LOBBY HERO-GUEST ARTIST PACKET

GUEST ARTIST PACKET

LINK TO PLAYBILL

LINK TO PRODUCTION PHOTOS (credit Nick Adams)

LINK TO PR & PRESS PROMOTIONAL PHOTOS

LINKS TO eBlast PROMOTIONS

• 5/17/2023 Last chance to see Lobby Hero! (mailchi.mp)

• 5/10/2023 Cast of Lobby Hero visits ABC-7 (mailchi.mp)

• 5/3/2023 Heros, Monsters, 3 Songs, & More (mailchi.mp)

• 4/26/2023 Hear WGCU's interview with director of Lobby Hero (mailchi.mp)

• 4/19/2023 Dark comedy LOBBY HERO opens Friday! (mailchi.mp)

Thank you for bringing intensity and laughter to our stage through this dynamic production!

Deborah Jonsson, Marketing Director djonsson@floridarep.org

INTRODUCING “LOBBY HERO”

WGCU RADIO INTERVIEW WITH THE DIRECTOR ABC-7 MORE IN THE MORNING INTERVIEW

LOBBY HERO

LOBBY HERO

Repertory Theatre presents ‘Lobby Hero’

by

Kenneth

Lonergan

By Staff | Mar 21, 2023

Florida Repertory Theatre closes out its 25th anniversary season with Lobby Heroby Kenneth Lonergan. The production runs in the ArtStage Studio Theatre April 21 – May 21, with discounted previews April 18 – 20. Tickets may be purchased online at floridarep.org or by calling the box office at 239-332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053.

In LobbyHero, the foyer of a Manhattan apartment building becomes more than a waiting area for four New Yorkers entangled in a murder investigation. As a young security guard with big ambitions clashes with his stern boss, an intense rookie cop

and her unpredictable partner, the setting becomes a testing ground for what happens when personal and professional personas find themselves at odds.

“Playwright Kenneth Lonergan’s emotionally-nuanced play applies heart and wit to address polarizing topics of race, gender, class, and corruption,” said producing artistic director Greg Longenhagen. “It’s a well-balanced piece of theater that examines the grey areas and multiple perspectives of moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, while providing a healthy dose of comic relief along the way. ”

The ensemble cast features New Yorkbased actors Dante Alexander, Matt Monaco, Michael Saguto, and Dana Stern, each making their Florida Rep debuts.

Director Ron Lagomarsino

(Broadway: Alfred Uhry’s TheLastNight

ofBallyhoo; Off-Broadway: original DrivingMissDaisy) will be joined by an expert creative team including ensemble set designer Ray Recht (MaytagVirgin), costume designer Stephanie Hawks, lighting designer Joel Zishuk (Freud’sLastSession), sound designer Katie Lowe (RingofFire:The MusicofJohnnyCash), and ensemble stage manager Janine Wochna (The ImportanceofBeingEarnest).

LobbyHerois sponsored by Mary Ann & Martin McLaughlin.

Single ticket prices for “Lobby Hero” are $63 for regular performances on April 21 – May 21. Discounted preview tickets ($39) are available April 18 –20. Curtain times are Tuesday –Saturday at 7 p.m., Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2 p.m., and 8 p.m. for the opening night performance on Friday, April 21. Florida Rep’s parking lot opens two hours before each performance and offers guests free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre.

MORE ABOUT FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE

Florida Repertory Theatre celebrates 25 years of producing professional, live theater in the Fort Myers River District. Performances are held in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the

ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry.

Subscriptions are now on sale for the 2023-2024 season and offer the best pricing and flexibility. Packages for nine, eight, seven, and six shows start at $234 for six shows. Tickets and information are available through the box office at 239-332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053. Visit Florida Rep online at FloridaRep.org to view the full season line-up of comedies, dramas, musicals, and new works.

Follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for updates, behind-the-scenes insight, special offers, and more.

Source:FloridaRepertoryTheatre

Florida Repertory Theatre presents ‘Lobby Hero’ by Kenneth Lonergan

Florida Repertory Theatre closes out its 25th anniversary season with “Lobby Hero” by Kenneth Lonergan. The production runs in the ArtStage Studio Theatre April 21 – May 21, with discounted previews April 18-20.

In “Lobby Hero,” the foyer of a Manhattan apartment building becomes more than a waiting area for four New Yorkers entangled in a murder investigation. As a young security guard with big ambitions clashes with his stern boss, an intense rookie cop and her unpredictable partner, the setting becomes a testing ground for what happens when personal and professional personas find themselves at odds.

“Playwright Kenneth Lonergan’s emotionally nuanced play applies heart and wit to address polarizing topics of race, gender, class, and corruption,” said producing artistic director Greg Longenhagen. “It’s a well-balanced piece of theater that examines the gray areas and multiple perspectives of moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, while providing a healthy dose of comic relief along the way.”

The ensemble cast features New Yorkbased actors Dante Alexander, Matt Monaco, Michael Saguto and Dana Stern, each making their Florida Rep debuts.

Director Ron Lagomarsino (Broadway: Alfred Uhry’s “The Last Night of Ballyhoo”; Off-Broadway: original “Driving Miss Daisy”) will be joined by an expert creative team including ensemble set designer Ray Recht (“Maytag Virgin”), costume designer Stephanie Hawks, lighting designer Joel Zishuk (“Freud’s Last Session”), sound designer Katie Lowe (“Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash”), and ensemble stage manager Janine Wochna (“The Importance of Being Earnest”).

