November 2020 Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Music • Calendar

NOVEMBER 2020

FREE

Outdoor

Art Fests

Returning

Concerts Are Back More Live

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

Publisher’s Spotlight

More live theatre

As more places open up, we are seeing a little more live theatre on our stages. All of them are taking the necessary precautions to keep both the actors and audience safe.

Broadway Palm is giving us Mamma Mia until Nov. 14.

Then, we switch to the sounds of the season with Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn on stage Nov. 19 through Dec. 26.

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre will reopen on Nov. 12 with The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical. That show will run through Dec. 26 in Fort Myers.

In Cape Coral, the folks at Cultural Park Theater continue to provide on stage productions with live audiences.

They are wrapping up Wake Me at Midnight which plays to Nov. 1. That will be followed by Divas Through The Decades concert Nov. 6 - 8. The Importance of Being Earnest will be staged Nov. 12 - Nov. 22.

The Charlotte Players continue their season with Mom’s Gift at The Langdon Playhouse Nov. 6 - Nov. 15.

In Naples, Gulfshore Playhouse opens its new season with the oneman show Higher starring Jeffrey Binder. That will be performed Nov. 7 - Nov. 29 at The Norris Center.

Gulfshore Playhouse is also offering three separate Broadway cabaret shows in November.

The Naples Players will take a short break and return with It’s Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Dec. 19 (in Cambier Park) and Footloose Feb. 25 - March 7 (in Baker Park).

The Studio Players in Naples will present Circle Mirror Transformation Nov. 27 - Dec. 13.

In North Fort Myers, Players Circle Theatre presents a Pete Seeger tribute Nov. 11 - 15 at its venue at The Shell Factory.

TheatreZone will kick off its revised season of Showstopper Series of concerts with Merry Manilow Dec. 11 - 13 in Naples.

Meanwhile, several of our theatre

4 - NOVEMBER 2020

groups are staying virtual with their programming.

FGCU Theatre Lab is offering River Sonnets on You Tube. It premieres Oct. 29.

Florida Rep continues its virtual season after announcing it will postpone its live season one year.

Laboratory Theater of Florida remains with its socially distant broadcasts of theatre.

Concerts are back

More live music can be seen and heard in Southwest Florida as more venues open their doors.

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers held its first concert in awhile on Oct. 24 with Parmalee. The local concert venue has announced a busy schedule (of rock and country) that includes Shenandoah on Nov. 6, Hardy on Nov. 12, Great White with Autograph on Dec. 4, Steel Panther with Black Stone Cherry on Dec. 19, Tony Jackson on Jan. 23, Allie Colleen on Jan. 30, Tracy Byrd on Feb. 6, Easton Corbin on Feb. 13, Matt Stell on Feb. 27, Slaughter with L.A. Guns on March 6, The Red Clay Strays on March 13, Collie Buddz on March 18, Tracy Lawrence on March 19, The LACS and Demun Jones on April 3, Craig Morgan on April 10, Mike Tramp and John Corabi on May 25 and Sebastian Bach on July 2.

Meanwhile, Hertz Arena will host a drive-in concert Dec. 13 featuring For King and Country.

Outdoor art shows return

More outdoor art shows are taking place. Hotworks.org is doing an open air art show Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at the Naples Italian American Club.

The monthly Art in the Park returns to Naples Nov. 7 in Cambier Park.

The Naples Artcrafters are scheduled to have their first show of the season Nov. 14 in Cambier Park.

The Peace River National Art Festival will be held Dec. 4 and 5 in Laishley Park in Punta Gorda.

Rock on,

Jamie

IN THIS ISSUE

theatre

6

art

18

music

26

dining

46 Publishers & Owners

Jamie & Kathy Kuser

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

MAILING ADDRESS:

PO Box 9285, Fort Myers, FL 33902

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THEATRE

Wake Me at Midnight, Divas concert and The Importance of Being Earnest

By Michael Moran As Cultural Park continues to work through the problems surrounding Covid 19 and keeping the theater stage alive and its patrons comfortable and safe, audiences will be able to enjoy the final weekend of Joe Simonelli’s Wake Me at Midnight Oct 29 through Nov 1.

Don’t miss your last chance to see this mischievous Italian family gathered to bury their deceased uncle while trying to find a winning lotto ticket he hid in the funeral home Michael Moran before he died as a last minute joke on the family. The ticket will expire at Midnight; so it’s a must find ticket for the cast and a must see night of comedy for our audiences by Nov 1.

The theater will also host a Haunted theater walk for children and families on Halloween night Oct. 31 from 7 till 9 p.m. at the theater.

Children will be able to enjoy a socially distanced tour of our haunted theater followed by a trunk or treat in our parking lot as they exit. Tickets are $10 for the event, and proceeds will help support the theater as we move through the losses resulting from limited seating.

On stage Nov. 6, 7 and 8, Cultural Park Theater proudly presents Divas Through the Decades!

A musical journey from the 1940s through today with music from some of the greatest "Divas" to grace the sound waves of each era. As a special event, we will be live streaming the production from the theater on Nov. 6 for those of you who may prefer watching from home or are not able to secure one of the 55 seats that are available for each night. Please check our website www.culturalparktheater or our Facebook page for details on how to watch the streaming event.

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Wake Me at Midnight plays now through Nov. 1 in Cape Coral.

Audiences have loved Oscar Wilde for “his grasp of language, his grasp of wit and his wordplay.”

All of that will be on stage at CPT starting Nov. 12 and running through Nov. 22 when Gwen Salata directs Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

Though “Earnest” was written more than 100 years ago, audiences still love the humor and satire the show offers in this comic piece of theater history. In fact when “Earnest” debuted in London, theater critics said, “The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People” — And very much remains so today.

John Worthing escapes the burdens of responsibility to have an exciting life in the city, pretending to be his fictitious younger brother Ernest.

Algernon Moncrieff, meanwhile, has invented a convenient invalid, Bunbury, whom he uses as an excuse to gallivant off to the country whenever he pleases. When John falls in love with Algernon’s cousin, Gwendolen, he is determined to come clean, but when Gwendolen reveals she can only love

a man named Ernest, it somewhat complicates things.

When Algernon discovers John’s secret and decides to visit John’s pretty little ward in the country, posing as the debauched “Ernest,” the situation gets entirely more complicated! Hijinks ensue, and the two gentlemen and their ladies are in for more than they ever anticipated when formidable Lady Bracknell, Gwendolen’s mother, begins sleuthing around to uncover the farfetched truth. Oscar Wilde's brilliant comedy captures with wit and charm the absurdity and delight of the Victorian "age of surfaces" (as Lady Bracknell calls it,) while capturing the struggle of four passionate lovers trying to conform to expectations and, in the most roundabout and delightfully funny way possible, love who they wish and live how they want.

The Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. in Cape Coral. Call the box office for more information at 239-772-5862 or visit www.culturalparktheater.com Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company.

Happenings Magazine

Gulfshore Playhouse to present Higher in Naples Nov. 7 - 29

committed to the Naples Gulfshore Playhouse in region and our mission to Naples will open its 2020-21 create live professional theseason with the world preater that stirs the soul, miere of Higher, written by expands imaginaand starring tion, challenges Jeffrey Binder, the senses, and associate artistic provokes discusdirector of sion,” said Coury.

Gulfshore “As we all navigate Playhouse, and this new reality, directed by the arts are more Kristen Coury, important than founder and proever to help us ducing artistic process the chaldirector of lenges we face Gulfshore and foster an Playhouse.

Jeffrey Binder understanding of Running Nov. 7 our common to Nov. 29, the humanity. We’re new one-man proexcited to kick off our new duction was created season with this fascinating expressly for Naples audinew work from Jeffrey.” ences, prioritizing new safeBinder has appeared in ty standards while maintainnumerous Gulfshore ing the highest artistic qualiPlayhouse productions, ty. including another one-man In this thrilling one-man production, An Illiad, heraldtour-de-force, two worlds, ed as one of the “Best of” lives, and times collide in performances from the Prague, a magical city filled 2018-19 season, along with with ghosts, saints, and The Mystery of Irma Vep, whispers of the past. In Merchant of Venice, Hound 1997, a Wanderer makes of the Baskervilles, My Fair his way to Prague after a Lady and An Enemy of the life-altering event causes People. Binder’s Broadway him to question his purpose credits include The in the world. And in 1413, a Lieutenant of Inishmore by master architect struggles to Martin McDonagh and Side build a worthy addition to Man by Warren Leight. New the crown jewel of the Holy York credits include 10 Roman Empire, the magnifiyears as Zazu in The Lion cent St. Vitus Cathedral.

King and George Banks in These separate timelines the hit musical Mary intersect in strange and Poppins, both performed at mysterious ways as both the New Amsterdam Theatre men grapple with their faith, on 42nd Street. families, and identities.

“We look forward to gathMembers of the creative ering safely at The Norris team are scenic designer Center starting in the fall,” Kristen Martino; costume said Coury. designer Kirche Zeile; and To purchase tickets and sound designer Christopher more details, visit online at Colucci.

GulfshorePlayhouse.org.

“Gulfshore Playhouse is Happenings Magazine

NOVEMBER 2020 - 7

THEATRE

Off Broadway Palm reopens with The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre is ringing in the holidays with the hysterical trailer park musical comedy The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical playing Nov. 12 through Dec. 26.

The eclectic residents of Armadillo Acres are back for a cat-fightin’, sun-worshippin’, chair-throwin’, rowdy good time.

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It is Christmastime in Armadillo Acres mobile home community and everyone is filled with visions of kegnog and beer. In this raucous sequel to The Great American Trailer Park Musical, you’ll meet some new neighbors in the Florida mobile home community, including Darlene - the trailer park Scrooge, her boyfriend Jackie, and Rufus - the redneck with a heart of gold. Longtime Armadillo Acres residents Betty, Lin, and Pickles are back, but when a freak accident strikes Darlene, everyone will be put to the test.

Broadway Palm is thrilled to be reopening the Off Broadway Palm Theatre since closing back in March due to the pandemic. The Off Broadway Palm has adjusted its seating arrangement and is operating at a 50% capacity.

It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking including during the performance. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher.

The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate theatre, located off 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 groups of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

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Mamma Mia! at Broadway Palm Broadway Palm presents the international hit sensation and its number one selling show of all time Mamma Mia! playing now through Nov. 14.

More than 60 million people around the world have fallen in love with the charming story, the delightful characters and the timeless ABBA music which makes Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show.

Through ABBA’s greatest hits, Mamma Mia! tells the story of Sophie, a bride-to-be, and her search for her birth father on a beautiful Greek island. After reading her mom’s diary, Sophie secretly invites the three men her mom wrote about to her wedding. This sunny and funny tale of love, laughter, family and friendship is set to ABBA classics including “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “SOS” and Renee Reid as Tanya, Kate Turner as Donna and Shannon Connoly as Rosie the title song “Mamma Mia!” Broadway Palm is thrilled to have raised their curtain again to provide a delicious meal and will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 exceptional entertainment in a safe and socially distanced degrees or higher. environment.

Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with For a list of the extensive health and safety measures they select matinees. Tickets are $48 to $73 with children and have taken, visit www.BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to group prices available. Tickets are now on sale and can be note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting or drinking. In addition, a temperature check will be perwww.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. formed on everyone that enters the building and admittance in Fort Myers.

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NOVEMBER 2020 - 9

THEATRE

Bower School of Music & the Arts presents River Sonnets

The Bower School of Music & the Arts at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Theatre Program will present River Sonnets, conceived and directed by Theatre professor Barry Cavin in a virtual performance found on YouTube beginning Oct. 29 at 7 p.m.

