Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Comedy • Music
OCTOBER 2019
PUMPTOBER-FEST AT BELL TOWER
OKTOBERFESTS
FREE
HERE COME THE
MUMMIES
AT SEMINOLE CASINO
IN SW FLORIDA
STONE CRAB
FEST IN NAPLES PUNKIN PALOOZA
AT FLEAMASTERS
BREW-HA-HA AT MERCATO
Naples • Fort Myers • Cape Coral • Port Charlotte • Key West
Publisher’s Spotlight
Curtain goes up
The house lights dim and the curtain rises on another wonderful season of live theatre in Southwest Florida. In Bonita Springs, the Center for the Arts presents Cause and Affection on stage Oct. 24 - 27. Laboratory Theater of Florida’s production of The Crucible runs now through Oct. 12 in Fort Myers. At the end of the month, Lab Theater will present Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man Oct. 25 through Nov. 16. New Phoenix Theatre in Fort Myers kicks off its second season with Rocky Horror Show. This will be performed live on stage Oct. 3 - 31. In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater continues its run of Ghost in the Meadow now through Oct. 6. After that, they will present On Golden Pond Oct. 25 through Nov. 3 Dames at Sea continues at the Off Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers through Nov. 2. Always ... Patsy Cline is being performed at the Florida Repertory Theatre in Fort Myers now through Nov. 24. The Charlotte Players present Mama Won’t Fly Oct. 11 - 20 at the Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte. Mystery Cycles will be on stage Oct. 25 through Nov. 3 at the FGCU Lab Theatre. This performance includes four short Medieval plays. The Broadway musical Finding Neverland opens Oct. 3 at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers and plays through Nov. 16. In Naples, Gulfshore Playhouse begins its new season with Bedlam’s Saint Joan Oct. 19 through Nov. 3 at The Norris Center. Engagement Rules continues its run at Theatre Conspiracy in Fort Myers through Oct. 6. That production will be followed by Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche Oct. 24 through Nov. 3. The Studio Players present Church & State Oct. 4 - 20 at the Golden Gate Community Center in Naples. The Naples Players bring The Great Gatsby to the stage Oct. 2 - 27. In other local theatre news, the Alliance for the Arts and Broadway Palm announce the debut of the Fringe Fort Myers Festival in April of next year.
4 - October 2019
Fall festivals
As temperatures dip a little and the seasonal calendar officially turns to fall, we see an abundance of outdoor festivals in October. These great events feature a variety of unique beverages, live music, tasty cuisine and more. The month starts with Oktoberfest at Fort Myers Brewery Oct. 3 - 6. Bell Tower in Fort Myers will host its annual Pumptober Fest Oct. 5. Experience two weekends of fun at the Punkin Palooza Oct. 11 - 13 and Oct. 18 - 20 at Fleamasters Fleamarket in Fort Myers. The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers hosts its annual Nam Jam Oct. 13. The Brew-Ha-Ha Craft Beer Festival takes place Oct. 19 at Mercato in Naples. The German American Social Club of Cape Coral hosts its 34th annual Oktoberfest Oct. 18 - 20 & Oct. 25 - 27. The 10th annual Stone Crab Festival is Oct. 25 - 27 in Naples. The Big Orange Music Festival takes place Oct. 26 at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda. A new Oktoberfest will debut in the Fort Myers River District Oct. 25 - 27. And don’t forget the first bike night of the season is Oct. 12 in Cape Coral. Just around the corner in November we will have some more great festivals. Save the date for the brand new Coral Head Music Festival in Pinellas Park Nov. 2, CROW’s Taste of the Islands Nov. 10 on Sanibel and the Cape Coral Coconut Festival Nov. 7 - 10 ... just to name a few.
Concert announcements
Wow, have we had some great concerts announced lately. Here’s just a sampling of what’s on the schedule so far: Casey Donahew Band, Mitchell Tenpenny, Billy Currington, Wynonna & The Big Noise, Blackberry Smoke, Allman Betts Band, Here Come the Mummies, Sebastian Bach, Josh Abbott Band, Vince Neil, Walker Hayes, Iron Butterfly, Randy Houser, Tanya Tucker, Jon Secada, Charlie Daniels and more. As always, turn to our website for daily update on area concerts. Rock on,
Jamie
IN THIS ISSUE
theatre
6
art
20
music
42
dining
66 Publishers & Owners
Jamie & Kathy Kuser
Contributors: Holly Zammerilla, Michael Moran, Kathy Kuser, Bob Williams Advertising sales: Jamie Kuser & Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Distribution: Jeff Morrill & Aley Enterprises Happenings A&E Magazine is owned, published & distributed monthly in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties by KMK Publishing Inc.
MAILING ADDRESS:
PO Box 9285, Fort Myers, FL 33902
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Happenings Magazine
THEATRE
Rocky Horror Show
at New Phoenix Theatre
New Phoenix Theater opens its new season with Rocky Horror Show on stage Oct. 3 – 31. Written by Richard O’Brien, Rocky Horror Show will be performed live at Fort Myers’ newest theatrical venue, located at 13211 McGregor Blvd., units 1 and 2. The local cast includes Brian Linthicum as the narrator, Eren Sisk as the Popcorn Girl, Cameron Rogers as Brad Majors, Gabrielle Lansden as Janet Weiss, Sam Bostic as Riff Raff, Nikki Hagel as Magenta, Joseph Bostic as Frank n Furter, Shelley Sanders as Colombia, Chris Heartwell as Rocky Horror, Tracy Meier (Trace) as Dr. Scott, Lisa Kuchinski, Sage Meyers and Eren Sisk as Phantoms. Directed by Brenda Kensler, the production and music direction is by Lee Blackston and Andrea Roccella. Stage manager is Yvonne Shadrach. Performances will be Oct. 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 and 31 at 8 p.m.; and Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 3 p.m. The 2019-20 season for New 6 - September 2019
Phoenix Theatre also includes Inspecting Carol by Daniel Sullivan Dec. 5 – 22; Time Stands Still by Donald Margulies Jan. 16 – Feb. 2; The Full Monty with book by Terrence McNally and music and lyrics by David Yazbek Feb. 27 – March 22; Lips Together, Teeth Apart by Terrence McNally April 16 – May 3; and Meteor Shower by Steve Martin May 28 - June 14. For tickets and more information, visit online at www.newphoenixtheatrefortmyers.org or call 239-284-5214.
Happenings Magazine
Ghost in the Meadow, On Golden Pond at the Cultural Park Theater
By Michael Moran From a haunted country house to the cabin at Golden Pond, laughs abound on the Cultural Park stage in October. First up is Joe Simonelli’s The Ghost in the Meadow, under the direction of Joy Ursillo, which follows two sisters, Sheila and Kylie Roberts, who move from the bustling streets of New York City to a rural country relic of a house. Three hours away from their previous lives, Sheila hopes to focus on her career as a painter while Kylie tries to understand Sheila’s fascination with the rundown house. Despite the houses decrepit condition, Sheila finds inspiration within the peeling wallpapered walls of the third floor guest room. But when her boyfriend, Julian Shaw, visits for the weekend, despite Sheila’s desired separation, strange occurrences start happening in her favorite room, poor Sheila finds herself over her head in spooks, apparitions, and complicated relationships. With the spirit of the forsaken boy appearing in the meadow outback and apparitions lingering outside Sheila’s third story window, not to mention strange noises coming from the locked attic, how is an artist supposed to work? Then, at Julian’s request, arrives Antoinette Owens, psychic extraordinaire, to help them get to the bottom of this country haunting and, hopefully, make it through the weekend. A mystery combined with laughter will surely fill the night with fun. The Ghost in the Meadow is on stage Sept. 27 – 29 and Oct. 4 - 6. As an added treat for our Happenings Magazine
patrons, playwright Joe Simonelli will be visiting the Florida premier of Ghost and do a question and answer talk right after the Oct. 6 performance. Opening Oct. 25 and running through Nov. 3, is the story of a cantankerous curmudgeon, his resentful daughter and her search for love. It must be it must be the classic On Golden Pond. The Cultural Park Theater’s production of Ernest Thompson’s 1979 play opens nearly four decades after Henry Fonda and Katherine Hepburn won Oscars for their roles in the film adaptation. The story remains a poignant tale of aging and love lost and found. Despite the serious underpinnings—poor parenting, dementia, death—the script is full of humor, which the veteran cast makes deft use of, for example, Norman’s interrogation of the new boyfriend feels effortlessly, cringingly, laughably awful. On Golden Pond is the directorial debut for Gwen Salata. "I like to think this show teaches us never to forget to show love to those about whom you care because it might be the last time you have the chance to do it,” she reminds the audience. Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. Cape Coral. Tickets cost $22 for adults, and $10 for children under 1, $16, students with ID and $19 for seniors. For further information or to purchase tickets, call 239-7725862. Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company.
October 2019 - 7
THEATRE
Top row, from left to right, are Collin Yates as Dick, Victor Legarreta as Captain and A.J. Foggiano as Lucky; bottom row, from left to right, are Shannon Conboy as Ruby, Amy Marie McCleary as Mona and Sami Doherty as Joan.
Dames at Sea
at Off Broadway Palm
The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents Dames At Sea playing now through Nov. 2. This long-running Off Broadway production that brought stardom to Bernadette Peters is a campy show based on the nostalgia of Hollywood musicals of the ‘30s. Dames at Sea is a tap-happy musical parody of the golden era of Hollywood musicals. Ruby heads to New York to become the next Broadway star, but after landing a job in the chorus, her dreams are almost shattered when the theatre is set for demolition. With the help of two sailors, the show is moved to their ship and when the leading lady becomes sick, Ruby has the chance to jump in and save the day. Hear “Broadway Baby,” “Choo-Choo Honeymoon,” “Dames at Sea” and more 8 - October 2019
Directing Dames at Sea is the Off Broadway Palm’s artistic director Paul Bernier, and choreography is by Amy Marie McCleary. The cast includes Broadway Palm favorites Sami Doherty as Joan, Amy Marie McCleary as Mona and Victor Legarreta as Hennessey/Captain. Also in the performance will be Shannon Conboy, AJ Foggiano and Collin Yates. The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate 100-seat theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $42 to $62 with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Happenings Magazine
CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY
The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s
BROADWAY SERIES
Pictured are (back, rom left) Isabel Isenhower and Ruthgena Augustin; (front, from left) Emmie Spiller, Kinley Gomez, and Madeline Brown.
The Ghost in the Meadow
The Crucible on stage through Oct. 12 at Laboratory Theater
Arthur Miller’s The Crucible opened the 11th season at The Laboratory Theater of Florida Sept. 20.Things take a deadly turn when Reverend Parris finds a number of young women inappropriately dancing in the forest. To save themselves from punishment, they claim they’ve been bewitched by various townspeople. Once these girls, who have never had any voice or control, get a taste of the power that their claims wield, is there anything they won’t do to get everything they desire? The Crucible is as relevant today as it was when it was first released in 1953, not long after the playwright had himself had been accused of unAmerican activities and communism by the McCarthy Commission. Assistant director Kendra Weaver says, “The theme of this play can be paralleled to any time frame, whether it is 1692 or 2019. The Crucible is now!!" Artistic director Annette Trossbach adds, “I would like to thank Robert Hilliard for his guidance and urging for the theater to produce this awardwinning play by Arthur Miller. It is a great honor and a challenge to direct such a seminal, time-honored,and award-winning show. It has dramatic, supernatural, heart-wrenching, comedic, and profound moments that are expertly woven into a story that continues to have meaningful impact Happenings Magazine
in our modern times. I am blessed to be working with an outrageously talented cast and crew, each member of which had this play in his or her bucket list.” The play features Steven Coe, Imani Williams, Paul Graffy, Melanie Payne, TJ Albertson, Kinley Gomez, Casey Davis, Lauren Miller, Todd Lyman, Ruthgena Augustin, Patrick Ashton, Art Keen, Daniel Sabiston, Heather Johnson, Mike Dinko, Corey Kane, Isabel Isenhower, Elizabeth Mora, Emmie Spiller, and Tamicka Armstrong. Directed by Annette Trossbach, the production team also includes assistant directors Rachel Burttram Powers and Kendra Weaver, stage manager Misha Ritter Polomsky, set designer Michael Eyth, light and sound designer Jonathan Johnson, costume designer Kristen Wilson and stage combat by Annette Trossbach. The Crucible plays now through Oct. 12. Remaining performance dates are Sept. 26, 27, 28 and Oct. 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8 p.m., and Sept. 29, Oct. 6, 12 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at www.Brownpapertickets.com or by calling the box office at 239-218-0481. For additional savings, guests may purchase a 2019-2020 season pass. For more info, visit online at www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida .com or 1634 Woodford Ave. in the River District.
SEPT. 27 to OCT. 6
Oct. 25 to Nov. 3
Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral
CALL FOR
TICKETS
239-772-5862
www.CulturalParkTheater.com
October 2019 - 9
THEATRE
Bethany Gwen Perkins as Patsy Cline Photo by Joe Dafeldecker
Florida Rep extends Always...Patsy Cline
Florida Repertory Theatre kicked off its new season Sept. 27 with the opening of Always...Patsy Cline in the ArtStage Studio Theatre. Created and originally directed by Ted Swindley, Always...Patsy Cline plays to Nov. 24. This heartfelt and compelling true story celebrates the most popular female country singer in recording history and is told through the eyes of her biggest fan and unlikely best friend, Louise Seger. Patsy Cline’s legendary voice and rise to stardom took America by storm, and from her early performances in dusty Texas honky-tonks to sell-out concerts at the Grand Ole Opry, Patsy’s music left an indelible mark on country music and American culture. This musical tribute features all of her most beloved songs, "Walkin' After Midnight," "I Fall to Pieces" and the number one Jukebox hit of all time, “Crazy!” "What a delight to open our new season with a musical salute to one of the greatest female recording artists in American music history," said Florida Rep artistic director Greg Longenhagen. "This musical premiered Off-Broadway over 30 years ago, and it remains one of the most 10 - October 2019
popular and most beloved not only because it's packed with all of Patsy's greatest hits, but because it is filled with humor, hope, and is a love-letter to the power of friendship. We've also assembled an all-star cast, including one of the original cast members, Becky Barta, who's performed both roles extensively across the country since its original New York run. You are in for a treat - if you can get a ticket." Always...Patsy Cline stars Becky Barta as Louise Seger and Bethany Gwen Perkins as Patsy Cline, and both New York actresses have a history with the musical. Perkins reprises her role after a recent appearance at The Depot Theatre in Ithaca, N.Y., and Barta's appearance at Florida Rep marks her 30th production of the musical. Barta has played both Patsy and Louise in productions across the country since her appearance in the original Off-Broadway production. Florida Rep ensemble member Maureen Heffernan directs the production after recently helming Florida Rep's The Miracle Worker, Sylvia and others. Heffernan is joined by musical director Alex Shields (Cabaret), set designer Tim Billman (Too Marvelous for Words), cos-
tume designer Kristina Tollefson (Florida Rep debut), sound designer Katie Lowe (Million Dollar Quartet) and ensemble stage manager Amy Massari (Native Gardens). Always...Patsy Cline is already breaking box office records in the ArtStage Studio Theatre, and the run is already extended to Nov. 24 due to overwhelming demand. Tickets start at $55 for regular performances and $35 for discounted previews. For this musical, on stage cafe table seating is available for $75, and includes two drinks per person and table service. Tickets are available online at www.FloridaRep.org and through the box office at 239-332-4488. Subscriptions are available through the box office at 239-332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053. Performances are Tuesday - Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Florida Repertory Theatre performs in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay St. between Jackson & Hendry with limited free parking in the Fort Myers River District. Happenings Magazine
Charlotte Players perform on land & water in October
The only thing keeping the Charlotte Players out of the sky in October is the fact that Mama Won’t Fly. The outrageously hilarious play opens on Oct. 11 for eight performances at the Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. The play concerns a hastily conceived race against the clock undertaken by Savannah Sprunt Fairchild Honeycutt when she agrees to get her feisty mother Norleen Sprunt all the way from Alabama to California in time for her brother’s wedding. Since Mama Won’t Fly, the two of them pile into Noreen’s vintage sedan, along with the overeager bride-to-be, Hayley Quinn. From the moment their journey begins, chaos ensues and misadventures multiply, all leading to a surprising and heartwarming resolution. The play was written by Nicholas Hope, Jessie Jones and Jamie Wooten, co-authors of numerous laugh-out-loud comedies such as The Dixie Swim Club, Dearly Beloved, The Red Velvet Cake War, Always a Bridesmaid, The Savannah Sipping Society and many more. Diane Messina is directing. The play runs through Oct. 20, with evening performances on
weekdays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students. A complete schedule is available at the Charlotte Players website, www.charlotteplayers.org. You can buy your tickets there or by calling 941255-1022 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The community theatre’s traveling troupe returns to the water with the third “Murder Mystery on the High Seas” from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 26. The popular event takes place aboard one of the boats in the King Fisher Fleet, based at Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda. Passengers enjoy a relaxing cruise where they will be entertained by a cast of pirates, gentlemen and damsels and while watching a beautiful sunset and snacking on various sweets. Tickets are $50, which includes water, deserts and appetizers. A cash bar will also be available. For more information, call 941-255-1022. That same Saturday evening, mentalist Bill Gladwell unveils his “Mind Games” show from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Langdon Playhouse. There will also be a matinee from 2 - 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 27. His show was rated number one on Hilton Head Island, S.C., and in Gatlinburg, Tenn. Gladwell is not a mind-reader, psychic or magician. He calls himself a “thoughtreader,” having mastered the unique art of reading and influencing people. Tickets for the thought Damsels Laurie Pickett and Kyle Marie reader are $22 express concern about the pirates during and are available the “Murder Mystery on the High Seas.” online or by calling 941-255-1022. Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 11
THEATRE
BROADWAY PALM
Finding Neverland
Finding Neverland, the enchanting Broadway musical, is soaring on tour and will be landing at Broadway Palm Oct. 3 through Nov. 16. Following its run at Broadway Palm, the production will begin a cross-country tour that will also perform in Canada. Based on the Academy Award-winning Miramax motion picture by David Magee, and the play The Man Who Was Peter Pan by Allan Knee, Finding Neverland follows the relationship between playwright J.M. Barrie and the family that inspired Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up – one of the most beloved stories of all time. Diane Paulus’ Finding Neverland will have her direction recreated by Tour Director Mia Walker (who also directed Dutch Apple’s Pippin tour) and Associate Choreographer Camden Loeser. The musical has a book by Olivier Awardnominee James Graham, music and lyrics by Gary Barlow (Take That) and Grammy Awardwinner Eliot Kennedy, and original choreography by Emmy Award®-winner Mia Michaels (“So You Think You Can Dance,” Cirque du Soleil’s Delirium). Finding Neverland is packed with mesmerizing visuals, irresistible songs and plenty of laughs making it a timeless story about the power of imagination… and spectacular proof that you never really have to grow up. The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash “captures the kid-at-heart,” says TIME Magazine. Finding Neverland tells the incredible story of how playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie 12 - October 2019
dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event. Critics raved that Finding Neverland is “far and away the best musical of the year!” (NPR) and Vogue cheered, “It’s a must-see you’ll remember for years to come!” The production will star Mark Bacon as J.M. Barrie, Josephine Florence Cooper as Sylvia Llewelyn Davies (the boys’ mother) and Kirk Lawrence as the producer Charles Frohman and Captain Hook. Bacon’s selected credits include Brigadoon (Tommy), Hairspray (Link), Heathers (Hipster, JD understudy), All Shook Up (Chad), and Mamma Mia! (Sky). Cooper has performed in the tours/Off-Broadway in Girls Night, La Storia Di Colapesce, Night Witches and The Dream Project. Her TV and film credits include Comedy Central and Uncanny Harbor. Lawrence has performed with the national tour of The Wizard of Oz as Professor Marvel and The Wizard, and regionally played the roles of Doc in West Side Story, Mr. Carnes in Oklahoma!, Mr. Potter in A Wonderful Life, and Todd in Sweeney Todd. Of course, the young Davies boys are the other stars of the show. In the Broadway Palm production, the boys will be played by Brycton Archer and Canon Dobson (George), Evan Barrero and Gabriel Cruz as Jack, Caisson Dobson and Benjamin Sabo as Peter, and Ashton Heathcoat and River Reed as Michael. Finding Neverland is produced by APEX Touring. Tickets can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Happenings Magazine
THEATRE
Mystery Cycles at FGCU Oct. 25 - Nov. 3 Four short Medieval plays The Bower School of Music & the Arts at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Theatre Program will present Mystery Cycles directed by theatre professor Barry Cavin in TheatreLab in the Arts Complex at FGCU from Oct. 25 – Nov. 3. FGCU Theatre presents four short Medieval plays taken from collections that were performed on wagons and in the streets to the amusement of the common folk during times of upheaval and plague. The cycle plays or mysteries were sourced from Bible stories and produced
14 - October 2019
by local trade guilds to everyone’s delight. The FGCU production revives these old texts and, with very little alteration, brings them to life on the stage. Performances will be Oct. 25 and 26, Nov. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 27, Nov. 2 and 3 at 2 p.m. There will also be a discussion with the cast and crew following the 2 p.m. performance on Nov. 2. Tickets for this event are $10 for the general public and $7 for students and are available for purchase at www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab or at the door, based on availability.