“Lobby Hero” is sponsored by Mary Ann and Martin McLaughlin.

Single ticket prices for “Lobby Hero” are $63 for regular performances on April 21 – May 21. Discounted preview tickets ($39) are available April 18 - 20. Curtain times are Tuesday – Saturday at 7 p.m., Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at

2 p.m., and 8 p.m. for the opening night performance on Friday, April 21.  Florida Rep’s parking lot opens two hours before each performance and offers guests free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre.

More About Florida Repertory Theatre

Florida Repertory Theatre celebrates 25 years of producing professional, live theater in the Fort Myers River District. Performances are held in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry.

Subscriptions are now on sale for the 2023-2024 season and offer the best pricing and flexibility. Packages for 9, 8, 7 and 6 shows start at $234 for 6 shows. Tickets and information are available through the box office at 239332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053.

Visit Florida Rep online at FloridaRep.org to view the full season lineup of comedies, dramas, musicals and new works. Follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for updates, behind-the-scenes insight, special offers and more. ■

BRYELLE DAFELDECKER / FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE The Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers.

“It’s a well-balanced piece of theater that examines the grey areas and multiple perspectives of moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, while providing a healthy dose of comic relief along the way.”

—

Greg Longenhagen, producing artistic director

An exhibit of works by world-renowned photographer Clyde Butcher at the Marco Island Historical Museum

WHAT TO DO, WHERE TO GO

Submit calendar listings and high-resolution photos to events@floridaweekly.com. Email text, jpegs or Word documents are accepted. No pdfs or photos of fliers, please. The deadline for calendar submissions is noon Friday for the following week’s publication.

SYMPHONY

Masterworks - The Masterworks Series continues with Masterworks 9: Mahler Symphony No. 4 at 8 p.m. April 13 and April 15. Featuring the Naples Philharmonic with Christian Reif, conductor, and special guests soprano Hera Hyesang Park and the Naples Philharmonic Chorus, the program includes Anna Clyne’s “This Midnight Hour;” Brahms “Schicksalslied” and Mahler’s Symphony No. 4. A prelude begins at 7 p.m. 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. artisnaples.org/ or 239597-1900.

Season Finale - The Naples Community Orchestra host the final performance of its 30th season at 3 p.m. April 22 at Moorings Presbyterian Church. A reception follows the concert from 4:305:30 p.m. 791 The orchestra, conducted by Alvin Ho, perform Beethoven’s Coriolan Overture and music from Johannes Brahms. Cellist Adam Satinsky is featured on Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme. $40; free for students with ID. Harbour Dr., Naples. www.naplescommunityorchestra.org.

THEATER

Footloose: The Musical - By the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Youth Theater April 14-16 in the Hinman Auditorium. $17 general admission; $23 reserved seating. Show times vary. 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs. artcenterbonita.org or 239-495-8989.

Hamlet - By FGCU TheatreLab at 7:30 p.m. April 14, 15, 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. April 16 and 22 at the Arts Complex, FGCU Campus. A discussion follows the

Worth the TRIP

April 22 performance. $10 for the public; $7 for students. 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers. fgcu.edu/theatrelab or 239745-4268.

The Piano Lesson - By Theatre Conspiracy April 20-30 at the Alliance for the Arts. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. April 20-22 and April 27-29 and 2 p.m. April 30. $25 members; $30 non-members. 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-939-2787 or www.artinlee.org/experience/theatre/.

Mean Girls - Direct from Broadway, Artis-Naples stages the high school dramedy April 18-23. Show times are 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 7 p.m. Sunday. 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. artisnaples.org/ or 239597-1900.

Pass Over - By The Laboratory Theater of Florida on select dates through April 16. Show times vary. Show times vary. 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers. 239-218-0481 or www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com.

Nunsense - At the Music & Arts Community Center April 13-29. Show times vary. Tickets start at $39. 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. 239-277-1700 or gulfcoastsymphony.org/.

The Foreigner - By Players Circle Theater on select dates April 18-May 7. Show times vary. $35-$50. 16554 North Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers. 239-8003292 or PlayersCircleTheater.com.

Broadway Cabaret - By the Florida Repertory Theatre’s Season 25 Acting Intern Company at 5 p.m. April 22 in the outdoor courtyard at bay and Hendry streets. The show features a mix of Broadway hits from “Hamilton,” “Spamalot,” “A Chorus Line” and more. $15. 2258 Bay St., Fort Myers. www.floridarep.org, 239-3324488 or 877-787-8053.

Hot tickets across the state

» The Price is Right Live — April 13-14, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. www. rutheckerdhall.com.

» Katt Williams 2023 and Me Tour — April 13-14, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. www.rutheckerdhall.com.

» Masego — April 14, Jannus Live, St. Petersburg. www.jannuslive.com.

» Postmodern Jukebox —April 15, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. www.rutheckerdhall.com.

» Styx 2023 Tour with Don Felder — April 17, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. www.rutheckerdhall.com.

» Clint Black — April 17, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. www.floridatheatre.com.

» Soul II Soul Tour — April 21, AdditionArena, formerly CFE Arena, Orlando. www.additionfiarena.com.

Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash - By Florida Repertory Theatre through April 23 in the Historic Arcade Theatre. Show times vary. $63. 2258 Bay St., Fort Myers. www.floridarep.org, 239332-4488 or 877-787-8053.