A lonely young woman is plagued by poetic dreams to the point that she no longer can distinguish waking from sleeping. She seeks the help of a doctor in a desperate attempt to free herself from the shadowy terrors, but her true terror may not be what lies in the shadows.

River Sonnets is a digital play performed in the time of a great pandemic, a time when language is an even more vital bridge between people, but that linguistic architecture is failing and crumbling. At a time like this, we must invent new ways of thinking about theater, new ways to question our assumptions about the human condition.

River Sonnets is an experiment in language. It is ancient poetry set to contemporary circumstance; it is visual poetry nestled in popular streaming media.

River Sonnets features the poems of Edmund Spenser, a 16th century English poet best known for “The Faerie Queene,” and by Edna St. Vincent Millay, an American poet who, in 1923, became the third woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry.

River Sonnets is a deep exploration into the desire for love and a timid look into the vagaries of our final transition. It is a universal warning wrapped in a personal metaphor.

Join FGCU Theater as it goes digital for its first show of the season. The experimental play featuring sonnets from the 16th and early 20th centuries will premiere on YouTube Oct. 29 at 7 p.m.

For more information visit www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab/ 10 - NOVEMBER 2020

Yonni Georgoulis during filming of River Sonnets. photo courtesy of Joanna K. Hoch

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THEATRE

Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn opens Nov. 19 at Broadway Palm

Broadway Palm in Fort Myers will welcome the holidays with the Irving Berlin classic Holiday Inn playing Nov. 19 through Dec. 26.

This heartwarming production is a musical adaptation of the 1942 classic holiday film starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire.

The uplifting yet comical story follows Jim as he leaves the bright lights of

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show business to settle down in a farmhouse in Connecticut.

When Jim meets a spirited school teacher with a hidden talent to spare, they turn a farmhouse into a fabulous inn that is only open on holidays.

You’ll enjoy a year of celebrations with dazzling dance numbers and Irving Berlin classics such as “Shaking the Blues Away,” “Easter Parade” and “White Christmas.”

Broadway Palm is continuing to operate at a reduced capacity of 50% with social distancing between tables and throughout the building. For a list of the extensive health and safety measures they have taken, visit BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not

be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher.

Performances are Tuesday 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 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

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Charlotte Players to stage

Mom’s Gift in November

“With a touch of Gilmore Girls, a splash of This is Us, and a healthy dose of Ghost, this comedy-drama will have you laughing, cheering, tearing up and guessing till the very end,” noted one reviewer of Mom’s Gift, the Nov. 6 - 15 offering at the Charlotte Players Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte.

Described as “a comedy with a heart,” the play concerns a deceased mom whose ghost shows up to take care of unfinished business on Earth as a ghost, before she can enter heaven. Like Clarence in It’s A Wonderful Life, she must accomplish a task to earn her wings. What the task is, is a mystery.

The problem is complicated by the fact that the only person who can hear or see Mom is her daughter, who has been ordered by the court to spend Dad’s birthday with him as part of her Anger Management Program. One by one, the family's secrets are peeled away. revealing a shocking truth that surprises even our ghost.

Director by Ric Goodwin, the seven performances of Mom’s Gift include five 7:30

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p.m. shows and 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday, Nov 8 and 15. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students and may be ordered at www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling 941-255-1022 weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

COVID-19 precautions remain in effect. Audience members will have their temperatures taken upon entrance to the theater, will be seated far enough apart to meet recommendations, and will be provided with masks (if needed).

Additional information is available at 941-255-1022.

The Langdon Playhouse is located at 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte.

The play was penned by Phil Olson, a Los Angeles playwright and producer whose 16 published plays have had over 400 productions around the U.S. and Canada. “Mom’s Gift” won numerous awards in the Southern California arts community, where the play debuted in 2013. It also was produced at the Meadow Brook Theatre in Rochester Hills, Michigan, starring Cindy Williams (Laverne & Shirley).

For those who missed it in September, the Charlotte Players eighth annual Comedy for a Cause is still available on Facebook. The Players’ premier fundraiser was held this year as a virtual event at the Langdon Playhouse and broadcast live Facebook. An “allstar” roster of community and business leaders presenting improvisational skits in the manner of “Whose Line is it Anyway?”

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY

The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s

BROADWAY SERIES

Oct. 29 - Nov. 1

r

e Novemb

12 - 22

Haunted Theater Tour Experience

Oct. 31

7 - 9 pm

Family Friendly

DIVAS THROUGH THE DECADES A musical journey through the 1940s to today featuring Margaret Bowman, Cassy Terwilliger and Cassie Simpson

November 6, 7 & 8

LIMITED SEATING • SOCIAL DISTANCING

Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

CALL FOR

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

NOVEMBER 2020 - 13

THEATRE

TheatreZone kicks off revised

season with Merry Manilow

TheatreZone in Naples has announced its 2020-21 Showstopper Series as part of its Sweet 16 season.

“Since ending our season in mid-March due to the pandemic, we have spent each day monitoring the evolving situation, interpreting new information and adapting accordingly,” said founding artistic director Mark Danni.

“Finding a way to reopen TheatreZone during a pandemic of a respiratory virus is not easy for an industry with unique challenges, such as the reliance on social gatherings, physical proximity, and speaking loudly,” said Danni. “However, we are proud to have created innovative ways to safely and responsibly present live entertainment this season. We are so excited to welcome audiences back to the theatre in person, and we look forward to offering the great experiences we’re known for, just in a few different ways this year.”

TheatreZone’s originally scheduled Season 16 productions, which include Home for the Holidays, I Love My Wife, Bright Star, Camelot and The Bridges of Madison County will now be presented during the 2021-22 season.

In place of the Broadway series, TheatreZone will present an exciting, entertaining series of five themed concerts.

The Showstopper Series of concerts includes Merry Manilow (Dec. 11 - 13); Bravo Broadway! (Jan. 7 - 17); At The Movies (Feb. 4 - 14); Those Were the Days (March 4 14); and The Best of Bacharach (April 15 - 25).

In order to ensure the safety of patrons, cast members, musicians and staff in all areas, TheatreZone’s Showstopper Series will feature 75- to 90-minute, themed concerts with professional, live music and choreography.

“We are moving ahead in the spirit of collaboration and determination,” said Danni, “putting the health and safety of our patrons, performers and all team members first.”

TheatreZone’s first Showstopper Series event, Merry Manilow, will feature holiday favorites and chart-topping hit songs from legendary performer Barry Manilow. With special guest Mark Danni on drums, the concert will include songs from Manilow’s holiday albums, as well as hits from throughout his 50 plus-year career.

“Barry Manilow has been one of the biggest entertaining

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influences for both Karen (Danni) and I since we saw him live on Broadway in 1989,” said Danni. “Audiences who appreciate his talent will enjoy this evening of his holiday favorites, romantic ballads and heartfelt music.”

Bravo Broadway!, the second event of the Showstopper Series to be presented Jan. 7-17, will feature Broadway’s classic hits from throughout its many decades, in addition to songs from the 2000’s.

From Feb. 4 to 14, TheatreZone will present At The Movies. Audiences will take a trip through the many hit songs from their favorite movies throughout history. This concert event will include hit songs such as the Academy Award-winning “The Way We Were” from the 1973 romantic drama, “Moon River” from the romantic comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and “Arthur’s Theme” from the comedy Arthur, as well as some disco hits from the 1977 American dance drama Saturday Night Fever.

The fourth Showstopper Series event, Those Were the Days, will be presented March 4 - 14. This fun show takes the audience on a journey through the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. The talented cast will not only perform hit songs through the decades, but also an entertaining television theme show medley for an unforgettable evening of fun.

The Best of Bacharach, the fifth and final event of the Showstopper Series, will be held April 15 - 25. This show will take audiences back to this legendary composer’s most prolific time, the 1960s and ‘70s, when music was a common thread that kept everyone sane.

“One of the reasons we chose to bring Burt Bacharach’s music to our audiences with this show is because of the nostalgia we feel when we hear these songs and they put smiles on all our faces,“ said Danni.

TheatreZone’s audiences will be limited to a maximum of 108 patrons per performance, and masks will be required throughout the duration of each performance.

For individual show times, visit online at www.theatre.zone or call the box office at 888-966-3352 x1.

TheatreZone is located at 13274 Livingston Road, at the 250-seat G&L Theatre on the Community School of Naples campus.

Happenings Magazine

Naples Players plan a variety of events

Here’s a look at some of the events planned by the Naples Players in the months ahead:

Trees and Teas Festival Dec. 4 - 19

The Naples Players and Gulf Coast International Properties are kicking off the holiday season with a new arts and culture holiday experience for the whole family. At the TNP Trees & Teas Festival, you will stroll through a wonderland of themed holiday trees designed

by Naples’ finest artists while enjoying one of the decadent teas provided by The Naples Spice and Tea Exchange.

Attendees will enjoy carolers and performers and the chance to purchase one of a limited number of customdesigned wreaths to deck your halls at home! The festival takes place inside the iconic Naples Players community theatre on 5th Avenue South in downtown Naples.

The festival is open from 2 to 9 p.m. daily Dec. 4 – Dec. 19, but advance tickets and reservations are required to promote safe distancing.

Tickets are free for current TNP season ticket holders. General admission is $18 for adults, and $12 for children. Admission includes a free cup of tea.

Tickets for the VIP preview party are $60 each and include a cocktail hour and meet-andgreet with the artists.

Itʼs A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Dec. 19

The Naples Players presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play from Cambier Park at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 19.

Enjoy the performance live inperson in socially distanced Cambier Park; or select a virtual ticket to view the performance online from anywhere in the world.

This heartwarming classic is a show within a show. It’s December 24, 1946, in Studio A at WBFR Radio, and a cast of six actors is preparing to present It’s a Wonderful Life live to the listening audience.

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With the help of only a soundeffects artist, the ensemble reenacts the story of George Bailey, a young man whose dreams of traveling the world are thwarted by his sense of responsibility to the family business. Down on his luck, Bailey, compassionate yet disheartened, is at the end of his rope.

He questions his purpose in life and considers ending it all. Just then, an angel arrives to show Bailey how the lives of those he loves would be affected if he were not around. The story’s message is profound and remains relevant for today’s audiences.

Footloose

Feb. 25 - March 7

The final production of TNP’s "Culture Around Collier" outdoor series will be Footloose Feb. 25 through March 7 in Baker Park.

The explosive movie musical bursts onto the live concert stage at Baker Park! With dynamic new songs augmenting the powerhouse hits from its bestselling Oscar-nominated score, Footloose celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness.

When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school.

But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.

For tickets and more information about these events, visit www.NaplesPlayers.org or call 239-263-7990

NOVEMBER 2020 - 15

THEATRE

Florida Rep continues its fall virtual season PlayLab Festival schedule

Florida Rep announced a whole slate of digital offerings as its fall 2020 virtual season after detailing plans to postpone its 2020-2021 professional theatre season last month.

The fall season includes the Stage@Home Virtual Talkback Series (through Oct. 30), the 2020 Virtual PlayLab Festival (Nov. 5 - Dec. 11), and a streaming production of Clue starring the theatre's ensemble of professional actors (Oct. 29 - Nov. 1).

The Rep’s popular Theatre for Young Audiences Series, which normally tours to schools throughout Southwest Florida, is in rehearsal now starring the theatre's Professional Acting Intern Company. The first of four titles in the series, Mockingbird, will be released soon for digital streaming.