Happenings Magazine
Gulfshore Playhouse opens new season with Bedlam’s Saint Joan
Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples will begin its 2019-2020 season in a big way by presenting Bedlam’s Saint Joan. The lauded production from the critically acclaimed New York–based theatre company will run Oct. 19 through Nov. 3. Bedlam’s bold and humorous adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s play about the famed French military heroine turned martyr stars Dria Brown as Joan. Brown has played the role in Bedlam’s national tour of the production and previously appeared at Gulfshore Playhouse in The Revolutionists. Other cast members include Andy Rindlisbach, who is making his Gulfshore Playhouse debut; Edmund Lewis, a founding member of Bedlam who has played roles in a number of the theatre company’s productions; and Mike Labbadia, a New York actor, writer, and producer who has appeared in Bedlam’s Saint Joan at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Eric Tucker directs the stripped-down production (recognized as a top critic’s pick in Time magazine and The New York Times), and Jimmy Lawlor serves as lighting designer. “We’re thrilled to present this intimate production from the esteemed Bedlam theatre company as the first show of our
Happenings Magazine
new season,” said Kristen Coury, producing artistic director for Gulfshore Playhouse. “Audiences will enjoy seeing Bedlam’s take on the legendary story of Joan of Arc and her quest to restore France to greatness.” Evening shows begin at 7 p.m.; matinees begin at 3 p.m. Show subscriptions are available and include priority seating, exclusive events and discounted pricing. Tickets start at $42; all tickets are $38 two hours before a performance. For purchase information, visit www.GulfshorePlayhouse.org or contact 866811-4111. Free pre-show discussions take place Oct. 20, 23 and 30, where Gulfshore Playhouse artistic staff lead conversations about themes and topics related to the production. Audience members can also stick around for post-show conversations on Oct. 24 and 27. Gulfshore Playhouse currently performs in The Norris Center located at 755 8Th Ave. S., Naples. Plans are currently underway for the new Gulfshore Playhouse Theatre and Education Center at Goodlette-Frank Road and First Avenue South, which will include two theatres and an education wing to support programming for children, adults and families.
October 2019 - 15
Sex Tips for Straight THEATRE
LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA
Women from a Gay Man
After its wildly successful run off Broadway, Laboratory Theater will present the first licensed U.S. production of Matt Murphy’s Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man, opening on Oct. 25. The play is set at Lab Community College’s auditorium where the Contemporary Literature Department holds its monthly Meet the Authors series. Things take a turn towards hilarity when the originating professor dies just before curtain, and her replacement is more than a tad uncomfortable with the subject matter of the book titled Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man. What ensues is a book club talkback meets bachelorette party event that is perfect for date night fun. Director Randall Kenneth Jones says, Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man won’t unify a politically divided country, relieve pain and suffering, help you track the 4,983 passwords required to live in today’s ultra-wired world or bring Will & Grace back for another season. In playwright Matt Murphy’s uproarious prattle of the sexes—regardless of the team you play on—the only casualties are those who are too frigid (a.k.a. frozen) to let it go.” Jones adds, “Will Sex Tips make you a better lover? Please email us and let us know! Will Sex Tips make you laugh? If you are willing to be a bit naughty — and share your enthusiasm in a public forum — you should be good to go. So, with tongue firmly planted in cheek—and in celebration of laughter’s proven medicinal faculty—welcome to Lab Community College, the Home of the Fighting Beavers, a very special place where reading is much more than just FUNdamental.” Artistic director Annette Trossbach adds, “We are delighted and honored to be presenting the first licensed production in the country of this saucy and hilarious show. It's been a delight working with playwright Matt Murphy and we look forward to hosting him for opening night! This is the absolute perfect date night 16 - October 2019
Steven Michael Kennedy, Michael Burnett and Madeline Weymouth show, sure to have audiences squealing with laughter.” The play features Steven Michael Kennedy, Madelaine Weymouth and Michael Burnette with stage management by Suzanne Davies. There will be an opening night reception starting at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25. There is no special teen event for this production since no one under 16 will be admitted. There will be an audience talkback immediately after the performance on opening night.
Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man will play from Oct. 25 – Nov. 16 at the Laboratory Theater of Florida. Performance dates are Oct. 25, 26, 31 and Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.; and Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m. A half price preview night is set for Oct. 24. Purchase tickets online at www.Brownpapertickets.com or by calling the box office at 239-218-0481. For more info, visit LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com or the physical location at 1634 Woodford Ave. in the Fort Myers River District. Happenings Magazine
NEW PHOENIX THEATRE Live on! stage
PRESENTS
October 3 - 31 Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 8 • Sundays at 3 13211 McGregor Blvd. #1 & 2, Fort Myers
239-284-5214 • BUY TICKETS ONLINE www.NewPhoenixTheatreFortMyers.org Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 17
THEATRE
Alliance for the Arts & Broadway Palm to launch Fringe Fort Myers Festival in 2020
Naples Players present Great Gatsby Oct. 2 - 27
The Naples Players welcomes patrons to The Great Gatsby Oct. 2 - 27. The Great Gatsby is a contemporary stage adaptation of the classic Jazz-Era American novel penned by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Adapted for the stage by Simon Levy, it was first presented at the Guthrie Theatre in 2006. Directed by executive artistic director Bryce Alexander, The Great Gatsby performances run Wednesdays - Sundays in Blackburn Hall. The Great Gatsby cast includes Bo Popoola, Sydney Mixon, Nathan Eichhorn, Paul LoPresti, Brooke Rosenbluth, Bernardo Santana, Victoria Diebler, Shelley Gothard, Robin Gray, Joe Loiacono, Perry Ventro and Len Becker. Purchase tickets at 701 5th Ave. S., 239-263-7990 or www.NaplesPlayers.org.
Studio Players to stage Church & State in Naples
The Studio Players present Church & State by Jason Odell Williams on stage Oct. 4 – 20 at the Golden Gate Community Center in Naples. Religion, gun control, and the impact of social media are the hot-button issues addressed in Church & State, a political dramedy now making its Southwest Florida premiere at The Studio Players. Directed at a rapid-fire pace by Brett Marston, the play’s mood instantly shifts from ridiculous to sobering, as its characters debate and rethink the timely topics that affect us all, divide our country, and define our politicians. The cast includes Keith Gahagan, Suzanne Sole, Sharon Isern and Danny Cancio. Stage manager is Hollis Galman. Joan Jenks Auditorium is located at 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. For tickets, call 239-398-9192 or visit www.thestudioplayers.org. 18 - October 2019
The Alliance for the Arts, in partnership with the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, will present the first ever Fringe Fort Myers Festival April 22 – 26. Festival tickets go on sale in January. Fringe Fort Myers is the newest Fringe theatre festival in the United States and maintains long-standing Fringe traditions of being 100 percent uncensored, 100 percent unjuried and 100 percent inclusive. Even better, 100 percent of ticket sales go directly to the artists. Fringe Fort Myers kicks off on April 22 with the fun and frenetic Teaser Show. The teaser show is a great opportunity for audiences to learn what the shows in the festival are about. Each performance group gets 2 minutes to sell their show to the audience, and how they do it is up to them (as long as they don’t go over 2 minutes). Over the next four days, the festival will play host to 48 performances on four different stages at the Alliance for the Arts and Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. After the final
curtain, Fringe Fort Myers will host our first Fringe awards ceremony celebrating the artists that make Fringe an incredible experience. Florida Rep Education will also offer Kids Fringe, which will operate a family-friendly festival within Fringe Fort Myers. “Fringe offers an incredible diversity of high quality work with the goal of being as affordable and accessible as possible to all members of the community,” says Bill Taylor, producing artistic director of Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts. “This event will enhance our area both culturally and economically.” Artist applications are now open at ArtInLee.org/Fringe. Applications must be submitted no later than Thursday, Nov. 15 at 5 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available at ArtInLee.org/Fringe or by contacting Jessica Wisdom at Jessica@ArtInLee.org. For more information, call 239-939-2787 or visit ArtInLee.org/Fringe.
Theatre Conspiracy presents
Engagement Rules through Oct. 6
Theatre Conspiracy continues its season at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers with the current production of Engagement Rules by Rich Orloff Directed by Bill Taylor, the play opened Sept 20 and runs through Oct. 6. Remaining performances include Sept. 26, 27, 28 Oct. 3, 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 29 and Oct. 6 at 2 p.m. Engagement Rules stars Jim Yarnes, Carolyn England, Cicero McCarter and Sonya McCarter, A four-character comedy with bite, Engagement Rules follows the intertwined lives of two couples who advise and support each other on challenges of love, sex and the soul. The younger couple (early 30s) is recently engaged, and the older (in their 70s) has been married over 50 years. Theatre Conspiracy’s next production will be 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche by Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood. Directed by Stephanie Davis, the play runs Oct. 24 through Nov. 3. The year is 1956 and fears of Communist attack and homosexual subversion permeate the US. Inside a tastefully revamped meeting hall/bomb shelter, the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein is convening for its annual Quiche Breakfast. The Sisters have barely begun to savor the
Engagement Rules plays now through Oct. 6 at the Alliance for the Arts
prize-winning quiche when alarms sound and Soviet bombs begin to fall. Faced with the prospect of spending the next four years locked in the shelter, the Sisters throw social convention to the nuclear winds and collectively embrace their true lesbian identity. To purchase tickets, call 239-939-2787, visit 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, or go online at www.ArtInLee.org/Theatre. Happenings Magazine
THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA
The Crucible
By Arthur Miller
Oct. 3 - 5, Oct. 10 - 12 at 8 p.m.
Oct. 6 & 12 at 2 p.m.
Sponsored by Ella Nayor and Jeffrey Cull
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October 24, 25, 26, 31
Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16 at 8 p.m.
Oct. 27, Nov. 3, 10, 16 at 2 p.m. Sponsored by Arlene Foreman
www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com
239-218-0481
1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 19
ART
Maya Poole and Sam Frazer at ACT Gallery
Arts for ACT Gallery will hold an opening reception Friday, Oct. 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. for featured artists Maya Poole and Sam Frazer. Maya Poole was born and raised in Hong Kong. She is a self-taught artist who experiments with all mediums, but finds herself returning to acrylic, gouache and
Sam Frazer
mixed media/collage. She has just relocated to Cape Coral, after a life filled with overseas living and travel, and is enjoying the beauty that this part of the world has to offer. Her exhibit entitled Turquoise Maya will be in the main gallery. Sam Frazer, 86, was born in Brooklyn and attended the High School of Industrial Art in Manhattan. He began his career as an art teacher before becoming a first grade teacher for 38 years on Long Island. Sam first exhibited his oil paintings in Queens College in 1977 -then was forced into a decade’s long hiatus while he was a caregiver for his ailing wife. He has now revisited his lifelong passion via drawings, paintings and cartoons. Sam’s cartoons will make you chuckle and smile. Cartoons by Sam Frazer will b on display
Maya Poole
in the white gallery. Come view these creative artworks from guest artists and support ACT Gallery. This exhibit continues through Monday, Oct. 28. Arts for ACT Gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers.
DAAS Co-Op Gallery features Xavier Brignoni
DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts inspired strictly on a very personal features the work of visual artist and phase of his life, cemented Brignoni co-owner Xavier Brignoni in October. as one of the area’s most popular The exhibition, entitled It Is What It Is, creatives. This time for the It Is What is a collection of bold, vibrant and It Is exhibition, his focus shifts to curedgy works created within the last two rent affairs and his views on the world years. and other experiences. An opening reception is scheduled During the month of October, the for Friday, Oct, 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. in gallery will be filled with powerful conjunction with the monthly Fort compositions, which include a variety Myers Art Walk. The exhibition will be of mediums. Brignoni has been on display through Oct. 26. experimenting new techniques, such Xavier Brignoni moved to as spray painting, gold leaf applicaSouthwest Florida almost two decades tion, stencils, and others. In addition ago. Since then, he has been to his known fine-art decoupage techimmersed in the art scene of the area. nique, he adds vibrancy with a 70’s Alongside other prominent artists and inspired color palette in his minimalisgallerists, he contributed to the estabtic/pop-style execution. Anyone who lishment of the Fort Myers Art Walk in witnessed his last exhibition knows 2008, co-founded the Union Artist how intense It Is What It Is will be. Studios in 2012 and the new DAAS DAAS Co-Op is located at 1815 Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts in 2016. He Fowler St., Unit 3, in downtown Fort is the recipient of the 2017 FACE Myers. Hours are Tuesday to Xavier Brignoni Award for his diversity and inclusion Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The work within the artistic community. gallery opens to the public on the first In June 2018, Brignoni presented Sunday of every month from 10 a.m. an over-the-top, symbolic and emotionally charged exhibition at to 3 p.m. More information can be found at www.daascoop.com DAAS Co-Op entitled The Balancing Act. Such powerful display, or by calling 239-590-8645. 20 - October 2019
Happenings Magazine
Small Wonders: Insects in Focus Oct. 5 at Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs
On Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. - noon, the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs will hold a free family activity day at the Center for the Visual Arts for children and adults. During this event, families are able to explore the Small Wonders: Insects in Focus exhibition and create an exciting insect-related art project to take home. In the air, water, and even under foot, insects inhabit every domain of our daily lives, performing essential functions that balance our fragile ecosystem on earth. By using cutting-edge technology and custom methods, artist Bob Sober created Small Wonders: Insects in Focus, an exhibition of breathtaking beauty that allows viewers to see this hidden world like they’ve never seen it before.
Small Wonders aims to inspire, in an artistic way, our natural curiosity to understand the form, function, and diversity of nature. Creating human-scale images of insects, with resolution so high that every hair, dimple, and tiny structure is clearly revealed, was impossible prior to the technological advancements of the past ten years. High-resolution digital cameras, fast personal computers, economical digital storage, and powerful software applications capable of assisting with the assembly of hundreds or thousands of individual photographs create the opportunity to capture accurate images of insects as they truly exist. Visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org or call 239-4958989 to learn more.
Naples Artcrafters start new show season Oct. 19
The Naples Artcrafters will host their first juried fine art and craft show of the new season on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event showcases the work of 90 juried local artists and craftsmen who will be selling their paintings, jewelry, pottery, art glass, sculptures and more in lovely Cambier Park, which is located on 8th Street South, just one block south of 5th Ave South in downtown Naples. Meet well known and emerging Naples’ artists in this celebration of creativity. It will be a wonderful opportunity to shop local and support your artists. Admission is free, and free parking is nearby. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Naples Artcrafters was founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the Happenings Magazine
support of local artists and the encouragement of the development of artistic endeavors in the Naples area. The group provides local artists and craftsmen a venue for displaying and selling their work by sponsoring juried outdoor shows during the season. The remaining 2019-20 season has shows in Cambier Park scheduled for Nov. 9, Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8, March 14 and April 11. The March 14 show will be in Fleischman Park. For more about the group, visit www.naplesartcrafters.com.
October 2019 - 21
COCO Art Gallery spotlights Gil Sanchez ART
By Barbara Ellis Many artists’ life stories contain personal tragedy. Gil Sanchez’s is one of those. A superintendent on a construction site in March 2016, he fell through an unsecured opening in a fourth story roof (through a small room-size utility shaft) to the bottom floor. Remarkably, he was able to talk to emergency responders and hospital admissions personnel, perhaps due to a surge of adrenalin. Then, after hours of emergency surgery, doctors induced a coma because of the tremendous pain he was in. His injuries included spinal processes broken from 21 vertebrae, broken right leg, fractures in both arms, broken pelvis, 21 ribs broken, punctured lung and liver lacerations, internal bleeding in brain, kidneys, liver and lungs. His doctor-induced coma lasted about six weeks. With his recovery, medical personnel who worked with Sanchez nicknamed him “Miracle Man.” They had not expected him to live – much less to walk again. His accident occurred in Tampa and his mother and daughter came from their home in Naples to be with him. When he was stable enough, Gil was transferred to Lee Memorial Hospital for physical therapy. In total, he was hospitalized for four months. Due to his injuries and continuing pain, Gil is no longer able to work as a carpenter. He has transitioned from crayons, to brushes, and now to sculpture materials that he became familiar with working in construction and home restoration, including Bondo. Sanchez explains, “Through my artwork, I let my inner child come out to play, making whimsical art pieces full of vibrant colors and character, to bring out a smile or some laughter.