Lobby Hero - By Florida Repertory Theatre April 21-May 21 in the ArtStage Studio Theatre, with discounted previews April 18-20. $63. 2258 Bay St., Fort Myers. www.floridarep.org, 239-332-4488 or 877-787-8053.

Always A Bridesmaid - By Off Broadway Palm Theatre April 18-May 20. Show times and ticket prices vary. 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.

Sister Act - At Broadway Palm Theatre April 14-May 20. Show times and ticket

prices vary. 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.

Into the Woods - By New Phoenix Theatre on select dates April 13-30. $25. 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239284-5214 or www.newphoenixtheatrefortmyers.org.

THURSDAY4.13

Historical Group - The SW Fl Historical Society meets at 6:45 p.m. at Collaboratory. At 7 p.m., the guest speaker is cartoonist and illustrator Doug MacGregor, winner of numerous state and national awards, including multiple Best of Gannett awards. An autograph session for his children’s books follows. 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers. 239-939-4044 or https://swflhistoricalsociety.org/

FGCU Music - The String Chamber Ensembles performs at 7:30 p.m. in the FGCU U. Tobe Recital Hall. Free and open to the public. 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers. www.fgcu.edu/bsma, 239745-4268 or jhoch@fgcu.edu.

Latin Night - Latin Night with DJ JC runs from 8-11 p.m. at Sidney’s Rooftop Sculpture Garden at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. $10 general admission. 2301 First St. 239-333-1933 or www.sbdac.com.

At The Ranch - Pecos and the Rooftops performs at 8 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon. Tickets start at $23. 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-985-9839 or www.theranchfortmyers.com.

One-Man Show - Cultural Park Theater presents Michael D’Amore performing tunes from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. $25. Food trucks are scheduled for every performance. 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 239-772-5862 or culturalparktheater.com.

Spontaneous Laughs - Stage2 Improv takes the stage at the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs at 7 p.m. for a not to be missed Thursday Night Comedy Show by this long-running improv group. Six performers take audience suggestions and create jokes on the spot. $25. Held in the Moe Auditorium & Film Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road. $30. artcenterbonita. org or 239-495-8989.

Jazz Event - The FSW Jazz Fest ’23 starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. The event features guest artist Vince DiMartino with Dr. Todd Hastings and jazz vocalist Michelle Amato, plus a performance by the Stardust Memories Big Band and the FSW Jazz Ensemble with festival director/conductor Dr. Tom Smith. 13350 FSW Pkwy.,

Fort Myers. Free, but tickets are required; available at the FSW Music Office or the BB Mann Box Office. koneil@fsw.edu or www.stardustmemoriesbigband.com/ shows.php.

Christian Music - Casting Crowns brings The Healer Tour with We are Messengers and Ben Fuller to Hertz Arena at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $34; parking is $30. 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero. hertzarena.com or 239-948-7825.

At Miromar - Dianna Fox performs Motown, jazz and blues from 4-7 p.m. near Saks OFF 5th at Miromar Outlets. 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. 239-9483766 or www.miromaroutlets.com.

Guided Meditation - Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve hosts Guided Meditation classes at its Interpretive Center from 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays through April 27. Participants direct their intentions inward during guided meditation and qigong. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, a yoga mat and a blanket or pillow to sit upon. The class is for adults 18 and older. $40 for four classes; $10 for one class. 7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers. Pre-registration is available at www.leeparks.org. 239-533-7555.

Live Music - The Rex Bongo Band performs live in concert from 7:30-10 p.m. at the Buckingham Blues Bar. Free admission; no smoking. 5641 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers. 239-693-7111 or www. buckinghambar.com.

Benefit Event - Comedian Andy Forrester headlines a comedy fundraiser for My Autism Connection at 7:30 p.m. at Snappers Laugh In Comedy Club. $20. 8595 College Pkwy., Fort Myers. 239-479LAFF or www.laughincomedycafe.com.

More Music - Yard Dog Charlie performs from 5-9 p.m. at Mudbugs. 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-2221 or www.mudbugssanibel.com.

At The Stage - The Stage presents an Almost ABBA Tribute Show at 7:30 p.m. 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-405-8566 or www.stagebonita.com.

At the Zig Zag - Vintage performs from 6-10 p.m. at the Zig Zag Lounge at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. 506 South 1st St., Immokalee. 800-218-0007, moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/ SeminoleCasinoHotel/.

FRIDAY4.14

Pet Party - A Cinco de Mayo Yappy Hour runs from 6-8 p.m. in Center Court at the Bell Tower. The event, benefiting Gulf Coast Humane Society, features a Cinco De Mayo costume contest for pets sponsored by Cantina Laredo. 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myer. 239-4891221 or www.belltowerFL.

Psychic Medium - “Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience” starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. $47.46-$106.04. 13350 FSW Pkwy., Fort Myers. 239-481-4849 or www.bbmannpah.com.

FGCU Concert - The FGCU Wind Orchestra performs at 7:30 p.m. at Fort Myers High School. Free and open to the public. 2635 Cortez Blvd., Fort Myers. www.fgcu.edu/bsma, 239-745-4268 or jhoch@fgcu.edu.

