanibelBluesandJazzFesti val or at www.sancapoptimist.org Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 43

MUSIC

Taste of the Islands Nov. 10 The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) has announced the 14 restaurants participating in the 38th Taste of the Islands, to be held Sunday, Nov. 10 in Sanibel Community Park from noon to 5 p.m.

“I’m thrilled to say we have an amazing lineup of restaurants this year” says Alison Charney Hussey, executive director for CROW. “This is a great opportunity for the community to come together to sample some fantastic food prepared by wonderful chefs, enjoy live music and have a great time with their friends and family. Supporting CROW is an added benefit to a fun-filled Sunday afternoon!”

The restaurants will offer a mouth-watering array of menu items for six CROW bucks or less while competing for honors in a variety of categories including “Best Appetizer,” “Best Seafood” and “Taste of the Taste.” Attendees of the Taste cast ballots to decide the winner of the coveted “People’s Choice” award.

Taste of the Islands restaurants are The

Private Stock Band

Bubble Room, The Clam Shack, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, The Jac Island Bar & Grille, Matzaluna Italian Restaurant, MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, Rosie’s Café & Grill, Sandollar Restaurant, Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, Sanibel Fish House, Shima Japanese Steak House, T2, Thistle Lodge and Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market This year’s family friendly event also features live entertainment by Private Stock

Band, and in the Sanibel Community House guests will meet CROW’s Animal Ambassadors and can bid on Silent Auction items.

Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank has returned as the presenting sponsor. This is the eighth year in row that the bank has led the sponsorship for CROW’s signature fundraiser.

Event sponsors also include The Silverman Organization as executive chef sponsor, Jensen’s Marina & Cottages and Heidrick & Co. as sous chef sponsors, FOX 4 as lead media sponsor, and Happenings Magazine, Times of the Islands Media, Florida Weekly newspaper, The Sanibel Islander/Island Reporter, Island Sun & River Weekly newspapers and Santiva Chronicle as supporting media sponsors.

Admission to Taste of the Islands, which can be purchased online or at the event, is $7 for adults and free for children less than 12 years of age.

For more info, visit www.CROWClinic.org

Gulfshore Tenors celebrate six years touring

Joining the Military Heritage The Gulfshore Tenors will hit the road Museum’s All Veterans Freedom Festival again this fall with area performances in for Veterans Day weekend, the Gulfshore November and December. The Gulfshore Tenors will be performing at the Gulf Tenors was formed by Gulfshore Opera Theater at the Military Heritage Museum general director Steffanie Pearce in 2014. in Punta Gorda on Saturday, Nov. 9 at 7 The concept of this all male p.m. The program will include popular popera/smooth jazz group is to introduce standards, and a musical celebration to the company and the sound of classically our nation’s heroes, including “Proud to trained voices in a casual setting. be an American,” “God Bless America,” Dubbed the “Ambassadors of GO”, their and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” repertoire is diverse and mostly familiar. It To get you into the holiday mood, celincludes some of the most beautiful love ebrate Christmas with the Gulfshore songs of the last 50 years.

Tenors on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the The Tenors are backed up by a topCharlotte Cultural Center in Port notch jazz trio who often break out into Charlotte or on Sunday, Dec. 8 at the classic jazz instrumentals. The group’s The Gulfshore Tenors & Brandon Robertson Naples Art Association. This intimate diverse repertoire includes standard love evening will include holiday favorites like songs of the 20th century made famous The Peanuts’ “Christmas Time is Here,” “Mary Did You Know?” and by singers such as Andy Williams, Elvis Presley and the popera group, Perry Como’s “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.”

Il Divo.

Both performances will be accompanied by a jazz trio lead by As part of Veterans Day weekend celebrations, the Gulfshore pianist/composer Tony Viviano. Tony’s compositional skills can be Tenors will be performing at the St. Leo Parish Life Center in Bonita heard on his albums Lydianosis and My Pal Al, containing all original Springs on Friday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m.. The Veterans Day concerts feature works. Fresh off of his album release, Bass’d on a True Story, FGCU guest tenor Chad Johnson, noted as a “blond hunk with a bright tenor jazz professor Brandon Robertson joins to play bass. Joining the sound,” Chad Johnson has impressed audiences and critics throughout Gulfshore Opera team for his second season, after playing drums for his career. His repertoire spans from the leading role in many operas to Norm Lewis on the Opera Meets Broadway concert, Rick Costa rounds touring with famous trumpeter, Chris Botti. out the jazz trio.

The program will include popular standards, and a musical celebraTickets are on sale now, by visiting www.gulfshoreopera.org or calltion to our nation’s heroes, including “Proud to be an American,” “God ing 239-529-3925.

Bless America,” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

44 - November 2019

Happenings Magazine

Symphonic Mastersingers fundraiser set for Nov. 10 at M & N Dance Studio

The Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers will host a fundraising event, Shall We Dance, on Sunday, Nov. 10 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the M&N Dance Studio, 12450 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers.

The afternoon will feature dance demonstrations by the studio’s professional staff, music from vocal scholarship winners, and fine hors d’oeuvres from Jamie and Jacob Catering.

The genesis for this season’s fundraiser was a fusion of the arts last season when dancers from the studio joined the Mastersingers Chamber Chorus in a concert program.

M&N Dance Studio is owned by Martin Cardoso and Noelia Guerrero, award winning dancers and highly regarded dance instructors who hail from Argentina. After years of teaching dance, they were able to realize their dream and open

M & N Dancers their own studio, where individual and group lessons provide an optimum dance experience, fusing fun and comfort with quality dance instruction.

Tickets for the fundraiser are $75 for a single, two for $140 and can be purchased online at www.mastersingersfm.com.

Mastersingers announce launch of new community choir in 2020

The Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers have announced its latest community outreach program, the Intermezzo Choir, beginning in January of 2020.

This new initiative is designed for individuals suffering from dementia, such as Alzeimers disease, and for their caregivers.

The program is under the direction of Mastersingers artistic director Shannon Arnold, working in tandem with a boardcertified music therapist. The initial 10-week session of the new chorus will begin on Wednesday, Jan. 22. There will be a $25 fee for participants.

The Intermezzo Choir will meet on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 at Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral beginning Jan. 22. Weekly rehearsals will focus on vocal techniques, using new and familiar music to provide a positive social and emotional outlet.

Singers will warm up working on breath support, rhythm and movement, and ensemble skills.

Each participant will be given a music notebook with lyrics and Happenings Magazine

sheet music, along with a practice CD. There will be a public concert scheduled in the last week of March to allow participants to share their accomplishments with friends and family. A volunteer singing partner will be paired with a person living with memory loss to assist singers during rehearsals and performances, if a family member or care partner is not available.

Shannon Arnold said, “Something that always has spoken to me is how music can heal, encourage, and change people's lives for the better. The addition of this new group under the Mastersingers’ umbrella extends our outreach to a community of people that deserves our attention and support. As someone who has seen two family members live with Alzheimers, I know how music can evoke positive memories.”

“These outreach programs allow us to amplify the power of music in our community,” said Mastersingers president, Anthony Contino.

For more on how to participate in the Intermezzo Choir, visit www.mastersingersfm.com.

AMERICANA COMMUNITY M USIC ASSOCIATION ort Myers home for original Americana music!

F

Patchouli

Bill Mize

Andy Getch opens

Danny Anderson opens

Joe Jencks

Aaron Burdett

NOVEMBER 16

NOVEMBER 23

NOVEMBER 9

NOVEMBER 2

Thomas Earl opens

Dan Philgreen opens

Kraig Kenning Ross Jordan opens

DECEMBER 7

Roy Schneider & The Reckless Saints JANUARY 4

Shows at All Faiths Unitarian Cong., 2756 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show at 7 p.m. $15 donation at door

ACMA on the ROAD

Songwriters on the Plaza Downtown For t Myers Librar y NOV. 12 at 6 pm - FREE

Songwriters at Sunset

Indoors if needed

Lovers Key State Park

JAN . 2 at 3:30 pm - FREE

info 239-691-4069

www.AmericanACMA.org November 2019 - 45

MUSIC

Patchouli, Bill Mize, Joe Jencks, Aaron Burdett AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION

The Americana Community Music Association is Fort Myers home for original Americana music, and the group has another full month of concerts planned. The ACMA provides a venue for local and touring artists, many are award winning performers in the Americana/folk community. All shows are in a quiet, intimate setting, and every show is a meet and greet with the artists.

The ACMA is pleased to have Patchouli return to Fort Myers on Nov. 2. Master guitarist Bruce Hecksel and singer-songwriter Julie Patchouli blend music from their two musical projects Patchouli and Terra Guitarra.

Terra Guitarra is reviewed as “one of the top nuevo-flamenco groups in the world” - Zone Music Reporter. They have three top 5 internationally charting albums including Of Sea & Stars just won ZMR Award “Best Instrumental Album of the Year 2017.”

In 2018, Patchouli & Terra Guitarra went global bringing their music all over the world touring the UK and Europe, China and the U.S. In 2019, their album Spirit Wheel was nominated ZMR "Best World Album." The duo continues to tour across the U.S. and returns for a 2nd bigger tour in China in July of 2019.

Patchouli & Terra Guitarra have performed over 4,500 shows, toured a million miles on the road supporting 21 CD releases, performed on TV, film and are played on radio programs around the World. Their soulful fusion of blazing Spanish and world guitar instrumentals, heartstring tugging lyrics, lush vocal harmonies, and epic folk rock anthems infused with a visible onstage chemistry guarantees to make the night an uplifting one of music that will leave you uniquely inspired and excited to pick that old guitar back up.