Gil Sanchez But I also like to let my serious side take over to capture a moment in time that somehow has touched my heart and soul or just simply left me in awe.” The beginnings of Gil’s sculpture career happened when his sister brought him a damaged sculpture of a jaguar belonging to her employer who was reluctantly considering throwing it away due to its deteriorated condition from being displayed outdoors. It was a sentimental piece and his sister was certain that Gil would be able to restore it. Through his
work as a carpenter and handyman he had used the material Bondo and became quite skilled at using that material and during his recovery started to make small figures as a hobby. Bondo is one of the main ingredients in his three-dimensional work. Following Gil’s restoration, the jaguar’s owners were relieved and ecstatic to have back their beloved sculpture.Since then he has restored several sculptures. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, he decided to try to make his own life-sized sculpture from scratch. Starting with a tortoise and an elf (for his daughter) he expanded to a Great Horned Owl, which when finished was, “exactly as I had pictured it in my imagination.” Gil now works outdoors in the creation of his mostly life-sized pieces. “There is never enough sunlight in a day,” declares Sanchez, “I have pain, it is always there, but in working on my art it is easier to ignore.” One of his most outstanding pieces is a lifesize sculpture of a homecoming soldier greeting her small daughter, titled “Welcome Home.” With tears streaming down their faces, that piece elicits strong emotions from all its viewers. It won “Best of Show” in the “This Land” show at the Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs. Several of his pieces are of humorous subject matter featuring small animals such as mice and frogs. All of his sculptures are life-like and thought-provoking. His work is currently on display at COCO Art Gallery in the Coconut Point Mall (next to Panera Bread) and Naples Art Association. COCO Art Gallery will host its next reception Oct. 10 from 5 to 7 p.m.
FGCU Wasmer Art Gallery opens Enrique Chagoya exhibit
The Art Galleries of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) present Everyone is an Alienígeno: Enrique Chagoya Exhibition. Enrique Chagoya is world renowned as a political and social justice artist tackling issues of borders, immigration and cultural conflicts. This will be the first ever survey exhibition of Enrique Chagoya’s work in Florida covering his political and social activism through his innovative prints and paintings. Chagoya will be present to speak about these timely issues on Thursday, October 17 from 56pm with a reception to follow until 7pm in the Wasmer Art Gallery Using pop culture icons, current events and historical images, Chagoya creates layered narratives dealing with immigration and cultural identity as a basis for social reflection. Born in Mexico City, Chagoya immigrated to the United States in 1977, where he worked as a
22 - October 2019
Enrique Chagoya, Everyone is an Alienígeno, 2018, Color lithograph with collage, Ed. 30, 22 x 30 in. Photo by Bud Shark
freelance illustrator and graphic designer, and became an American citizen in 2000. He is currently full professor at Stanford University’s department of Art and Art History and his work can be found in many public collections including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Metropolitan Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco among others. He has been the recipient of numerous awards such as two NEA artists fellowships, one more from the National Academy of Arts and Letters in New York, residencies at Giverny and Cite Internationale des Arts in France, and a Tiffany fellowship to mention a few. Starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, there will be an opening reception and artist talk. The exhibition will run through Thursday, Nov. 14. The Wasmer Art Gallery is located inside the Arts Complex on FGCU’s main campus.
Happenings Magazine
ART
This October, the Syzygy may not include weapons that resemble Collaborative Art Project will present or could easily be mistaken for real the third annual Dark Art exhibition, a weapons. juried collection of works by a wide Showing on the second floor in the variety of local painters, sculptors, phoCapital Gallery is a group show titled tographers and mixed media artists “Shock Rocked: Punk Subculture.” The who have all met the challenge of aesthetic of punk rock has always existexploring the darkest themes in art. ed to shock and intrigue its viewers. The Dark Art exhibition has become With years of representation under its a celebrated yearly tradition, encouragbelt, punk rock aesthetic continues to ing artists of all ages and talents to influence and inspire the youth of today. come together in the spirit of With deep roots in the subject of rebelHalloween and the macabre. Shock lion and political injustice, the backbone Rocked: Punk Subculture will be showof punk art runs deeper than it’s edgy ing on the second floor gallery. aesthetic. Challenging the mainstream The opening reception takes place idea of what art should look like, punk at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center art exists to push the boundaries of on Friday, Oct. 4 during Art Walk from what a larger society expects from the 6 to 10 p.m. and will include special high-end art scene. This group show performances throughout the evening. will feature artists Shelby Elmore, The highlight of the event begins Jeremy Nemeth, Alexis Dunford and around 8 p.m., when the acts schedSpencer Duke. Shelby Elmore uled to perform will begin. The first of Both shows will be on display which features BendyKat; Katarina through Oct. 18 and will end with a closDanks’ solo contortion act. Following ing party that evening from 7 to 10 p.m. this performance is a short fashion show titled "The Darkest during Music Walk. To learn more about Syzygy, visit Season" featuring looks and headdresses by Tonya Barnes. www.syzygyart.wordpress.com. Finally, there will be a solo burlesque performance by Pixel The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 Winters and more! Costumes are highly encouraged. Costumes First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District.
National Asosocation of Women Artists at Marco Island museum The Florida Chapter of the National Association of Women Artists will exhibit at the Marco Island Historical Museum and Gallery. The exhibition, titled Ms Conceptions, will open Oct. 2 and close Jan. 30 at the Collier County museum’s Marco Island campus, located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. The exhibit will be juried and judged by respected gallerist, Joseph Panarelli of Quidley and Company, Naples, Boston, Nantucket and Westport. The Marco Island Historical Museum & Gallery and Marco Island Historical Society present Ms Conceptions, which will run concurrently with a traveling exhibition of ancient pre-Columbian Native American artifacts on loan from the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. The latter exhibi24 - October 2019
tion, The Return, is drawing visitors from around the world. Among these historic artifacts is the famous Calusa Cat, which was recovered by archeologists on Key Marco in 1896. THE RETURN is the first exhibition in which all relics recovered in the dig have been shown together for more than 100 years. On Thursday, Jan. 9 at 3 p.m., selected NAWA artists and the museum and gallery will host an artist talk, which will be moderated by Jane Monreal, evening news anchorwoman for SW Florida’s FOX television network affiliate. The artist talk will be held in the museum’s auditorium at 3 p.m. An awards presentation and a reception with refreshments will follow in the museum gallery, ending at 6 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.
Muffy Clark Gill Happenings Magazine
Pinktober exhibit on display at Art League of Fort Myers
The Art League of Fort Myers is located in the heart of the River District at 1451 Monroe St., Fort Myers. Each month, the ALFM recognizes a charitable cause in our community. October is breast cancer awareness month. Join the art league for “Pinktober” to help raise awareness of breast cancer. Part of the exhibit will be dedicated to a pink theme. A portion of the proceeds for the month of October will go to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation. They will have a special gift for any woman who has lost a breast to cancer. Additionally, a raffle will give Art Walk guests a chance to win a gift basket and, of course, donations are always appreciated.
The new exhibit is a judged show and awards will be presented during Art Walk on Friday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for your favorite piece while you enjoy the show. The “People’s Choice award is presented at the end of the evening. You will find the previous month’s choice hanging in the gallery. The current gallery hours are Thursday - Saturday from 4 – 8 p.m. On Wednesdays, they are open from 9:30 a.m. to noon for all who want space to paint and to enjoy the camaraderie of other artists. Visit online at www.Artleagueoffortmyers.org for information on classes for all ages and abilities.
Preview receptions in October for annual Arts for ACT auction
The 31st Annual Arts for ACT will be held on Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Estero. Some preview events will be held to showcase some of the live and silent art auction pieces: • Oct. 3 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Brodeur Carvell, Bell Tower Shops, 13499 US 41 SE #165, Fort Myers • Oct. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Dwayne Bergmann Interiors, 12195 Metro Parkway, Suite 1, Fort Myers
• Oct. 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Clive Daniel Home, 2777 Tamiami Trail North, Naples Celebrating 41 years of providing a 24/7 critical circle of support for over 75,000 victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in the community, as well as 31 years of this marquee event, the Arts for ACT fundraiser. For tickets, tables, donations or sponsorships to this energizing event on Nov. 16, visit online at www.artsforactfineartauction.com
Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show
Saturday, October 19th 10 am to 4 pm
PRINT ONLINE MOBILE SOCIAL
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Free Admission & Parking
Cambier Park
580 8th Street South, Naples
www.NaplesArtcrafters.com October 2019 - 25
Naples Art unveils new name, logo ART
By Aimee Schlehr Naples Art is kicking off a much-anticipated 2019-2020 season infused with a bold renewal of their commitment to the Naples community and beloved artists. Declaring the renewal is a new logo, reflecting their refined name. Coming into focus on the commitment to their mission, Naples Art Association will now be known simply as Naples Art. For over 65 years Naples Art has been the center of arts and cultural in downtown Naples, a town square for the arts. They provide the community with inspiration and opportunity, through production space and the amplification and exhibition of these creative voices to cultivate a lifelong appreciation of art. Another exciting addition to this season is the unveiling of the Naples Art Membership Program. Beginning with the 2019-2020 season, Naples Art is launching a valuable membership program filled with unique and enriching opportunities for our community to support the Arts. The program supports the significant and important work of the center, investing in the cultivation of creativity and appreciation of the arts. Membership levels begin at $25. Join Naples Art by securing your membership today at www.NaplesArt.org or call 239-2626517 to learn more. Yet another brand new and one of the most exciting additions to this season’s line up is the Art Business Entrepreneur Academy. This completely unique two-year Art Business Entrepreneur Academy is designed specifically for high school students seeking a guided
Lorri Freedman
Your Choice 2019 winners announced
Naples Art has announced the winners of its Your Choice exhibit. Lorri Freedman won best of show ($500) for her piece “King of the Land. First place ($250) went to Joel Shapses for “Tucker.” Rose O’Hara won second place ($150) for her self portrait (the artist is a nurse).
26 - October 2019
Naples Art will hold its annual Scene to be Seen on Nov. 1
path into the visual arts. The economic impact of art and design exceeds that of sports worldwide. Creative jobs have increased from 10% to 30% of the U.S. economy and Florida ranks number seven in the country for revenue generated by creative industries, generating a whopping $4.68 billion of economic activity and supporting over 132,000 fulltime jobs. The creative economy in Florida is vibrant and growing, presenting opportunities for artists of all types to live, work and thrive, for those who know how. Unfortunately, those who are passionate about creating rarely have the business acumen to succeed on their own. Naples Art has identified this significant and unmet need in Collier County. Young adults in high school who are interested in the creative arts as a career path currently have little or no access to art related business classes and visual arts education. This unfortunate gap in education for creative young adults dissuades many from pursuing their passion and discourages them from entering this field, where it is shown to have so much promise. To inspire more artists to develop their talents and incubate a cultural revolution in Collier County, Naples Art is spearheading this 24-month educational program to specifically meet these needs. This program will result in an informed, motivated, and skilled group of young adults ready to move forward in their careers, converting their passion of being an artist into becoming a successful entrepreneur. To support these future arts and culture leaders, contact me at aimee.schlehr@naplesart.org. Oct. 23 kicks off the first in the series of three Dinner with Artists events. Join chef Alexander Bernard and artist Marco Bronzini at Alexander’s Restaurant for a completely unique, art-filled culinary experience. Dinner
with Artists is an interactive artistic experience in an intimate and engaging setting. Each event includes a multi-course gourmet meal and wine. Tickets are $130 per person or $250 per couple. Chef Alexander Bernard is the featured chef and he will be hosting at Alexander’s Restaurant, his hidden jewel in the heart of Naples. Chef Alexander has been serving his distinctive cuisine to Neapolitans and visitors from throughout the world for more than 25 years and has an avid following. Partnered with chef Alexander is featured artist Marco Bronzini, who is bringing an extraordinary life experience with him to share. At age sixteen Marco Bronzini was introduced to British sculptor John Skeaping, and he went from provincial Beaucaire, his hometown in the South of France, to London, the art world center in the mid 1970s. He was accepted with a four-year scholarship to the Royal Academy of Arts in London in 1975 and within the next few years he would meet people like the Astors and great art collectors like Paul Mellon. On Nov. 1, Naples Art will indulge the local community with an exclusive night typically only had in New York, Paris or Milan. Behold intense creativity, extreme inspiration and extraordinary vision at the 2019 Scene to be Seen - Runway Art Show. This extraordinary event elevates haute couture to spectacular works of art in a classic luxury runway format. The Scene to be Seen event begins with music and cocktails transitioning to a breathtaking runway show then onto a not-to-bemissed after-party, a la fashion week. Ticket availability is very limited, and they are available at www.naplesart.org. Aimee Schlehr is executive director of the Naples Art.
Happenings Magazine
Don Columbus photography at Immokalee Pioneer Museum
The Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch presents Cowboy Roots– Photography by Don Columbus. The exhibition will be on display from Oct. 15 through Dec. 28. A reception with the artist and local cowboy poet Clint Raulerson will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 23 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. Stumbling unexpectedly upon Roberts Ranch three years ago, photographer Don Columbus became fascinated by the long time-depth of Florida’s cattle industry and the cultural roots of today’s cattle men and women, and the ranches they work. Cattle were first introduced to Florida in 1521 and supported early Spanish settlements throughout the state. The cattle industry still thrives in Florida where close to 1 million beef cattle range and ranching traditions are passed down from gener-
Happenings Magazine
ation to generation. Through the lens of his camera, Don Columbus captures this hard working “Real Florida” lifestyle; details that are often missed in the moment. His photographs give the viewer the opportunity not only to experience those moments in time, but to discover a richer present in them. His subject for Cowboy Roots includes the cattle culture around Immokalee where Florida born beef calves are raised, and the annual Immokalee Cattle Drive & Jamboree that commemorates this area’s cowboy roots. Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch is located at 1215 Roberts Ave. West, Immokalee. For more information about the exhibit, call 239-252-2611 or visit online at www.CollierMuseums.com.
October 2019 - 27
ART
Rauschenberg 40 exhibit at FSW Rauschenberg 40 exhibit runs now through Dec. 14 at FSW in Fort Myers.
Florida SouthWestern State College is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery with a major solo exhibition of world renowned artist, longtime Lee County resident and gallery namesake, Bob Rauschenberg. Four decades since the founding of the Gallery in 1979, this celebratory show “Rauschenberg 40” is drawn from several prominent local collections and includes a number of never previously exhibited original paintings from the Gluts, Urban Bourbon, Anagrams (A Pun) and Waterworks series. Beginning chronologically with the portfolio edition of “XXXIV Drawings for Dante’s Inferno” (1965) that was illustrated on his first extended visit to the Sunshine State’s Gulf Coast, Rauschenberg often joked that he had “gone through Hell to move to Florida.” Widely-acknowledged as one of the most important artists of the 20th Century, Rauschenberg is credited with pioneering the transition from European modernism to American pop art and has been the subject of recent
retrospectives at the Tate Modern in London, Museum of Modern Art in New York and the San Francisco MoMA. However, this is the first exhibition to exclusively survey works produced by the artist while living and working in Southwest Florida and to feature seldom or never-before-seen works that have remained in the community that he so proudly called home. As Bob Rauschenberg often repeated and as this Rauschenberg 40: The Fortieth Anniversary of the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery at FSW Exhibition makes evident: “Fort Myers is as small as your mind is. It can be just as large as the world is.” This exhibition opened Aug. 26 and runs through Dec. 14. Related lectures, performances and celebratory events will be announced throughout the duration of the show. For additional information, call 239-489-9313 or visit www.RauschenbergGallery.com.
Dia de los Muertos exhibit opens Oct. 4 at the Alliance for the Arts
Della Boynton
28 - October 2019
The Alliance for the Arts invites the public to its opening reception for Dia de los Muertos: A Juried Exhibit on Oct. 4. from 5 to 7 p.m. The free event features local and regional artists, face painting, craft beer tastings and light refreshments. The show exhibits from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2 at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. In many parts of Mexico, South America and the United States, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time to remember and celebrate the lives of friends and family. Exhibiting artists include: Cesar Aguilera, Jacqueline Barr, Mina Bobel, Della Boynton, Eric Brown, Donna Chase, Diane Chernow, Steve Conley, Elodie Cotton, Jan Cox, Meghan Cuthbertson, David Del Rio, Linda Finlan, Melissa Flaugher, Stephanie Flis, Anne
Friedman, Janice Heligman, Bradford Hermann, Mal Hope, Krista Johnson, Jay Lana, Krista Johnson, Susan Maas, Mariapia Malerba, Spyter Marie, Sonya McCarter, Lourdes MoraShay, Julie Obney, Jeff & Dale Ocasio, Nancy Polomski, Cynthia Porter, Tanya Ragbeer, Gregory Read, Sharon Rodgers, Laura Rucoba, Mary Beth Scott, Terry Lynn Spry, Paul Stackpole, Brandy Stark, Madeline Sugerman, Diana Talavera, Nancy Terrell, Pamela Volz, Roseline Young, Holly Zammerilla and Amanda Zirzow. Receptions are open to the public and do not require tickets or reservations. While gallery admission is free, a $5 suggested donation keeps Alliance programming affordable and accessible. For more info about this exhibit, visit www.ArtInLee.org or call 239-939-2787. Happenings Magazine
Dedicated Artists of SW Florida exhibit at the Cape Coral Library
An exceptional array of two- and three-dimensional work by members of The Dedicated Artists of Southwest Florida Inc. (DASF) fill the gallery walls and display cases of the Cape Coral Library now through Oct. 29. This marks the fifth year that the local club of artists will be featured at the library located at 921 SW 39th Terrace, off Mohawk Pkwy. “We’ve invited these skillful artists back each fall, because the variety of their designs and surfaces on which they paint is so exciting,” explained Monica Rahman, art gallery chair for the Friends of the Library. “And that is no doubt also the reason their annual exhibition is so eagerly anticipated by our regular gallery visitors.” The Dedicated Artists of Southwest Florida is a local club of 75 members who come from various towns and cities in Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties to attend monthly meetings (held in the Cape Coral Art League
Judith MacLaren
building) that feature different painting projects conducted by talented instructors. Mediums may include acrylics, oil, watercolor and colored pencils. For more information about the club’s meeting schedule, projects and seminars visit online at www.DASFartists.com. Art exhibitions in the library’s gallery are sponsored by the Friends of Cape Coral Library and are designed to afford local artists the opportunity to share their work in this public forum without fees or commissions. For more details, contact Monica Rahman at monica4608@comcast.net.
Cape Coral Arts Studio to hold open studio on Oct. 11
The Cape Coral Arts Studio has two exhibits opening in October and will also hold an open studio to showcase recent renovations. Pictorial Conversations-Opus 1 featuring artists of Artsemble Underground will be on display Oct. 4 – 24. Abstracted Reality exhibit will also be on display Oct. 4 – 24. Their first ever Open Studio will be held Oct. 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. to blast off the season and show off all of the renovations. The evening will include a grant renovation reveal, studio demonstrations, two exhibition Happenings Magazine
Brian Weaver
receptions and the unveiling of Public Art Project sponsored by the South Cape Entertainment and Hospitality Association. Cape Coral Arts Studio is located at 4533 Coronado Parkway. Call 239-574-0802 or visit www.capecoral.net.