At The Ranch - Easton Corbin performs in concert at 9 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon. Austin Meade opens. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $37.28. 2158

Clint Black

COURTESY PHOTO

Broadway Palm Theatre presents “Sister Act” April 14-May 20. Show times and ticket prices vary. broadwaypalm.com

KEEPING IT

BY SAMUEL BURNLEY Florida Weekly Correspondent

here is a common misperception amongthe general music-listening public. It happens when an artist puts out the song that is their first to become wildly popular — and people assume this hot new artist has come out of nowhere, hit by a bolt of lightning out of the blue.

But this view ignores the thousands of hours of woodshedding, honing their craft in private and developing their voice in public. It overlooks the years of grinding away in anonymity, playing every attainable gig in whatever sweaty, smoky bar would take them, long before anyone would recognize a name.

Theatre Conspiracy’s “The Piano Lesson” offers ‘love, tension, grief, contention’

BY NANCY STETSON nstetson@floridaweekly.com

“It’s not just a piece of wood,” declares Sonya McCarter.

She’s talking about the piano at the center of August Wilson’s award-winning play, “The Piano Lesson,” an instrument that causes family discord, grief and death.

Ms. McCarter directs the production currently running at Theatre Conspiracy in Fort Myers (through

April 30.)

Mr. Wilson wrote 10 plays, often called The Pittsburgh Cycle or The Century Cycle, depicting Black life through the twentieth century, a play for each decade. They’ve won numerous awards, and two, including “The Piano Lesson,” received the

SEE ETHERIDGE, A14 ⊲ Music

Arts Commentary

Heroes just for one day: “Lobby Hero” at Florida Rep. B12

The legendary award-winning and controversial singer/songwriter is still using music to express her truth

COURTESY PHOTO Renee Freeman and Earl W. Sparrow Jr.

SEE PIANO, A16 ⊲

WHAT TO DO, WHERE TO GO

Submit calendar listings and high-resolution photos to events@floridaweekly.com. Email text, jpegs or Word documents are accepted. No pdfs or photos of fliers, please. The deadline for calendar submissions is noon Friday for the following week’s publication.

SYMPHONY

Patriotic Pops - Wear your patriotic best for this annual salute to the troops by the Naples Philharmonic and the Naples Philharmonic Chorus performing the grand music of America at 8 p.m. May 2526 in Hayes Hall at Artis—Naples. 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 239-254-2684 or artisnaples.org

THEATER

Musical Comedy - “A Cracker at The Ritz,” a satirical roasting of all things Florida in song and sketch comedy, is on stage from 7-9 p.m. May 30 at the Center for Performing Arts Moe Auditorium & Film Center. The show stars Betsy Bennett and Rick Compton. $30. Additional dates: June 14 and 27. 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-495-8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.

Private Lives - At Cultural Park Theater on select dates through May 21. Show times vary. $12-$26. Food trucks are scheduled for every performance. 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 239-772-5862 or culturalparktheater. com.

Beauty and the Beast - By Fort Myers Theatre on select dates through May 21. Show times vary. $25-$40. 16120 San Carlos Blvd., #5, Fort Myers. 239-3236570 or ftmyerstheatre.com.

Fame, The Musical - By the Florida Repertory Theatre’s Education Conservatory Program May 18-21 and May 2427 in the Historic Arcade Theatre. Evening and matinee shows are offered. $30 adults; $15 students. 2258 Bay St., Fort Myers. www.floridarep.org, 239-332-4488 or 877-787-8053.

Worth the TRIP

Lobby Hero - By Florida Repertory Theatre on select dates through May 21 in the ArtStage Studio Theatre. Show times vary. $63. 2258 Bay St., Fort Myers. www. floridarep.org, 239-332-4488 or 877-7878053.

Always A Bridesmaid - By Off Broadway Palm Theatre through May 20. Show times and ticket prices vary. 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.

Sister Act - At Broadway Palm Theatre through May 20. Show times and ticket prices vary. 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.

Footloose - At Broadway Palm Theatre May 26-July 1. Show times and ticket prices vary. 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com.

THURSDAY5.18

Music Legend - Melissa Etheridge performs in concert at 7 p.m. at the SW Florida Event Center. Tickets start at $153. 11515 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. www.ticketmaster.com.

Jazz Tunes - Jazz at the MACC: Jazz Jam, featuring the Gulf Coast Symphony and the Gulf Coast Jazz Collective, starts at 7 p.m. at the Music and Arts Community Center. $15. 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. 239-277-1700 or GulfCoastSymphony.org.

Art & Poetry - Gulf Coast Leisure hosts an Art & Poetry Networking Event at 8 p.m. at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Rooftop Sculpture Garden. Mixed media artists, music, spoken word and vendors are highlighted each month. Cocktails start at 7:30 p.m. $10. 2301 First St. 239-333-1933 or www.sbdac.com.

Hot tickets across the state

» Yungblud — May 17, Jannus Live, St. Petersburg. www.jannuslive.com.

» Margaret Cho: Live and Livid! — May 20, Plaza Live, Orlando. www.plazaliveorlando.org.

» The Backseat Lovers — May 23, Jannus Live, St. Petersburg. www.jannuslive. com.

» Nick Norman & Jason Lamson — May 28, Key West Theater, Key West. www. thekeywesttheater.com.

» Ana Gabriel — June 3, FTX Arena, Miami. www.ftxarena.com.

» Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour — June 9, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. www.vanwezel.org.

At Miromar - David Lynn performs classic rock from 4-7 p.m. near COACH Outlet at Miromar Outlets. 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. 239-948-3766 or www.miromaroutlets.com.