Founding ACMA member and musician Andy Getch will open for Patchouli. Andy has been an important part of the ACMA since its inception, and he continues to volunteer for the group, write new songs, paint cool stuff, host house concerts and perform on stage.

Grammy-winning guitarist Bill Mize will perform Nov. 9 at the ACMA listening room.

He a son of Tennessee and a fitting representative of his state’s rich musical heritage. His critically lauded fingerstyle compositions are fluid and intricate, and their delivery masterful. One suspects an influential teacher, and one would be right. “I received most of my musical education from a cheap Zenith radio,” says Mize, who as a child drifted off to sleep to the decidedly non-sleepy lullabies emanating from Nashville’s WLAC and WSM and Knoxville’s WNOX. Bill is a past winner of the National Fingerstyle Guitar Competition at The Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas. Guitar Player Magazine has labeled this event the “U.S. Open of guitar competitions." Bill 46 - November 2019

Joe Jencks received a Grammy Award for his collaboration with musician and storyteller David Holt on the recording Stellaluna, and has been featured on the popular guitar compilations "Windham Hill Guitar Sampler" by Windham Hill Records and "Masters of the Acoustic Guitar" by Narada Records. In 2009, Bill’s music appeared in the Ken Burns documentary “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea."

ACMA member Danny Anderson opens for Bill Mize. Danny hails from Ontario, Canada, and began strumming at age 12. It was mostly kitchens and campfires until, a few years ago, he found more time to write and play.

Influenced by styles from the Beatles to Motown to 60’s rock, Danny writes songs that will make you laugh: like his plea to Elon Musk to “Take me to Mars” ... and songs that will make you think: like his muse on midlife crisis.

The ACMA welcomes Joe Jencks back to the stage on Nov. 16. The ACMA first got acquainted with Joe as part of the powerhouse trio Brother Sun. Joe Jencks is an international touring musician, award-winning songwriter, and celebrated vocalist known for his performances of musical beauty, social consciousness and spiritual exploration. A 20year veteran of the international folk circuit, Jencks has released 15 CDs in that time.

Merging conservatory training with his Irish roots and working-class upbringing, Joe delivers engaged musical narratives filled with heart, soul, groove and grit. Blending wellcrafted instrumentals and vivid songwriting, Jencks serves it all up with a lyric baritone voice that has the edgy richness of a good sea-salt caramel. Opening for Joe is Dan Philgreen.

Aaron Burdett is on the ACMA calendar for Nov. 23. Creating music isn’t a means to an end, it is an end with a meaning for Aaron Burdett. Writing and creating songs is rooted

somewhere deep in his psyche; it’s something that can’t be denied and must be shared. His lyrics are soultouching, intelligent, witty, and poetic all at once, while his music style is a seamless blend of Americana, country, blues, bluegrass, and folk-rock that cohesively creates a story.

Aaron is listed as one of the top 10 most important musicians of western North Carolina by WNC Magazine, alongside such greats as Doc Watson, Steep Canyon Rangers, and The Avett Brothers. He has also received critical acclaim as a songwriter, winning Our State Magazine’s Carolina Songs competition in 2012 with “Going Home to Carolina.” Aaron’s song “Magpie” won third place bluegrass song in the prestigious Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at Merlefest in 2013. Over the years Aaron has been a finalist in numerous other songwriting competitions, including The Mountain Stage Songwriting Contest, The NC Songwriter’s Cooperative Songwriting Contest, and the Hank Williams Songwriting Contest.

Aaron’s writing is as prolific and genuine as the man. He grew up the oldest of three boys in the fairly isolated small town in Saluda, NC, where the Blue Ridge meets the Smoky Mountains. Aaron has seven albums, Refuge (2017 on Organic Records), Tinderbox (2015 on Organic records), Fruits of My Labor (2014 on Organic Records), Breathing Underwater (2012), Stand Up Eight (2010), Resolve (2008) , and The Weight of Words (2005).

Thomas Earl will open for Aaron Burdett.

Thomas has been writing and performing music for over 50 years. He started his career playing in Coffee Houses in Ann Arbor, Mich., in the late 1960s. He is proficient in both guitar and bluegrass banjo, with a focus on creative finger style techniques. He has written dozens of original songs, including original music for theater productions, and has released two CDs of original music. Thomas spent a year living in Maui while working on his most recent single releases and has just moved to Venice, Fl., from the Woodstock, New York area. Thomas will also be conducting a master class - “Using Open Tuning to Open up Your Songwriting Potential” for the ACMA in January.

Singer songwriters circles are held every Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at All Faiths Unitarian Congregation. The circle is for acoustic songwriters of all levels.

The ACMA is a non-sectarian not for profit organization. Most concerts are held at All Faiths Congregation located at 2756 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows start at 7 p.m. $15 donations are accepted at the door the night of the concert. For more information visit www.americanacma.org Happenings Magazine

Estero concert in park Nov. 9

Lindsey Graham

The Village of Estero presents a concert Saturday, Nov. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd..

The free concert will feature military theme songs, patriotic and pop music by concert artist Lindsey Graham, a 21-gun salute, free food and a message by an Estero veteran. The event is to honor all veterans, active military personnel, first responders and gol star parents.

Attendees should bring a lawn chair. For more info, visit online at www.estero-fl.gov

Thinking of Starting a Career in

Audio or Video Production?

Audio Technology Certificate Program

Courses include

Audio Recording & Production Video Editing & Production

Lee Campus, Fort Myers

For more details 239-432-5203 kelly.o’neil@fsw.edu

The Rocket Man Show

Vinyl Vibes starts Nov. 15 with tribute to Elton John

Vinyl Vibes is a retro records series that features some of the nation’s best tribute acts. The 2019-2020 lineup at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center includes tributes to Elton, Queen, James Taylor and Journey.

On Nov. 15, the first Vinyl Vibes concert of the series begins with Rus Anderson performing as a young Elton John in The Rocket Man Show - driving a night of Elton's greatest hits, with spot on vocals, fierce piano playing and gorgeous costumes. His performance has earned the show an endorsement by the official Elton John Fan Club and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Rus painstakingly recreates an early Elton concert with gorgeous and flamboyant costumes actually worn

by Elton - including boots, glasses and jumpsuits from Happenings Magazine

1973, as well as his sparkly tuxedo from 1984. With all the classic young Elton antics, audiences are in for a night of nostalgia, singing, laughing and fun.

Other concert performers and dates in the series are Absolute Queen on Jan. 10, Fire & Rain - The James Taylor Experience on Feb. 28 and Resurrection - A Journey tribute band on March 7.

General admission is $45, and VIP is $59 for each concert.

For the series, general admission is $150, and VIP is $200.

Doors will open at 7 p.m. for cocktails, and the performances will begin at 8 p.m. Call 239333-1933 or visit www.sbdac.com for more info.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District.

November 2019 - 47

MUSIC

Iron Butterfly, Adrian Legg and others at the Center for

the Arts in Bonita Springs

It’s a very musical been heralded as a “guimonth at the Center for the tarist of astonishing virArts in Bonita Springs. tuosity, (whose) imaginaMusical Moments tion and melodic invenSeries: Rock Around the tion seem unbounded,” Clock will be at 3 p.m. on (Q magazine); “ridicuSunday, Nov. 3 in Moe lously talented,” (Music Auditorium. Join the Night Week) and “simply the Train Band for chart-topbest acoustic guitar playping Rock ‘N’ Roll hits from er I’ve ever heard.”(gui‘50s greats like Elvis tar icon Joe Satriani).

Presley, Little Richard, Often, he plays a piece Jerry Lee Lewis, Bill Haley entirely in arpeggios & the Comets, the Platters (similar to a classical and Chuck Berry. Enjoy guitar style) and extendelicious complimentary sively uses altered tun‘50s themed mini desserts ings and capos to create during intermission. his signature sound.

Adrian Legg Nov. 9 The Everly Brothers Iron Butterfly will hit Experience is scheduled the stage at Hinman fro Thursday, Nov. 7 at Auditorium on Friday, 7:30 p.m. in Hinman Auditorium. Since Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. The Los Angeles music 2016, brothers Zachary and Dylan Zmed climate of the late 1960s and 1970s was along with their partner and drummer characterized by the heavy sounds and Burleigh Drummond, have celebrated the sentiments that reflected the revolutionary pivotal music and history of The Everly attitudes of the generation. Bursting onto Brothers legacy with enthusiastic crowds all that scene was Iron Butterfly, whose sound across the US and over seas in prestigious not only epitomized the hard attitudes of venues. the youth with its heavy drumming and Adrian Legg will perform Saturday, Nov. bass lines, but also embraced more deli9 at 8 p.m. at Hinman Auditorium. Globally cate aspirations through its intricate guitar acclaimed by critics and fans alike for his and keyboard overlays. And now they are unique acoustic and electric fingerstyle guiback touring the world. tar playing, Adrian Legg masterfully blends The Steepwater Band will perform diverse musical styles, influences and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. at Hinman inspirations to create a distinctive sound all Auditorium. You should already know these his own. With multiple awards and accosongs. If the old saying about talent equallades spanning four decades, Legg has ing success were true, then The

48 - November 2019

Iron Butterfly Nov. 15

Blues Brothers Revue Nov. 23

Steepwater Band would already be a household name, rubbing shoulders with Aerosmith, Bad Company and other likeminded travelers in our collective rock 'n roll fantasy.

The Official Blues Brothers Revue is coming to Hinman Auditorium on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 p.m. There have been many imitators, but there is only one duo in North America sanctioned by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi to don the official hat and sunglasses and walk in the legendary footsteps of Jake and Elwood Blues.

The Center for Performing Arts is located at 10150 Bonita Beach Road. For tickets and more info, call 239-495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org.