"Just because we can't yet gather doesn't mean we can't create content to engage and entertain our audiences," said artistic director Greg Longenhagen. "While it was a difficult decision to postpone our previously scheduled 2020-2021 season, we know it was the right thing to do for the safety of our staff, artists, volunteers, and of course, our audiences. These virtual offerings will feature our ensemble of actors and give audiences a wide variety of content to choose from while we refrain from gathering indoors at the theatre.”

The popular Stage@Home Virtual Talkback Series kicked off a four-episode run on Oct. 2 and continues through Oct. 30. Episodes are $20 each and take audiences behind the scenes for an in-depth discussion with a new panel of professional theatre makers each week.

Stage@Home episodes begin every Friday at 3:30 p.m. on Zoom.

The 2020 Virtual PlayLab Festival kicks off with its first live Zoom reading on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., and continues every Thursday night (except Thanksgiving) through Dec, 16 - NOVEMBER 2020

10. The festival concludes with a Playwrights Panel on Friday, Dec. 11 at 3:30 p.m. where all the 2020 playwrights will participate in a Q&A with audiences and Associate Artistic Director, Jason Parrish. Readings are $20 each, but the theatre is offering two All-Access passes for $99 and $125 for some special VIP access to the playwrights, actors, and directors. For patrons who can’t watch live on Zoom, the theatre will offer each reading for on-demand streaming for four days following the live broadcast.

Available for a limited time, Florida Rep announced a special digital streaming production of Clue: the Stay-at-Home Version, which is adapted specially for Zoom and online platforms. Artistic director Greg Longenhagen directs the virtual reading that leads with an all-star lineup of Florida Rep ensemble actors like Viki Boyle, David Breitbarth, Chris Clavelli, Kate Hampton, V Craig Heidenreich, Sara Morsey, Jason Parrish, Graham Smith, Peter Thomasson and more!

Clue begins streaming Oct. 29 at 7 p.m., and is only available for four days through 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 1. The cost is $20 to stream, and tickets are on sale at www.FloridaRep.org "I want to take moment to thank Florida Rep's generous patrons and sponsors," Longenhagen continued. "Each piece of virtual programming is generously sponsored by some of Florida Rep's most enthusiastic supporters. Please join me in thanking each and every one of them for doing their part to help Florida Rep survive this difficult time."

Digital tickets for Stage@Home and PlayLab are available online. Follow Florida Rep on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and subscribe to its YouTube page for the most up-to-date info. Call the box office at 239-332-4488 Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

SPAY by Madison Fiedler Live broadcast Nov. 5 at 7 p.m.

Spay is an electrifying new drama where cycles of addiction and notions of autonomy are catapulted into question when a stranger shows up with an answer to one struggling familyʼs prayers – at a certain cost.

TABLESCAPE by Jeanette Farr Live broadcast Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.

Joe and Pratt are world travelers who love a great adventure, but it is time to settle down and think about a family. What was meant to be a perfect brunch quickly spirals – plates get broken, babaganoush flies, and despite their best intentions (and attempts to meditate), not everything can be fixed. The characters find that there is beauty in broken things, and the cracks in the foundation might be what makes a person whole.

JEROME by Ron Lagomarsino Live broadcast Nov. 19 at 7 p.m.

Upon the untimely death of their father, two estranged siblings must face off to determine the proper course of care for their schizophrenic brother Jerome. Alternately heartbreaking and hilarious, they embark on an emotional journey no one is prepared to take.

WHITE PARTY by Brent Askari Live Broadcast Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.

John and Laura Baron are making final preparations for their annual party – thrown in their lavish home on an exclusive Florida barrier island with a causeway. This year, however, things donʼt go according to plan.

A SHERLOCK CAROL by Mark Shanahan Live Broadcast Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.

Moriarty was dead, to begin with. And Sherlock Holmes is a haunted man. But, when a grown-up Tiny Tim asks Holmes to investigate the death of Ebenezer Scrooge, the Great Detective must use his gifts to solve a Dickens of a Christmas mystery! Six actors take on the beloved characters of Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens in this holiday adventure for all ages.

PLAYWRIGHTSʼ PANEL Live Broadcast Dec. 11 at 3:30 p.m.

Following the final reading of the 2020 PlayLab, audiences will hear from all of the festival playwrights in a round table discussion.

Happenings Magazine

Players Circle Theatre welcomes

Pete Seeger tribute, comedian

The songs of Pete Seeger come alive when critically acclaimed actor Randy Noojin performs live at the Players Circle Theatre Nov. 11 - 15. The original production captures the spirit and personality of Pete Seeger; with a dozen of his classic songs. Seeger was an iconic folksinger in the 1960’s America.

Actor, writer, and musician, Noojin becomes Seeger when he performs songs, such as “Kisses Sweeter Than Wine,” “If I Had a Hammer,” “Goodnight Irene,” “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” and “Guantanamera.”

VIP tickets for the show are $50, with general admission tickets $35. Show performance times are Wednesday and Thursday at 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; and Sunday at 2 p.m. Servers will be available to take orders for appetizers and cocktails for VIP tickets; there will be an open bar in the lobby available for general admission.

Also appearing in November is Carmen Ciricillo, a nationally touring comedy club headliner, who has appeared on numerous television and radio shows. He toured with Nascar and the Hendricks Motor Sports Racing Team to entertain the fans at hospitality events for a year. The stand-up comedian will perform on Friday, Nov. 27 and Saturday, Nov. 28. VIP tickets are $25, with general admission tickets $15. The Friday show is at 8 p.m., and Saturday

Happenings Magazine

shows are at 6 and 8:30 p.m.

Producers Robert Cacioppo and Carrie Lund have converted the former Dolphin Room into aa nightclub/cabaret style facility, which will have 80 seats, spaced for social distancing in accordance with CDC guidelines. Every seat in the house has an excellent view of the performance; no seat is more than four rows from the stage.

The Players Circle Theatre is located in The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers.

Tickets are available through the box office at 239-8003292, or tickets online at www.PlayersCircle.org.

Full dinners are available before the shows in the Southern Grill restaurant; for reservations call 239-9953999. A new appetizer menu list will be available for theatre patrons 45 minutes before each performance in the theatre.

Temperatures for audiences will be taken before entering the theatre. Masks will be required for all audience members to enter the theatre, at intermission, and when using the rest rooms.

While not mandatory, wearing masks during the show is requested. Employees and volunteers will check temperatures, wear face coverings, and practice frequent hand washing. Hand sanitizer stations will be provided throughout the theatre.

NOVEMBER 2020 - 17

ART

Baker Museum reopens Nov. 1 The Baker Museum will celebrate its 20th anniversary season by reopening to the general public with timed entries and reduced capacity on Nov. 1.

American artist Dale Chihuly has long been associated with The Baker Museum, including an exhibition of his works that was featured when the museum opened in November 2000, with Chihuly himself attending the inaugural festivities. Dreaming Forms: Chihuly Then and Now, the third major Chihuly exhibition in the history of The Baker Museum, includes stunning artworks presented in The Baker Museum as well as around the cultural campus.

In addition to the Chihuly exhibition, this fall The Baker Museum will also feature the exhibitions Subject Matters: Selections from the Permanent Collection, Rodin: Truth Form Life / Selections from the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Collections and Magritte: Reflections of Another World – Paintings from the Van Parys Family.

“We are thrilled that The Baker Museum will reopen with exhibitions showcasing our growing permanent collection as well as our 20year relationship with Dale Chihuly. We see this as a truly special way to celebrate with our community the opportunity to experience art

Dale Chihuly Fire Orange Baskets (detail) Groninger Museum, Groningen, Netherlands, installed 2018 © Chihuly Studio, Photograph by Scott Mitchell Leen

Auguste Rodin, Despairing Adolescent, edition 3/12. Modeled 1882/Musée Rodin cast in 1975 by Godard Foundry.

Bronze. 17 1/2 x 6 x 5 3/4 inches.

Lent by Iris Cantor.

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together again and to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the museum,” said Kathleen van Bergen, CEO and president of Artis—Naples.

Subject Matters is drawn from The Baker Museum’s permanent collection and addresses subject matters commonly found in visual arts, including the Human Figure, the Home, Landscapes and Nonfigurative Abstraction. Rodin: Truth Form Life showcases Auguste Rodin’s revolutionary contributions to the development of modern sculpture. The exhibition presents 22 bronze sculptures modeled between 1860 and 1910,

including sculptures associated with some of Rodin’s most important commissions, such as The Burghers of Calais and The Gates of Hell.

Magritte: Reflections of Another World comprises six paintings — five oils and one gouache — by Belgian artist René Magritte painted between 1932 and 1956 that are on a five-year loan to Artis Naples. These works have never previously been shown in North America, and none have exhibited publicly in over 48 years.

For more about the museum, visit www.artisnaples.org or call 239-597-1900.

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Hirdie Girdie Gallery features Priscilla Jeffcoat, Judy Usavage, Carol Jensen Carol Jensen

Judy Usavage

Hirdie Girdie Gallery on Sanibel is now open for the 20202021 season.

Among the new artists joining this year is oil and acrylic painter Judy Usavage. Primarily a plein air painter who enjoys being out in the elements, Judy has a passion for color, mood, and intensity. Judy believes art is a unifying factor throughout the world, as well as a never-ending source of joy. She finds creating art to be an exercise in patience, decision-making, and just plain work, but Judy is very glad to be a part of the art scene in Southwest Florida.

Three-dimensional fiber artist Carol Jensen creates her art by transforming Merino wool into felt, utilizing heat, moisture and agitation in the process. The felt is permanently dyed, and then hand-shaped into bowls, vessels, sculptures, and wall hangings, with various decorative fibers used for embellishment. The result is a truly unique handcrafted work of art.

Florida Watercolor Society signature member Priscilla Jeffcoat describes herself as an experimental painter – always seeking a

Priscilla Jeffcoat

new direction. She is known for her loose, colorful style. She is currently painting abstract landscapes and cityscapes in watercolor, with each painting balancing value, color, and shape.

Another favorite subject is abstracted sailboats, which are done with imagined colors, scrubbing, and glazing. Priscilla’s greatest joy in art is to see where her paintings will take her.

The gallery takes great pride in having these three talented artists join this year.

During the month of November, Hirdie Girdie welcomes back former member Carol Rosenberg as guest artist. Carol is well known in our area for her proficiency in several art mediums, and her exhibit in the gallery will focus on life drawings.

The gallery artists are looking forward to welcoming visitors, supporters and friends to stop in and see the beautiful fine art and fine crafts created by our 16 member artists.

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

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

Creative Threads exhibit at BIG ARTS

Three award-winning artists will have their unique works on display during the Creative Threads exhibit Nov. 5 through Dec. 13, in the new Dunham Family Gallery at BIG ARTS on Sanibel.

Hours of the exhibit are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday. Masks are required, and there is a 30-person limit in the gallery.

There will also be a virtual gallery that will be live on Nov. 11.

Fiber art is a widely celebrated art medium, one that is ever evolving and crosses the boundaries between fine art and craft. Works

by Sally Dutko, Bonnie Langenfeld and Angela Scozzari are gorgeous pieces that demonstrate how fiber art is more than a traditional artform.

Dutko creates mostly raw-edge abstract work, along with some figurative and whimsiHappenings Magazine

cal pieces. She gets inspired by anything and everything. She said, "My artwork showcases many ways to dye, paint, and manipulate the surface of fabrics. The work, whether small or large, is mostly abstract or suggestive of elements in the natural world. Color, shape and texture are keys to the themes. I would like others to appreciate the joyful experience I have in combining any kind of fiber materials with ink, acrylics or thickened dyes."