October 2019 - 29
OCTOBER CALENDAR TUE - 1
FRI - 4
Jazz Jam Session Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000
DC vs AC: Edison, Tesla, Westinghouse, and the Race to Electrify America Exhibit Opening Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Ft. Myers 6 p.m. Edison Ford members: free; non-members: $10, 239-334-7419
Always ... Patsy Cline Through Nov. 24 Florida Repertory Theatre 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-332-4488
The Ghost in the Meadow Now through Oct. 6 Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral 239-772-5862
Visiting Artist Reception Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, Suite 104, Cape Coral Reception for Kay Foote, watercolorist, and Matt Kearney, pottery and ceramic artist. 6 – 8 p.m. www.Harbourviewgallery.com
WED - 2
Sunset Celebration Cape Coral Yacht Club 5819 Driftwood Pkwy Celebrate the beauty of a Southwest Florida sunset, while listening to live music on the beach from 3pm to sunset. There will also be food trucks, vendors selling arts & crafts, jewelry, gift items & more! Free admission.3 p.m. - sunset. 239-574-0806 Godsmack with Halestorm Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7 p.m. 239-948-7825 The Great Gatsby Oct. 2 -27 The Naples Players 701 5th Avenue S, Naples 239-263-7990 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Dancing with Jerry Dycke The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-995-2141 Erich Dance Party Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Dames at Sea Now through Nov. 2 Off Broadway Palm Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422 30 - October 2019
Becoming Cosmopolitan Fire & Ice will take place on Thursday, Oct. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall located at 8099 College Pkwy. in Fort Myers. Tickets for the event are $150 for general admission and $250 for VIP tickets, and are available now for purchase at www.CommunityCooperative.com.
THU - 3
Finding Neverland Oct. 3 - Nov. 16 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Touchable Art, Curative Arts exhibits Naples Art Association, 585 Park St., Naples Reception for Touchable Art and Curative Arts Exhibitions, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Touchable Art exhibit runs Oct. 4 – 30. Curative Arts exhibit runs Oct. 4 – Nov. 2. www.NaplesArt.org Rocky Horror Show Oct. 3 - 31 New Phoenix Theatre, 13211 McGregor Blvd., unit 1 & 2, Fort Myers, Live on stage 239-284-5214 newphoenixtheatrefortmyers.org Becoming Cosmopolitan Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 6 p.m. CommunityCooperative.com Top Shelf Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Concert in the Lawn: The Freecoasters Mercato 9132 Strada Place, Naples 6 - 9 p.m. 239-254-1080 The Mersey Beatles Englewood Event Center, 3069 McCall Road, 7 p.m. www.englewoodeventcenter.com Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Crucible Through Oct. 12 Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Deb & The Dynamics Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 10 p.m., 239-540-8454 Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
Dark Art 2019 Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street, Fort Myers Opens Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. Closes Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. Syzygy Collaborative Art Project will present the third annual Dark Art exhibition, a juried collection of works by a wide variety of local painters, sculptors, photographers and mixed media artists who have all met the challenge of exploring the darkest themes in art. 239-333-1933 Shock Rocked: Punk Subculture Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street, Fort Myers Opens Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. Closes Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. The Punk Subculture From album covers to zines, the aesthetic of punk rock has always existed to shock and intrigue its viewers. 239-333-1933 The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Pinktober exhibit Art League of Fort Myers, 1451 Monroe St., Fort Myers Reception in conjunction with Art Walk, 6 - 10 p.m. www.artleaguefortmyers.org Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers Always on the First Friday, visit the many exciting galleries, exhibitions, and performances. Free to the public with many venues featuring additional attractions and specials. Rain or shine. 6 -10 p.m. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
Happenings Magazine
OCTOBER CALENDAR FRI - 4 CONTINUED
Music in the Garden: The Woodwork Naples Botanical Garden 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples Noon – 2 p.m. 239-643-7275 www.naplesgarden.org
Joey Fito The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Musical Moments: Spanish Influence Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road 3 - 5 p.m. 239-495-8989
The Eagles tribute Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 The Studio Players: Church & State Oct. 4 - 20 Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples 239-398-9192 Xavier Brignoni exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers Opening reception, 6 - 10 p.m. 239-590-8645
Touchable Art: A Multi-Experiential Exhibition runs Oct. 4 - 30. It features artwork by sighted, visually impaired and blind artists. Shaking off the traditional gallery-goer behavior, visitors are encouraged to use their sense of touch to explore the exhibition at Naples Art Association, 585 Park St. www.NaplesArt.org Atillio Martinelli - 6 p.m. Heart tribute - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 80 Caliber Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Artists Maya Poole and Sam Frazer, 6 - 10 p.m. during Art Walk.
The Sunset Celebration - Remedy Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
Dia de los Muertos exhibit Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Opening reception 5 - 7 pm. 239-939-2787
Ralph LaGro, Doug Michalski, David Scott Exhibit Oct. 5 - Nov. 8 Visual Arts Center 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda 941-639-8810.
SAT - 5
Once Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 David Ball and Neon Summer Over The Bridge, 4300 Kings Hwy #412, Port Charlotte 7 p.m. 941-391-5792 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, noon-4 p.m. & Singer Steve Flagg, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 32 - October 2019
Family Activity Day Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs 26100 Old 41 Rd Family Activity Day in conjunction with Travelling Exhibition "Small Wonders Insects in Focus." Art project Bee Printmaking, participate in a fun art project for the whole family, explore the gallery and take in the art. It is sure to be a fun time for the whole family. 10 a.m. - noon. Free of charge. www.artcenterbonita.org 239-495-8989 Cliff Eberhardt in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org
Pumptober-Fest Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 2 to 6 p.m. Admission for guests 21 and older is $35 in advance, or $40 at the door, and includes unlimited tastings of ales, lagers, pilsners and stouts served in keepsake mini-mugs. Music by The Electric Mud. www.belltowerfl.com Naples Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 TNP Comedy Nights-October Fest The Naples Players 701 5th Avenue S, Naples, 8 p.m. 239-263-7990 Casey Donahew Band The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors open 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Cindi Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
SUN - 6
Girls of Motown Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 The Left Bank Art Fest Marco Island YMCA, 101 Sand Hill St., Marco Island Juried artists include photography, jewelry, oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, ceramics, wood, bronze, glass, and more. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 239-290-7927
Car Cruise-in Miromar Outlets, Estero See your favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.MiromarOutlets.com 7th annual Oktoberfest Oct. 3 - 6 Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive, Suite 28, Fort Myers A family-friendly event that includes craft beer, German food, live music and a first for the brewery – a Wiener Dog Race. 239-313-6576 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Rita Beach, 4-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
MON - 7
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, 5-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 TGIM Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street, Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., Films 7 p.m. Watch short indie films and get a look at how the Fort Myers Film Festival views submissions for independent films and participate in the selection process. 239-333-1933 Harvest of Art Oct. 7 – 31 Visual Arts Center, Maud Street, Punta Gorda This year will be the 30th and last Harvest of Art, the VAC's annual juried exhibit of traditional 2-D media. Opening reception Oct. 10 at 5 pm. www.visualartcenter.org 941-639-8810 Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 33
TUE - 8
OCTOBER CALENDAR Howl-O-Ween Yappy Hour Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers Featuring largest pet costume contest of the year. Dog owners are encouraged to dress their pooches in creative, original Halloween costumes. For a $5 minimum donation to the Gulf Coast Humane Society, dogs can compete in a lively costume contest for a chance to win a special prize package. All wellbehaved dogs are welcome. 6 to 8 p.m. 239-489-1221
Jazz Jam Session Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000 Wind Orchestra Concert Mariner High School, 701 Chiquita Blvd N, Cape Coral 7:30 p.m. This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts
WED - 9
Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Goldtones Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454
This year will be the 30th and last Harvest of Art, the Visual Arts Center's annual juried exhibit of traditional two-dimensional media. The last show will be on display Oct. 7 – 31 in Punta Gorda. Above is “Lowly Marsh” by Carol Wyckoff Neil Diamond tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Girls of Motown The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Red Hanna The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Dancing with Jerry Dycke The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-995-2141
Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
THU - 10
Michael D’Amore Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Wine & Cheese Reception for Harvest of Art Visual Arts Center, 210 Maud St in Punta Gorda (Across from Fishermen’s Village) 5 p.m. www.visualartcenter.org Wind Orchestra Concert Estero High School, 21900 River Ranch Rd, Estero 7:30 p.m., This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts COCO Art Gallery reception Coconut Point Mall, 8074 Mediterranean Drive, Estero 5 - 7 p.m. 239-949-3073 Evening on 5th 5th Avenue South, Naples An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. www.fifthavenuesouth.com 34 - October 2019
In or Around Cape Coral Art Show Cape Coral Art League, 516 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral Reception 5 – 7 p.m. 239-772-5657
FRI - 11
Just for Laughs Comedy Variety Show Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Moe Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. Enjoy a fun night of everything funny; just bring your laughs to the variety mix. 7:30 p.m. 239-4958989 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
Jimmy Niteclub - 6 p.m. Electric Lipstick - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 River Fest 2019 Oct 11 - 13 Peace River Campground 2998 FL-70, Arcadia Storm Warning, Dani Dease & Andy Pursell will be rocking the camp along with Lee Hagen of Not Guilty and FlGuitarGrl 863-494-9693 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Live music featuring Sunny Jim White, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Relentless Fire Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239463-5900 Fort Myers Home and Remodeling Show Oct. 11-13 Lee Civic Center 11831 Bayshore Road, Fort Myers 239-543-8368
Punkin’Palooza Oct. 11 - 13 Fleamasters Fleamarket, 4135 Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers Admission is free. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.fleamall.com Open Studio and exhibit openings Cape Coral Arts Studio 4533 Rubicond Parkway 5 - 7 p.m. 239-574-0802 Friday Night Concert Series Miromar Outlets, Estero The Collaboration Band kicks off the series with Motown and R&B classics. 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza. www.MiromarOutlets.com The Eagles tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 239 Punk/Ska/Reggae Fest IX Oct. 11 - 12 Rackem Spirits and Times 1011 SE 47th Ter., Cape Coral This two-night music showcase brings together some of the biggest and best names in Florida Punk/Ska/Reggae. With two stages and over 20 bands. 239-540-7225 The Charlotte Players: Mama Won’t Fly Through Oct. 20 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte 941-255-1022
SAT - 12
The Rocky Horror Picture Show Outdoor Movie Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 5 p.m. 239-939-2787 Cape Bike Night SE 47th Terrace between Coronado Parkway and Vincennes Blvd. Join us for another night of great entertainment, food, vendors and motorcycles in the South Cape! 5 - 10 p.m. www.ccbikenight.com Happenings Magazine
Bert Kreischer - Body Shots Tour Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Dazzling Del Rays Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Jersey Boys tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Cindi Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Jeanie Darnell, soprano Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., Tickets are $10 for general public and $7 for students and are available at fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268 The Veuve Clicquot Sunset Puppy Picnic Mercato 9132 Strada Place, Naples Join Naples Flatbread & Veuve Clicquot for a sunset filled with Bubble and Puppies featuring light bites, Veuve Clicquot champagne, lawn games, DJ Travis, cool Veuve decor, photo spots and lounge areas. 5 - 8 p.m. 239-254-1080 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Dan Meadows, noon-4 p.m. & Singer Adam Mac, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Sunset Celebration Double Standard Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900
Friction Farm in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org The Rocky Horror Picture Show Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road Join us for an interactive screening of the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show. 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 David & Lisa V The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Swinging Bridge Bluegrass Band The Norris Center 755 8th Ave S, Naples 7 p.m. $25 in Advance and $28 at the Door. 239) 213-3058 Half Step Down Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-540-8454
SUN - 13
Bluegrass Indoor Concert Bill Metts, Bugtussle Ramblers, and Hwy 41 Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 2 - 5 p.m. 239-939-2787 Nam Jam The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., 239-995-2141 SW Florida Blues Society Annual Blues Bash DJ’s Rhythm House, 16440 S Tamiami Trail #11, Fort Myers TC Carr & Bolts of Blue and Marty Stokes Band, 1 – 6 p.m. 239-466-8326
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Entertaining Southwest Florida since 1995 Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 35
OCTOBER CALENDAR SUN - 13 CONTINUED Symphony Orchestra Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU 3 p.m., This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts
Art and Poetry Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street, Fort Myers Take part in the monthly Art and Poetry Networking Event from Gulf Coast Leisure! Experience the best talent SWFL has to offer. 8 p.m. 239-333-1933
The Faith Tour McGregor Baptist Church 3750 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Jordan Feliz with special guests I Am They & Hannah Kerr. 7 p.m. 239-936-1754.
New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Mike Imbasciani & His Bluez Rockerz Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454
Composition Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts
Naples Concert Band Cambier Park, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-597-3240 Taco Fest 2019 Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs A family-friendly event featuring live local musical entertainment, with plenty of food trucks and restaurants offering delicious food. We also offer alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and a kids area. For this event, every vendor must offer a $2 taco for you to taste. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 239-214-6009 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 4-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 An Afternoon of Quintets Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians. 3 p.m. 239-597-1900 Blues & Bloodys Concert Series The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, Noon - 7 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
MON - 14
Hope by Song Fort Myers Regional Library Amphitheater 2450 First St., Fort Myers The Hope by Song's mission is to help those whose stories of abuse, addiction, homelessness or PTSD have not been heard by inspiring them to tell their stories. 6 p.m. 239-479-4636 36 - October 2019
Always ... Patsy Cline plays now through Nov. 24 at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St., Fort Myers. Call 239-332-4488 for tickets.