The Steepwater Band Nov. 16

The Everly Brothers Experience Nov. 7

Happenings Magazine

Gulf Coast Harmonizers extravaganza Nov. 16

The Gulf Coast Harmonizers will hold its 27th Annual Fall Extravaganza on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. at Faith Presbyterian Church, 4544 Coronado Pkwy, Cape Coral.

The new director, Chris Owens, has planned a fantastic show, and the Gulf Coast Harmonizers looks forward to once again hosting a soldout performance.

Tickets are now available online at

Duly Noted

prings

www.gulfcoastharmonizers.org or from any member. For more information, contact Steve Larson at 612-750-7117.

Two fabulous performers will assist the Harmonizers in the show: The award-winning Cypress Lake HS acappella chorus, “TAG,” and the Sweet Adeline quartet, “Duly Noted,” who recently won the title of Rising Stars at their Florida convention.

“We are thrilled with the results from our past fall performances and will be presenting a host of new music again this year. We are looking forward to a great time and to raising money for the charities we support,” said Steve Larson, event chairman. “Please help us support the arts in our community.”

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a variety of local charities and to a newly-initiated scholarship program for college men.

The Gulf Coast Harmonizers has been entertaining in SW Florida since 1992 and is open to men of any age who have an interest in singing in the acappella barbershop style. They currently have over 45 members from all walks of life and from all parts of SW Florida. To learn more, call 855-425-3631.

Cypress Lake High TAG

Come for the Food. Stay for the Dancing!

TRIBUTE BANDS in Bonita S

NOV 1 - Neal Diamond tribute

NOV 2 - Journey & Bon Jovi tribute

NOV 21 - Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute

NOV 7 - Elvis, Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin tribute

NOV 22 - Girls of Motown tribute

NOV 8 - Jersey Boys tribute

NOV 28 - Thanksgiving Dinner

NOV 9 - ABBA tribute

NOV 29 - Grease, Manilow, Elvis tribute

NOV 14 - James Taylor, CSN and Simon & Garfunkel tribute

NOV 30 - Jersey Boys tribute

NOV 15 - Eagles tribute NOV 16 - Rod Stewart and Roy Orbison tribute

NOV 23 - Robin Williams comedy tribute

DEC 5 - Neil Diamond tribute DEC 6 - Eagles tribute DEC 7 - Bee Gees tribute

www.thestagebonita.com 239-405-8566 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 49

MUSIC

Blues Fest Nov. 17 at DJ’s Rhythm House

DJ’s Rhythm House in south Fort Myers continues to be a hot spot for live blues in Southwest Florida, and a new event will showcase some more great musical talent.

The first indoor blues fest is scheduled to take place on Sunday, Nov. 17 from 1 to 7 p.m.

Doors will open at noon. The day’s musical lineup includes JP Soars & the Red Hots, Sean Chambers, Josh Rowand and the Pitbull Blues Band and Johnny Jensen.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Call 239-4668326 for reservations.

The local music venue has been doing a monthly blues event since May that has featured a national act whose tour is coming through the area. The Rhythm House is growing that audience and has collaborated with local blues musician Marty Stokes to help bolster the venue’s blues calendar and reputation.

“The Rhythm House is continually striving to improve its venue,” says Stokes. He reports the ambience is better and the lighting allows for more of a blues house kind of atmosphere. “The future looks good,” says Stokes in regard to more blues concerts at DJ’s Rhythm House.

J.P. Soars is soaring high, nominated for “Blues Rock Artist of the Year” in the 40th annual Blues Music Awards in 2019. Soars was nominated alongside blues music heavyweights Billy Gibbons, Eric Gales,

Josh Rowand and the Pitbull Blues Band

50 - November 2019

JP Soars & The Red Hots

Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Tinsley Ellis, rounding out the Blues Rock category.

Soars has been touring the world and released a new studio album in August produced by Tab Benoit on Benoit’s Whiskey Bayou label.

Florida born Sean Chambers began his career in the Blues back in 1998 when he toured with the legendary Hubert Sumlin as his guitarist and band leader until 2003.

Sean Chambers

During Sean’s tenure with Sumlin, Britain's own Guitarist magazine named Chambers as “One of the top 50 blues guitarists of the last century.” In 2009, Chambers went into the studio to record his critically-acclaimed album, Ten Til Midnight. which garnered rave reviews and also appeared on the Living Blues chart for the first three months after its release.

The Pitbull of Blues Band is more than just a generic blues band. As a Florida based band, "The Pitbull of Blues Band" enjoys sharing their own breed of blues with others. Putting the bite in blues, this band delivers a show that reminds you why you fell in love blues.

Johnny Jensen is a 16 year old blues/fusion/jazz artist who resides on Captiva. His love for music began at a very young age.

At age 2, he would sit for hours and strum on his toy guitar. When given a set of drums at age 4, he quickly shifted his attention to percussion. Some of his most recent accomplishments include being selected by the SWFL Blues Society to represent them in Memphis at the 2019 and 2020 International Blues Challenge.

Damon Fowler and the Marty Stokes Band will perform Sunday, Dec. 1.

DJ’s Rhythm House is located at 16440 S. Tamiami Trail, suite 11, Fort Myers.

Visit online at www.therhythmhousefortmyers.com for menu and music calendar.

Johnny Jensen Happenings Magazine

Lee County Band plays

Nov. 10 in Cape Coral

Neenie’s House debuts new music venue with Supergold on Nov. 24 Supergold

On Sunday, Nov 24, Neenie's House will host its first live band show. This tour of young indie bands from Fort Lauderdale will play outside at the Fort Myers venue located at 481 Marsh Ave. (just off Palm Beach Boulevard. Doors open at 6:30 pm. and the show begins at 7 p.m. The evening will include performances by Supergold, Broken Waves, The Kimberlys, Roxx and The Velvets, Ivan the Hippy and Offsetera.

Advance tickets are available at www.supergoldfl.com.

Neenie's House is the vision of Janeen Vanko, a retired steel salesman from the Chicago area. When she moved here last year, she bought a vacant shop

Happenings Magazine

in east Fort Myers. Her artsy, reloved stuff shop, has evolved into a really cool space, and now houses the Love Your Rebellion's Zine Library, and even more now - The Peace Plaza is an event space rental.

Janeen is a neighborhood activist, in her east Palm neighborhood, and would really like to create a "Funkytown" in this mixed ethnic commercial area.

Every weekend she has the East Palm Mercado with vendors selling fleamarket items, plants and art. “We need to support efforts like this to create a new neighborhood in Fort Myers, to support the arts and diversity,” says Vanko.

Call 224-678-4901 or visit www.neenieshouse.com.

The Lee County Community Band will begin its 134th season with a lively, fun-filled, free concert on Nov. 10 at 3 p.m. at Cape Coral High School.

In keeping with tradition for the season's first concert, director Richard Bradstreet has selected a program featuring spirited and patriotic American music by American composers and a salute to U.S. military veterans.

The 50-member adult band will perform six concerts between November and April. Programs typically include a mix of energetic marches, Broadway hits, old favorites, patriotic songs, and a singalong with emcee and vocalist Norman Jones.

Band members are musicians from all walks of life – career musicians, amateurs, and folks renewing skills from years past – who reside in Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties. The band welcomes new members every year. The band rehearses Thursday evenings at St. Michael Lutheran School, Fort Myers. Musicians interested in joining may phone John Fenn at 239-454-6430.

Lee County Community Band concerts are free of charge (donations welcome), and open to the public. Additional concert dates are Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 8, and April 19. All concerts will be at Cape Coral High School, 2300 Santa Barbara Boulevard, one block north of Veterans Parkway, beginning at 3 p.m. For additional information, visit www.leecountyband.org

Gulf Coast Big Band November 3 in Naples

The Gulf Coast Big Band kicks off its new season on Sunday, Nov. 3.

Concerts are performed at 2 p.m. on Sunday afternoons at the Cambier Park Bandshell in Naples. The bandshell is located on 8th Street, just south of 5th Avenue South. Attendees should bring a lawn chair for seating.

The Gulf Coast Big Band has been performing since 1991. It plays big band and jazz standards to the delight of thousands at Sunday afternoon concerts-in-the-park at Cambier Park, Naples, Florida.The Band plays a wide range of big band music from traditional swing and blues to bebop and Afro-Cuban. Audiences enjoy songs from a large variety of jazz greats including Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Tadd Dameron, Stan Kenton, Sonny Rollins, and Thelonious Monk.

Remaining concert dates for the 2019 - 2020 season are Dec. 1, Jan. 12, Feb. 16, March 15 and April 5. For more about the band, visit online at www.gulfcoastbigband.com.

November 2019 - 51

MUSIC

Bonita Springs Concert Band to perform Nov. 3

Naples Big Band Nov. 11

Naples Big Band will open its 15th concert season with a veterans and active military tribute on Monday, Nov. 11 at Cambier Park in Naples.

The concert, which will begin at 7 p.m., is admission free. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and bring comfortable, portable chairs.

According to Jim Castaldi, Naples Big Band musical director and trumpet/flugelhorn player, “Our first concert each season sets the tone for our concert schedule to follow. This season, we look forward to entertaining audiences with the classics they love, plus new material that will delight music lovers of all ages.”

While entertaining the masses is of tremendous importance to the organization, the Naples Big Band

remains committed to the second part of its mission: financial support music education in area high schools.

“As a former high school music director, I know from experience that funding for the arts in high schools continues to diminish at an alarming rate,” says Castaldi. “When we collect donations during intermission at our admission-free concerts, it’s in the spirit of serving high school music departments with much-needed funds.” Fort Myers-based business RCM 360 has committed a 100% financial match to all donations collected during intermission at the Nov. 11 concert.

For more information about the band, call 239-777-0416 or visit online at www.NaplesBigBand.com.