Funny Fellow - Comedian Spunky Robinson performs tonight through Saturday at Snappers Laugh In Comedy Club. Show times vary. $18 general admission; $23 VIP. 8595 College Pkwy., Fort Myers. 239-479-LAFF or www.laughincomedycafe.com.

More Music - Yard Dog Charlie performs from 5-9 p.m. at Mudbugs. 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 239-472-2221 or www.mudbugssanibel.com.

At the Zig Zag - Flashback performs from 6-10 p.m. at the Zig Zag Lounge at

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. 506 South 1st St., Immokalee. 800-218-0007, moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/ SeminoleCasinoHotel/.

At The Stage - The Stage presents a Neil Diamond Tribute Show at 7:30 p.m. 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-405-8566 or www.stagebonita.com.

FRIDAY5.19

Benefit Event - An evening of socializing and candle-making runs from 7-9 p.m. at Sanibel Candle Co., with proceeds benefiting Gulf Coast Humane Society. Participants make a candle and choose scents. Tickets include beverages, light appetizers and desserts. $32. 13499 South Cleveland Ave., Unit 107, Fort Myers. To register: Candleparty2023.givesmart.com.

Country Band - The Eli Young Band brings its ‘Love Talking Tour’ to Seminole Casino Hotel at 8 p.m. The band has earned 14 charts singles, including the smash “Crazy Girl,” from 2011, and are touring in support of its album, “Love Talking,” which contains the hit single “Love Ain’t.” Doors open at 7 p.m. For age 21 and older. 506 S. First St., Immokalee. Advance tickets are $65 at www.ticketmaster.com or at www.moreinparadise. com.

Rooftop Music - Friday Nights at Sidney’s with music by Briz and Lady runs from 8-11 p.m. at Sidney’s Rooftop Sculpture Garden at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Donations welcome. 2301 First St. 239-333-1933 or www.sbdac.com.

Music Event - Fort Myers Music Walk runs from 6-10 p.m. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District. On the third Friday of each month, local and regional musicians line the streets to play everything from jazz and blues to rock and roll. 239-313-5129, events@ rdafortmyers.com or www.myriverdistrict.com.

At Miromar - Rocker, SWFL’S premier classic rock band, performs from 6-9 pm. in the Restaurant Piazza at Miromar Outlets. Bring lawn chairs for seating. 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. 239-948-3766 or www.miromaroutlets.com.

At The Stage - The Stage presents six tribute shows: Tom Jones, Rod Stewart with a touch of Meatloaf, Celine Dion and Linda Ronstadt with a touch of Patsy Cline at 7:30 p.m. 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-405-8566 or www.stagebonita.com.

At the Zig Zag - N Fusion performs from 8 p.m.-midnight tonight and Satur-

day at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. 506 South 1st St., Immokalee. 800-2180007, moreinparadise.com or facebook. com/SeminoleCasinoHotel/.

SATURDAY5.20

Bonsai Group - The Bonsai Society of SWFL Club meets 9 a.m. at the Berne Davis Gardens. Those interested in bonsai are welcome. The club meets on the third Saturday of every month. 2166 Virginia Ave., Fort Myers. www.bonsaiswfl.org or 239-935-6850.

Writing Workshop - The Gulf Coast Writers Association hosts the writing workshop “Wordsmithing Those Critical First 100 Words: from 10 a.m.-noon at Word of Life Church. Taught by Claudia Geagan, the event includes her insights and tips on how to grab readers with the opening first words. Free for first-time visitors; $5 for subsequent visits; and free for members. Bring notebooks, pens and be prepared to participate. 6111 South Pointe Blvd., Fort Myers. The event is also accessible via Zoom. gulfwriters.org/.

Brew Festival - BrewFest starts at 2 p.m. at Cultural Park. The event includes selections from local craft breweries, live music, food trucks and vendors. VIP access is at 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Cape Coral Museum of History. $75 VIP; $40 general admission; $20 designated drivers. 544 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 239772-7037 or www.capecoralmuseum.org.

Etiquette Class - “Etiquette At Edison Ford” for children ages 6-13 runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Instructor Suzanne Willis teaches proper introduction, handshakes and dining etiquette during a three-course meal. Each student receives a workbook and certificate of completion. If a child has dietary restrictions, contact Lindsey at llutarewych@edisonford.org. Registration is required: $85 for members; $95 non-members. 2350 McGregor Blvd. 239334-7419 or www.edisonford.org.

Latin Tunes - Gulf Coast Symphony presents “Hot Latin Nights” at 5 p.m. at the Music and Arts Community Center. The Heat Latin Jazz Band kicks off festivities with a unique mix of multicultural jazz at 6 p.m. Taking the stage at 8 p.m. is multiple-Grammy-nominated Peruvian musician Kiki Sanchez and his Salsa quintet, who will heat up the stage of the MACC with salsa, bachata, tango, merengue and reggaeton. The event includes drinks, street food and dancing to benefit the MACC. $25-$35. 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. 239-277-1700 or GulfCoastSymphony.org.

Live Music - Guitarist Mark Aulick performs from 4-7 p.m. near Ford’s Garage at Miromar Outlets. Rick & Susanna perform from 4-7 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza. 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. www.miromaroutlets.com.

At The Stage - The Stage presents the Fabulous Girls of Motown Big Dance Band at 7:30 p.m. 9144 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-405-8566 or www.stagebonita.com.