Langenfeld creates realistic fabric art in raw-edge applique and thread sketching, focusing on landscapes. She prides herself in not using any paint or ink to enhance the images, with few exceptions. She said, "My exhibit will include both quilted and non-quilted fabric work. Some will be framed; some will not. My work is realistic, mainly landscapes; and I’ve included a dog portrait and florals for

this show. I hope that people viewing my work will first be amazed at how fabric and quilted pieces can have a place in the fine art world. I am delighted when someone is surprised to learn that my picture is not painted at all but is created only in fabric and free-motion machine stitching."

Scozzari uses a combination of found objects, rusted metal in particular, as well as fibers she hand dyes and spins. This exhibit includes recycled plastic, vintage glass beads, wood, and hand-dyed paper, among other found materials. All her work is an expression of her emotional life, an extension of her inner thoughts and nuanced feelings. "From a pile of thread scraps, pieces of metal that I find on my morning walks, or rotted wood from my garden, I seek beauty in what others deem as discard,” she said.

NOVEMBER 2020 - 19

ART

Patty Sole exhibit at ACT Gallery

Arts for ACT Gallery welcomes artist Patty Sole in the main gallery in November. An opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Internationally collected artist Patty Sole has sold paintings to owners in Germany, London, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Portugal and locations across the U.S. She is an active member of the Pine Island Art Association and the Cape Coral Art League.

Patty is also a member of the American Pen Women Society.

She has shown her work at “Antiques Within” of Memphis, Tenn., and many local galleries in Cape Coral, Fort Myers and on Sanibel Island.

Patty also enters her work at many of the area’s art shows such as the Pine Island Art Show and the Coconut Point Art Show, Art for ACT located in downtown Fort Myers. She donates paint-

ings to many charitable groups including the Arts for ACT Gala Event. Her paintings have been accepted in the Live Auction three consecutive years.

Patty enjoys painting in acrylics and oil and currently teaches at the Cape Coral Art League and Pine Island Art Association, as well as the Landings Community and Herons glen community. She also paints custom pen blanks for Exotic Blanks of Wisconsin. Patty’s “whimsical side” is apparent in her niche paintings of animal heads on human bodies.

A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Patty has made Southwest Florida her home since 1995 and is a full-time artist.

This exhibit continues to Nov. 30.

Arts for ACT Gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers.

For more info, call 239-337-5050 or visit www.artsforactgallery.com.

DAAS Co-Op welcomes Cuban artist Alex Lago

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is presenting the works of Cuban artist Alex Lago in November.

The exhibition will feature a selection of paintings in oils and watercolors, created in recent years. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 6 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk event. The exhibition will be on display through Nov. 28.

The poetry in Alex Lagos’ work is mesmerizing. Words are not present, but anyone can read the imbedded messages and metaphors. This, to him, is extremely important and has become a strict practice during his creative process. The artist faults his native Cuba for this thought process.

As he describes it, “Cuba is a country of extreme ideologies.

Very few expressions are allowed in diversion from the official speech. The great lesson from these circumstances was discovering that I had a personal vision, which I needed to foster, cherish and share,” comments the artist, who developed a teaching workshop that lead him to Mexico where he taught for several years.

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“Multiple circumstances there [in Mexico] made me realize the oversaturated experience in my country, ultimately deciding to move to the United States.”

Lagos, who has shown in various art centers, galleries and museums in the United States and Europe, is currently working on new pieces for an exhibition in 2021. Currently, he is represented by an art gallery in Madrid, Spain, but most of his recent endeavors have been independently. About the present times, he claims his optimism for better days, while embracing his current life. “The past, now behind me, and the path I am following are the catalysts that move my world. Now, I live in a forest, where the trees and the birds are witnesses to my journey,” says Lago.

DAAS invites all Southwest Florida art collectors, supporters and enthusiasts to join us for the opening reception on Nov. 6. The gallery is located at 1815 Fowler St. in the Butterfly Estates complex in Fort Myers. The gallery’s temporary business hours are Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information about the gallery and how to become a member can be found at www.daascoop.com or by calling 239-590-8645.

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Beth Carter Bell at Davis Art Center

Join the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in celebrating Beth Carter Bell, one of Southwest Florida's most prolific artists.

The “I’earth” exhibit opens Friday, Nov. 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. Enjoy an opening night reception with an artist meet and greet, cocktails and inspiring art in the grand atrium.

Since 2008, Beth Carter Bell has accrued a phenomenal body of work ranging from video, photography, sculpture, painting, installation and performance. As humanity is facing a survival challenge that we are not prepared for, we are confronting an alarming need for new ideas. Beth’s work springs to the front lines of our cultural and environmental crisis, to propose and illustrate a new, distinct, and altogether surprising role for the arts in the cultural evolution of humanity.

I’earth is a project that started in 2014 by Beth, which was inspired by the work of Tiite Baquero and particularly in reference to his work regarding his investigation into the role of art in the future of humanity and of all life on Earth. The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center is in for a landmark exhibit by artist Beth Carter Bell. As a two-time winner of the ever coveted “Berne’s Choice Award” at SBDAC, Beth has labored for the past six years in the preparation of the I’earth exhibit.

However, the timing for the exhibit could never have been more appropriate, considering the fact that humanity is going through a global pandemic and the U.S. is in an economic recession along with civil unrest and confrontation with authorities spread nationwide.

One reason why the I’earth exhibit is so timely is because it is about hope for humanity and it is a response to the state of the world. It is not a response with criticism and condemnation of what is happening, rather it is about how to move forward from here on. Beth believes that the culture that brought us to this point is not the culture that will lead us away from social, economic, and

Beth Carter Bell environmental disaster.

Her exhibit suggests that we, humanity, can and should evolve culturally towards a better version of ourselves with better stewardship of the planet and better relations between humanity and all of the other species who call planet earth home. Creatures, who like us, just want to live and have their place in the world.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the heart of the downtown Fort Myers River District. Always call ahead at 239-333-1933 or visit the website at www.sbdac.com to check for possible schedule changes.

Traveling exhibit at Davis Art Center

On Friday, Nov. 6, The Aristotle Zenobia Sunshine Museum presents The Natural, Technological and Sociological Wonders 2020 Traveling Exhibition in the Capital Gallery at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center.

This highly unique exhibit was created using historical objects and imagination resulting in something never before experienced in an art exhibit. Selections from the collections explore the re-creation of something that never was. The differences between the truth and the facts provide limitless opportunities and The Sunshine Museum is an ever evolving historical visual art experience with a strong performance art component.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in Fort Myers River District. The show runs Nov. 6 – 24.

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NOVEMBER 2020 - 21

Nature Underground at Naples Botanical Garden ART

Naples Botanical Garden has Contemporary sculptor Steve opened its 2020-21 season, Roots: Tobin’s vast repertoire includes Power of the Unseen, with an works in glass, clay, bronze, and ambitious 11-month exhibition of steel. He explores natural forms artist Steve Tobin’s acclaimed and cites nature as his earliest “Roots” sculptures. The steel and influence, one that continues to bronze works featured in Steve inform his work. His creations have Tobin: Nature Underground pay been shown internationally at such homage to the wonderfully complex venues as the American Museum world that lies beneath the soil. of Natural History; the Page Alternating between intricate Museum/La Brea Tar Pits and Los replicas and streamlined renderAngeles County Museum of ings, Tobin’s sculptures challenge Natural History; Carpe Diem viewers to consider the outsized Gallery in Paris; Retretti Art Center, role roots play in sustaining all life Finland; Gallery 10, New York City; on Earth. The works seem to and Moore College of Art and Steve Tobinʼs Romeo and Juliet dance in their spaces, spiraling Design, Philadelphia. The sculptor upward to create elegant forms as is renowned for his “Trinity Root” well as ever-changing shadows. sculpture cast from the stump and roots of a large sycamore tree Guests will discover them throughout the Garden — simultanethat shielded St. Paul’s Church from the collapsing Twin Towers ously rising out of the landscape and blending into it with perfect during the 9/11 attacks. harmony. Tobin says the pieces are experiential; they are meant The exhibition runs through Sept. 6, 2021. It is free for memto be walked through, interacted with, and explored from all bers and included in garden admission. Naples Botanical Garden, angles. located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, is a 170-acre, world-class garden “Because they’re so open, these pieces activate the space paradise that features plants from around the world. For more between the viewer, the sculptures and beyond,” he says. details, visit www.naplesgarden.org or call 239-643-7275.

Peace River Art Festival returns Dec. 4 & 5

The annual Peace River National Art Festival will take place Dec. 4 and 5 in beautiful Laishley Park in Punta Gorda.

The festival, hosted by the Visual Arts Center, is Charlotte County’s leading outdoor fine art event. It will run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.

Art glass, fiber arts, jewelry, leather goods, metal work, oil paintings, photography, pottery, sculpture, abstracts and watercolor will be represented by more than 60 artists from within the community and out of state. The fine art, handcrafted goods and exquisite crafts will be complimented by a selection of tasty foods, wine and beer. Admission is $5 per person.

Every year, two remarkable artists are nominated to share the spotlight during the festival. Artists Lori Potts and Kathy Wood have been selected as this year’s featured artists. Lori and Kathy’s work will be featured at the festival and can be viewed at the Visual Arts Center’s galleries leading up to the festival.

Lori Potts is a versatile artist based in 22 - NOVEMBER 2020

Marcus C. Thomas Punta Gorda. She uses her art to express her passion for nature, beauty, and color.

Her mediums range from oil paint, acrylic paint, alcohol ink, resin epoxy, and gold leaf. Lori's style can vary from impressionism, abstract, and contemporary art. She can be found exhibiting at local fine art festivals, businesses, and community events in Charlotte County and throughout Southwest Florida. More information about

Lori and her artwork can be found at www.loripottsart.com.

Kathy Wood is a mixed media artist producing functional art.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from Kent State University in Ohio. Known mainly for her one of a kind, hand constructed journals, she also manipulates small seed beads into beautiful jewelry pieces and covered bottles.

Working small, Kathy has an eye for design in the construction of her mandalas. Hand drawn intricate design patterns that are repeated in a circular format and accented with color. Kathy's artwork is available at the Artisan's Atelier or online at etsy.com/shop/beadsboxesandbeyond and can follow her on Facebook at beadsboxesandbeyond.

The festival is hosted by the Visual Arts Center, serving Punta Gorda and the surrounding areas with three major galleries, art and supply store, arts library, one of Southwest Florida’s finest ceramic studios and a gift shop filled with unique items.

Visit in person or online at www.VisualArtCenter.org for further details.

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ART

Naples Art outdoor shows returning

Welcome to the new Naples Additionally, Naples Art’s Art! They are now offering an series of national outdoor extensive collection of online shows starts January 2021. classes and workshops featurThey consistently win the most ing everything from make your prestigious awards given to outown watercolors to conversadoor art shows across the countions with the artist. These are try, including the Sunshine not only convenient, they’re Artist’s 200 Best for 2020. perfect for anyone who might be hesitant to try an in-studio 25th Annual Naples New class.

Yearʼs Art Show Naples Art offers more than Jan. 2 – 3, 2021, from 10 200 professional in-studio a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and classes and workshops Sunday, 5th Avenue South. The throughout the Spring, in paintshow features artists from ing, drawing, ceramics, mixed across the county and abroad. media, glass, jewelry making, and more for adults and chil42nd Annual Naples dren. All are taught by experiNational Art Show Naples Art in the Park returns Saturday, Nov. 7. enced, accomplished Feb. 20 – 21, 2021, from 10 Instructors. To learn more and a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and register for classes, visit them at www.Naplesart.org Sunday at Cambier Park & 8th St. South. The show features The season of popular outdoor shows has started with Art in artists from across the county and abroad. the Park. Since 1957, this great and popular event has showcased the talents of local artists and is believed to be the 1st out33rd Annual Naples Downtown Art Show door art show ever held in Naples. Art in the Park carries on the March 20 – 21, 2021, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 tradition of providing our community access to the creative fine p.m. Sunday on 5th Avenue South. The show features artists art and craftwork of local artists. We’re proud to host this juried from across the country and abroad. show held on the first Saturday of each month from November Naples Art is located at 585 Park St. For more info, call through April, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

239-262-6517 or visit online at www.naplesart.org.