The next free concert by the Bonita Springs Concert Band will be Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Park in downtown Old Bonita.

Popular guest soloist Carolann Sanita returns and will perform “Somewhere,” “My Heart Will Go On,” and will narrate “From Sea to Shining Sea.” Carolann has been a soloist with the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Though she is formally trained in opera, Carolann Sanita has a deep affection for musical theater. It’s a passion that transported her as the character Marian on the first national tour of the Broadway remake of The Music Man and through Europe and Asia as Maria in West Side Story.

The November concert is a tribute to all our veterans and first responders. Patriotic songs will include “Stars and Stripes Fanfare,” “This is My Country” and “Armed Forces Salute.” Come early and stay late. Nicola Vukovic will be playing his wonderful guitar prior to the concert and after the concert as people depart.

Glen Basham is a native of Washington, D.C., and received his masters of music from Indiana University. He is in his 28th year as concertmaster of the Naples Philharmonic. He has played with Skitch Henderson on “Swinging with Strings.” He will play a violin solo with the Bonita Springs Concert Band, “Theme from Schindler’s List.”

The 90 band members are under the direction of Gary Smith who retired after 24 years as conductor of the University of Illinois Marching Illini Band. This is the sixth season that Gary has led the band.

Find out more at www.bonitaspringsconcertband.com.

The Dec. 15 concert will be a Christmas Concert.

Orchestra is now called Punta Gorda Symphony; first concert to be Nov. 10

SW Florida Concert Band Nov. 17 The Southwest Florida Concert Band will perform a concert Salute to our Veterans on Sunday, Nov. 17, at 2 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church 3411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers.

The 40-member community band will perform a concert of patriotic music and more. The program will start with a salute to the Armed Forces including the five main branch songs and move to the reflective Hymn of Freedom.

The band will play some traditional American folk songs and an arousing Sousa march called “Liberty Bell.”

They will also have a trumpet solo, a euphonium trio, a swinging Glenn 52 - November 2019

Miller medley and some toe tapping Dixieland music. The band will play the memorable “Homefront,” songs of World War II for the veterans to sing along to. One of the featured selections will be highlights from the 1812 Overture. The band will also perform the inspiring “Arlington, Where Giants Lie Sleeping.” The first concert of the season will conclude with “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Phillip Sousa All concerts are free with donations accepted. Information on the group, its scholarship program, and other performances can be found at www.SWFLConcertBand.org

The Board of Directors of Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Inc. of Florida announced that it has changed the name of the organization to Punta Gorda Symphony, Inc. The change has been in development for some time now, with the discussion arising periodically over the past five years. In the fall of 2018, the CSO Board, under the leadership of chairman Michael Landsberg and in coordination with Music Director Raffaele Ponti, took decisive action and began putting the change into effect. “As the orchestra gains regional acclaim and wider media attention, we feel drawn to be more closely connected to this city we love – and which has shown such dedicated support over the years,” explains Ponti, who has attracted accomplished professional musicians and internationallyrecognized guest artists to the orchestra.

The organization had been plagued with branding problems, the most nagging for symphonic music fans being that any internet search too often resulted in an outof-state orchestra with a similar name.

The Punta Gorda Symphony will hold its first performance under the new name on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, as part of its regular subscription season. For tickets or further information, visit the new Punta Gorda Symphony website at www.PGSymphony.org, or call 941-205-5996.

Happenings Magazine

Matt Baxley

Meet...The Moots The Moots is an American musical duo that originates from the Florida Gulf Coast.

The band was formed in early 2019 by multi-instrumentalist Matt Baxley and session drummer Darrell Nutt.

No strangers to the local live music scene, Matt Baxley and Darrell Nutt have joined forces to form The Moots. Their creative musical improv sets and distinctive fusion of funk, soul, & pop music have created a local buzz and garnered a musical cult following on Wednesday nights at Space 39 in Downtown Fort Myers.

How did The Moots get their name?

Matt Baxley started posting synthesizer videos on YouTube early in the channels existence under the pseudonym Moot Booxle.

When deciding on a band name, Matt and Darrell borrowed from Matt’s YouTube aka while paying homage to Jimmy

Fallon’s funky Tonight Show band The Roots.

One unique aspect of a Mots show is the instrumentation. There is a lot of sound coming from just two musicians. Matt plays Mini Moog and ARP Odyssey synthesizers, Rhodes and B3 keyboard sounds, voice vocoder, and many delay and modulation effects. He is also the soulful vocalist of the group with a style and range that parallels any pop singer today. Darrell doesn’t just play the drums, he triggers loops and samples that can ignite the sparks of a musical improv moment.

They perform two shows at 8 and 10 on Wednesday nights at Space 39. Each show contains a Moots “twist” on classic songs like “Higher Ground” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder. Songs by Luther Vandross, P-Funk, Steely Dan, Hall & Oates, and Gary Wright are also on their

Darrell Nutt

setlist, but what stands out for most fans are the musical improv moments. Whether they improvise with their own ideas or from audience suggestions, The Moots create new compositions “On the spot” and the creative energy is electrifying!

Matt Baxley is the keyboardist and vocalist for many Southwest Florida groups and has produced music for local and national songwriters. He is originally from Tennessee. Darrell Nutt is a drummer for several acts in the area as well as a music producer and video director. He settled here in 1995 and started his company defMEDIA Group after many years of touring globally with country and rock artists.

The Moots are currently working on their self-titled debut EP and their “Live… From Space” live album to be released in early 2020. For more about the duo, visit The Moots online at www.mootsmusic.com.

NUCLASSICA to play benefit concert Dec. 5 at Seminole Casino Hotel Detroit’s most famous electro-pop violin band will present its NUCLASSICA holiday concert from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5 at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee to benefit Naples-based Freedom Waters Foundation.

NUCLASSICA appeared on America’s Got Talent. At the band’s concerts, the classicallytrained musicians are accompanied by a deejay as they put their spin on popular songs such as “Titanium” by David Guetta and “Chandelier” by Sia. For the holiday-themed show, the performance will include renditions of carols and classics of the season. Band member Stacey Mason, former Miss America National Quality of Life Award Winner, will serve as emcee.

“People see us come out with violins and expect to hear Beethoven,” said Jordan Allen Broder, who founded the band in 2012.

“They are surprised to hear popular music they know and love, and to Happenings Magazine

get up and dance to it.”

“NUCLASSICA played at our annual Kind Mariners Ball fundraiser this past February, and our guests fell in love with how the band combines both a contemporary and classic feel to each song,” said Debra Frenkel, Freedom Waters Foundation founder and executive director. “We are so excited that they wanted to come back to Florida and present this special show to benefit our organization.”

The non-profit organization provides free therapeutic marine-related experiences to children and adults with life threatening illnesses or disabilities, at-risk youth and veterans.

Tickets are $50 and include an open bar and hors d’oeuvres buffet. Complimentary motor coach transportation is available from pick-up sites in Collier and Lee counties. Tickets are $50 and may be purchased at freedomwatersfoundation.org or by calling 239-263-2377.

November 2019 - 53

MUSIC

ISLAND HOPPER Songwriter Fest

Rodney Atkins at Pink Shell Resort

Jerrod Niemann at Pink Shell Resort Another successful Island Hopper Songwriter Festival is in the books for the sixth year. The 10-day festival ran Sept. 20 - 29 on Captiva Island, downtown Fort Myers and ended on Fort Myers Beach. More than 75 songwriters participated this year.

Next yearĘźs festival will be Sept. 18 27. See more photos online at www.happeningsmagazine.net.

Photos by Jamie Kuser Rachele Lynae at Matanzas on the Bay

Carly Tefft at Yucatan Beach Stand

Meg Williams at Lighthouse Tiki Bar

54 - November 2019

Lena Stone at Matanzas on the Bay

Tim James at Yucatan Beach Stand

Happenings Magazine

LOCAL & LIVE MUSIC IN

Backstreets

SW FLORIDA

915 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 239-945-7555

The Barrel Room 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-333-2225

Bert’s Bar & Grill 4271 Pine Island Rd Matlacha 239-282-3232

Blue Monkey Bar & Grille

7550 Mission Hills Dr suite 326, Naples 239-597-2583

Buckingham Blues Bar

5641 Buckingham Rd Fort Myers 239-693-7111

The Buddha Bar

12701 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-482-8565

Cape Cabaret

4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000

The Cigar Bar

Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers 239-267-6020

The Center Bar at The Promenade 26811 S. Bay Drive Bonita Springs 239-325-3583

Coconut Falls Tiki 17200 S. Tamiami Tr. Fort Myers 239-990-9901

Fishermen’s Village Seminole 1200 W. Retta Esplan.

Casino Hotel Punta Gorda 941-639-8721

Hurricane Charley’s

300 W. Retta Espl, Punta Gorda 941-639-9695

The Jac

1233 Periwinkle, Sanibel 239-472-1771

The Keys Bar & Grille

9905 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers 239-433-3323

Lakehouse Bar & Grill

3401 Bay Commons Drive, Bonita Springs 239-948-4400

Lansdowne Street

24851 S. Tamiami Tr #7 Bonita Springs 239-495-3800

The Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd.