Blues Fest - A Backyard Bluesfest featuring Selwyn Birchwood, Tommy Lee Cook & The Buckingham Blues Band, and The Reggie King Sears Band, runs from 2-8 p.m. in the back yard at the Buckingham Blues Bar. $15 admission; no coolers or pets. 5641 Buckingham Road. 239-693-7111 or www.buckinghambar.com.

STEFAN BRENDING / LIZENZ: CREATIVE COMMONS Yungblud

COURTESY PHOTO

Broadway Palm Theatre presents “Sister Act” through May 20. Show times and ticket prices vary. www. broadwaypalm.com

Florida Repertory Theatre closes out its 25th anniversary season with Lobby Hero by Kenneth Lonergan.

The production runs in the ArtStage Studio Theatre now through May 21.

In Lobby Hero, the foyer of a Manhattan apartment building becomes more than a waiting area for four New Yorkers entangled in a murder investigation. As a young security guard with big ambitions clashes with his stern boss, an intense rookie cop and her unpredictable partner, the setting becomes a testing ground for what happens when personal and professional personas nd themselves at odds.

“Playwright Kenneth Lonergan’s emotionally-nuanced play applies heart and wit to address polarizing topics of race, gender, class, and corruption,” said producing artistic director Greg Longenhagen. “It’s a well-balanced piece of theatre that examines the grey areas and multiple perspectives of moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, while

providing a healthy dose of comic relief along the way.”

The ensemble cast features New York-based actors Dante Alexander, Matt Monaco, Michael Saguto, and Dana Stern, each making their Florida Rep debuts. Director Ron Lagomarsino (Broadway: Alfred Uhry’s The Last Night of Ballyhoo; OffBroadway: original Driving Miss Daisy) is joined by an expert creative team including ensemble set designer Ray Recht (Maytag Virgin), costume designer Stephanie Hawks, lighting designer Joel Zishuk (Freud’s Last Session), sound designer Katie Lowe (Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash), and ensemble stage manager Janine Wochna (The Importance of Being Earnest).

Single ticket prices for Lobby Hero are $63 for regular performances. Curtain times are Tuesday – Saturday at 7 p.m., Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Florida Rep’s parking lot opens 2 hours before each performance and offers guests free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre. Tickets may be purchased online at www.oridarep.org or by calling the box oce at 239332-4488 or toll-free at 877-787-8053.

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Florida Rep closes its 25th anniversary season with Kenneth Lonergan’s dark comedy “Lobby Hero”

By John Davis

Published April 20, 2023 at 9:14 AM EDT

LISTEN • 21:29

Ron Lagomarsino directs Florida Repertory Theatre's season-closing production of Kenneth Lonergan's dark comedy "Lobby Hero"

Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers closes its 25th anniversary season with a production of Kenneth Lonergan’s multi-award-winning dark comedy “Lobby Hero.”

The ensemble cast in this show, all making their Florida Rep. debut, includes two police ocers and two security guards on the graveyard shift over the course of several nights in the lobby of a Manhattan apartment building.

They nd themselves entangled in a murder investigation and each of the awed and nuanced characters are dealing with their own moral struggles.

As the narrative unfolds themes of race, gender, class, corruption, manipulation, guilt and innocence, and motivation emerge in a way that could make the story more relevant today than when it rst premiered in 2001.

Ahead of tomorrow’s opening night performance, we’re taking a closer look in a conversation with the director Ron Lagomarsino.

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Florida Rep closes its 25th …

Deb Jonsson

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Subject: Ft. Myers/Naples News for May 18, 2023

Ft. Myers/Naples Daily Newsletter May. 18, 2023

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Sent: Thursday, April 6, 2023 1:23 PM

To: Deb Jonsson

Subject: Art, Shrimp and Music Festivities Throughout SWFL

THURSDAY

 Watch as artists create in their studios, sign up for classes or buy directly from the artists during Naples Art District's Open Studios Tour.

Deb Jonsson

FRIDAY

 Edison and FordWinter Estates welcome you to the Grow Fort Myers Plant Sale and Orchid Symposium. Stop by on Friday to shop from vendors, including Bello Tropicals, Florida Orchid House, Hang-a-Pot, Orchids Amore, SierraMadre, Sunland Orchids and Tropiflora (just to name a few). Return on Saturday for workshops and more plant shopping.

 The Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Councilpartners with The River District Alliance for this month's Downtown Art Walk. The garden council transforms downtown windowfronts with exuberantfloral displays for a onenight-only exhibit.

 The guys behind Artsemble Underground organize SWFL Mural Fest in downtown Fort Myers to showcase seven newmurals throughout downtown Fort Myers. Proceeds benefit artists affected by Hurricane Ian.

 The Bonita Springs Shrimp & Music Festival brings fresh Gulf seafood and nearly a dozen bands—including Nigel Mack & The Blues Attack—to the former greyhound racetrack site off Bonita Beach Road.

SATURDAY

 Wellfit Girls hosts the seventh-annual Hop tothe Top Easter 5K Fun Run at North Collier Regional Park. Registration fees for runners, walkers and joggers participating in the event benefitWellfit Girls' leadership, fitness and empowerment programs for teen girls.

 Spend the afternoon listening to Music in the Garden as local musicians take over the outdoor stage, overlooking the water garden at Naples Botanical Garden. Take a lawn chair or blanket to sit back and soak in the magic.