Who knows more about art than Art? Inquiring minds want to know

Interviewer: Naples Art representative (NA) Interviewee: Art, Naples Art ambassador (Art) NA: “Art, thanks for joining us again.”

Art: “It’s great to be back!

NA: Art, we’ve been following some of your activities over the last month - you’ve been very busy - from air conditioner installation to a visit to the Naples Pier!

Art: I really have, and it’s been great fun.

We’ve made major progress in getting the massive air conditioning system replaced, and I was right there for the install of one of the larger units. In addition, we’re taking advantage of the ‘down’ time to do some upgrading and refreshing of our building itself. And yes, I’ve also been visiting businesses on Third Street and 5th Avenue to introduce Art and encourage everyone to get to know the new Naples Art. NA: Art, I’d like to learn more about you - I think our readers are curious. Let’s start with what you enjoy most about living in downtown Naples.

Art: How much time do we have…? *laughing* There really isn’t anywhere else like it. We have a wonderful balance of locals, 24 - NOVEMBER 2020

guests, and tourists; many have been visiting for many years, so you get to know them. The variety of wonderful, walkable dining options, access to all my favorite Naples Art outdoor art shows – the first one this season is on November 7 at Baker Park. For sure, I’ll be there for autographs and pictures! And, of course, Art in the Park, the first Saturday of each month through April.

Downtown Naples is truly an anchor for all the arts, from the visual arts at Naples Art, including classes and outdoor shows, to plays at The Naples Players or Gulfshore Playhouse, and music at Opera Naples. Then there’s beautiful Cambier Park anchored by Naples Art; and of course, we can walk to the beach for sunset and return for cocktails and my favorite – Pizza!

NA: Where can people learn more about the classes and outdoor shows you’ve mentioned?

Art: All of our classes, both in-studio and online, are described at NaplesArt.org under

LEARN OR TEACH. Go under EVENTS to see all our outdoor shows & fabulous events like the spectacular Scene to be Seen, set for Feb. 6 right here at Naples Art.

NA: I know many of our friends reading this right now are getting really excited and will be jumping online to learn more. Art, where will be seeing you next…?

Art: First at Art in the Park on Nov. 7 after that you’ll have to check back… we have some surprises up our sleeve.

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NOVEMBER 2020 - 25

MUSIC

Gulf Coast Symphony, Mann Hall partner for special concert series

Gulf Coast Symphony and Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall have partnered for a limited capacity seven-show series. Social Distancing Saturdays began Oct. 24 and concludes Dec. 19. All shows will be limited to less than 500 tickets per event with social distancing between all seats.

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is looking forward to resuming live programming and the health and safety of our community is their highest priority. Complete details on protocols are located online at www.bbmannpah.com/visit-us/welcomeback.

The remaining series consists of:

Classical 101: The Three Bʼs Nov. 7 at 7 p.m.

The Three B’s—Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms take center stage in this homage to some of classical music’s most enduring composers. Featured works include Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, Brahms’ Hungarian Dances No. 5 & 6, and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4, featuring American pianist Joseph Kingma, winner of the Franz Liszt International Piano Competition.

At the Movies: The Greatest Musical Films Nov. 14 at 7 p.m.

Local favorites Mark Sanders and Carolann Sanita join the Gulf Coast Symphony to present great Movie Musicals. From the contemporary musical dramas The Greatest Showman and Disney’s Frozen, to classic films like

26 - NOVEMBER 2020

favorite highlights from Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, with new choreography by Iliana Lopez & Franklin Gamero.

Produced in partnership with Gulfshore Ballet.

Deck the Halls

Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.

Sound of Music and Oklahoma!, experience some of the greatest tunes ever heard on film.

The Mark Wood Rock Symphony Experience Nov. 21 at 7 p.m.

As one of the original members and musical arranger of the multi-platinum selling Trans-Siberian Orchestra, rock violinist Mark Wood brings power, flash, and excitement to his arrangements of the greatest Classic Rock standards. Trained at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, Mark has recorded and toured with Billy Joel, Celine Dion, and Kanye West, among others. This high-powered symphonic rock program will have you dancing in your seat.

Highlights from the Nutcracker Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.

The music soars, snowflakes swirl, flowers dance, and a little girl dreams about Sugar Plum Fairies and handsome princes, coming to life in an enchanted world. The Gulfshore Ballet and the Gulf Coast Symphony partner to present your

The festive sounds of the season ring through the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, as the Gulf Coast Symphony presents your most favorite symphonic pops holiday medleys. From Leroy Anderson’s endearing Sleigh Ride, a medley of music from Christmas movie classics, to the Mannheim Steamroller Silent Night, and much, much more! A show perfect for the whole family to celebrate this time of giving and joy.

A Sinatra Christmas Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.

Celebrate the holidays with legendary Sinatra tribute artist Brian Duprey, as he recreates the Christmas songs that became Gold record hits. When Brian Duprey sings, those listening might swear they were hearing Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, as Frank’s own daughter, Nancy Sinatra has said. As the lead actor in the hit musical, “The Rat Pack is Back,” Brian spent 10 years perfecting his craft in Las Vegas, and in over 200 performing arts centers across the country. This show was named Best Tribute Show of Las Vegas in 2014.

Tickets for all shows can be purchased online at www.bbmannpah.com or by calling the box office at 239-481-4849 Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Happenings Magazine

New York Philharmonic String Quartet

The New York Philharmonic String Quartet Nov. 20 at Davis Art Center

World-class string instrumentalists launch the 20202021 chamber music season Friday, Nov. 20 at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live classical music from New York Philharmonic concertmaster Frank Huang, principal associate concertmaster Sheryl Staples, principal violist Cynthia Phelps and principal cellist Carter Brey.

The New York Philharmonic String Quartet is the first chamber concert of the season. During the New York Philharmonic’s 175th anniversary season, four virtuosi principal musicians made the wise decision to form a string quartet resulting in a fabulous treat for the rest of

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us. All four of the Quartet’s members have won multiple prestigious prizes and have performed as concerto soloists with the New York Philharmonic and orchestras around the world.

Although only recently established in January 2017, the ensemble made their first public appearance a mere two months later, at David Geffen Hall in New York City, with a performance of John Adams’s 2012 work for string quartet and orchestra, Absolute Jest.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. Tickets are $45.

For tickets, call 239-3331933 or visit the website at www.sbdac.com.

NOVEMBER 2020 - 27

MUSIC

Tributes & more at Gulf Theater

By Sue Wade A mere 18 months ago, a cry rang out across Punta Gorda: “Don’t let the music die!”

The chant, sparked by a debate over the city noise ordinance, would prove sadly prophetic. In March, live music throughout Florida and the nation did die, when the coronavirus pandemic silenced all performing arts.

As many local venues continue to postpone live performances and others inch back cautiously, one Punta Gorda theater will reopen its doors in November. Residents hungry for live performances will find them, with many new precautions in place, at the Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum.

“The night of a show, the museum galleries might be closed but the theater comes to vibrant life,” said theater manager Isaac James. “It’s great to see so many people here, and many of them come back later to tour the museum.”

The 17,000-square-foot, nonprofit Military Heritage Museum opened on West Marion Avenue on April 16, 2019. The Gulf Theater’s first season began there in December, with all proceeds benefiting the museum. Its last two shows, canceled by COVID, have been rescheduled into the 2020-2021 season.

“We have been so blessed to have had so much talent appear on our stage,” James said of their inaugural season. “But it wasn’t only the caliber of the performers. It was the variety of entertainment the Gulf Theater was able to present, all of it family worthy. Many of our shows sold out. I didn’t know the standard could go any higher than that, but this season I’m excited to say that it will.”

Midseason last year, the former lecture hall was also totally renovated. They added hand railings for safety, as well as theatrical sound and lighting, and replaced sound-muffling carpet with a treated concrete floor and a woodplank stage to ensure crystal-clear acoustics.

“We packed the house with last season’s tribute shows,” said James. “It showed us that

Emanne Beasha - Dec. 12

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Yi-Yang Chen - Nov. 15

patrons were really drawn to the variety.”

So, this season’s 15-show lineup is twothirds tributes.

Tribute acts this season include Almost ABBA on Nov. 28, already nearly sold out from last season’s canceled show; on Jan. 30, Never Stop Believin’, a note-for-note double of the 1970s-1980s band Journey; on Feb. 6, The Brooklyn Boys, a two-in-one tribute to Barry Manilow and Neil Diamond; on Feb. 12, The Rat Pack Now, a swinging Vegas-style tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr.; on Feb. 20, Streetlife Serenader, celebrating piano man Billy Joel; on Feb. 26, The Beach Buoys, the Beach Boys surf-sound tribute that sold out last season; on March 6, Beatlemaniax-USA, reprising songs from the Fab Four’s touring and studio years; on March 13, The Caribbean Chillers, who’ll take you straight to Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville; on March 26, The Rocketman, official Elton John double Rus Anderson’s recreation of the young Elton John, with flamboyant costumes actually worn by the star; and, on April 17, the season’s wrapup— Latraia Savage’s twin tribute to The Divas of Soul, Whitney Houston and Donna Summer.

“I’m a concert pianist, so I also love bringing classical music to an audience,” said James. He’s doing just that this season, with three classically tinged performances and two in which he’ll participate.

The season opener on Nov. 15 returns world-class piano virtuoso Yi-Yang Chen to the Gulf Theater roster, after cancellation of his March performance.

One of the season’s biggest shows will be North Port nightingale and America’s Got Talent finalist Emanne Beasha, with A Christmas Wish on Dec. 12. Isaac James will accompany the 12-year-old soprano on piano.

On Jan. 16, soprano Jodi Keogan will belt out The Best of Broadway, effortlessly crossing over from Broadway to classical and big band songs.

On March 20, an exclusive centennial event celebrates Charlotte County’s 1921 founding. All That Jazz, co-produced with the Charlotte County Florida Historical Society, is a narrated concert performed by the Jazz Phools and guest vocalists Kirsten Joyer and Isaac James, with original music, photographs and words of the 1920s.

Letters From Home: Reviving Patriotism brings high-energy USO-style music, from World War II to Vietnam, on stage on April 10.

Nearly sold out last season, it’s the perfect patriotic performance for the Military Heritage Museum.

“This is an intimate setting,” said James.

“Unlike venues seating close to 1,000, we seat only 247. You can see the performers from the back row, not a bad seat in the house.

“I always want to please an audience, to have them leave here glowing because they’ve had such a good time.”

James is also excited to report that, for the first time this season, TT’s Tiki Bar from Punta Gorda’s Four Points by Sheraton will be the theater’s season hospitality sponsor, serving a full cash bar and refreshments at each event.

Artists’ hospitality sponsor Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante will feed performers.

Gulf Theater will fog-sanitize the entire venue and wipe down door handles, railings and armrests before and after each show.

Staff and guests (but not artists) are required to wear masks in the building and throughout the performance. Hand sanitizers and temperature checks at the door. Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum is located at 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda.

For tickets and schedule, go to www.militaryheritagemuseum.org or call 941-205-8545.