Cape Coral 239-541-5600

2787 N. Tamiami Trail North Fort Myers 239-995-2141

Smokin Oyster Brewery 340 Old San Carlos For Myers Beach 239-463-3474

Sneaky Pete’s

3465 Bonita Beach Rd Bonita Springs 239-498-8887

The Stage

9144 Bonita Beach Rd Bonita Springs 239-405-8566

Ter-Tini’s

1901 Crystal Drive, Fort Myers 239-344-6147

Tiki Bar at Days Inn

255 13th Avenue S., Naples • 239-649-8200

Paradise Tiki Hut at Dolphin Key 1502 Miramar St. Cape Coral 239-540-8454

Dixie Roadhouse

5785 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral 239-542-0123

The Shell Factory

Old Naples Pub

Pete’s Time Out

Fathoms

1410 Pine Ridge Road Naples 239-435-9333

Tiki at Wyndham Garden

1131 First St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-8077

Parrot Key Caribbean Grill

1023 SE 47th Terrace Cape Coral 239-541-7900

South Street

Nervous Nellie’s

The Cottage

1270 Estero Blvd., Ft Myers Beach 239-765-5440

506 S. 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007

2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-3257 1005 Estero Blvd.

Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5900

DJ’s Rhythm House

16440 S. Tamiami Trail Fort Myers 239-466-8326

6890 Estero Blvd.

Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5711

18051 S. Tamiami Tr Fort Myers 239-267-7900

Twisted Vine Bistro 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-226-1687

The Village Pub

4360 Gulf Shore, Naples 239-262-2707

Whiskey Park

3380 Mercantile Ave., Naples • 239-263-6777

Yucatan Beach Stand

250 Old San Carlos Fort Myers Beach 239-333-4386

Some of the places to hear live music in SW Florida.

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 55

IN CONCERT

PERFORMANCES

JAN. 19

Mandy Patinkin

IN SW FLORIDA & SUN COAST

Artis–Naples

Mary Wilson

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

NOV. 1

Sebastian Bach

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

JAN. 20

Johnny Mathis Artis–Naples

NOV. 2

Sammy Hagar & Night Ranger

JAN. 22

Tanya Tucker

Hertz Arena, Estero

Josh Abbott Band

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

Gin Blossoms

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Sebastian Bach, Jackyl, Slaughter

Coral Head Music Fest, Pinellas Park

Alice Cooper

NOV. 3

B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

NOV. 8

Walker Hayes

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

David Lee Murphy, Runaway June, Cassadee Pope Coconut Festival, Sun Splash, Cape Coral

NOV. 9

Fran Cosmo

Coconut Festival, Sun Splash, Cape Coral

NOV. 15

Iron Butterfly

Hinman Auditorium, Bonita

NOV. 15 - 17

Wine & Music Festival Downtown Punta Gorda

Five Finger Death Punch

NOV. 16

Hertz Arena, Estero 56 - November 2019

Sebastian Bach

The Sam Galloway Concert Series welcomes Sebastian Bach to The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers on Nov. 1. For tickets, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com. Sebastian Bach will perform Nov. 2 at the Coral Head Music Fest in Pinellas Park along with Vince Neil and Slaughter. For tickets, visit www.coralheadmusicfest.com. Photo by Jamie Kuser

NOV. 16 continued The LACS, Black Stone Cherry The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

NOV. 20

John Oates

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

NOV. 22

Randy Houser

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

NOV. 24

Marc Anthony

Hertz Arena, Estero

NOV. 30

Tony Bennett

B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

DEC. 4

Mavis Staples

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

DEC. 13

Lee Greenwood

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

DEC. 14

Darius Rucker & Lady Antebellum Tiburon, Naples

DEC. 19

The Gatlin Brothers Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Richard Marx

B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

FireFall

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

DEC. 20

Thompson Square The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers

DEC. 8

DEC. 29

Julio Iglesias

JAN. 18

Trisha Yearwood Artis–Naples

Hertz Arena, Estero

JJ Grey & Mofro

Buckingham Blues Bar

Righteous Brothers Artis–Naples

Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Jesse Cook

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

JAN. 23

John Oates

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

Robert Cray

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

JAN. 26

Marshall Tucker Band Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

JAN. 30

Hermanʼs Hermits

B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

FEB. 6 Kansas

B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

FEB. 7

Asleep at the Wheel BIG ARTS, Sanibel

FEB. 9

Phil Vassar

SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita

FEB. 16

Jon Secada

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Beach Boys Artis–Naples

FEB. 27

John Tesh

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee Happenings Magazine

Randy Houser, Walker Hayes

at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers is ready for season with a great schedule of concerts to wrap up 2019.

The Sam Galloway Concert Series presents the country artists Josh Abbott Band on Nov. 2, Walker Hayes on Nov. 8, The Lacs & Black Stone Cherry on Nov. 16, Randy Houser on Nov. 22 and Thompson Square on Dec. 20.

Rocker and former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach will perform as part of the concert series on Nov. 1.

Other shows scheduled at The Ranch (not part of the Sam Galloway series) are Badfish (a tribute to Sublime) on Nov. 7, ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience on Nov. 15, Pig Floyd on Dec. 21 and Fortunate Youth on Jan. 22.

Sebastian Philip Bierk, known professionally as Sebastian Bach, is a Canadian singer-songwriter who achieved mainstream success as front man of Skid Row from 1987 to 1996. He continues a solo career, acted on Broadway, and has made appearances in film and television. Sebastian Bach’s Nov. 1 stop in Fort Myers is part of his 30th anniversary tour in which he performs the first record “Skid Row” in its entirety.

When fans of Texas-bred Josh Abbott Band hear the four-track EP Catching Fire, they’re likely to reconnect with a sound from the not-so-distant past. They’re songs

Randy Houser photo by Jamie Kuser

Happenings Magazine

Walker Hayes photo by Matthew Berinato of positivity, built on solid country textures and unified by Abbott’s congenial-but-experienced voice. The seven-piece group cut its teeth as a hard-touring act with hooky melodies that deliver real world stories. Led by the true-to-life cycles in Abbott’s life, JAB explored new territory with its last two albums – documenting the dissolution of a marriage in Front Row and adding strings and a horn section to Until My Voice Goes Out – but Catching Fire captures a sense of personal renewal. “My embers are startin’ to glow again,” Abbott sings in the opening line of the title track. Indeed, the entire Catching Fire project is bright, spry and optimistic. From the limber lines of Preston Wait’s fiddle to the decisive crack of Edward Villanueva’s snare and the animated scratch of Abbott’s acoustic guitar, there’s a relaxed energy to the project, a sense of hard-won spirit that can only be developed by confronting – and conquering – emotional hurdles.

Monument Records recording artist Walker Hayes is a singer/songwriter originally from Mobile, Alabama. Hayes recently released his single, “Don’t Let Her,” a devastatingly powerful love letter about his wife, illustrated through a heartfelt conversation between Hayes and the hypothetical man that may take his place should anything happen to him. The single follows Hayes’ latest hit “90’s Country.” His debut album boom. was released

in December 2017, which he co- produced with Grammy Award winning producer and songwriter, Shane McAnally. The 10 track album includes the RIAA certified Platinum Top 10 hit, “You Broke Up With Me” as well as the highly anticipated follow up single, “Craig,” which was nominated for Song of the Year at the 2018 AIMP Nashville Awards. During the fall of 2018, Walker headed overseas with Old Dominion for his first-ever European tour.

Randy Houser racked up five consecutive country radio hits and over five million singles sales after shifting record labels to Stoney Creek Records. He topped the charts with the “How Country Feels,” Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,” ͞”Goodnight Kiss,” (also his first No. 1 as a songwriter), “We Went,” and earned critical acclaim for his powerful delivery of the Top 5 smash and CMA Song of the Year-nominated “Like A Cowboy.”

The Sam Galloway Concert Series was started in the fall of 2014 to help bring awareness to Community Cooperative (The Soup Kitchen) and the good work they do in the community. The concert series features rock and country artists on a regular basis at the venue. Portions of the profits of each concert go to help Community Cooperative feed the community. For every pound of food donated, Sam Galloway Ford donates $1 to Community Cooperative. Concert goers are also encouraged to bring canned food items to the concerts at The Ranch.

For tickets & details, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com. The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839. For most concerts, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

November 2019 - 57

IN CONCERT

Coconut Festival Nov. 7 - 10 The annual Coconut Festival returns Nov. 7 - 10 to the Sun Splash Festival Grounds in Cape Coral.

On Friday, Nov. 8, Coconut Festival welcomes three national country artists: David Lee Murphy, Runaway June and Cassadee Pope.

Million-selling singer-songwriter David Lee Murphy had no plans to make a new record until a country superstar made them for him.

“I’ve been friends and written songs with Kenny (Chesney) for years,” Murphy reflects. “I sent him some David songs for one of his albums a couple of years ago, and he called me up. He goes, ‘Man, you need to be making a record. I could produce it with Buddy Cannon, and I think people would love it.’ It’s hard to say no to Kenny Chesney when he comes up with an idea like that.”

Murphy, whose songs “Dust on the Bottle and “Party Crowd” continue to be staples at country radio, could have easily filled the album with hits he’s written for Chesney (“’Til It’s Gone,” “Living in Fast Forward,” “Live a Little”), Jason Aldean (“Big Green Tractor,” “The Only Way I Know How”), Thompson Square (GRAMMY-nominated “Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not”), Jake Owen (“Anywhere With You”), or Blake Shelton (“The More I Drink”). But, Chesney had other ideas.

Murphy has became an in-demand songwriter for such post-millennial country stars as Chesney, Aldean and Shelton. He has earned more than a dozen songwriting awards. David Lee Murphy songs have been recorded by superstars Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Eric Church, Brad Paisley, Hank Williams Jr., Brooks & Dunn, Chris Young and many more.

Classic rock headliner will be Fran Cosmo, former lead singer of Boston on Saturday, Nov. 9. Other performers that night will include NightBird, the ultimate tribute to

NightBird, Stevie Nicks tribute

58 - November 2019

Lee Murphy

Fran Cosmo

Stevie Nicks, and On the Border, the ultimate Eagles tribute.