 Head to Gulf Coast Town Centerfor their Easter Party with crafts, sweets and music in the courtyard.

 Grab yourself a cold one to support locals still recovering from Hurricane Ian. Palm City Brewing's 6th Anniversary party benefits the community with 10% of all HAZIFY sales (both draft and to-go beer) benefitting Fort Myers Beach (specifically, a local waitress who lost everything and is trying to get her family back home).

SUNDAY

 It's closing dayfor Tootsie at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. See the national tour of the Tony Award-winning musical based on the 1982 comedy starring Dustin Hoffman, with music and lyrics by composer and lyricist David Yazbek.

 The Naples Jazz Society brings the NewOrleans sound to downtown Naples with their last free concert in the parkof the season.

View or submit other upcoming local events.

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FloridaRep presents LobbyHero

April 18 – May21

Florida RepertoryTheatrepresents the electrifying, smartand funny LobbyHero byKenneth Lonergan April 18 throughMay 21 in their ArtStage Studio Theatre indowntownFortMyers. The foyer of an apartmentbuilding heats up when a young security guard, hisstern boss, an intense rookie cop and her unpredictable partner become entangled in amurder investigation. This emotionallynuanced dark comedy mixes themeso of race, gender, class and corruption with wit and romance. GetTickets

NaplesWinterWine Festival: Meet The KidsDay hosted at NCH Business Center in supportof Naples Children & Education Foundation See Gallery

ARTS COMMENTARY

We can be heroes just for one day: ‘Lobby Hero’ at Florida Rep

Nancy STETSON

What do you do when the system is corrupt?

When the very people who are supposed to be upholding the law are not only bending it for their own purposes but breaking it for their own pleasure and amusement?

What do you do then?

Is the truth ever negotiable?

Kenneth Lonergan’s “Lobby Hero,” playing at the Florida Repertory Theatre’s ArtStage Studio Theatre (through May 21) raises these questions and more.

The setting is the lobby of a Manhattan apartment building in the fall of 2002.

Set designer Ray Recht’s lobby screams with authenticity, from its faded checkerboard floor whose true colors are hard to determine to the plastic potted plants to the hotel/motel cityscape hanging inoffensively on the wall. His set, combined with Joel Zishuk’s stark lighting, makes this play look like what Edward Hopper might have painted in the 21st century: a lone security guard in the glass cage of an apartment lobby.

Sound designer Kati Lowe’s ambient street sounds — the whoosh of passing cars, distant sirens — help place you there in New York City without being overwhelming or intrusive.

Jeff (Michael Saguto) is trying to get his life together. The bumbling 27-year-old works the overnight shift as a lobby security guard, hoping to make enough money to move out of his brother and sister-inlaw’s place in Queens.

Mr. Saguto plays his character superbly, a naive earnest jittering bundle of nerves who wants to say the right thing but so often says the opposite.

His boss, William (Dante Alexander), a Black man attempting to rise through the ranks, is a real law-and-order guy who fires shirkers and anyone he finds sleeping on the job. When we meet him, he seems so certain about what is the right thing to do; he’s a stickler for follow-

ing the rules. The two wind up clashing with two police officers who patrol their neighborhood: veteran cop Bill (Matt Monaco) and Dawn (Dana Stern) a rookie halfway through her six-month probation period. Dawn idolizes Bill but discovers he’s not all he claims to be. He’s an alleged “genius cop” whose name is on the list to get his gold shield, but he cuts corners and breaks the rules.

Mr. Monaco plays Bill as such a despicable human being that you can’t help but hate him. He rides roughshod over everyone, bullying them or lying to them. He has rage issues. He belittles his partner behind her back, calling her “a little girl wearin’ a cop uniform.” He’s a greasy kind of guy with a pornstache, full of unearned overconfidence. And it’s probably a sure thing that he’s in the pool at work, the one where the men are betting to see who can sleep with her first.

(As a theater companion said to me at intermission, “He’s so good in his role. He has all the women in this audience hating him.”)

Dawn, like Jeff, is young and desperately wants to do right, to do something good in life. A woman in a macho, boys’ club, she needs to prove herself on the job.

Over the course of a few days, their lives and desires become entangled. Characters are faced with moral dilemmas when reality clashes with their ideals, and each reacts differently. By the end of the play, we’re left with a giant knot they’ve all created.

Director Ron Lagomarsino has staged this well, even though most of the action takes place in the lobby, with a few scenes just outside, on the street. There’s not one false step or note within this play.

Though “Lobby Hero” had its debut 22 years ago, it is still, unfortunately, relevant. It deals with the issues of sexism and racism as well as corruption within our legal system and those policing us. But these issues are presented naturally, as things affecting the characters in the course of a murder investigation, and not as a heavy “message play.” We care what happens to these people.

There’s plenty of drama — and humor — in this production, as well as food for thought.

The four may all dress in blue and deal with security, but there are definite differences, and the police do not see the security guards as equals.

(It is interesting, though, that the playwright has given us two men in charge,

Lit apartment lobbies at night look like theater tableaux through the glass. We catch glimpses as we walk or drive by, never knowing the various dramas playing out.  This is one we can sit and watch and be glad we did. ■

KNOW

“Lobby Hero”

» When: through May 21

» Where: Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers

» Cost: $63

» Info: 239-332-4488 or www.FloridaRep.org

one named William and one named Bill.)

nstetson@floridaweekly.com

JOE DAFELDECKER / FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE

SAGUTO

ALEXANDER

LAGOMARSINO

LOBBY HERO

PATRON COMMENTS

This definitely was a tragic-comedy. It revealed a lot about human nature and how dangerous it can be.