The Rocket Man - March 26

Happenings Magazine

MUSIC

Blues concert series starts Nov. 1 at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill

A new blues concert series will be held on Sundays throughout November at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill in Fort Myers.

The series launches Sunday, Nov. 1 with Albert Castiglia. JP Soars will perform Sunday, Nov. 8. The second half of the month will feature Frank Bang on Nov. 22 and Damon Fowler on Nov. 29. All four shows run from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 with $5 off your entree purchase.

As most artists will attest, the most unexpected circumstance can spark artistic inspiration. That’s a fact that hasn’t been lost on singer, songwriter and guitarist extraordinaire Albert Castiglia. With his latest album, the aptly named Masterpiece, he celebrates an unforeseen triumph -- a connection with a daughter he never knew he had. The result is a work that’s both personal and provocative all at the same time.

Castiglia calls this the most meaningful album he’s ever made. “My daughter finding me and opening up my world to an additional family, including two grandchildren, brought out the deepest material I’ve ever created,” he notes, “along with my wife, they were my muses.”

Damon Fowler - Nov. 29

30 - NOVEMBER 2020

Albert Castiglia - Nov. 1

Indeed, songs such as “Keep On Swinging,” “Masterpiece” and “Bring on the Rain” address the unexpected emotions that infused his psyche with the discovery of a family he never knew.

J.P. Soars is soaring high, touring the world after releasing a new studio album last fall, Let Go of the Reins, produced

by Tab Benoit on Benoit’s Whiskey Bayou label. Soars was also nominated for “Blues Rock Artist of the Year” in the 40th annual Blues Music Awards, alongside blues music heavyweights Billy Gibbons, Eric Gales, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Tinsley Ellis, rounding out the blues rock category.

Frank Bang is an energetic musical force … On stage or in studio.

He has 14 current songs on rotation on B. B. Kings Bluesville SiriusXM. After spending time touring with the band Southern Hospitality, Damon Fowler is back with his third solo project for Blind Pig Records, Sounds of Home. Damon chose swamp blues master, Tab Benoit to produce and record him at Tab’s rural Louisiana home studio, and their collaboration has resulted in Damon’s strongest effort to date. The tension between his measured, laid-back vocal delivery and the hallmark intensity of his

JP Soars - Nov. 8

guitar virtuosity has never been keener, and the stories told in his songwriting here – sometimes in collaboration with long-time writing partner Ed Wright and Benoit – exhibit a combination of depth, grace and humor very few of his contemporaries can match.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill is located at 17200 S. Tamiami Trail in Fort Myers.

For more information, call 239-9909901, visit them online at www.coconutfalls.com or follow them on Facebook.

Frank Bang - Nov. 22

Happenings Magazine

Musicians, friends honor

Dave Collaton

Friends, family and musicians gathered Oct. 11 at PeteĘźs Time Out on Fort Myers Beach to celebrate the life of local musician Dave Collaton who died of cancer this past April. Musicians who performed that day included Anthony Wayne, Ronn Daniels, Meagan and Aaron Akulis, Steve Farst, Paul Dever and Mark Kobie.

Meagan Rose and Aaron Akulis

Happenings Magazine

Ronn Daniels

NOVEMBER 2020 - 31

MUSIC

GO Divas include Lauren Davis, Lydia Howery, Lauryn Kay, Daniela Magura, Erika Ramirez and Marie Talley.

GO Divas to perform

three times in November

GO Divas is Gulfshore Opera’s exciting, new, all female, vocal group. Comprised of six beautiful young ladies with finishing degrees in music, they perform a variety of classical vocal ensembles featuring rich harmonies, with piano accompaniment. Their repertoire spans the centuries from sacred works to lovely opera duets and trios to a cappella Swingle Singers arrangements of Beatles songs.

November performances include Mercato in Naples Nov. 1 at 4 p.m.; Divas and Dinner Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. at Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante in Punta Gorda; and Songs of South American Nov. 19 at noon at Breezeway at St. Leo’s in Bonita Springs.

For the November concerts, we want to share the healing power of music – you will hear familiar songs like “You’ve got a Friend,” “Lean on Me” and “With a Little Help from my Friends.” These popular, feel-good melodies are interspersed with beautiful, classical vocal ensembles creating a memorable evening of fine vocal music.

The GO Divas were previously seen at Shangri-La Springs for a sneak preview concert. The group’s premiere concert was scheduled for March of 2020. Since the Covid19 quarantine, the GO Divas have been rehearsing their program and preparing new repertoire for the Opera

32 - NOVEMBER 2020

al fresco concert series.

The GO Divas will be hosting a variety of concerts including a Breezeway Series, Divas & Dinner, and Renaissance Christmas Carols. The Breezeway Series will highlight different members of the GO Divas and showcase their diverse repertoire. “Songs of South America” will feature Venezuelan soprano, Erika Ramirez and Venezuelan classical guitar master, Pablo Gámez.

The GO Divas six-voice ensemble make their official public debut on the outdoor stage at Mercato Sunday afternoon, Nov. 1. The concert will highlight the artistry and versatility of this unique vocal ensemble as they crossover from opera to sophisticated acapella arrangements of Beatles songs. You can also catch them in Punta Gorda at the Divas & Dinner concert at Carmelo's Italian Ristorante (at the patio courtyard) for evening of fine vocal music and great Italian food.

In December, the “Renaissance Christmas Carols” concert will feature early carols and Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols in Renaissance costume and candlelight.

Make a reservation by visiting www.gulfshoreopera.org or calling 239-529-3925.

Happenings Magazine

Heights Foundation concert Nov. 12

The Heights Foundation will host The Heights Party Band concert on Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. at The Heights Center in Fort Myers.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. The evening will include familiar and forgotten favorites, classic rock, country and a little “chaotic spontaneity.”

The party band is a group of rotating highquality local musicians who call The Heights Center home for several concerts each year. Admission is $10 per person and includes complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. The event is sponsored by CRE Consultants and Entech.

The party band is led by Randy Thomas (formerly with Shania Twain, Allies and Sweet Comfort Band). He will head up a professional veteran rock, pop, and country jam. Randy Thomas is best known as the Grammy Award-winning songwriter of the crossover hit “Butterfly Kisses.”

“There are two sides to the band this year, the local side and the Nashville side,” Randy Thomas explains. “The locals include Kevin Kenworthy (formerly with Loretta Lynn) on vocals, keyboards and guitars. Another local, Rob Robinson (producer for Lynyrd Skynyrd), will contribute vocals, keys and guitar work. My

Happenings Magazine

Nashville buddies are Matt Chapman (formerly with Allies) on bass and Steve Latanation (Mark Collie, Agent Orange) on drums and vocals.

I feel like I’m introducing my beloved old buddies to my beloved new buddies.”

Lori Thomas will also join on vocals.

Randy and Lori Thomas perform the country club circuit in Naples and Fort Myers. “When we play country clubs they are dressy and fun, but they are private events,” said Lori Thomas. “The Heights Party Band is a chance to do a mix of singalongs with our friends.

Everyone is invited.”

“This is a band that can pivot on a dime. Everyone is so professional, that the song choices are improvised,” said Randy Thomas. “ Any of us may start a song - unannounced - and the rest follow. The chaotic nature of this band makes it a lot of fun.

We surprise ourselves every year!”

For tickets, visit www.heightsfoundation.org/heightspartyband.

Tickets will also be available at the door. Social distancing precautions will be in place. The Heights Center is located at 15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers. For more info, call 239-482-7706

NOVEMBER 2020 - 33

IN CONCERT

PERFORMANCES IN SW FLORIDA,

SUN COAST & KEY WEST NOV 6

Shenandoah

The Ranch, Fort Myers

NOV 12 Hardy

The Ranch, Fort Myers

DEC 4

Great White, Autograph The Ranch, Fort Myers

38 Special

DEC 9

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Styx

DEC 10

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

DEC 11

38 Special

Key West Amphitheater

DEC 13

For King and Country

Great White

The Great White concert originally planned for Aug. 14 at the Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers has been rescheduled. The new concert date is Dec. 4. Special guests will be Autograph. For tickets and more info, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com

JAN 23

Tony Jackson

FEB 13

Easton Corbin

MAR 5

JAN 30

FEB 19

Firefall, Poco and Pure Prairie League

MAR 6

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

MAR 8

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Allie Colleen

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Hertz Arena, Estero

JAN 31

DEC 19

The Temptations

Steel Panther, Black Stone Cherry The Ranch, Fort Myers

JAN 8, 2021 Air Supply

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

JAN 16

Rosanne Cash

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Due to COVID-19, concert dates subject to change

34 - NOVEMBER 2020

Crystal Gayle

Seminole Casino, Immokalee Key West Amphitheater

FEB 6

Jim Messina

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Tracy Byrd

The Ranch, Fort Myers

David Foster

FEB 8

BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

Jonny Lang

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Christopher Cross

FEB 20

Los Lobos

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

FEB 23

Spyro Gyra

Gino Vannelli

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Slaughter and L.A. Guns

The Guess Who

Seminole Casino, Immokalee

MAR 12

Little River Band

BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

MAR 13

FEB 26

Seminole Casino

Mary Chapin Carpenter Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

FEB 27

Matt Stell

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Immokalee Bluegrass Festival Red Clay Strays

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Collie Buddz

MAR 18

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Happenings Magazine

Shenandoah to play at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon on Nov. 6

The Ranch Concert Hall “Reloaded,” was their high& Saloon welcomes legest debuting album on the endary band Shenandoah Billboard chart of their Nov. 6 as part of the Sam entire career.

Galloway Concert Series.

The updated Sam When country music Galloway Ford Concert lovers talk about the greatSeries welcomes Hardy on est groups in the genre, Nov. 12, Tony Jackson on Shenandoah is always at Jan. 23, Allie Colleen on the forefront of any discusJan. 30, Tracy Byrd on sion. Fueled by Marty Feb. 6, Easton Corbin on Raybon’s distinctive vocals Feb. 13, Matt Stell on Feb. and the band’s skilled musi27, The Red Clay Strays cianship, Shenandoah on March 13, Tracy became well known for Lawrence on March 19, delivering such hits as “Two The LACS and Demun Dozen Roses,” “Church on Jones on April 3 and Craig Cumberland Road” and Morgan on April 10.

“Next to You, Next to Me” Other concerts at The Shenandoah is scheduled to play Nov. 6 at The Ranch Concert Hall. as well as such achingly Ranch Concert Hall (not beautiful classics as “I Want part of the Galloway series) to be Loved Like That” and the Grammy winning “Somewhere in include Great White and Autograph on Dec. 4, Kash’D Out and the Vicinity of the Heart” duet with Alison Krauss.

Tropidelic On Dec. 10, Steel Panther and Black Stone Cherry on Shenandoah has recorded 10 studio albums (three certified Dec. 19, ZOSO The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience on Jan. gold) and placed 26 singles on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs 16, Slaughter with L.A. Guns on March 6, Collie Buddz, chart. The boys from Muscle Shoals have left a potent legacy at Keznamdi and 4th & Orange on March 18 and Mike Tramp and country radio with over a dozen #1 records.

John Corabi on May 25.

The group recently signed a recording deal with BMG and Schedules are changing constantly and ticket buyers are released their first new album in two decades to celebrate their advised to always check with the venue before the event.

30th anniversary. Shenandoah premiered the debut single off the For tickets & details, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com. The album, “Noise,” on SiriusXM and marked their first release to Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839. For most concerts, the radio in 20 years. The track is produced by Jay DeMarcus of doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Rascal Flatts and hit the top 30 at radio. The new album, Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

Drive-in concert features For King and Country

Four-time Grammy Award-winning duo and Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist For King & Country announced A Drummer Boy Drive-In: The Christmas Tour to celebrate the duo’s first Christmas album A Drummer Boy Christmas.