Fran Cosmo exploded onto the rock scene when he took over for Brad Delp as the lead singer for the Legendary group Boston in 1992. Fran was featured as the lead vocalist on the "Walk On" album which sold over a million copies worldwide. It certified platinum in America and certified platinum in Canada.

Fran's lead vocals were also featured on four of the songs off the "Corporate America" album and both of Boston’s Greatest Hits. The song "Livin For You" in which Fran also sang lead on was the only live Boston song ever released on the Greatest Hits albums.

Before joining Boston, Fran was a highly respected lead vocalist and was the lead singer and co-songwriter for both the Orion The Hunter and Barry Goudreau albums. The song "So You Ran" was an MTV hit and climbed to number #4 on the US billboard charts. The band then toured with Aerosmith's "Back in the Saddle" tour.

The band also features Anton Cosmo, former member of Boston. Anton wrote and performed four songs off the "Corporate America" album and performed as the backing vocalist and guitarist on the 2003-2004 world tours.

Cassadee Pope

The Cape Coral Coconut Festival started in 2005 at Sun Splash Festival Grounds and has come to be known as the city's signature event. This nutty event with national performers, community entertainment, carnival rides, fireworks, and great food offers a long weekend full of family fun for residents and visitors from all over. Highlights of the party include two nights of national entertainment on the main stage and an amazing fireworks display to end the night.

Coconut Festival hours are 5 - 10 p.m. on Nov. 7, 5 p.m. - midnight on Nov. 8, noon to midnight on Nov. 9 and noon to 8 p.m. on Nov. 10. General admission for the festival is $5 at the gate. Concert tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the gate. A country or rock night VIP ticket is available for $25. Carnival ride wristbands are $20 in advance and $25 on event day. Advance tickets are available online and at the Cape Coral City Hall, 1015 Cultural Park Blvd.

Festival parking is free. For more details and ticket info, visit www.cocofest.com.

Runaway June

On The Border, Eagles tribute

Happenings Magazine

Gin Blossoms to play at benefit concert Nov. 2 Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee presents Gin Blossoms live in concert on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. Tickets are just $5 with all proceeds benefiting the Guadalupe Center, which provides educational programs for more than 1,300 children in Immokalee from infancy through high school and has a 100 percent college acceptance rate.

In the late 1980s, Gin Blossoms started to grow a huge following as the number one local music draw in Phoenix, Ariz. The band’s fusion of Pop, Melodic Rock, Folk and Country elements took the airwaves by siege, making the band a 1990s mainstay.

From their breakout album through today, Gin Blossoms have sold more than 10 million records and are one of the most in demand

1990s live artists who began at the end of the grunge era and in 2017, the band went back in the studio to record a new album.

Gin Blossoms’ hits include “Hey Jealousy,” “Allison Road,” “Until I Fall Away,” “Mrs. Rita,” and “Found Out About You,” “’Til I Hear It From You,” “Follow You Down,” “As Long As It Matters,” “Learning The Hard Way,” “Long Time Gone,” and “Miss Disarray.”

Advance tickets are available now on www.moreinparadise.com and at Seminole Casino Hotel on the day of the concert. Gates open at 6 p.m. for this outdoor concert which will feature open seating so attendees should bring their own chairs; no pets or coolers will be allowed. This benefit concert is sponsored by Florida Weekly and 95.3 OLZ.

Gin Blossoms

Darius Rucker, Lady Antebellum in Naples Dec. 14

Darius Rucker

Tournament officials announced the addition of Live Fest to the QBE Shootout schedule, when the PGA Tour event returns to Naples Dec. 11-15.

Headlining this premier music experience on Saturday, Dec 14 will be Grammy Award winning acts Lady Antebellum and Darius Rucker with two more bands to be announced later this summer. The concert, to be staged outdoors on the spacious driving range at Tiburón Golf Club at The RitzCarlton Golf Resort, Naples, will start following the second round of the QBE Shootout at 4 p.m. and conclude at 10 p.m.

Live Fest will offer general admission tickets, prime stage front seating and shared and private VIP hospitality experiences. Tickets are on sale online at www.LiveFest.com.

Lady Antebellum

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Email: SuncoastScrty@aol.com November 2019 - 59

IN CONCERT

Crystal Gayle, Charlie Daniels, The Orchestra, and The Guess Who added to casino schedule

Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment has just announced another handful of concerts to add to the jampacked schedule at the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. The latest additions include The Charlie Daniels Band, The Outlaws, The Guess Who, The Orchestra and Crystal Gayle.

The season kicked off with Wynonna and the Big Noise Oct. 26 and Here Come the Mummies on Oct. 30. The remaining schedule of stellar concerts includes Lee Greenwood’s Tennessee Christmas on Dec. 13, The Charlie Daniels Band - March 7 Gatlin Brothers’ Country & Christmas on Dec. 19, Tanya Records. The band’s first three albums “The Tucker on Jan. 22, The Marshall Tucker Band Outlaws,” “Lady In Waiting” and “Hurry on Jan. 26, comedian Louie Anderson on Feb. Sundown,” feature such rock radio favorites 1, Jon Secada on Feb. 16, John Tesh on Feb. as “There Goes Another Love Song,” “Green 27, The Oak Ridge Boys on Feb. 28, the Grass & High Tides,” “Knoxville Girl” and Charlie Daniels Band with special guests The “Freeborn Man.” The albums would become Outlaws on March 7, The Orchestra on March worldwide gold and platinum landmarks of the 19, Crystal Gayle on March 27 ad The Guess Southern Rock era. Other hits for The Outlaws Who on March 31. include “Riders In The Sky,” “Song For You,” From his Dove Award-winning gospel and “Hurry Sundown.” albums to his genre-defining southern rock Now The Outlaws return with new music, anthems and his CMA Award-winning country new focus and an uncompromising new mishits, few artists have left a more indelible mark sion: It’s about a band of brothers bound on America’s musical landscape than Charlie together by history, harmony and the road.

Daniels. An outspoken patriot, beloved mentor Tickets start at $40 for this outdoor concert. to young artists and still a road warrior at age The Orchestra, starring former members of 82, Daniels has parlayed his passion for Electric Light Orchestra, has a pedigree that music into a multi-platinum career and a platstretches back over many years, with roots form to support the military, underprivileged reaching to the 1970s and 1980s with Electric children and others in need.

Light Orchestra, the 1990s with ELO Part II The Charlie Daniels Band has populated and from 2001 to the present as The radio with such memorable and timeless hits Orchestra, heralding a as “Long Haired Country Boy,” continuing era of unpar“The South’s Gonna Do It alleled symphonic rock Again,” “In America,” “The Following Bev Legend of Wooley Swamp” Bevan's retirement at the and of course, his signature end of 1999 and their trisong, “The Devil Went Down umphant sell-out conto Georgia,” which won a certs at London's Royal Grammy for Best Country Albert Hall and Vocal Performance by a Duo Manchester's or Group in 1979 as well as Bridgewater Hall, Mik single of the year at the Kaminski, Louis Clark, Country Music Association Kelly Groucutt, Eric Awards.

Troyer, Parthenon Formed in Tampa in 1972, Huxley and Gordon The Outlaws – known for their Townsend regrouped as triple-guitar rock attack and The Orchestra. The new three-part country harmonies name acknowledged – became one of the first acts each member's illustrisigned by Clive Davis (at the ous former membership urging of Ronnie Van Zant) to of the Electric Light his then-fledgling Arista Crystal Gayle - March 27 60 - November 2019

Orchestra and/or ELO Part II but also forges ahead a future utilizing the spectacular symphonic rock sound for which they are unequalled. The Orchestra’s current lineup includes Kaminski, Clark, Troyer, Huxley, and Townsend, as well as Glen Burtnik.

ELO hits from yesteryear are the cornerstone of The Orchestra’s repertoire, including “Strange Magic,” “Do Ya,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” “Evil Woman,” “Livin’ Thing,” “Turn to Stone,” “Sweet Talkin’ Woman,” “Telephone Line,” “Ma-Ma-Ma Belle,” “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Roll Over Beethoven.” The Orchestra tickets are $89.

Of Crystal Gayle’s 35 top-10 country hits to date, 13 have become sizable pop and/or adult-contemporary hits as well, so while she is one of the 10 biggest hit-making country female artists of all time, she is also familiar to millions of noncountry listeners. “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” “Ready For the Times to Get Better,” “Half the Way,” her Eddie Rabbitt duet “You and I” and the rest of her hit repertoire have brought Gayle a trophy case full of honors. They include a Grammy, two CMA awards, four American Music Awards and five ACM accolades.

For her first album in 15 years, “You Don’t Know Me,” Gayle has created an entire collection of classic country sounds. The new album includes such iconic songs as “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “You Win Again,” “Please Help Me I’m Falling,” “Crying Time” and “That’s the Way Love Goes.” Tickets are $89.

With 14 Top 40 hit singles, two of which went to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and a long running record of proven successful live shows, The Guess Who are Canada's first international rock superstars. The band’s string of hits began with the recording of the album “Wheatfield Soul” and the release of the single “These Eyes,” which reached number 1 in Canada and number 7 in the United States in the spring of 1969. That year, the group’s second album, “Canned Wheat Packed By The Guess Who,” also charted, as did “Laughing,” the B-side of “These Eyes,” itself a Top 10 hit, and “Undun,” which reached number 22 in the United States. The group’s busy year was wrapped up with a number 5 single, “No Time.”.

In March 1970, the hard rocking “American Woman” became The Guess Who’s U.S. number 1. Tickets are $79.

Tickets for all these shows are available at the casino, on www.moreinparadise.com or www.jaytv.com or by calling 800-514-ETIX. Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 61

Festival of Trees Dec. 5 - 8 FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida presents the 13th Annual Festival of Trees, a yearly fundraiser that has become a holiday tradition in Southwest Florida for thousands of families. This four-day event from Dec. 5 - 8 ushers in the holidays at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center located in the River District of Fort Myers.