TUE - 15
Cahlua & Cream The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Jazz Jam Session Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000
WED - 16
Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Dancing with Jerry Dycke The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-995-2141 Erich Dance Party Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
THU - 17
Randy Rainbow Live! Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849
Everyone is an Alienígeno: Enrique Chagoya Exhibition opening reception Wasmer Art Gallery, Arts Complex, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers 5 p.m., This event is free and open to the public. Exhibit runs through Nov. 14. 239-590-7199 or fgcu.edu/artgalleries Billy Joel tribute Cape Cabaret 4725 Vincennes Blvd, Cape Coral 7 p.m. 239-549-3000 Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Boreyko Conducts Beethoven and Tchaikovsky Oct. 17-18 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic. 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Third Thursday Wine Walk (formerly Alive After Five) Downtown Punta Gorda Every third Thursday from 5 to 8 the downtown merchants bring you live music, artists and demoing, food trucks, other entertainment through out downtown.Merchants stay open till 8 p.m. for your shopping pleasure. 5 - 8 p.m. 941-391-4856
FRI - 18
Anjelah Johnson Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 8 p.m. 239-481-4849 Punkin’Palooza Oct. 18 - 20 Fleamasters Fleamarket, 4135 Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers Admission is free. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.fleamall.com Music Walk - Boo Bash Downtown Fort Myers The River District comes alive on the third Friday of the month as local and regional musicians line the streets. From jazz and blues to rock & roll, many genres can be heard and vary each month. Free to the public with many venues featuring additional attractions and specials. 6 - 10 p.m. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Johnny & Patti - 6 p.m. Rod Stewart tribute - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, Country Express Band, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Mitchell Tenpenny The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Happenings Magazine
OCTOBER CALENDAR Betty's Big Show Lake Kennedy Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral $10 per person. 7 p.m. 239-574-0575
Taste of Gateway Gateway Information Center 11900 Fairway Lakes Dr., Fort Myers Bounce house, great food, games and crafts, family fun & more. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.gateway411.com
ZZ Top with Cheap Trick Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7:30 p.m. 239-948-7825
Pioneer Pumpkin Palooza Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch 1215 Roberts Ave W, Immokalee Wind your way through the hay maze to the pumpkin patch. Enjoy fun pioneer-themed activities for all ages from a scavenger hunt, face painting, hayrides, games, arts and crafts and more! FREE. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-252-2611
Cape Coral Oktoberfest Oct. 18 - 20 German American Social Club of Cape Coral, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd, Fridays from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays noon until midnight and Sundays from noon until 9 p.m. Live music, food, beverages, vendors, Carnival area for the kids with rides and games www.capecoraloktoberfest.com
Brew-Ha-Ha Craft Beer Festival Mercato, Vanderbilt Beach Road and US 41, Naples Craft beers and music by Soulixer, 5 - 8 p.m. $35 advance, $40 at gate 239-437-0202 www.rmhcswfl.org/events
The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Jory Lyle & Co. The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Iconic Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Fleetwood Mac tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Naples Boat Show Docktail Party Oct. 18 - 20 Naples City Dock, 880 12th Ave S. www.fishtale.com
SAT - 19
Here Come the Mummies perform Oct. 30 at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. For tickets, visit www.moreinpaadise.com Classix - 6 p.m. Alter Ego - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000
New Beginnings: A Concert of Stories Bonita Springs Public Library 10560 Reynolds Street., Hear humorous and poignant stories brought to life by several experienced storytellers. The Tamiami Tale Tellers (TTT) is a longtime storytelling guild in Southwest Florida and a member of the Florida Storytelling Association. Registration is required. 2 p.m. 239-479-4636
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
Deb & The Dynamics Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454
AAA Travel Show School District of Lee County, 2855 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 10 a.m. - 1 pm. Register to attend at 239-939-6500 or www.AAA.com/travel.events
38 - October 2019
Zine Fest Neenie’s House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers Noon to 5 p.m. www.neenieshouse.com www.loveyourrebellion.org
Spooktacular Drink & Treat Trolley Event + Costume Contest Cape Coral’s Entertainment District Take the exclusive trolleys & party buses around Cape Coral’s Entertainment District, stopping at various locations to enjoy 2oz specialty drink samples and candy. Check-ins for this event are open from 6-7:30 p.m., and are located at Big John Plaza and in front of Dixie Roadhouse. Late check-in is open from 7:30-9 p.m. in front of Dixie Roadhouse 239-900-4028 The Sunset Celebration - MFYF Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Temptations, Four Tops tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566
Dinner Dance Cape Coral Yacht Club, 5819 Driftwood Pkwy. Dance the night away to the music of Chicago Heat. Catered by Fowler Street Grill. Full Course Dinner or Vegetarian option; Free Beer and Wine While it Last - BYOB allowed. 5:30–10 p.m. Reservations Required 4 days before event. ccscreservations@gmail.com, www. capecoralsocialclub.org 813-419-3613 Annual Quilt Show Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 239-334-7419 Billy Currington The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Michael Hirst, noon-4 p.m. & Singer Steve Flagg, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Del Prados The Shell Factory and Nature Park 16554 N Cleveland Ave, North Fort Myers Music in The Dolphin Room. 5 – 9:30 p.m. 239-995-2141 Mike Laureanno in concert The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org Happenings Magazine
Naples Artcrafters: Fine Art & Craft Show Cambier Park, Naples 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.naplesartcrafters.com
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Dan Meadows, 4-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
Fall Home and Garden Show Oct. 19 -20 Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 941-833-5444
The Del Prados Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454
Gulfshore Playhouse: Bedlam’s Saint Joan Oct. 19 - Nov. 3 The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 866-811-4111
SUN - 20
Cat and Nat: #MOMTRUTHS Live Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 7 p.m. 239-481-4849 Music in the Garden: John Patti Project Naples Botanical Garden 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples Noon – 2 p.m. 239-643-7275 www.naplesgarden.org Chamber, University & Women’s Choirs Concert Naples United Church of Christ, 5200 Crayton Rd., Naples 3 p.m., This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Italian Fest 2019 Lee County Alliance for the Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Italian Fest will offer great entertainment, raffles, games for the kids and adults and, of course, plenty of food and drink. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. office@rotary-fortmyers.org or 239-332-8158
Happenings Magazine
TUE - 22
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 50th Anniversary Tour The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Ft Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Jazz Jam Session Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000 Miami City Ballet Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples With the Naples Philharmonic. 8 p.m. 239-597-1900 Smallwood The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
WED - 23
Escanaba in Da Moonlight Oct. 23 - Nov. 17 The Naples Players, 701 5th Ave S, Naples, 239-263-7990 Eric Swartz Jr Trumpet Recital U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., This recital is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
U.S. Air Force Band- Concert Band and Singing Sergeants Oct. 23 - 24 Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda 7 - 9 p.m. 941-833-5444 Greg Miller & The Tributes Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Dancing with Jerry Dycke The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-995-2141 Gulfshore Opera: Song & Dance Gulfshore Ballet, 5636 Youngquist Road, unit 1, Fort Myers 7 p.m., 239-529-3925
THU - 24
Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Bob Seger, Lady Gaga, Cher, Billy Joel tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Naples International Film Festival Oct. 24 - 27 Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 239-597-1900 Wicked Walk 2019 Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street, Fort Myers Wicked Walk creates a tour through the Sidney Berne Davis Arts Center where participants interact and experience the visual and performing arts. 6 - 9 p.m. 239-333-1933 Soul System Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000
Cause & Affection October 24 -27 Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Moe Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road An aging soap star finds his evening plans ruined after his elderly neighbor gets locked out of her apartment and his best friend shows up needing marital advice. While trying to help them solve their problems, a bombshell drops, leaving him with a problem of his own to solve. Thursday – Saturday 7 p.m. & Saturday – Sunday 2 p.m. 239-495-8989
Theatre Conspiracy: Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche Oct. 24 - Nov. 3 Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-2787
Sound Machine The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
Sex tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man Oct. 25 - Nov. 16 The Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481
FRI - 25
Rhythm on the River: Journey Tribute Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Ft.Myers Edison Ford members: $20; nonmembers: $25. The at the door price is $30. 6 p.m. 239-334-7419
October 2019 - 39
OCTOBER CALENDAR FRI - 25 CONTINUED
Richie C - 6 p.m. Elvis & more tribute - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Zach Bartholomew Quartet Nisita Concert Series U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $10 for general public and $7 for students at fgcu.edu/concerts 239-745-4268 Annual Stone Crab Festival Oct. 25 - 27 Bayfront and Tin City, Naples 239-300-4880 www.stonecrabfestival.com The Eagles tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141 Cape Coral Oktoberfest Oct. 25 - 27 German American Social Club of Cape Coral, 2101 SW Pine Island Rd, Fridays from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays noon until midnight and Sundays from noon until 9 p.m. Live music, food, beverages, vendors, Carnival Area for the Kids featuring rides and games www.capecoraloktoberfest.com Mystery Cycles Oct. 25 - Nov. 3 TheatreLab, Arts Complex, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S, FGCU, Fort Myers www.fgcu.edu/theatrelab
SAT - 26
The Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239463-5900
Southwest Florida Symphony: Psycho - Film with Live Orchestra Barbara B. Mann - Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849
Psycho film with Live Orchestra Southwest Florida Symphony Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda Pre-concert events begin at 6:30 p.m. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. 239-418-1500, www.swflso.org
Not Guilty Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454
Fort Myers Oktoberfest Festival Oct. 25 - 27 Fort Myers River District Friday 4-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., & Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. www.paragonartevents.com Friday Night Concert Series Miromar Outlets, Estero Electric Lipstick serves up a fiery performance of your favorite rock n’ roll hits. 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza. www.MiromarOutlets.com Smugglers Haunting on the Harbor Haunted House October 25 - 27 & 31 115 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda www.smugglersinc.com On Golden Pond Oct. 25 - Nov. 3 Cultural Park Theatre 528 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral 239-772-5862 528 40 - October 2019
The Beach Boys tribute The Stage, 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 7:30 p.m. 239-405-8566 Robert Gonnelli - 6 p.m. The Goldtones - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000 Big Orange Music Fest Laishley Park 150 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda STEM at the Speed of Sound, Maestro Raffaele Ponti and the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Blackberry Smoke, The Allman Betts Band, Joanne Shaw Taylor, j Edwards, JD Simo and Champ Jaxon. Food Trucks, Vendors and much more! Noon. To purchase tickets, www.etix.com
3rd Annual Throwback to the 50s! Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Music, dance and fun from noon-4 p.m. Singer Paul Roush, 5-9 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 The Sunset Celebration - Hill Billy Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com We Are Messengers Power Tour Sanibel Community Church 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Make plans right now to join the band and their guests We The Kingdom for a strong night of praise! 7 p.m. 239-472-2684 Violet Bell The ACMA Listening Room 2756 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 7 p.m. www.americanacma.org Halloween Spooktacular Trick or Treat Bell Tower Shops 13499 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers Join us for our 2nd annual Halloween Spooktacular featuring a costume contest, dance parties at center court, trick or treating with you favorite Bell Tower merchants and so much more! 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-489-1221 Trunk or Treat Mugs N' Jugs Family Grille 5512 8th St W, Lehigh Acres Trunk or Treat fundraiser for the Kids. Candy games costume contests hay ride just a great time. This fundraiser is to raise money for LED road flares to give a parent at each bus stop so the children a more visible. 5 p.m. 239-369-5069 Howl-O-Ween Mantanzas on the Bay 416 Crescent St., Fort Myers Beach Pumpkin & face painting, CROW’s wildlife experts, raffle prizes, live music by Scotty Bryan, kids games & animal themed arts & crafts, craft beer & buffet. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 239-463-3838 Cindi Crowley The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 - 7 p.m., 239-995-2141
Wynonna & The Big Noise Seminole Casino Hotel, 506 S. 1st St., Immokalee 8 p.m. www.moreinparadise.com 800-514-ETIX
SUN - 27
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Chris G, 4-8 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007 Naples Dixieland Jazz Band Cambier Park, Naples 2 - 4 p.m. 239-263-1113 Raiders of the Lost Ark in Concert Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples 7 p.m. 239-597-1900 Jazz Ensemble Concert U. Tobe Recital Hall, Music Building, FGCU, Fort Myers 3 p.m., This concert is free and open to the public www.fgcu.edu/concerts Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Shore Patrol Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 4 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Charlotte Symphony Orchestra Charlotte Performing Arts Center 701 Carmalita ST., Punta Gorda 2 and 7:30 p.m. 941-205-5996 www.charlottesymphony.com
MON - 28
Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
TUE - 29
Jazz Jam Session Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 6:30 p.m., 239-549-3000 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
Happenings Magazine
Beginning with Beethoven Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Naples Philharmonic Chamber Musicians. 3 p.m. 239-597-1900
Erich Dance Party Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 7 p.m., 239-549-3000 Dancing with Jerry Dycke The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-995-2141
A Voice for the Everglades The Naples Players 701 5th Avenue S, Naples 239-263-7990
WED - 30
An Evening with Deepak Chopra The Nature of Reality Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. 239-481-4849 Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 8 p.m., 239-540-8454 Fall Harvest Dance Party Lake Kennedy Center 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral $5 per person. 2 p.m. 239-574-0575
Here Come the Mummies Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee 506 South 1st St., Immokalee 8 p.m. 1-800-514-ETIX www.moreinparadise.com
All That Jazz Artis—Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples With special guest Michael Dease, trombone. 6 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. 239597-1900
The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com
THU - 31
Bite the Bullet Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454
Halloween on 5th Spooktacular 5th Ave., South, Naples Fun events for families and children, including live music, street dancing, costume contest, games, and more. 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. www.fifthavenuesouth.com
Classix - 6 p.m. The Goldtones - 7 p.m. Cape Cabaret, 4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, 239-549-3000
Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Live Music in the Village Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Mark Gorka, 4-7 p.m., center court. 941-575-3007
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Happenings Magazine - SW Florida
Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 41
MUSIC
Pumptober-Fest
Oct. 5 at Bell Tower Second annual craft beer festival raises money for Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Foundation
Bell Tower in Fort Myers will host its second annual dizzying twin guitars alongside gritty, soulful vocals to remind Pumptober-Fest on Oct. 5. audiences that rock and roll is a timeless, cosmic giant that The family-friendly fall festival includes unlimited beer samnever truly dies, it just slumbers and is reincarnated in new and plings, fresh food, carnival-style games and live entertainment. exciting ways. With a foot firmly planted in the colossal sounds The pumpkin-themed event supports the Greater Fort Myers of the past pushing them off into the future, the sound develChamber of Commerce oped has become a unique and Foundation and spotlights a variunmistakable blend of heavy ety of popular craft beers, includsouthern rock and roll delivered ing several brewed in Southwest with a relentless precision and Florida. Pumpkin-flavored beer fury that leaves tube amps smokwill be served from a nostalgically ing and drum sets in pieces. decorated “Pumpkinade Stand” at In sharing stages with the the event. likes of Kings X and The Devon “We had such a tremendous Allman band, touring around the response to our first Pumptoberregion and besting competition Fest from sponsors, vendors, from three different states at the guests and tenants,” said Backwoods Riot Music festival to Shannon Palzer, marketing manearn a weekend with the revered ager for Bell Tower. “We’re hopMatt Washburn at Ledbelly sound ing Pumptober-Fest becomes the studio in Georgia, The Electric one community event that signiMud have quickly earned the fies the official start to season in respect of their peers for their Southwest Florida.” truly vintage modern approach to Pumptober-Fest will be held rock and roll, and the fanatical from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, work ethic they apply to playing it. Oct. 5 at Bell Tower, 13499 S. To learn more about the band Cleveland Ave. in Fort Myers. and their tour schedule, visit The Electric Mud will perform Oct. 5. Jesi Cason Photography Admission for guests 21 and online at older is $35 in advance, or $40 at www.theelectricmud.com the door, and includes unlimited Bell Tower is working with tastings of ales, lagers, pilsners and stouts served in keepsake Suncoast Beverage to develop a tasting lineup of craft beers for mini-mugs. Guests also will receive pretzel necklaces. Pumptober-Fest and will release a complete list of participating Pumptober-Fest is hosted by Bell Tower in partnership with breweries prior to the event. Several restaurants will be offering Suncoast Beverage and benefits the Greater Fort Myers samples of their fresh and innovative cuisine on a first-come, Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which provides college first-served basis, including mini cannoli from Grimaldi’s scholarships, grants for teachers, entrepreneurial education, Pizzeria. Dave & Buster’s, World of Beer, Blue Pointe Oyster internships and mentoring. Bar & Seafood Grill, Williams-Sonoma and Society are among The Electric Mud, a nationally touring rock band from Fort the participants entered in a food tasting competition to award Myers, will be performing at Pumptober-Fest. Balloon artist and one participant with the title of “Bell Tower’s Best Mac and stilt walker Way Too Tall Torrie also will make an appearance. Cheese.” All food and dessert samples are included in the price The Electric Mud features Peter Kolter on guitar/vocals; of admission. Constantine Grim on guitar; Tommy Scott on bass; and Pierson To purchase advance tickets, visit www.fortmyers.org/events Whicker on drums. For more about Bell Tower, visit online at The Electric Mud call upon a punishing rhythm section and www.belltowerfl.com 42 - October 2019
Happenings Magazine
Bluegrass concert
series returns Oct. 13
The Alliance for the Arts will kick off its Bluegrass Concert series on Sunday, Oct. 13 from 2 – 5 p.m. at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. The series is presented in Bugtussle Ramblers partnership with the Acoustic Music Society ues on Nov. 2, Dec. 29, of SWFL and sponsored by Jan. 19, Feb. 9, March 22 and Staywell. April 19. The October lineup feaTickets are $15 and are tures Bill Metts, Bugtussle available online at Ramblers and Hwy 41 in an www.ArtInLee.org or by callindoors, air conditioned ing 239-939-2787. Children venue. Join fellow acoustic under 12 are free if accompamusic lovers in the theatre for three hours of great live music nied by an adult. Doors for this event open at 1 p.m. by bands from southwest Seating is limited and is first Florida and beyond. come, first serve. The 2019-20 series contin-
AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION Fort Myers home for original Americana music!
Cliff Eberhardt
Friction Farm
OCTOBER 5
OCTOBER 12
Louise Mosrie opens
Mike Laureanno
Paul Phillips opens
Violet Bell
Keith Parker opens
Mary Dahl, Carolyn Stanley opens
Patchouli
Bill Mize
OCTOBER 19
Andy Getch opens
NOVEMBER 2
Songwriters on the Plaza Downtown Fort Myers
NOVEMBER 12
OCTOBER 26
Danny Anderson opens
NOVEMBER 9
Doors open 6:30 p.m. Show 7 p.m.
Shows at All Faiths Unitarian Cong., 2756 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers info 239-691-4069 www.AmericanACMA.org $15 donation at door Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 43
MUSIC
Cliff Eberhardt, Friction Farm, Mike Laureano & Violet Bell AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION
The Americana Community Music Association is Fort Myers home year for that chart. for original Americana music. The ACMA provides a venue for local The ACMA welcomes back Friction Farm on Oct. 12. No strangers and touring artists, many are award winning performers in the to the ACMA stage, Friction Farm brings new songs and new stories Americana/folk community. All shows are in a quiet, intimate setting from their many miles on the road. Modern-folk duo Friction Farm is a and every show is a meet and greet with the artists. The headliners husband and wife team of traveling troubadours. Aidan Quinn and are touring “under the wire, should be famous” musicians. Each show Christine Stay combine storytelling, social commentary and humor to has a local songwriter that performs at a professional level open for create songs of everyday life, local heroes, and quirky observations. the headliner. From ballads to anthems each song is filled with harmony and hope. Cliff Eberhardt returns to the local ACMA stage on Saturday, Oct. Friction Farm's lyrically rich, harmony-driven songs have earned 5, and Louise Mosrie opens. Cliff them spots as Kerrville New Folk Eberhardt may have come up on the Finalists and Falcon Ridge same '80s East Coast singer/songEmerging Artists. They are winners writer scene as Shawn Colvin, Lucy of the South Florida Folk Festival Kaplansky, John Gorka, et al, but songwriter competition and have even from the beginning he had rock performed as official showcase & roll -- and even pop -- aspirations. artists at the Southeast, Southwest, His early albums found him leaning and Northeast Regional Folk toward Springsteen-esque heartland Alliance Conferences. Performing rock and almost John Waite-ish balinternationally and throughout the ladry as much as the folkish US, Friction Farm feels at home on approach of his aforementioned the road and on stage. Audiences peers, and his rough-edged voice lean into their stories, laugh at their and hook-centric songwriting made it humor, are inspired to do a little all work. The further into his career good in the world, and sing along he gets, however, the more he cononce in a while." centrates on spare, acoustic-based ACMA member Paul Phillips settings and slow, soulful ballads. opens the Oct. 12 show. Call it "maturity," "evolution," or Mike Laureano will play the "back to basics," the important thing ACMA stage on Oct. 19, and Keith Cliff Eberhart and Louise Mosrie is that he can pull it off a hell of a lot Parker will open that night. more convincingly than some Laureano hails from Fall River, MA, straight-up rocker for whom the an old mill-town infamous for its axe acoustic troubadour mode is an unprecedented step. wielding resident Lizzie Borden and famous for its chow mein sandOn this, the eighth album of a recording career that began in 1990, wiches and pork pies. A passionate performer, Mike's songs are visthe 50 something songwriter furthers the organic, as-close-to-live-asceral and evocative. He is a winner of both the 2017 Wildflower, TX, possible approach of his preceding release, The High Above and the songwriting contest, the 2016 Woody Guthrie songwriting contest as Down Below, sounding completely at ease in this mode. Sometimes, well as a 2016 Kerrville New Folk, TX finalist and a 2018 Falcon as on "Have a Little Heart" and a remake of "The Long Road," the title Ridge Folk festival “emerging artist.” He has released four albums to track from his '90 debut album, Eberhardt lays into a big, bold pop date. melody that wouldn't sound out of place being belted out by an The ACMA welcomes Violet Bell on Oct. 26. Violet Bell weaves American Idol contestant (that's not a pejorative statement). But for roots, soul, psychedelic, and classical music into a wild soundscape. the most part, his gritty, soul-soaked voice leans comfortably into On stage and in the studio, the North Carolina duo of Lizzy Ross (guimore low-key constructions. tar, banjo, vocals) and Omar Ruiz-Lopez (violin, viola, cello, guitar, Louise Mosrie grew up in the small town just outside of Nashville mandolin, vocals) share magnetic chemistry. The two have traveled on a farm with British parents and several siblings - riding horses, writfar since forming in 2016, building a steadily growing fanbase on the ing poetry and singing with the radio. After college in Knoxville, she road and honing the fiery intimacy of their live show. "borrowed" her brother's Sears guitar, bought a simple chord book and Violet Bell cut their debut LP Honey in My Heart with Jason started writing songs. The early material was mostly acoustic pop as Richmond (Avett Brothers, Steep Canyon Rangers, Nneena Freelon, she tried to channel her English roots while listening to “Everything Dom Flemons, Bombadil). The songs were recorded largely live in sinBut the Girl” and “The Sundays.” gle takes, and you can feel it. Without isolation, click tracks, or vocal Fast forward a few years, a move back to Nashville and some tuning, this music is real and full of life. Violet Bell was an official deep soul searching, Louise began writing songs about the South – Americanafest 2018 showcasing artist and is a 2019-2020 touring what she knew and where she grew up. In 2008, she began working artist with the US State Department’s American Music Abroad proon a new album eventually to be called “Home” because she’d come gram. full circle in her “voice” as a writer. The album was a mix of bluegrass, Mary Dahl and Carolyn Stanley will open the Oct. 26 show. country and folk and as she weaved in lush stories and songs about YouTube any of these artists and be prepared to be impressed by southern life. With those songs, she entered some song contests conthe talent that is available to you all year round for a cost of $15 donanected to festivals and ended up winning top awards at Kerrville Folk tion. The ACMA is a non-sectarian not for profit organization. Most Festival, Wildflower Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Falcon concerts are held at All Faiths Congregation located at 2756 Ridge Folk Festival. “Home” debuted at #1 on the Folk DJ charts in McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. all shows start January 2010 and went on to be one of the most played albums that at 7 pm. For more information visit www.americanacma.org 44 - October 2019
Happenings Magazine
Ben Allen Band
Charlie Moon Band
Fort Myers Brewing Company to host Oktoberfest on Oct. 3-6
Fort Myers Brewing Company will host its seventh annual Oktoberfest, a four-day family-friendly event that includes craft beer, German food, live music and a first for the popular brewery – a wiener dog race. Oktoberfest will be held Thursday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 6 at Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Drive, suite 28, in Fort Myers (in Gateway). Ten different food trucks will be serving their specialty dishes and foodie features over the four-day event, and six local bands and musicians are scheduled to entertain the crowd. After ramping up for the first two days, Oktoberfest’s main event is Oct. 5 when Fort Myers Brewing features more than 50 craft beers on tap, rolling out new brews periodically throughout the
day. The brewery will also host several Stein Hoisting Competitions, a traditional Bavarian endurance contest in which participants must hold a full stein in their outstretched arm as long as possible without spilling any beer. Then on Oct. 6, Fort Myers Brewing will host its inaugural wiener dog race in which dachshunds will race to the finish line for a prize. Dogs of all breeds can also compete in a “Fun Run” immediately after the wiener dog race. Established in 2013, Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first microbrewery to open in Lee County and continues to lead Southwest Florida’s surging craft beer movement. Founded by Rob and Jen Whyte, Fort Myers Brewing carries a signature line of flagship beers in addition to seasonal brews and small batch specialties.