The tour, which gets underway on Nov. 12, includes a stop at Hertz Arena in Estero on Dec. 13.

For King & Country will partner with The Salvation Army for a national toy drive that asks concertgoers to bring new, unwrapped toys that will be collected by representatives from the local Salvation Army and distributed to families struggling during the holiday season. Visit Rescue Christmas to learn more.

“It’s been a difficult year for so many,” said Joel Smallbone of For King & Country. “Now Happenings Magazine

For King and Country photo by Robby Klein

more than ever, we felt compelled to get out on the road in a safe and socially distanced way to spread the joy and spirit of Christmas in the best way we know – by sharing a night of music celebrating the greatest hope the world has ever known.

But we didn’t want the night to end after the last car leaves the parking lot, so we chose to partner with The Salvation Army and their Rescue Christmas Campaign – to bring toys to families unable to afford them."

With the current pandemic presenting unique challenges to touring musicians, A Drummer Boy Drive-In: The Christmas Tour will see For King & Country performing in drive-in settings across the United States, with safe, socially distanced concerts under the stars.

For tickets, visit www.hertzarena.com.

NOVEMBER 2020 - 35

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Boat show Nov. 12 - 15 The 48th Annual Fort Myers Boat Show once again takes over the historic downtown riverfront Nov. 12 Nov. 15.

From Centennial Park to the Fort Myers City Yacht Basin, boats of all styles and sizes will be displayed on land, indoors and in the water.

Hundreds of accessory exhibits feature everything from engines and electronics to boat lifts, boating services, fishing gear, clothing and just about anything else you might need on the water.

After three years of construction, the long-awaited Luminary Hotel and the totally refurbished Caloosa Sound Convention Center are open. You can make a weekend of your visit, stay right on the show grounds, enjoy a great show and the good times that

36 - NOVEMBER 2020

the River District offers.

In light of the Covid 19 virus, the Fort Myers Boat Show is taking preparations for safety and sanitation very seriously. Most of the event is outdoors, allowing plenty of room for social distancing. Indoors, the floor plan is designed with wider aisles to keep everyone safe. There will be frequent hand sanitizing stations along with show staff monitoring entrances, exits and other high traffic points to maintain distancing requirements.

This is the largest display of boats, boating products and services on Florida’s west coast, featuring more than 600 boats on land and in water, representing over 130 manufacturers.

It is also one of the most beautiful settings for a show in the country. Set

on the Caloosahatchee River, exhibits wind along the river, through Centennial Park and Edwards Drive, through the newly renovated Calusa Sound Convention Center and to the City Yacht Basin. Whether you are in the market for a boat, looking to repower or upgrade your current boat, or just want to see what’s new, you will find what you are looking for at this show.

Online tickets will be available in the near future. Admission is $16 (children under 16 are free with paid adult).

Boat show hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday – Saturday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday.

For more details, visit www.goboatingflorida.com/boatingshows/2020-fort-myers-boat-show/ Happenings Magazine

“The Uncertainty of Tomorrow,” an art installation by Cesar Aguilera, was unveiled Oct. 9 behind the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center. “Dedicated in loving memory to Berne Davis,” the art installation was made possible by the financial support of Wilkinson Title Agency Inc.

Happenings Magazine

NOVEMBER 2020 - 37

Festival of Trees Dec. 3 - 6 FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Presented by Sullivan Benefits, Festival of Trees is a huge holiday event downtown where these beautiful trees are decorated and filled with presents by local businesses to help raise money for Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida and the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. See these festive creations for just $2 per person, beginning on Dec. 3.

The trees will be raffled. Each raffle winner will be notified and receive the decorated tree, and all gifts beneath!

This includes delivery and set up in your home or office. Raffle tickets are $10 each or three for $25. The value of each tree is over $1,500. Admission is $2 for Festival of Trees viewing (children 5 and under are free.)

Plus, take part in the fun with the whole family at Santa’s Block Party - A not to be missed Festival of Trees favorite. Santa’s Workshop is an opportunity for kids to create holiday art, color Christmas and holiday cards, decorate yummy cookies from Publix Super Market, and build a wooden craft too!

Kids will also get to write letters to Santa and military service members.

Santa’s Block Party/workshop is $6.

Also Friday and Saturday nights,

The Danny Sinoff Trio will perform Saturday, Dec. 5 photo by Ken Franckling there will be free outdoor concerts with the Nowhere Band and the Danny Sinoff Trio, and so much more.

Don’t miss the most wonderful

event of the year celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.

For more information, visit www.sbdac.com/festival-of-trees/ or call 239-333-1933.

Festival schedule THURSDAY 11 am - 9 pm

FRIDAY 11 am - 11 pm Wreath lighting and holiday concert with The Nowhere Band (Beatles tribute band) beginning at 7 pm SATURDAY 10 am – 11 pm Santaʼs Block Party 10 am – 2 pm Danny Sinoff Trio 7:30 - 10 pm

38 - NOVEMBER 2020

SUNDAY 11 am - 6 pm Raffle drawing at 4 pm (Winners will be notified by phone if not present)

Happenings Magazine

Dean Park Holiday Stroll planned for Dec. 5 - 25

Instead of its house tour, Dean Park will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year with an outside event.

A self-guided walking tour of Dean Park will be held Dec. 5 - 25 with suggested hours of 9 am to 9 pm. A Dean Park Holiday Stroll walking tour brochure -- to include a street map and capsule summaries of more than 40 Dean Park homes -- will be available at the Triangle Park (corner of Cranford Avenue and Providence Street) during the Holiday Stroll period.

The event is free.

Dean Park Historic District is postponing its 100th Anniversary Historic House Tour until further notice.

The tour had originally been scheduled for March 28, then postponed to Dec. 5, due to the coronavirus

pandemic.

Dean Park, one of the oldest subdivisions in Fort Myers, officially came into being on May 1, 1920, when John Morgan Dean filed the “Dean’s Subdivision” map with the Lee County Clerk of the Court. The map shows 91 lots, with streets named “Rhode Island” after Dean’s home state and “Providence after his hometown.

"It would have been wonderful to make this a part of Dean Park's 100th Anniversary Celebration," said Sheila Pastor, co-chair of the tour, "and we know that it will be a great event when the pandemic is at last behind us.”

For further information on Dean Park and updates on a new house tour date, see www.deanpark.org.

Edison and Ford to host annual Garden Festival

On Nov. 21 and 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual fall Garden Festival.

More than 40 garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have tropical and native plants and trees for sale. The festival is sponsored by Humana and Best Value, and will also feature food trucks, beer and live music.

"If you're looking for a really unique plant that you don't already have, this is the place to find it," said Debbie Hughes, horticulture director with Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

"Vendors and staff will be Happenings Magazine

available to answer questions and help visitors find plants for their gardens."

All visitors attending the festival will be required to wear a mask. A limited number of carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants. A designated plant holding tent and loading spot will be offered for anyone needing assistance.

Parking and admission to the festival are free (tours of the homes, museum and lab are not included).

For more information, call 239-334-7419 or visit online at www.edisonford.org.

NOVEMBER 2020 - 39

NOVEMBER CALENDAR SUN - 1

THU - 5

Mamma Mia! Through Nov. 14 Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Capt. Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Wake Me After Midnight Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 3 p.m., 239-772-5862

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

GO Divas Concert Mercato Open Stage, Naples 4 p.m., tickets $45, 239-529-3925 www.gulfshoreopera.org

Deb and the Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

Left Bank Art Fest Esplanade Shoppes, 740 North Collier Blvd., Marco Island 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 239-537-5921 Albert Castiglia Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901 Wang Chamber Music Series: Auric & Shostakovich Hayes Hall, Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 3 & 7 p.m., 239-597-1900 Naples Open Air Fine Art Show Naples Italian-American Club, 7035 Airport Pulling Road 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., parking $5 www.hotworks.org Baker Museum opens for season Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples closed Mondays and holidays 239-597-1900 Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141

HotWorks.org presents the Naples Open Air Fine Art Show Saturday, Oct. 31 and Sunday, Nov. 1 at the Naples ItalianAmerican Club, 7035 Airport Pulling Road. The art show runs 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days. Admission is free, and parking is $5. Pictured is a sculpture by Scot Buccina.

MON -2 TGIM Indie Movie Mondays Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show 7 p.m.

239-333-1933

TUE - 3

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

wright plumbing

THE

Serving Lee County

239-628-7700

40 - NOVEMBER 2020

CO. LLC lic. # CFC 05 66 69

WED - 4

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra & Kenny Washington Hayes Hall, Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 5:30 & 8:30 p.m., 239-597-1900 Art Alive Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours Meet the artists, celebrate the art and bring home unique treasures for your home. Look for the magenta and white art flags. 4 – 8 p.m. www.NaplesArtDistrict.com for directions

Little Eddie & The Fat Fingers Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. on the Mercato event lawn, bring chairs www.mercatoshops.com Go For It exhibit Nov. 5 – Dec. 7 Cape Coral Art League, 516 Cultural Park Blvd. Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., 239-772-5657

FRI - 6

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Shenandoah The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Patty Sole exhibit, 5 - 8 p.m.

239-337-5050 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Mike Imbasciani and His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Due to COVID-19, events are subject to change.

Please check before attending.

Happenings Magazine

Alex Lago exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers, 6 - 9:30 p.m., 239-590-8645 The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Beth Carter Bell exhibit Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Opening 6 - 10 p.m. On display through Nov. 26. 239-333-1933 Natural, Technological and Sociological Wonders 2020 Traveling Exhibit Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Opening 6 - 10 p.m. On display through Nov. 26. 239-333-1933 Divas Through The Decades Friday - Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Charlotte Players: Mom’s Gift Friday - Sunday Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022

Happenings Magazine

Iconic Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

Joel Fry Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

SAT - 7

Kyle Anne on the Bravo Green Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6 - 8 p.m. www.mercatoshops.com

CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Art in the Park Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesart.org Misty Morning Music Fest 11810 Misty Morning Lane, Fort Myers, Cody Weaver Band, Sheena Brook, food trucks, gates open at noon, close at 6 p.m., rain or shine, 239-246-3118 www.theranchfortmyers.com Tiger Blue Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Nostal Jah The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Gulf Coast Symphony Classical 101: The Three B’s Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m.

239-481-4849 Babcock Ranch Art Show Founder’s Square, 42850 Crescent Loop, Babcock Ranch,Punta Gorda 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.BabcockRanchArtShow.com Assisted Living: The Musical The Home...for the Holidays Hayes Hall, Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 3 & 8 p.m., comedy team of Compton and Bennett, 239-597-1900 Gulfshore Playhouse presents Higher Nov. 7 - 29 Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples, 239-261-7529 www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org

WINK Taste of Lee Saturday and Sunday Downtown Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m Sunday, $10 admission, 12 & under free 239-214-6009

SUN - 8

JP Soars Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901 Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141

MON - 9

Gulfshore Playhouse Broadway Cabaret-Laura Osnez Monday & Tuesday Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples, 7:30 p.m., 239-261-7529 www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org

TUE - 10

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

NOVEMBER 2020 - 41

NOVEMBER CALENDAR TUE - 10 CONTINUED

Soulixer Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

The Naples Players Drive-In Movie Night: The Wizard of Oz Nov. 10 & 11 The events are hosted in the 50-car lot located at 300 8th Street S., just north of the 5th Avenue South home of The Naples Players community theatre. Soundtracks will be broadcast over short-range FM radio. 8 p.m. Tickets in advance. www.naplesplayers.org

The Importance of Being Earnest Thursday - Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Annual Fort Myers Boat Show Nov. 12 - 15 Downtown Fort Myers www.goboatingflorida.com

WED - 11

Evening on 5th 5th Avenue South, Naples An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of 5th Avenue South, plus dining, shopping and more.