New in 2019 … Festival of Trees is featuring indoor ice skating on a synthetic ice rink located right in the center of the glistening tree display. Open to the public throughout the event, skaters of all ages can enjoy a bit of that Rockefeller Center wintery feel right here in Southwest Florida.

Skate with Big Mama from B-103.9 from 4 to 6 p.m. during his live remote on Friday, Dec. 6.

Throughout the Festival of Trees event, the public can view the trees, purchase raffle tickets, and vote for their favorites. Area businesses decorate the trees with a retail value in décor and gifts between $1,500 and $2,000. Many in the past have even surpassed those minimums!

On the last day of the event, one winning ticket from each tree raffle box is

selected. The trees are then carefully wrapped with all their gifts and goodies and delivered to the winner’s home.

In addition to the tree raffle, Festival of Trees participants can enjoy the “Holiday Stroll” down First Street and official tree lighting by the Mayor, a free outdoor concert with the Nowhere Band, Santa’s Block Party including a holiday vendor showcase, food trucks, entertainment, pictures with Santa and a children’s’ workshop.

Tickets to the event can be purchased in advance at www.SBDAC.com. Raffle tickets can be purchased at www.GoodwillTrees.com.

Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida is committed to serving people with disabilities and disadvantages by offering life-changing opportunities to

achieve independence. The Festival of Trees event helps to fund the many programs and services offered throughout the Southwest Florida community.

ACMA Songwriters on the Plaza returns Nov. 12

Songwriters on the Plaza resumes Nov. 12. This is the return of the ACMA’s popular songwriters showcase on Cornog Plaza at the Fort Myers Regional Library on First Street. This free show will run the second Tuesday of the month through April.

The Lee County Library has joined with the ACMA to offer free acoustic concerts of all original music.

Concerts will take place in the amphitheater, which is located on South Cornog Plaza. Bring a chair or a blanket, shows will be moved indoors depending on weather. If needed, the show will be indoor in the South Building that is attached to Talking Books Library. The address is 1651 Lee St., next to the Second Street parking lot.

Come hear great original music and the stories behind the songs in an intimate Songwriters Showcase. Be prepared to enjoy an evening of professional quality acoustic Americana music.

The season kickoff will feature local artists Bill Steel, Bob Williams, Mike McMillan and Clark Johnson.

Bill Steel is a Snowbird from the southernmost part of Canada ...Windsor, Ontario. He played in a small band as teenager, dabbled for many years but then came "out" of musical closet after retirement, inspired by singer-songwriters like John Prine, Guy Clark, Townes Van 62 - November 2019

Zant and the many talented members of ACMA. In the late ‘60s, Bob Williams, a young guitar player from Long Island, NY, began writing his own music. Pulling elements from folk rock and country rock, Bob created a sound all of his own. Always eager to share amusing stories behind the lyrics, Bob’s songs are personal. Irreverent. Funny. Sad. And most importantly, true to his heart. With encouragement from family and friends, he produced and released his first CD No Apologies in 2015. In 2018, he released his second Album, Ain’t Sorry Yet. Mike McMillan started playing guitar at age 13. He enjoys many different genres which has also influenced his original compositions. Keith has been both a band leader and a sideman and enjoys backing others on guitar and vocals when the opportunity presents itself. Keith also has a passion for writing, co-writing, arranging, recording and performing original music.

Clark Johnson was born in NYC and started his musical pursuits at a very early age. He picked up the bass in 7th grade (Beatles, etc.) and played in blues bands all through college. He also played rock/folk most of the rest of the time. Since moving to Florida, he’s been playing in bluegrass and country bands.

For more information, visit www.americanacma.org Happenings Magazine

Holiday Nights opens Nov. 29 at the Edison & Ford Estates

On Nov. 29 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 44th Holiday Nights celebration with the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event will offer visitors an impressive light show with more lights, new displays and decorations, and additional areas of the property will be illuminated. This year's theme is "River Reflection" and will incorporate nautical elements.

One new display this year includes the Mysore Fig -one of the largest historic trees on the property. The tree will be lit with thousands of animated lights choreographed to holiday music.

The lights will reach high up into the branches of the tree and extend onto the ground around it. Sunbelt Rentals is providing a lift truck, which

Happenings Magazine

allows staff to string lights much higher, creating a magical display.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting and making their list on opening night (November 29) and every Sunday night until Christmas from 6 to 8 p.m. Children will be invited to sit on Santa's lap in the Edison Caretaker's House. Adults and children alike can enjoy the Children's Tree Trail -- a collection of more than 60 trees decorated with handmade ornaments from Lee County school children.

Holiday Nights tickets for adults are $20, teens (ages 13 - 19) $10, children (ages 6 - 12) are $2 and Edison Ford members get in free. To purchase tickets or view the nightly schedule, visit online at www.edisonford.org.

November 2019 - 63

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Island Hopper Songwriter Fest The sixth annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest rolled into downtown Fort Myers Sept. 22 - 25 with more than two dozen performances at seven venues.

The 10-day festival started on Captiva Island before coming to the River District, then ended on Fort Myers Beach. More than 75 songwriters participated in this year’s fest. Next year’s festival dates are Sept. 18 - 27.

Kyle Anne at City Tavern Sept. 25

Judy Bank at City Tavern Sept. 25

ICHIBAN

Japanese & Chinese Cuisine

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Saturday Noon - 11 p.m.

Fast Friendly Service and Soft Music!

1520 Broadway • Suite 105

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS (239) 334-6991

www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com 64 - November 2019

Located at the Entrance to the

Hotel Indigo

Happenings Magazine

Danny Myrick and Megan Linville at The Barrel Room Sept. 25 as part of Island Hopper Songwriter Fest.

At right: Billy McKnight and Perry Engish perform Sept. 25 at Downtown Social House as part of the sixth annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest.

Badger and Rose at Twisted Vine Bistro Sept. 25

Happenings Magazine

November 2019 - 65

DINING

IN

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

1st Street Deli

Diners at the Seminole Casino Immokalee will enjoy the 1st Street Deli. The authentic New York-style 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

Capt’n Fishbones Seafood Grill

Capt'n Fishbones at The Shell Factory has moderately priced lunches, dinners and a full selection of cocktails. We serve Florida favorites like shrimp, crab cakes, fish fries, burgers and sandwiches.

Enjoy the great tropical weather at Dogbones Café or the Swamp Bar and Patio where even the four legged "children" are welcome. Large group rates are available for lunches, dinners, special events and meetings.

We’re open daily at 11 a.m. with daily specials.

Hear live entertainment in the Swamp Patio daily 4 - 7 p.m. Classic car shows every Thursday 4 - 7 p.m.

2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 239-995-2141 www.shellfactory.com

Cape Cabaret

Cape Cabaret offers dining, dancing and live music Tuesday through Saturday.

We feature a full dinner menu prepared by executive chef Ryan Cook, two full bars, two hardwood dance floors and live music from the ‘50s to the ‘90s. See your favorite bands perform on our 30-foot stage equipped with the latest state of the art sound and light systems. Have your next private party or corporate event in our ballroom or banquet room. Happy Hour & Early Bird Specials 4 to 5:30 p.m. Entrees, house wines, wells all at 50% discount. Walk-ins always welcome or call reservation hotline.

4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000 www.capecabaret.com

66 - November 2019

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, soups, raw bar, sandwiches, entrees, and deserts. Also, you can enjoy our all you can eat breakfast buffet on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Your beer is sure to be ice cold with our 12 tap glycol system and bottles kept on ice. 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

Deep Lagoon Seafood

Nestled in the heart of Florida lies a place just off the beaten path where the drinks are colder, the fish is fresher and the food is tastier. Where you can breathe easy, be casual and take in the sights and sounds of everything that is “Real Florida.” A Fresh Twist on Coastal Casual, we feature a wide variety of menu options to satisfy the appetite of any guest. We offer the freshest product available, with daily deliveries from our local fishing partner Island Crab Company. Happy Hour from 3 to 6 pm featuring small plates from $6 - $9.

10395 Tamiami Trail N, Naples 239-631-6266 14040 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-689-5474 www.deeplagoon.com

DJ’s Rhythm House

DJ’s Rhythm House is a restaurant and nightclub located in Fort Myers. At The Rhythm House, we strive to provide Great Service, Top Quality Food and Drinks as well as Live Entertainment. Featuring Excellent Food as well as well-known Local Talent! We offer live music weekly. We have the best hard wood dance floor and Sound Systems in the area! Come and relax. Listen to great music, enjoy an excellent dinner and a couple of drinks with your friends, neighbors or colleagues and experience the love of music for yourself. All bands start at 6:30 and conclude at 9:30 p.m. Reservations required for all shows.

16440 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-466-8326 www.therhythmhousefortmyers.com

Happenings Magazine

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled a completely redesigned EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill that enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections.

The new interior design of the EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill is elegant yet comfortable and features a 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 award- winning fajitas, pork osso bucco and the ever-popular braised short rib pot roast.

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

Lucky Mi

Asian-inspired upscale restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled several creative new menu items that further enhance the dining experience. In addition to Avocado Tempura, Sesame Seared Tuna, and Shanghai Ribs, Lucky Mi has added hot rocks house specials that allow guests to cook their own entrees to perfection at the table on volcanic rock heated to 575 degrees.

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

Ichiban Japanese & Chinese

Located at the entrance to the Hotel Indigo, we offer a wide selection of Japanese and Chinese menu items. Stop by for lunch or dinner.

They are open six days a week (closed Sundays).