Here is the full schedule of events:
Thursday, Oct. 3
• Event hours: 3 - 11 p.m. • Music by Neon Summer (7 - 10 p.m.) • Food trucks: The Nosh Truck, Currywurst, The Schnitzel Express, Dave’s Cosmic Subs and Rollin’ Raw Bar
Friday, Oct. 4
• Event hours: 3 - 11 p.m. • Music by Soulixer (6:30-10:30 p.m.) • Food trucks: Currywurst, The Schnitzel Express, Wicked Streatery and The Sizzle Truck
Saturday, Oct. 5
• Event hours: Noon - 11 p.m. • Stein hoisting competition (various times throughout the day) • Music by Freecoasters (1 - 5 p.m.), The Ben Allen Band (6 - 10 p.m.) and DJ Memphis (on air throughout the day) • Food trucks: The Nosh Truck, Currywurst, The Schnitzel Express, Fine Folk Pizza and Mobstah Lobstah
Sunday, Oct. 6
Happenings Magazine
Freecoasters
• Event hours: Noon - 8 p.m. • Kick the Keg Party (all day) • Wiener dog races (time to be posted on Facebook) • Music by Charlie Moon Band (2 - 6 p.m.) • Food trucks: Currywurst, The Schnitzel Express and King’s Tacos & Burritos For more information, visit online at www.FMbrew.com or Facebook.com/FMBrew or call 239-313-6576. October 2019 - 45
MUSIC
Punkin’palooza Oct. 11-20
Two weekends of live music, pumpkin patch and family-friendly fall fun at Fleamasters
Fall officially arrived this Family Photo Spot.” September. Bathing suits and beachOn Saturday, Oct. 19, youth in es are out and pumpkins are in. S.W. Florida’s Self Reliance Clubs will There’s nothing that evokes autumn set up stands at Fleamasters to sell more than a big orange pumpkin. their wares: plants, arts & crafts, And you’ll find plenty at baked goods and more. It's a day for Punkin’palooza Oct. 11 – 20 at young folks to earn a buck at Fleamasters Fleamarket, 4135 Dr. Fleamasters. Not yet a member of a Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd., Fort Self Reliance Club? Anyone under 18 Myers. can be a part of the fair, and rent a The two-weekend event features space at Fleamasters for only $20. a pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, Parking and admission are free. shopping and free entertainment. Fleamasters Fleamarket is open Musical groups include Cape Coral’s for shopping 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 30-member Hafenkapelle Festival Saturday and Sunday, rain or shine. Band, Country Artist Colton James, The market features food and craft The Frank Moravcik Polka Band, vendors and hundreds of unique, Dixie Jammerz and the Vallie-Burke owner-operated stores. Show. Young, and young-at-heart, If you have something to sell dance groups will take the stage: (especially if you’re an artist or Littleton Elementary’s Lariots and crafter, or have holiday gifts) Lace, The Hot Flashz Dancers and Fleamasters’ Pumpkin Festival is a SWFL Girls at Play. great place to display your wares. Frank Moravcik Band Adopt a pumpkin ($5 to $15 per Find information about Fleamasters pumpkin) to paint and take home at Fleamarket and Punkin’palooza at Fleamasters’ Great Pumpkin Patch. And you can create a spewww.fleamall.com, or connect with Fleamasters on Facebook cial Pumpkin Festival memory at the “Pumpkin Farmer’s for festival updates.
Dr. Hobbs plays benefit concert
Larry Hobbs 46 - October 2019
Newly formed rock trio Dr. Hobbs made its Southwest Florida debut in early September. The band played Sept. 6 at TerTini’s in Fort Myers. Then on Sept. 7, Dr. Hobbs played a benefit concert at Galloway Direct in south Fort Myers to collect canned goods for the Community Cooperative. The band members include Larry Hobbs on bass and vocals, Randy Jackson on guitar and vocals and Steve Luongo on drums and vocals.
SW Florida Symphony to accompany Pyscho at Charlotte Performing Arts Center Oct. 25 The Southwest Florida Symphony’s 59th season truly ventures into uncharted territory this year. The orchestra announces its 2019-2020 season lineup of performances, two of which will happen at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center. The symphony opens its season on Friday, Oct. 25 with a new concert series called Brave New Music. The first concert of this series features a timely Halloween weekend screening of the Alfred Hitchcock classic horror film Psycho with live orchestral accompaniment. Experience this film in its entirety, projected on the big screen, made even more haunting through a live performance of the chilling Bernard Hermann composed score, in tandem with the movie. In addition to the film and performance, the Southwest Florida Symphony
hosts its own Halloween party in the Charlotte Performing Arts Center lobby with a costume contest and a Psycho themed photo booth, complete with shower curtain and (rubber) knife. On Jan. 31, the Southwest Florida Symphony returns to Charlotte County Performing Arts Center with a glittering performance of the Music of Queen, made larger than life when the Southwest Florida Symphony shares the stage with the only Freddie Mercury Estate licensed Queen tribute band. Both concerts begin at 7:30 p.m., with the Psycho pre-concert event beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets to the Southwest Florida Symphony’s performances at Charlotte Performing Arts Center may be purchased online at www.swflso.org or by calling 239-418-1500.
Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 47
Brew-Ha-Ha Craft Beer Fest Oct. 19 at Mercato MUSIC
Annual event benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities SW Florida
Craft beer enthusiasts will rock and soul.” delight in over 60 brews to The event will take place benefit Ronald McDonald on the lawn across from The House Charities of Southwest Pub. Gates open at 5 p.m. Florida at the 8th Annual with unlimited beer tastings Brew-Ha-Ha Craft Beer available until 8 p.m. Festival on Saturday, Oct. 19 Discounted tickets are at Mercato in Naples. available until Oct. 18 for $35 Nor-Tech Hi-Performance at www.rmhcswfl.org/events. Boats, along with Evolution Tickets will be $40 at the Trailer Technologies Inc. and gate. A VIP brewmaster's tickSportboats Marine, are the et is available for $65 and presenting sponsors this year. includes early access starting The 2019 roster provides at 4 p.m., access to VIP tent an opportunity to enjoy a and dedicated restrooms, with wonderful array of craft exclusive beer, cheese pairbeers, courtesy of Coastal ings courtesy of Whole Foods Beverage, with a spotlight on Naples, and unlimited bottled Florida breweries. Brews on water, soda and snacks. Lawn tap will include Wicked Weed, chairs, blankets and wellBrew Bus, Funky Buddha, behaved pets are welcome. Green Bench, Sweetwater Participating Mercato restauSoulixer just to name a few. rants will serve menu items for Guests can enjoy an purchase. No coolers or outevening of craft beer tasting, stein holding contests, raffle, photo side food will be permitted. booth fun courtesy of Naples Photo Booths, and live music by For more information on the event or how to become a sponlocal band, Soulixer, a “three-piece cosmic concoction of Indie sor, call Amy at 239-437-0202.
Nam-Jam Oct. 13 at Shell Factory
The Shell Factory & Nature Park will host Vietnam veteran. its third annual Nam-Jam on Sunday, Oct. Music will be provided throughout the 13 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. day by Chuck Peterson, Larry Wells and Located at 16554 N. Cleveland Ave. in Nette. North Fort Myers, the veterans-oriented “This event is so meaningful to the Shell event features live music and entertainment, Factory team and the Southwest Florida food for purchase, specials for veterans and community,” said Pam Cronin, owner of The a tribute to our military. Shell Factory & Nature Park. “The past three Admission is free to all attendees, and veterans who present a military ID receive free admission to the nature park, a free round of mini golf for four, hot dog and chips, tickets for two draft beers or one well drink and 20 percent off purchases in the retail store. Additionally, there will be a 50/50 raffle, with half of the proceeds benefitting the Southwest Florida Military Museum. A veteran’s tribute begins at 2 p.m. and includes a special Chuck Peterson Nette appearance by a local 48 - October 2019
years of hosting the event has afforded us the opportunity to meet veterans throughout the area and honor them for their service. This is an overall rewarding experience and a small way to show our appreciation for their sacrifice and dedication.” For more information, visit online at www.ShellFactory.com or call 239-995-2141.
Larry Wells
Happenings Magazine
TRIBUTE BANDS prings
in Bonita S
Gulfshore Opera, Gulfshore Ballet to present Song and Dance Oct. 24
Gulfshore Opera and and a Houston debut as Poppea Gulfshore Ballet join forces to in Handel's Agrippina with Ars present an evening of Song & Lyrica Houston. Dance on Oct. 24. In its second Chad Johnson has led quite year of this collaboraa prolific career as a tion, singers of tenor in a variety of Gulfshore Opera join operas across North the studio of Gulfshore America. Recently, he Ballet to interpret has taken on many songs of French great tenor roles Impressionists and including Niklaus selections from Sprink in Silent Night; Leonard Bernstein’s Don Ottavio in Don Camille Ortiz West Side Story. Giovanni; Tonio in La Camille Ortiz and fille du régiment; mezzo-soprano Lauryn Gerald in Lakmé; Kay will perform Lenski in Eugene French repertoire with Onegin; Nadir in Les pieces by Debussy, pêcheurs de perles; Bizet and Berlioz in the Lysander in Britten’s A first half of the concert. Midsummer Night’s In the second half of Dream. the program, Florida Lauryn Kay, mezzo Chad Johnson Grand Opera tenor soprano, is a native Chad Johnson joins from Charleston, SC. Camille Ortiz and She is a recent graduLauryn Kay to perform ate of the University of highlights of West Side Florida and holds a Story, including Master of Music degree “Something’s Coming,” in Voice Performance. “I Feel Pretty” and Miss Kay has per“Tonight.” In both porformed as a soloist and tions of the program, chorister throughout Lauryn Kay Gulfshore Ballet the southeast and dancers provide visual abroad including accompaniment to the pieces. England, Spain, Hungary and Internationally recognized for Vienna. While in Gainesville, her compelling performances of Lauryn performed the alto solos baroque and concert repertoire, for Handel’s Messiah, Durufle’s native Puerto Rican soprano Requiem, Britten’s Rejoice in the Camille Ortiz is quickly establishLamb, and John Rutter’s Every ing herself as a leading artist in Time I Feel the Spirit. standard operatic roles. Recent The performance will be appearances include Micaëla in Thursday, Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. in Magic City Opera's Carmen; a the Gulfshore Ballet studio, 5636 debut with the Naples Youngquist Road Unit 1, Fort Philharmonic as soloist in their Myers. Tickets are $75 for premiLink-Up Series; Norinain Don um seating, cocktails and hors Pasquale with Gulfshore Opera; d’oeuvres reception beginning at a return to San Francisco for the 6 p.m. with a silent auction to "Mozart Magnified" series with benefit Gulfshore Ballet. Or audiPhilharmonia Baroque Orchestra ences can join for the performand Chorale as the featured ance only at 7 p.m. for $45. soprano soloist in Exsultate, jubiTickets are on sale by visiting late, Coronation Mass in C www.gulfshoreopera.org or callmajor, and Litaniae Lauretanae; ing 239-529-3925.
Happenings Magazine
Come for the Food. Stay for the Dancing!
OCT 9 - Girls of Motown tribute OCT 10 - Neil Diamond tribute OCT 11 - Eagles tribute OCT 12 - Jersey Boys tribute OCT 17 - Rod Stewart and Roy Orbison tribute OCT 18 - Fleetwood Mac tribute OCT 19 - Temptations, Four Tops tribute OCT 24 - Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute OCT 25 - Eagles tribute OCT 26 - Beach Boys tribute NOV 1 - Neal Diamond tribute NOV 2 - Journey & Bon Jovi tribute
NOV 7 - Elvis, Celine Dion, Connie Francis, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin tribute NOV 8 - Jersey Boys tribute NOV 9 - ABBA tribute NOV 14 - James Taylor, CSN and Simon & Garfunkel tribute NOV 15 - Eagles tribute NOV 16 - Rod Stewart and Roy Orbison tribute NOV 21 - Bob Seger, Cher, Billy Joel, Lady Gaga tribute NOV 22 - Girls of Motown tribute NOV 23 - Robin Williams comedy tribute NOV 28 - Thanksgiving Dinner NOV 29 - Grease, Manilow, Elvis tribute
www.thestagebonita.com 239-405-8566 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs
October 2019 - 49
Stone Crab Festival MUSIC
Oct. 25-27 in Naples
Josh Cruz & The Experience
The 10th annual Stone Crab Festival is a Naples tradition and is a weekend of food and fun starring of course, the stone crab. Enjoy delicious seafood, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, discounted cruises aboard the Naples Princess, and Extreme Rentals at Pure Naples. It’s also your chance to explore the shops, sites and activities in and around the beautiful Naples waterfront area. Naples and its neighboring communities were all founded around the Waterfront in the 1880s – in fact “by water” was the only way to enter Naples until 1915. Today, the Naples waterfront is busy with many local restaurants, fishing and cruise boats, attractions, galleries and events. The party starts Friday, Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. with the traditional cracking of the first Stone Claw followed by live music at Tin City by the definitive Bob Marley tribute featuring Yvad. The party continues throughout the weekend. Matty Jolie performs Saturday, Oct. 26
Wilder Sons from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Wilder Sons will play Saturday from 2 – 5 p.m. Josh Cruz & the Experience end Saturday’s music schedule, playing from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday’s music includes The Dazzling Del Rays on stage from 2 to 5 p.m. Admission to the three-day festival is free. For more event info, visit online at www.stonecrabfestival.com
Blues Society holds regional challenge
The Pitbull of Blues Band
50 - October 2019
The regional competition for the International Blues Challenge was held Sunday, Aug. 25 at DJ's Rhythm House in south Fort Myers and drew a packed crowd. Put on by the Southwest Florida Blues Society (and sponsored by Happenings Magazine), the annual contest showcased some great area talent. Band category winner was The Pitbull of Blues Band. Kevin Gruca & Paul Cottrell as Champ won the duo category, and Johnny Jenson won the youth category. Mike Imbasciani and his Bluez Rockerz won people's choice.
Kevin Gruca & Paul Cottrell as Champ
Happenings Magazine
Symphonic Mastersingers fundraiser set for Nov. 10 at M & N Dance Studio
The Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers will host a fundraising event, Shall We Dance, on Sunday, Nov. 10 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the M&N Dance Studio, 12450 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers. The afternoon will feature dance demonstrations by the studio’s professional staff, music from vocal scholarship winners, and fine hors d’oeuvres from Jamie and Jacob Catering. The genesis for this season’s fundraiser was a fusion of the arts last season when dancers from the studio joined the Mastersingers Chamber Chorus in a concert program. M&N Dance Studio is owned by Martin Cardoso and Noelia Guerrero, award winning dancers and highly regarded dance instructors who hail from Argentina. After years of teaching dance, they were able to realize their dream and open
M & N Dancers their own studio, where individual and group lessons provide an optimum dance experience, fusing fun and comfort with quality dance instruction. Tickets for the fundraiser are $75 for a single, two for $140 and can be purchased online at www.mastersingersfm.com.