6:30 - 9:30 p.m. 239-692-8436

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Chasing Denver Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Pete Seeger tribute Through Nov. 15 Players Circle at The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 239-800-3292 www.playerscircle.org

THU - 12

The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical Through Dec. 26 Off Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

42 - NOVEMBER 2020

Charlotte Players: Mom’s Gift Thursday - Sunday Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022 Creative Threads exhibit opens Nov. 7 at the new Dunham Family Gallery at BIG ARTS on Sanibel. The exhibit features works by Sally Dutko, Bonnie Langenfeld and Angela Scozzari and runs through Dec. 13. Above is “Holding It All Together” by Sally Dutko.

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

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

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

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

The Heights Party Band The Heights Center, 15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-482-7706

FRI - 13

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Yappy Hour Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 6 - 8 p.m., 239-489-1221

Happenings Magazine

Torched Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

SAT - 14

CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Not Guilty Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 KISS America tribute Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Craft Show Cambier Park 580 8th Street South, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesartcrafters.com Peter Kolter on the Bravo Green Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6 - 8 p.m. www.mercatoshops.com Gulf Coast Symphony At the Movies: The Greatest Musical Films Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Annual Classic Car Show Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parking will be at the Walmart Supercenter, 6650 Collier Blvd., with free shuttles (masks required on shuttles).

Admission is $10 for adults and youth 13 and older, and free for children ages 12 and younger.

239-530-5972

SUN - 15

Festival of Lights Holiday Showcase Through Dec. 31 Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Esplanade, Punta Gorda 1-800-639-0020 AJ Mullins benefit Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers noon - 8 p.m. 239-990-9901 Pianist Yi-Yang Chen Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum, 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, 4 p.m., $25 941-205-8545 Gulfshore Opera Divas & Dinner Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante, 321 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda 5 p.m., Tickets $75, 239-529-3925 www.gulfshoreopera.org

MON - 16

Gulfshore Playhouse: Broadway Cabaret - Kissy Simmons Monday & Tuesday Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples, 7:30 p.m., 239-261-7529 www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org

TUE - 17

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

WED - 18

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

THU - 19

Bike Night The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, Classic rock by Torched, 5 - 9 p.m., 239-995-2141

Limited Edition Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454

Holiday Inn Through Dec. 26 Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141

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

Happenings Magazine

NOVEMBER 2020 - 43

NOVEMBER CALENDAR THU - 19 CONTINUED

Capt. Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Deb and the Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Gulfshore Opera Songs of South America Breezeway at St. Leo’s, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs Noon, tickets $25, 239-529-3925 www.gulfshoreopera.org Third Thursday Wine Walk (formerly Alive After Five) Downtown Punta Gorda 5 to 8 p.m. 941-391-4856 Art and Poetry Networking Event Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Gulf Coast Leisure, 8 - 11 p.m.

239-333-1933 The Importance of Being Earnest Thursday - Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Art & Design Expo Nov. 19 - 22 Naples Art District Watch original art in the making; artists will be offering live demonstrations and special opportunities to purchase the original art created during the expo. You will also be able to visit neighboring designers and home decor showrooms to discover the latest design trends. www.NaplesArtDistrict.com 239-247-1977

FRI - 20

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Boots for Badges concert The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., Jolie Holliday and Sonny Burgess, opener is a Jason Aldean tribute artist 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com 44 - NOVEMBER 2020

The annual Holiday Lights opens Nov. 27 at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers and runs through Jan. 3. For tickets and information, call 239-334-7419 or online at www.edisonford.org.

New York Philharmonic String Quartet Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show 7:30 p.m.

239-333-1933

SAT - 21

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

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

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

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

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

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

Delta Crossing Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901

Neon Summer Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Rhythm on the River: Peace of Woodstock Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 6 p.m. 239-334-7419 www.edisonford.org

Al Holland benefit concert and celebration of life Hurricane Charley’s Raw Bar & Grill, 300 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, 7 - 10 p.m.

941-639-9695 Kyle Anne on the Bravo Green Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6 - 8 p.m. www.mercatoshops.com Gulf Coast Symphony: The Mark Wood Rock Symphony Experience Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m. 239-481-4849

Annual Garden Festival Nov. 21 and 22 Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

239-334-7419 www.edisonford.org

SUN - 22

Thunder Bay Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Frank Bang Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901 Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141

MON - 23

Gulfshore Playhouse: Broadway Cabaret - Lora Lee Gayer Monday & Tuesday Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples, 7:30 p.m., 239-261-7529 www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org

Happenings Magazine

TUE - 24

The Naples Players Drive-In Movie Night: The Goonies Nov. 24 & 25 The events are hosted in the 50-car lot located at 300 8th Street S., just north of the 5th Avenue South home of The Naples Players community theatre. Soundtracks will be broadcast over short-range FM radio. 8 p.m. Tickets in advance. www.naplesplayers.org Sound Machine with Larry Wells The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

WED - 25

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Lucky Buzzards The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Cadillac Blue Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Off the Wall exhibit Nov. 25 – Dec. 19 Visual Arts Center, 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda, 941-639-8810 www.visualartcenter.org

THU - 26

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Capt. Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

FRI - 27

The Studio Players: Circle Mirror Transformation Nov. 27 – Dec. 13 Joan Jenks Auditorium, Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples 239-398-9192 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Flora Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Bike Night - Soapy Tuna Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 8 - 11 p.m. 239-990-9901

SAT - 28

CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Iconic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Spin Zone The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Powerhouse Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-990-9901 Kyle Anne on the Bravo Green Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6 - 8 p.m. www.mercatoshops.com Almost ABBA tribute show Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum, 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, 7 p.m. 941-205-8545

SUN - 29

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

Collaboration Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454

Holiday Nights Opening Night Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 6 p.m. 239-334-7419 www.edisonford.org

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

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

Sypert Salon Series: Beethoven and His Influence Hayes Hall, Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 3 & 7 p.m., 239-597-1900 NOVEMBER 2020 - 45

DINING

IN

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill

We are a family owned tiki bar and grill.

We are committed to creating an atmosphere where you can have a mini vacation. We offer a wide range of American food with a tropical twist including appetizers, salads, wings, a mac bar, our signature coconut bowl, sandwiches, pasta and of course tropical themed dinner plates. We are introducing catering, as well as a buffet. 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

Ichiban Japanese & Chinese

Located at the entrance to the Hotel Indigo, we offer a wide selection of Japanese and Chinese menu items.

Stop by for lunch or dinner. They are open six days a week (closed Sundays).

1520 Broadway, #105, Downtown Fort Myers 239-334-6991 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com

Pinchers

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 13 Florida locations www.pinchersusa.com

46 - NOVEMBER 2020

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee’s EE-TO-LEETKE Grill enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections. The interior design of the EE-TO-LEETKE 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

Southern Grill

The Southern Grill at the Shell Factory is a full restaurant including liquor, beer and wine. We have an outdoor bar and party venue. There is no entry fee to get into the Shell Factory store or restaurants.

Parking is FREE. While you are here visit the Nature Park, Fun Park, Carousel and Soaring Eagle Zipline.

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

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort

There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort.

Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days. Kitchen open late.

1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 239-540-8454 www.dolphinkeyresort.com

Happenings Magazine

Taste of the Islands passport on sale

Taste of the Islands passports are now available for purchase at select locations on and off the island or can be purchased online for pickup at a designated “Will Call” location.

In lieu of an admission to the event, participants can purchase a “Taste Passport” with a listing and map of participating restaurants along with the selection of items offered by each restaurant. Restaurants will stamp or punch the passport so patrons can track their progress. Only passport holders are eligible to vote for their favorite restaurant to win the coveted “People’s Choice Award.” Turn-in your ballot and you will also be entered into a drawing for fabulous prizes including vacation stays, jewelry, gift certificates and more.

“Look at this Taste as a marathon not a sprint,” says Alison Charney Hussey, executive director for CROW. “I challenge our supporters to meet me over a menu and visit every restaurant during the month just as I intend to do. It may take 30 days to visit all 30 restaurants but I believe it can be done!”

Passports are now available for purchase at CROW’s Visitor Education Center, all Bank of the Islands and Edison National Bank locations, Bailey’s General Store locations, and Huxter’s Market & Deli.

Happenings Magazine

Diners can also purchase their passport at any of the participating restaurants throughout November or purchase them online at www.CROWClinic.org for pick up at the Sanibel Captiva Chamber of Commerce or CROW’s Visitor Education Center.

The 39th Taste of the Islands kicks off on Nov. 1. Each participating restaurant will be offering their “Taste” items to showcase their cuisine throughout the month of November. A portion of the proceeds from those designated food and beverage “Tastes” sold will be donated to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). “Taste” items are available to diners to enjoy in person or be ordered for take-out to be enjoyed at home.

“The health and safety of our community is a top priority,” says Hussey. “We are excited to be able to encourage diners to come to the islands and visit the restaurants, but also encourage carry-out options for those who want to support the event while social distancing to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19.”

For hungry patrons visiting the restaurants, every Sunday from noon until 4 p.m., a ‘CROW CRAWL’ will feature restaurants in different areas of the islands. CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be in the CROW tent in front of one of the restaurants, with Taste of the Islands sponsors featured outside other restaurants in the region. Although each restaurant is featured on one Sunday, diners can visit all of the restaurants and order their menu items at any time in November.

The first CROW CRAWL on Nov. 1 will feature restaurants on Captiva. A complete list of restaurants and each Sunday’s CROW CRAWL is on CROW’s website.

Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank has returned as the presenting sponsor. This is the 11th year in a row that the bank has led the sponsorship for CROW’s signature fundraiser.

Event sponsors also include FOX 4 as lead media sponsor; The Silverman Organization and VCA Sanibel Animal Hospital as executive chef sponsors; Jensen’s Marina & Cottages, The Inns of Sanibel, Rapid Response Team of Fort Myers and Royal Shell as sous chef sponsors, and Happenings Magazine, News-Press/LocalIQ, Island Sun & River Weekly Newspapers, The Sanibel Islander/Island Reporter and Santiva Chronicle as supporting media sponsors.

For more information, visit www.crowclinic.org/articles/39th-taste-of-theislands and RSVP on the Taste of the Islands Facebook event page for live videos from restaurants, judging and more.

Participating restaurants

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) has announced the 31 restaurants participating in the 39th Taste of the Islands this November.

Every Sunday from noon until 4 p.m., a CROW CRAWL will feature restaurants in different areas of the islands for hungry patrons to visit.

Participating restaurants:

November 1:

Crow’s Nest Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Captiva The Green Flash Lazy Flamingo The Mucky Duck Old Captiva House Sunset Grill

November 8:

Great White Grill Love Boat Ice Cream The Pecking Order Fried Chicken and Pies Sanibel Deli T2 The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market

November 15:

Blue Giraffe Island Pizza Company MudBugs Cajun Kitchen Sanibel Fish House Sweet Melissa’s Café Traders

November 22:

The Clam Shack Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Sanibel Joey’s Custard Normandie Seaside Cafe Spoondrift Island Bowls Thistle Lodge Beachfront Restaurant

November 29:

Cielo Lazy Flamingo II Matzaluna’s Italian Kitchen Sanibel Fresh Seabreeze Café Tipsy Turtle Restaurant & Bar NOVEMBER 2020 - 47