1520 Broadway, #105, Downtown Fort Myers 239-334-6991 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com

Happenings Magazine

Pinchers at The Marina at Edison Ford

Located on the historic Caloosahatchee River and offering the best riverfront dining experience and sunset views, Pinchers at the Marina at Edison Ford is the place for the freshest seafood. Caught from local waters by local fishermen, Pinchers brings the best catch from the water to the table. With 2 for 1 Happy Hour all day every day and kids eat free, Pinchers is Florida Seafood, Florida Style. Pinchers has 13 Florida locations including Key West, Tin City Naples, Bonita Springs, Tarpon Point Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Gulf Coast Town Center.

2360 West First St., Fort Myers 239-245-7049 www.pinchersusa.com

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort

There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort.

Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days.

Kitchen open late.

1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 239-540-8454 www.dolphinkeyresort.com

Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse

With a goal of bringing a first-class experience and barbeque product Texas Tony’s Rib and Brew House was born. Tony Phelan grew up in Texas, took those roots and his love of Texas barbeque and set out on a plan of introducing a unique brand of barbeque to Southwest Florida. Taking a combination of Hickory and Oak woods to smoke with and cooking at low temperatures, it created the perfect formula for Award-Winning Barbeque. Texas Tony’s barbeque is “all about the rub and the ring.” The rub is made from his secret recipe. The ring occurs when you smoke meat over a long period of time; the pink is where the smoke has permeated the meat.

4519 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 239-732-8392 738 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral 239-347-7033 www.texastonys.com

November 2019 - 67

NOV FRI - 1

Ricky Reyes 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Dean Napolitano 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Sid Davis 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SAT - 2

Ricky Reyes 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Dean Napolitano 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Sid Davis 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SUN - 3

Dean Napolitano 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

WED - 6

RC Smith 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Kortney Williams 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Craig Shoemaker 7:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

THU - 7

Rondell Sheridan 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Kountry Wayne 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Craig Shoemaker 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

FRI - 8

Rondell Sheridan 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe 68 - November 2019

COMEDY CLUB CALENDAR FRI - 8 continued

SUN - 17

THU - 28

SAT - 30

Craig Shoemaker 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

WED - 20

Eddie Ifft TBA Off the Hook Comedy

Eddie Ifft TBA Off the Hook Comedy

Kountry Wayne 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

SAT - 9

Rondell Sheridan 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Hank Denson 6:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Craig Shoemaker 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SUN - 10

Hank Denson 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

WED - 13

Jimmy Keys 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Zenneth Nevers 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Tim Wilkins 7:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

THU - 14

Alex Ortiz 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Tim Wilkins 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

FRI - 15

Alex Ortiz 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Tim Wilkins 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SAT - 16

Alex Ortiz 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Tim Wilkins 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Comedy or Drag 8 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Charlie Berens 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Jeff Jenna 7:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

THU - 21

Dean Napolitano 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Jon Reep 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

Chris Cope 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

FRI - 29

Chris Cope 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Eddie Ifft TBA Off the Hook Comedy

Chris Cope 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Mike Rivera 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

* schedules subject to change

Mike Rivera 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Jeff Jenna 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

FRI - 22

Dean Napolitano 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Jon Reep 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Jeff Jenna 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SAT - 23

Dean Napolitano 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Jon Reep 6:30 & 8:30 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

Laugh In Comedy Cafe 8595 College Parkway, Fort Myers 239-479-5233 laughincomedycafe.com

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Jeff Jenna 7:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #1100, Naples 239-389-6901 offthehookcomedy.com

Jon Reep 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy

at Visani Restaurant

SUN - 24

WED - 27

Eddie Ifft 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Mike Rivera 7:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

The Comedy Zone 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte 941-764-3463 visani.net

Comedy Club calendar online at

HappeningsMagazine.net Happenings Magazine

KEY WEST

Lee Brice at Key West Amphitheater Nov. 7 Lee Brice

Award-winning country artist Lee Brice will play Nov. 7 at the Key West Amphitheater. Doors open at 5:30 pm, and the concert starts at 7 pm.

Lee Brice is a Grammy nominee, a CMA nominee and a double ACM award winner, and he's taken five radio singles to #1: “A Woman Like You," “Hard To Love," “I Drive Your Truck," “I Don’t Dance," and “Drinking Class.” Garth Brooks, Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney and others have recorded his songs and he's performed on TV shows including NBC's Today, ABC's The Bachelor, NBC's The Voice and FOX's Miss USA 2018.

Blackberry Smoke will perform at the

amphitheater Dec. 28. Kool & The Gang with The Village People will perform Feb. 21 at The Key West Amphitheater.

Located at the new Truman Waterfront, the Key West Amphitheater is situated near Fort Zachary with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico from the top of the lawn - don't miss the world famous Key West Sunset on show day. With a grassy general admission lawn, intimate reserved seats, and a one of kind panoramic backdrop, the amphitheater provides the perfect entertainment space for all music fans.

Buy tickets at www.keywestconcertseries.com.

Key West Art & Historical Society opens new exhibits

past summer, asking for residents to The Key West Art and Historical share their collectables with the Society is opening two new museum for consideration. In previexhibits in November. ous years, the display featured a A Literary History of Key West diverse array including WWI-era exhibit will concentrate on a handsheet music, opium pipes, pop-up ful of writers who have found the books, Native American stone anitranquil and accepting character of mal fetishes, pre-Columbian ceramKey West a perfect place to pen ics and textiles, champagne flutes their novels, tomes, plays and and many other unusual items. poems. While the exhibition is Key West Collects will be the enlightening, it is by no means fourth exhibit with that name, creatcomprehensive.

A Literary History of Key West exhibit runs Nov. 1 - Feb. 9. ed several years ago by The Society Instead, the aim is to present a with the intent of engaging the local cross-section of authors that span community while showcasing their many genres and time periods. In cultural diversity. addition, the exhibit will serve as a spring“Florida Keys residents are interested board for discovering other authors and in so many facets of culture, history and recognizing the island’s cultivation of the arts,” says Convertito. “Displaying a inspired works. This exhibit runs Nov. 1 small representation of their interests through Feb. 9. allows us to generate conversation Key West Art & Historical Society amongst our visitors.” presents the next installment of Key West A favorite among the community and Collects, an exhibit of unusual and wonThe Society alike, Key West Collects gives derful collections of knickknacks, curios, the community an opportunity to “take ornaments, trinkets, baubles, tchotchkes, ownership of The Society’s exhibits,” says artwork and other objects collected by Convertito.

Key West/Florida Keys residents.

Key West Collects: Our Community The unique exhibit offers something of Treasures exhibit runs Nov. 22 – Jan. 5 at interest for everyone “no matter what their the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. age range, nationality or education level,” Key West Collects: Our Community Treasures For more details, visit online at says Curator Cori Convertito, Ph.D. A exhibit will be on display Nov. 22 – Jan. 5. www.kwahs.org “call for collections” was distributed this 70 - November 2019

Happenings Magazine

UPCOMING EVENTS

ABC 5K Walk/Run

Nov. 2 Sponsored by Zonta, this running race benefits women’s health screenings and breast cancer awareness in the Lower Florida Keys.

Race begins and ends at Salute on Higgs Beach. Registration is at 7am and start time is 8am from race start/finish at Salute! 1000 Atlantic Blvd in Key West. All participants receive a participation medal and the first 400 registrants will get a t-shirt . Register early! Per person cost is $25 in advance until Oct. 18, $30 after Oct. 18 and $35 day of race. www.runsignup.com/Race/FL/KeyWest

World Championship Races

Nov. 6 - 10 High-speed offshore powerboats race in Key West Harbor and surrounding waters to continue Key West’s longstanding tradition in this annual challenge, known internationally as the Indianapolis 500 of powerboat racing. A portion of the 6.5-mile course runs through Key West Harbor, meaning smooth water where racers can achieve speeds above 140 mph and provide fans breathtaking displays of skill and power. www.superboat.com/key-west-2019

Happenings Magazine

IN

KEY WEST

Key West Film Festival

Nov. 20 – 24 Showcasing films that exhibit excellence in storytelling, the festival’s lineup is to feature screenings and special events hosted at landmark venues throughout Key West, including the San Carlos Institute, Studios of Key West and Key West Theater. The four-day program is to include several films from multiple genres and categories as well as social events with filmmakers, actors and film lovers. . www.kwfilmfest.com

Sprint & Olympic Triathlon Dec. 7 The Key West Triathlon expects up to 1,000 participants and some of the sport’s best known triathletes; TRIKW allows you to bask in the warm weather and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean while the rest of the country is experiencing winter.

Olympic and Sprint distances. Event highlights feature an Aquabike competition this year, along with a .76 km Atlantic Ocean swim from Higgs Beach, a 20km U.S. 1 cycling ride along South Roosevelt Boulevard and a 5km run along Smathers Beach. www.trikw.com

Harbor Walk of Lights

Nov. 27 Gather on the Harbor Walk plaza at Greene and Elizabeth streets to best see the official lighting of the 2019 Key West “Harbor Walk of Lights” with more lights and creative displays than last year, all continuing the “Maritime History of Key West” theme! Harbor Walk of Lights, lit nightly through New Year’s Eve, stretches along the Key West Historic Seaport and Key West Bight Marina. www.fla-keys.com

Lighted Bike Ride

Dec. 4 The Lighted Bike Ride helps to gather the needed toys for the struggling, working families of Key West for the holidays. Families and individuals with lighted and decorated bikes ride through the streets for the community to see. Entry for the bike ride is an unwrapped toy or monetary donation for Holiday Helpers. Wesley House Family Services coordinates this bike ride – register online. www.wesleyhouse.org

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