Fort Myers Mastersingers announce winner of Sanibel-Captiva Trust Prize
The Fort Myers Symphonic color. Says artistic director Mastersingers announced that Shannon Arnold, “There were the piece, I Have Loved the many fine pieces submitted this Stars by composer Anne M. year. However, this selection Guzzo has been awarded the stood out, and will make a wonsecond annual Sanibel-Captiva derful addition to our Beethoven Trust Prize for program in the Choral Composition. spring.” The work was I Have Loved the selected from Stars is based on a among 70 entrants sentence excerpted by Mastersingers from The Old artistic director Astronomer by Shannon Arnold. It English poet, Sarah will be performed by Williams. The line, “I the full adult chorus have loved the stars Anne Guzzo accompanied by a too fondly to be fearstring quartet at their ful of the night,” April Celebrating forms the nexus of a Beethoven concerts. composition structured in three Dr. Guzzo is a Wyoming– parts based on the evening star based composer who draws on rise. science and nature, playful The composer competition, absurdism, and interdisciplinary now in its second year, is the collaboration to create music latest outreach supported by the that has been described as Mastersingers. The entire projalternately moving and humorect is made possible by a very ous. Anne is an internationally donation from Sanibel-Captiva performed composer and proTrust Company and their execufessor at the University of tive vice president Steve Wyoming with a passion for Greenstein. new music. For more about the Entries for this year’s comMastersingers programs and petition were limited to female their season schedule, visit composers and composers of www.mastersingersfm.com. Happenings Magazine
Thinking of Starting a Career in
Audio or Video Production? Audio Technology Certificate Program
Courses include
Audio Recording & Production Video Editing & Production
Lee Campus, Fort Myers
For more details 239-432-5203 kelly.o’neil@fsw.edu October 2019 - 51
MUSIC
Zimmerer Kapelle Biberach
Southwest Florida’s biggest party of the year - the 34th Annual Cape Coral Oktoberfest – is scheduled for Oct. 18 – 20 and Oct. 25 - 27. The German American Social Club has been excitedly preparing for the event for fun, great food, German beer, live music, laughter and dancing – from polka to, Fliegerlied, to the Bob to the Chicken Dance. The big tent is being erected, the banners are being hung, the long tables are being prepared, the beer trucks are being set up and food preparations are underway. You don’t want to miss it this year, with more bands than ever before, more German music and more German food and beer, and fun for the entire family. This year's dates are Oct. 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27 - the last two full weekends of the month. Everyone is invited to come out for some Gaudi and Gemütlichkeit Gaudi is just leg-slapping, joyous fun, while Gemütlichkeit expresses a feeling of being
Andorfer Plattler
52 - October 2019
welcome and a part of something special. Come sit with friends, dance under the big tent or relax under the bright umbrellas in the Bavarian Gardens. The opening hours are on both Fridays from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays noon until midnight and Sundays from noon until 9 p.m. Flying in directly from Germany this year are not one, but three groups, the big band – the Zimmerer Kapelle, the Flotten Oberkrainer, who have appeared numerous times on Traumschiff – Germany’s equivalent to the Love Boat - and the Andorfer Plattler, from the Passau area. Also featured this year is Festhaus Musig, a duo with Hungarian routes and the Hot Buttered Nuggets, offering jazz and swing style music. Organizers are excited to present the local favorites The Pitbull of Blues Band
Flotten Oberkrainer
and Deb and the Dynamics. Plus, the club’s very own Hafenkapelle will perform There will be non-stop music in the tent, the gardens and inside in the Edelweiss Hall, something for every ear and foot-tapping enjoyment. You will want to meet our Ms. Oktoberfest 2019, the very lovely Ashley Jones. Enjoy the German food and international delicacies you’ve come to love at Oktoberfest, plus a few new additions, at the various kitchens and booths. Or, enjoy a sit-down dinner in the Von Steuben Hall. The amazing thing about this huge event of the year - every bit of it, from start to finish, is put together by GASC members, each one of them volunteering their time and effort to create the region’s most successful event you’ve come to love. Admission is $5 in advance or $6 at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free. Parking is free, and the festival is a rain or shine event. For more fest details, visit online at www.capecoraloktoberfest.com
Deb & The Dynamics
Happenings Magazine
Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 53
MUSIC
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest
Kristian Bush with Gulf Coast Symphony in downtown Fort Myers
Sawyer Fredericks on Captiva
Sam James on Captiva
Carlene Thissen on Captiva
Jason White on Captiva
The sixth annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest was held Sept. 20-29 on Captiva, downtown Fort Myers and on Fort Myers Beach and showcased more than 75 national and local songwriters. See more festival photos online at www.happeningsmagazine.net photos by Jamie Kuser
54 - October 2019
James Slater on Captiva
Kostas on Captiva
Happenings Magazine
LOCAL & LIVE MUSIC IN
Backstreets
SW FLORIDA
915 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 239-945-7555
The Barrel Room 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-333-2225
Bert’s Bar & Grill 4271 Pine Island Rd Matlacha 239-282-3232
Blue Monkey Bar & Grille
7550 Mission Hills Dr suite 326, Naples 239-597-2583
Buckingham Blues Bar
5641 Buckingham Rd Fort Myers 239-693-7111
The Buddha Bar
12701 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-482-8565
Cape Cabaret
4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000
The Cigar Bar
Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers 239-267-6020
The Center Bar at The Promenade 26811 S. Bay Drive Bonita Springs 239-325-3583
Coconut Falls Tiki 17200 S. Tamiami Tr. Fort Myers 239-990-9901
Fishermen’s Village Seminole 1200 W. Retta Esplan. Casino Hotel Punta Gorda 941-639-8721
Hurricane Charley’s
300 W. Retta Espl, Punta Gorda 941-639-9695
The Jac
1233 Periwinkle, Sanibel 239-472-1771
The Keys Bar & Grille
9905 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers 239-433-3323
Lakehouse Bar & Grill
3401 Bay Commons Drive, Bonita Springs 239-948-4400
Lansdowne Street
24851 S. Tamiami Tr #7 Bonita Springs 239-495-3800
The Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd. Cape Coral 239-541-5600
2787 N. Tamiami Trail North Fort Myers 239-995-2141
Smokin Oyster Brewery 340 Old San Carlos For Myers Beach 239-463-3474
Sneaky Pete’s
3465 Bonita Beach Rd Bonita Springs 239-498-8887
The Stage
9144 Bonita Beach Rd Bonita Springs 239-405-8566
Ter-Tini’s
1901 Crystal Drive, Fort Myers 239-344-6147
Tiki Bar at Days Inn
255 13th Avenue S., Naples • 239-649-8200
Paradise Tiki Hut at Dolphin Key 1502 Miramar St. Cape Coral 239-540-8454
Dixie Roadhouse
5785 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral 239-542-0123
The Shell Factory
Old Naples Pub
Pete’s Time Out
Fathoms
1410 Pine Ridge Road Naples 239-435-9333
Tiki at Wyndham Garden
1131 First St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-8077
Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
1023 SE 47th Terrace Cape Coral 239-541-7900
South Street
Nervous Nellie’s
The Cottage
1270 Estero Blvd., Ft Myers Beach 239-765-5440
506 S. 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007
2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-3257 1005 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5900
DJ’s Rhythm House
16440 S. Tamiami Trail Fort Myers 239-466-8326
6890 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach 239-463-5711
18051 S. Tamiami Tr Fort Myers 239-267-7900
Twisted Vine Bistro 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-226-1687
The Village Pub
4360 Gulf Shore, Naples 239-262-2707
Whiskey Park
3380 Mercantile Ave., Naples • 239-263-6777
Yucatan Beach Stand
250 Old San Carlos Fort Myers Beach 239-333-4386
Some of the places to hear live music in SW Florida.
Happenings Magazine
October 2019 - 55
IN CONCERT
PERFORMANCES
DEC. 14
Darius Rucker & Lady Antebellum
IN SW FLORIDA & SUN COAST
Tiburon, Naples
DEC. 19
The Gatlin Brothers
OCT. 2
Godsmack
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Hertz Arena, Estero
OCT. 5
Casey Donahew Band
DEC. 29
JJ Grey & Mofro
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
Buckingham Blues Bar
JAN. 18
Righteous Brothers
OCT. 9
Love & Theft
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
OCT. 11
Marty Stuart
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
OCT. 18
ZZ Top & Cheap Trick Hertz Arena, Estero
Mitchell Tenpenny
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
OCT. 19
Billy Currington
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
OCT. 26
Wynonna & Big Noise Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Big Orange Music Fest Laishley Park, Punta Gorda
Julian Marley
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
OCT. 30
Here Come the Mummies
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
NOV. 1
Sebastian Bach
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
NOV. 2
Sammy Hagar
Hertz Arena, Estero 56 - October 2019
Wynonna and The Big Noise will perform Oct. 26 at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. For tickets and concert details, visit online at www.moreinpaadise.com
Josh Abbott Band
NOV. 2 continued
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
Gin Blossoms
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Vince Neil, Sebastian Bach, Slaughter Coral Head Music Fest, Pinellas Park
Alice Cooper
NOV. 3
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
Five Finger Death Punch
NOV. 16 continued Hertz Arena, Estero
NOV. 20
John Oates
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
NOV. 22
Randy Houser
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
NOV. 24
Marc Anthony
Hertz Arena, Estero
NOV. 30
NOV. 8
Walker Hayes
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
NOV. 15
Iron Butterfly
Hinman Auditorium, Bonita
NOV. 15 - 17
Wine & Music Festival Downtown Punta Gorda
NOV. 16
The LACS, Black Stone Cherry
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, Fort Myers
Tony Bennett
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
DEC. 4
Mavis Staples
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
DEC. 8
Trisha Yearwood Artis–Naples
Julio Iglesias
Hertz Arena, Estero
DEC. 13
Lee Greenwood
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Artis–Naples
JAN. 19
Mandy Patinkin Artis–Naples
JAN. 20
Johnny Mathis Artis–Naples
JAN. 22
Tanya Tucker
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
JAN. 26
Marshall Tucker Band Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
JAN. 30
Hermanʼs Hermits
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
FEB. 6 Kansas
B.B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers
FEB. 7
Asleep at the Wheel BIG ARTS, Sanibel
FEB. 9
Phil Vassar
SW Fla. Event Center, Bonita
FEB. 16
Jon Secada
Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Beach Boys Artis–Naples
Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net
Happenings Magazine
Mitchell Tenpenny, Casey Donahew, Sebastian Bach at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon
The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers is filling up its concert schedule for the fall. The Sam Galloway Concert Series presents the Casey Donahew Band on Oct. 5, Mitchell Tenpenny on Oct. 18, Josh Abbott Band on Nov. 2, Walker Hayes on Nov. 8, The Lacs & Black Stone Cherry on Nov. 16 and Randy Houser on Nov. 22. Rocker and former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach will perform as part of the concert series on Nov. 1. Other shows scheduled at The Ranch (not part of the Sam Galloway series) are Billy Currington on Oct. 19, Badfish (a tribute to Sublime) on Nov. 7, ZOSO: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience on Nov. 15, Pig Floyd on Dec. 21 and Fortunate Youth on Jan. 22. Texas music sensation Casey Donahew has painstakingly carved out an impressive niche for himself on the country music scene over the past decade, attracting a solid base of loyal fans who flock to his legendary live shows. Building his career from the ground up one show at a time, he’s managed to perform on countless stages night after night in front of thousands, topped the Texas music charts several times, released four albums independently to critical acclaim, and forged a path all his own through the music scene without the aid or muscle of a major record label or power-suit management company. And the release of his latest CD, “Double Wide Dream,” may just push him to heights he never could have imagined when he first plugged in on stage at the Thirsty Armadillo bar back in Fort Worth’s Stockyards in the fall of 2002. Mitchell Tenpenny is an industry insider/outlier. Someone who has a local’s appreciation for the origins of Nashville and
Mitchell Tenpenny
Happenings Magazine
Sebastian Bach keen focus on what happens outside of Music City. The rugged individualist operates with complete confidence and comfort in the space between contradictory themes. He is a creative thinker with a keen business sense. He is fiercely competitive, but is equally vocal proponent for his industry colleagues. He finds inspiration in music as diverse as Michael Jackson and the Oak Ridge Boys. And none of that seems the least bit unusual or out of whack to the Nashville native with an industry pedigree (his grandmother was industry legend Donna Hilley who shaped the musical landscape of country music as CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing). Sebastian Philip Bierk, known professionally as Sebastian Bach, is a Canadian singer-songwriter who achieved mainstream success as front man of Skid Row from 1987 to 1996. He continues a solo career, acted on Broadway, and has made appearances in film and television. Sebastian Bach’s Nov. 1 stop in Fort Myers is part of his 30th anniversary tour in which he performs the first record “Skid Row” in its entirety. The Sam Galloway Concert Series was started in the fall of 2014 to help bring awareness to Community Cooperative (The Soup Kitchen) and the good work they do in the community.
The concert series features rock and country artists on a regular basis at the venue. Portions of the profits of each concert go to help Community Cooperative feed the community. For every pound of food donated, Sam Galloway Ford donates $1 to Community Cooperative. Concert goers are also encouraged to bring canned food items to the concerts at The Ranch. For tickets & details, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com. The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839. For most concerts, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Casey Donahew Band October 2019 - 57
IN CONCERT
Gin Blossoms to play at benefit concert Nov. 2 Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee presents Gin Blossoms live in concert on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. Tickets are just $5 with all proceeds benefiting the Guadalupe Center, which provides educational programs for more than 1,300 children in Immokalee from infancy through high school and has a 100 percent college acceptance rate. In the late 1980s, Gin Blossoms started to grow a huge following as the number one local music draw in Phoenix, Ariz. The band’s fusion of Pop, Melodic Rock, Folk and Country elements took the airwaves by siege, making the band a 1990s mainstay. From their breakout album through today, Gin Blossoms have sold more than 10 million records and are one of the most in demand 1990s
Gin Blossoms
live artists who began at the end of the grunge era and in 2017, the band went back in the studio to record a new album. Gin Blossoms’ hits include “Hey Jealousy,” “Allison Road,” “Until I Fall Away,” “Mrs. Rita,” and “Found Out About You,” “’Til I Hear It From You,” “Follow You Down,” “As Long As It Matters,” “Learning The Hard Way,” “Long Time Gone,” and “Miss Disarray.” Advance tickets are available now on www.moreinparadise.com and at Seminole Casino Hotel on the day of the concert. Gates open at 6 p.m. for this outdoor concert which will feature open seating so attendees should bring their own chairs; no pets or coolers will be allowed. This benefit concert is sponsored by Florida Weekly and 95.3 OLZ.
SEMINOLE CASINO HOTEL
Jon Secada, Marshall Tucker Band, The Oak Ridge Boys, Tanya Tucker
Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment has added more artists to its impressive lineup of concerts at the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. Country music legend Tanya Tucker will perform in concert on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 8 p.m. A defining voice of country music, Tucker inspired many female artists who still top the charts today. From the signature classic songs to the unforgettable sass and soul of her voice, Tucker has paved a path in country music and beyond through an unprecedented level of success and continues her longevity today due to a natural, undeniable talent. Her style has Tanya Tucker proved to be timeless ever since she recorded her debut single “Delta Dawn,” at age 13. The single earned a Grammy nomination for “Best Female Country Vocal Performance” and launched Tucker into the national spotlight. In 1972, she earned the “Top New Female Vocalist” award by the Academy of Country Music. With a wildly growing career at such a young age, the Tucker craze continued with her first number one single in 1973, “What’s Your Mama’s Name.” Advance tickets are on sale now for $87.50. The Marshall Tucker Band will be live in concert on Sunday, Jan. 26 at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. The band’s 40 plus years music catalog consists of more than 20 studio albums and a score of live releases and has racked up multi-platinum album sales many times over. MTB’s indelible hits include the heartfelt singalong “Heard It in a Love Song,” the insistent pleading of “Can’t You See,” the testifying travelogue warning of “Fire on the Mountain,” the wanderlust gallop of “Long Hard Ride,” and the unquenchable yearning pitch of “Ramblin’,” to name but a few. Advance tickets are on sale now for $69. 58 - October 2019
Jon Secada will perform on Sunday, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are on sale now for $69. With a career spanning more than two decades, three Grammy Awards, 20 million albums sold, and starring roles on Broadway, Secada’s acclaimed, romantic sounds have resulted in numerous hits in English and Spanish, establishing him as one of the first bilingual artists to have international crossover success. Adored by millions around the world, he is recognized as an international superstar by both fans and peers alike for his soulful and melodic voice. Country music legends The Oak Ridge Boys will perform Friday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. The group’s four-part harmonies and upbeat songs have spawned dozens of country hits and a number one pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. Jon Secada Their string of hits includes the countrypop chart-topper “Elvira,” as well as “Bobbie Sue,” “Dream On,” “Thank God For Kids,” “American Made,” “I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes,” “Fancy Free,” “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” and many others. Advance tickets are on sale now for $69. Tickets for all these shows and more are available at the casino, online at www.moreinparadise.com or by calling 800-514-ETIX.
Happenings Magazine
Blackberry Smoke
Blackberry Smoke, Allman Betts Band
at Big Orange Music Festival Oct. 26
This year’s Big Orange Music Fest will feature Blackberry Smoke, the Allman Betts Band, Joanne Shaw Taylor, J Edwards, JD Simo and Champ Jaxon. Set for Saturday, Oct. 26, the festival takes place in Laishley Park in downtown Punta Gorda. Pigeon holing Blackberry Smoke has never been easy. Since emerging from Atlanta in the early 2000s, the quintet— vocalist/lead guitarist Charlie Starr, guitarist/vocalist Paul Jackson, bassist/vocalist Richard Turner, drummer Brit Turner and keyboardist Brandon Still—has become known for a singular sound indebted to classic rock, blues, country and folk. This fluidity has paid off handsomely, in the form of two Billboard chart-topping
country albums, 2015’s Holding All The Roses and 2016’s Like An Arrow. (For good measure, the latter also topped Billboard’s Americana/Folk album chart.) Find A Light, Blackberry Smoke’s sixth studio album, doubles down on diversity. Songs hew toward easygoing roots-rock (“Run Away From It All”) and Southern rock stomps (“The Crooked Kind”), as well as stripped-down acoustic numbers (“I’ve Got This Song”) and bruising alt-country (“Nobody Gives A Damn”). Rich instrumental flourishes—keening fiddle, solemn organ and bar-band piano boogie—add further depth and resonance. General admission is $45. The VIP tickets are sold out. Doors open at noon. For tickets and more info, go online to www.bigorangemusicfestival.com
Allman Betts Band
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Coral Head Music Fest IN CONCERT
debuts Nov. 2 in Pinellas Park
Organizers of the annual Coral Head Music Fest in the Florida Keys will launch a new festival on Florida’s gulf coast Nov. 2. The Coral Head Music Fest will take place at England Brothers Park, 5010 81st Ave. N. in Pinellas Park, northwest of St. Petersburg. The music starts at noon with Jen, followed by HairDaze at 1:30 p.m. Mitch Perry Group goes on at 3 p.m., and Slaughter hits the stage at 5 p.m. Sebastian Bach is scheduled to perform at 7 p.m. The fest will end with Vince Neil (the voice of Motley Crue) on stage at 9 p.m. Stage times are approximate and subject to change. Advance tickets for general admission start at $34 ($39 day of show). VIP tickets are available at $150 each. The Coral Head Music Fest is presented by The American Legion Riders of Post 154, Marathon. The American Legion Riders is a department of the American Legion. They are a group of motorcycle enthusiasts who are dedicated to helping American veterans, their families and the community. For tickets and more info, visit www.coralheadmusicfest.com
Vince Neil will perform Nov. 2 at Pinellas Park. Photo by Jamie Kuser
Downtown St. Pete to host songwriter fest
In November, Cox Media Group and BMI will partner to host the firstever Downtown St. Petersburg Songwriters Festival presented by Funky Buddha Brewery. The three-day festival will be held Nov. 1 - 3, and will feature some of BMI’s most promising up-and-coming songwriters and hitmakers in intimate live music settings at more than 10 venues throughout Downtown St. Petersburg. The DTSP Songwriters Festival is largely free to the public to attend, with the exception of a few select shows that will feature headlining artists. Artists include Warren Brothers, 60 - October 2019
Aaron Barker
Matisyahu, Aaron Barker, David Fenley, Jann Klose, Jeff Cohen, Jimmy Nash, Maddie Medley, Tim James, Sinclair, Striking Matches, Hank Compton, Liz Cooper, Ella Jet, John Ford Coley, Our Fire, Luke Preston, Lydia Luce, Stela Cole, T Hardy Morris, Marc Scibilia, Joseph Patton, Brian Sutherland, Danielle Blake, Lindsay Rimes, Scott Schmadeke of Harpooner, Nate Allen, Chris Dupre, Deb Ruby, Jordan Boyer, Sonia Leigh, Liam Bauman and Ede Shireen. Matisyahu will perform Nov. 2 at Jannus Live. Tickets are on sale at ticketmaster.com. For more details, visit dtspsongwritersfestival.com.
Happenings Magazine
FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
Artist Lexie “C” Rivera participated in the Through Their Eyes group exhibit at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center in September.