One of the very best performances I’ve seen in my 8 years as a season subscriber!

Interesting play but kind of sad.

Great show and wonderful acting. I enjoyed it a lot.

Great performance by actors & actresses.

Characters were very passionate and believable. You felt sorry for the security guard at times as the policeman and his boss bullied him. All character's parts were very human.

Perhaps one of the most difficult plays for the actors this season, but it was Broadway quality. Excellent acting and direction

Depressing play. The acting was excellent, but the play itself was too dark for me.

No weak spots!

Casting and acting superb. Topic has not changed. Deal with it on lower level. No resolution.

All 4 of us really enjoyed the production. The acting was terrific! The only suggestion I have is to mike the actors. There were times when their backs were to us that you could not hear the dialogue. Other than that, it was a excellent performance!

Not my favorite, but excellent actors. Totally believable actors and the parts they played. Just didn't enjoy the subject of the play, nothing that I would ponder about "life".

The acting was superb, every actor did a stellar job! What a great production for the final performance of the season!!

The performers did such an outstanding job; don’t know how they remember all of the dialogue.

Felt starting the scene with Jeff, actor, seated at the lobby desk was a good idea. The actors' voices were a bit too soft when Dawn and Jeff were on the far side of stage from us. Her voice doesn't carry far. Actor of Jeff was perfect for the role as even his facial expressions helped

create his character. He was the best in the performance. Interesting parallel of Dawn losing her faith in her boss just as Jeff losing his admiration for his boss over lies. A thought-provoking play. Really enjoyed it.

The set design was one of the most realistic sets I have seen.

The actors were wonderful. How they remembered their lines when there are only four people comprising the entire play, I have no idea, but it was fantastic.

Well done!!

Thank you for another fabulous performance. Sometimes it was difficult to hear Dawn speaking. Her voice was a little too low at times, especially when she turned away from the audience.

The cast did a fine job in their respective roles. Jeff was excellent.

This was preview night, but I saw no mistakes (other than Jason laughing out loud and distracting "Jeff". ) Bahaha! Jeff's timing, voice infections and nervous moves were perfect for his character. Bravo!

Loved the taught dialog and thought-provoking issues.

What a SOB Jeff is! He was standing right in front of me at one point and I asked the stranger next to me, a woman, if I should trip him! A great play about self-deception!

Cover story

Continued from Page 8C

as the only Logan’s in Florida. For more information, go to logansroadhouse.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Logan’s Roadhouse, 5043 S. Cleveland

Ave., Fort Myers, will be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday after April 19. For more, call (239) 323-6232 or go to logansroadhouse.com.

Robyn George is a community content editor and food writer for The Fort Myers News-Press. Send scoops and news to rhgeorge@gannett.com .

All times listed are Eastern/Pacific Time. Shows air one hour earlier in Central/ Mountain Time.

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The bar at Logan’s Roadhouse in Fort Myers has 22 seats and four large-screen TVs. AMANDA INSCORE/THE NEWS-PRESS

Beauty’

a cautionary tale about wellness

Rancilio ASSOCIATED PRESS

“Natural Beauty” by Ling Ling Huang(Dutton)

From bee sting facials to fish pedicures, to Instagram filters and apps that allow us to completely edit our appearance in photos, it seems people will try almost anything to look better. It also makes the posh wellness and beauty store setting of Ling Ling Huang’s novel “Natural Beauty” within the realm of possibility and intriguing from page one.

“Natural Beauty” (a tongue-in-cheek title if there ever was one) is told from theperspectiveofanunnamednarrator, a tactic used many times over years from Daphne de Maurier’s “Rebecca” published in 1938 and even 2003’s “The Nanny Diaries” by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus. This narrator is a talented pianist who puts her music aspirations aside to support her parents, who are Chinese immigrants, after an accident. She takes a job at Holistik, a “clean” beauty retailer that capitalizes on people’s desire to look as beautiful as one possibly can.

Holistik may appear perfect, with its homogenized, appealing aesthetic and its employees buy into what Holistik is selling as well, taking the idea of selfimprovement to extremes. One only eats an ounce of raw meat daily. Another practices a religion called Dianaism –where the goal is to live like, you guessed it, Princess Diana. The staff is also provided with an attractive necklace that comes with an alarm reminder to take supplements, but our protagonist later learns it actually is a tracker of emotions and movement.

At first, our narrator devotes herself to blending in. She notices over time that her appearance has transformed. Her eyes are larger, her body different, her hair thicker and curled. It doesn’t take long though for the strange, intrusive practices of Holistik to be glaringly

The novel would be great for book clubs, prompting discussions of beauty standards, where to draw the line and how the growing industry is unregulated.

questionable and unethical, and no longer excusable as innovative. The story then shifts from satirical to horrifying and the treatments encouraged and sold by Holistik become freakish.

“NaturalBeauty”hasbeenoptioned by“FreshOfftheBoat”and“CrazyRich Asians” star Constance Wu.

The novel would be great for book clubs, prompting discussions of beauty standards, where to draw the line and how the growing industry is unregulated.

‘Natural

is

Alicia