FIRST FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH
(rain or shine) 6 - 10 PM
The next Art Walk is
Friday, Oct. 4.
62 - October 2019
LEFT - Del Holt was a featured artist at Arts for ACT Gallery in September.
Happenings Magazine
Island Hopper
Songwriter Fest
Singer songwriter Kristian Bush (of Sugarland) performed with the Gulf Coast Symphony Sept. 22 at Florida Repertory Theatre as part of the sixth annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. Photo by Jamie Kuser
Is Fort Myers Haunted?
This 90-minute walking tour offers glimpses into the unseen, with stories of reputed paranormal activity of those who cannot or will not leave the buildings in which they lived ... or died. Whether you are a believer in the unseen or not, this tour is fun.
Wednesdays & Saturdays at 8 pm
2nd & 4th Fridays at 8 pm And every night from Oct. 23 - 28 and Oct. 30 - 31
DEPARTS from Franklin Shops, 2200 First Street, Downtown Fort Myers Happenings Magazine
Reserve online at www.TrueTours.net or call 239-945-0405
October 2019 - 63
FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT
New Oktoberfest debuts Oct. 25 - 27
Fall is the end of summer, start of the coolness and beauty of autumn and across the world --- time for Oktoberfest! Wherever celebrated, Oktoberfest celebrations share common ingredients: lively music, mouth watering food, and big pints of beer. Paragon Festivals in partnership with the River District Alliance begin a new food and music tradition for downtown Fort Myers: an authentic Oktoberfest experience. Stuff yourself with smoked sausages, roasted meats, sauerkraut, cabbage, and pretzels while enjoying authentic German music and dancers. Also enjoy live music performances by local and regional musicians in rock, soul, funk, R&B, blues, samba and more! The Fort Myers Oktoberfest in the River District takes place Oct. 25 - 27 and runs Friday 4 - 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission is free. Musical performers on Friday include the Bavarian Boys and Ari & The Alibis. Saturday sees performances by Alpine Doc, Tahja
64 - October 2019
CeCe Teneal & Soul Kamotion
Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio, The Verge and CeCe Teneal & Soul Kamotion. Sunday performances include Tahja, Free Fallin’ (Tom Petty tribute) and Reverend Barry & The Funk. Between performances shop the marketplace of arts, crafts and select fine products and services. The Fort Myers Oktoberfest will offer seasonal brews, traditional Oktoberfest live music in addition to local rock & roll favorites, beer games and classic Oktoberfest food. For more details, visit www.seafoodfestivals.com
Happenings Magazine
Wicked Walk Oct. 24 at the Davis Art Center
Wicked Walk celebrates the arts in Lee County, the achievements of student artists and classic spooky stories. On Oct. 24, experience this one-of-a-kind interactive theatrical encounter while supporting Lee County Schools and arts education. Choose a time via the ticket link for a guided theatrical tour throughout the art center of suspense and horror stories, some with a lighthearted twist. Lee County teachers have helped their classes create art pieces, installations, skits, musical performances, and more to conjure the ghosts of literature and film. Catch glimpses of the Addams Family and as they sing and dance. Take part in a spirited Young Frankenstein performance, and stroll through tales from Edgar Allen Poe, Alfred Hitchcock and more.
Proceeds from the Wicked Walk will benefit SBDAC and the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools is a non-profit charitable education foundation which enhances and enriches the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators. The Foundation’s programs, resources and experiences are made possible through corporate, individual and educational partnerships. Wicked Walk will be Thursday, Oct. 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children age 3 - 12. For more info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239333-1933 The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District.
ICHIBAN Japanese & Chinese Cuisine Ask about our
High Definition SUSHI Special
Six Day Lunch Menu!
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK
HOURS: Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Saturday Noon - 11 p.m. Fast Friendly Service and Soft Music!
1520 Broadway • Suite 105
DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS Tel: (239) 334-6991 • Fax (239) 334-6591 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com Happenings Magazine
Located at the Entrance to the
Hotel Indigo
October 2019 - 65
DINING
IN
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
1st Street Deli
Diners at the Seminole Casino Immokalee will enjoy the 1st Street Deli. The authentic New York-style delicatessen brings a distinctly unique dining concept to the casino, featuring deli pickles, fresh bread and sandwiches bigger than your appetite. Offerings include piled high pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, reubens, hot paninis, hamburgers and salads. Opens 10 a.m. daily.
506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Capt’n Fishbones Seafood Grill
Capt'n Fishbones at The Shell Factory has moderately priced lunches, dinners and a full selection of cocktails. We serve Florida favorites like shrimp, crab cakes, fish fries, burgers and sandwiches. Enjoy the great tropical weather at Dogbones Café or the Swamp Bar and Patio where even the four legged "children" are welcome. Large group rates are available for lunches, dinners, special events and meetings. We’re open daily at 11 a.m. with daily specials. Hear live entertainment in the Swamp Patio daily 4 - 7 p.m. Classic car shows every Thursday 4 - 7 p.m.
2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 239-995-2141 www.shellfactory.com
Cape Cabaret
Cape Cabaret offers dining, dancing and live music Tuesday through Saturday. We feature a full dinner menu prepared by executive chef Ryan Cook, two full bars, two hardwood dance floors and live music from the ‘50s to the ‘90s. See your favorite bands perform on our 30-foot stage equipped with the latest state of the art sound and light systems. Have your next private party or corporate event in our ballroom or banquet room. Happy Hour & Early Bird Specials 4 to 5:30 p.m. Entrees, house wines, wells all at 50% discount. Walk-ins always welcome or call reservation hotline.
4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000 www.capecabaret.com
66 - October 2019
Deep Lagoon Seafood
Nestled in the heart of Florida lies a place just off the beaten path where the drinks are colder, the fish is fresher and the food is tastier. Where you can breathe easy, be casual and take in the sights and sounds of everything that is “Real Florida.” A Fresh Twist on Coastal Casual, we feature a wide variety of menu options to satisfy the appetite of any guest. We offer the freshest product available, with daily deliveries from our local fishing partner Island Crab Company. Happy Hour from 3 to 6 pm featuring small plates from $6 - $9.
10395 Tamiami Trail N, Naples 239-631-6266 14040 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-689-5474 www.deeplagoon.com
EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill
Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled a completely redesigned EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill that enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections. The new interior design of the EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill is elegant yet comfortable and features a theaterstyle kitchen that allows for transparency as chefs prepare dishes “from scratch” to the table. The EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill menu features contemporary regional cuisines utilizing the freshest selections of Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, and an array of locally-sourced produce. The wide-ranging menu offers pastas, house made soups, steaks, seafood and chef specialty items including award- winning fajitas, pork osso bucco and the ever-popular braised short rib pot roast.
506 South 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Lucky Mi
Asian-inspired upscale restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled several creative new menu items that further enhance the dining experience. In addition to Avocado Tempura, Sesame Seared Tuna, and Shanghai Ribs, Lucky Mi has added hot rocks house specials that allow guests to cook their own entrees to perfection at the table on volcanic rock heated to 575 degrees.
506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Happenings Magazine
Ichiban Japanese & Chinese
Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort
Located at the entrance to the Hotel Indigo, we offer a wide selection of Japanese and Chinese menu items. Stop by for lunch or dinner. They are open six days a week (closed Sundays).
1520 Broadway, #105, Downtown Fort Myers 239-334-6991 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com
Pinchers at The Marina at Edison Ford
Located on the historic Caloosahatchee River and offering the best riverfront dining experience and sunset views, Pinchers at the Marina at Edison Ford is the place for the freshest seafood. Caught from local waters by local fishermen, Pinchers brings the best catch from the water to the table. With 2 for 1 Happy Hour all day every day and kids eat free, Pinchers is Florida Seafood, Florida Style. Pinchers has 13 Florida locations including Key West, Tin City Naples, Bonita Springs, Tarpon Point Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Gulf Coast Town Center.
2360 West First St., Fort Myers 239-245-7049 www.pinchersusa.com
There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort. Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days. Kitchen open late.
1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 239-540-8454 www.dolphinkeyresort.com
Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse
With a goal of bringing a first-class experience and barbeque product Texas Tony’s Rib and Brew House was born. Tony Phelan grew up in Texas, took those roots and his love of Texas barbeque and set out on a plan of introducing a unique brand of barbeque to Southwest Florida. Taking a combination of Hickory and Oak woods to smoke with and cooking at low temperatures, it created the perfect formula for Award-Winning Barbeque. Texas Tony’s barbeque is “all about the rub and the ring.” The rub is made from his secret recipe. The ring occurs when you smoke meat over a long period of time; the pink is where the smoke has permeated the meat.
4519 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 239-732-8392 738 SW Pine Island Road, Cape Coral 239-347-7033 www.texastonys.com
Southwest Florida’s
Event Magazines
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LeeFamilyNews.net October 2019 - 67
OCT WED - 2
RC Smith 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Doug Thompson 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Scotty K 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
THU - 3
Sonya White 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Bret Ernst 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Scotty K 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 4
Sonya White 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Bret Ernst 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Scotty K 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 5
Sonya White 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Bret Ernst 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Scotty K 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SUN - 6
Jamie Morgan 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Bret Ernst 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy 68 - October 2019
COMEDY CLUB CALENDAR
WED - 9
THU - 17
SAT - 26
WED - 30 continued
Jeff Allen - 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Darrell Hammond 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Paul Mecurio 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
Sid Davis 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Jimmy Keys 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Brad Upton - 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
THU - 10
Gabe Kea 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Kyle Grooms 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Brad Upton 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 11
Gabe Kea 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Samuel Comroe 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Brad Upton 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 12
Gabe Kea 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Samuel Comroe 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Brad Upton 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SUN - 13
Bob Nelson 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Samuel Comroe 6:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
WED - 16
Keith Lenart - 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Norm Stulz - 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Sloan - 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Brian Glowacki 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Pablo Francisco - 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 18
Brian Glowacki 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Darrell Hammond 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Pablo Francisco 7 & 10 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SAT - 19
Brian Glowacki 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Ron Feingold 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Mutzie 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
SUN - 27
Paul Mecurio 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
WED - 30
Jimmie JJ Walker 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe
Joe Dombrowski 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy
THU - 31
Lennie Clarke 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Dean Napolitano 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Sid Davis 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
* schedules subject to change
Darrell Hammond 6 & 8 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Pablo Francisco 6 & 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
WED - 23
Katie Hughes 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Mutzie - 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Laugh In Comedy Cafe 8595 College Parkway, Fort Myers 239-479-5233 laughincomedycafe.com
THU - 24
Ron Feingold 7:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Paul Mecurio - 7 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Mutzie - 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
FRI - 25
Ron Feingold 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Laugh In Comedy Cafe Paul Mecurio 7 & 9 p.m. Off the Hook Comedy Mutzie - 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone
Off the Hook Comedy Club 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #1100, Naples 239-389-6901 offthehookcomedy.com
The Comedy Zone
at Visani Restaurant 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte 941-764-3463 visani.net
Comedy Club calendar online at
HappeningsMagazine.net Happenings Magazine
KEY WEST
Revelers supporting king and queen puppets make their way up Duval Street during the 2018 Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West. The extravaganza was the highlight event of the 10-day Fantasy Fest costuming and masking festival. Photo by Rob O'Neal, Florida Key News Bureau
Annual Fantasy Fest set for October 18 - 27 In tune with one of most off-key celebrations on the planet, revelers are to gather in Key West to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Fantasy Fest, the island’s internationally renowned masking and costuming festival. Scheduled Friday, Oct. 18, through Sunday, Oct. 27, the exotic extravaganza features masquerade balls, costume competitions, street fairs, performance art, glamorous galas and an over-the-top grand parade. Themed “In Tune But … Off Key,” the festival includes musically themed merriment in genres from rockabilly to salsa — and even a mobile cocktail party featuring a quirky ukulele band. Fantasy Fest organizers encourage people to march to the beat of their own drum, designing their costumes and parade floats around everything from memories of bebop and “glam” rock to operatic daydreams and campy Broadway musicals. The festival’s official kickoff is the two-day Goombay Celebration in Key West’s Bahama Village. Held Oct. 18 and 19, the Caribbean-flavored Goombay pulses to a reggae beat with nonstop entertainment, island-style food and arts and crafts. Also Oct. 18, the Fantasy Fest King and Queen are to be crowned at the Royal Coronation soiree and stage show, capping a two-month fundraising effort by candidates to benefit the Florida Keys nonprofit A.H. of Monroe County. Among the dozens of events orchestrated for fantasy fans
Happenings Magazine
are the wacky Pet Masquerade, a Fantasy Fest favorite for costumed pets and their people that takes place Wednesday, Oct. 23. The following day brings the Key West Business Guild’s Headdress Ball, where “headliners” compete for prizes in huge and elaborate masks and cowls. Plans call for the medley of madness to take to the streets Friday, Oct. 25, with a freewheeling Masquerade March of costumed characters. Marchers are encouraged to bring whistles, noisemakers and percussion instruments to add to the excitement as they strut through part of Key West’s Old Town. Revelers can also “trumpet” their fondness for festivities at events including the family-friendly Zombie Bike Ride, rocking Beatles tribute show and look-alike bash, tutu party and bar crawl, Fun House featuring famed circus acrobats, waterfront Woodstock takeoff and hippie costume contest, daily BART bar and art strolls, street performances and a “Living Art” competition for painted bodies. Saturday night, Oct. 26, nearly 70,000 spectators are expected to line Whitehead and Duval streets for the spectacular Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade. A dazzling procession of large-scale floats, costumed marching groups and bands, the parade displays the off-key creativity and exuberant spirit that have kept party lovers “tuning in” to the festival for 40 years. For more event details, visit www.fantasyfest.com October 2019 - 69
KEY WEST
Allman Betts Band - Oct. 28
Kool and The Gang - Feb. 21
Destination concerts
take place on Key West
Key West offers a great opportunity for travelers to explore the uniqueness of Key West and see some of their favorite national artists perform in concert (indoors and outside). At least four concert venues host national artists. They include the Tennessee Williams Theatre at 5901 College Road, the Key West Theater at 512 Eaton St., the city-owned Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park and the Sunset Green Event Lawn at 24 North Hotel at 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd. At the Key West Theater, the music schedule includes Anders Osborne on Oct. 3, Chris Duarte on Oct. 5, Robert Randolph & the Family Band on Oct. 20, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Oct. 31, Acoustic Alchemy on Nov. 4, Justin Hayward on Nov. 8, Max Weiburg’s Jukebox on Dec. 1 and Bret Michaels on Dec. 15, to name a few. For tickets and other show info at the Key West Theater, visit online at www.thekeywesttheater.com. So far, the Tennessee Williams Theater 2019-20 concert schedule includes Sutton Foster on Dec. 5, Kristin Chenoweth on Jan. 25, Mandy Patinkin on Feb. 14 and Gladys Knight on Feb. 27. For ticket info, visit www.twstages.com. As for the outdoor venues ...
Lee Brice - Nov. 7
70 - October 2019
The sons of Gregg Allman (Devon Allman) and Dickey Betts (Duane Betts) have joined forces to form The Allman Betts Band. The Oct. 28 show at Sunset Green Event Lawn features new music, songs from their solo projects and classic Allman Brothers and Gregg Allman tunes in honor of the 50th Anniversary of The Allman Brothers Band. Grace Potter will play Jan. 12 at the Sunset Green Event Lawn, and The Temptations will perform April 5 at the Sunset Green Event Lawn. Award-winning country artist Lee Brice will play Nov. 7 at the Key West Amphitheater. Blackberry Smoke will perform at the amphitheatre Dec. 28. Kool & The Gang with The Village People will perform Feb. 21 at The Key West Amphitheater. Kool & the Gang, officially launched in 1969 (after performing for five years under various band titles) has influenced the music of three generations and, after 50 years, the band has become true recording industry legends. Thanks to iconic songs like Celebration, Cherish, Jungle Boogie, Summer Madness and Open Sesame, they’ve earned two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 25 Top Ten R&B hits, nine Top Ten Pop hits, 31 gold and platinum albums. Known for the smash hit “YMCA,” Village People is considered the greatest disco group in the world. The debut album, released in 1977, featured the hit singles "San Francisco (You Got Me)" and "In Hollywood (Everybody's A Star)." For tickets to Rams Head concerts at Sunset Green Event Lawn and Key West Ampitheater, visit online at www.keywestconcertseries.com.
The Temptations - April 5
Happenings Magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS
SoMo Marathon & Half Marathon
Oct. 10 & 11 This event is one of a kind! Imagine running through the southernmost island in the United States while enjoying a break from the ordinary. The Southernmost Marathon & Half promises just that26.2 or 13.1 miles of ocean and gulf views, as well as iconic Key West landmarks. A full weekend of events including a 10k and 5k are planned. www.somomarathon.com
Goombay Festival
Oct. 18 & 19 Held in Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood, the lively, family-friendly Goombay is known for its island-style food, arts and crafts, nonstop live entertainment and dancing in the streets. Visitors can experience sights, sounds and flavors recalling Key West’s Bahamian heritage. Free event, noon to midnight both days. www.fantasyfest.com
Happenings Magazine
ABC 5K Walk/Run
IN
KEY WEST
Nov. 2 Sponsored by Zonta, this running race benefits women’s health screenings and breast cancer awareness in the Lower Florida Keys. Race begins and ends at Salute on Higgs Beach. Registration is at 7am and start time is 8am from race start/finish at Salute! 1000 Atlantic Blvd in Key West. All participants receive a participation medal and the first 400 registrants will get a t-shirt . Register early! Per person cost is $25 in advance until Oct. 18, $30 after Oct. 18 and $35 day of race. www.runsignup.com/Race/FL/KeyWest
World Championship Races
Nov. 6 - 10 High-speed offshore powerboats race in Key West Harbor and surrounding waters to continue Key West’s longstanding tradition in this annual challenge, known internationally as the Indianapolis 500 of powerboat racing. A portion of the 6.5-mile course runs through Key West Harbor, meaning smooth water where racers can achieve speeds above 140 mph and provide fans breathtaking displays of skill and power. www.superboat.com/key-west-2019
Key West Film Festival
Nov. 20 – 24 Showcasing films that exhibit excellence in storytelling, the festival’s lineup is to feature screenings and special events hosted at landmark venues throughout Key West, including the San Carlos Institute, Studios of Key West and Key West Theater. The four-day program is to include several films from multiple genres and categories as well as social events with filmmakers, actors and film lovers. . www.kwfilmfest.com
Sprint & Olympic Triathlon Dec. 7 The Key West Triathlon expects up to 1,000 participants and some of the sport’s best known triathletes; TRIKW allows you to bask in the warm weather and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean while the rest of the country is experiencing winter. Olympic and Sprint distances. Event highlights feature an Aquabike competition this year, along with a .76 km Atlantic Ocean swim from Higgs Beach, a 20km U.S. 1 cycling ride along South Roosevelt Boulevard and a 5km run along Smathers Beach. www.trikw.com
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