February 2021 Happenings Magazine by SW FL Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Music • Calendar

FEBRUARY 2021

FREE

ART Tracy Byrd at The Ranch

FEST SEASON

RETURNS

On Your Feet at Broadway Palm

Weekly blues concert series

“The Last Page” by McKenzie Fisk

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

Publisher’s Spotlight

More theatre

The new year is picking up speed when it comes to live theatre in Southwest Florida. More stages are lighting up as increased safety precautions are put in place to protect audiences and performers. Here’s what we have on our stages: In Naples, Gulfshore Playhouse got the green light to present Love Letters on stage through Jan. 31 at The Norris Center. The Laboratory Theater of Florida returns to live productions with Five Times in One Night Jan. 28 through Feb. 7 in Fort Myers. The Lab Theater will follow that up with Botticelli in the Fire Feb. 26 through March 14. In Naples, TheatreZone continues its Showstopper Series with At the Movies. Performances are Feb. 4 14 at the G & L Theatre. Florida Repertory Theatre’s professional acting interns perform Godspell on an outdoor stage Jan. 28 through Feb. 6 in downtown Fort Myers. Happy Days the musical continues at Broadway Palm in Fort Myers through Feb. 14. Next up at the Broadway Palm is On Your Feet (the story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan), playing Feb. 18 through April 10. In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater gives us Charley’s Aunt on stage Feb. 4 through Feb. 14. The Murder Mystery Dinner Train restarted its engine Jan. 27 in Fort Myers after a 10-month break. In Port Charlotte, the Charlotte Players present With This Ring Feb. 5 - 21 at the Langdon Playhouse. The Off Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers keeps us laughing through March 6 with ‘Til Theft Do Us Part. The Naples Players wrap up their outdoor season with Footloose on stage in Baker Park Feb. 25 through March 7. The Naples Players plan to return to live theatre at the end of April with Calendar Girls. 4 - FEBRUARY 2021

IN THIS ISSUE

theatre

Outdoor art fests

The beauty of winter in Florida is the abundance of outdoor art events that it brings. Art festival season is in full swing in our area. The Art Festival at Mercato takes place Jan. 30 and 31 in Naples. Hotworks.org returns to JetBlue Park in Fort Myers Jan. 30 and 31 with its fine art show. ArtFest Fort Myers takes place in downtown Fort Myers Feb. 6 and 7. The second Bonita Springs National Art Festival of this season will be Feb. 6 and 7 at Riverside Park. The Naples National Art Show is Feb. 20 and 21 in Cambier Park and 8th Street. Our monthly art events include Art in the Park Feb. 6 in Cambier Park in Naples and the Naples Artcrafters show Feb. 13 in Cambier Park.

art

music

dining

Live music

More and more opportunities are arising to hear live music in our area. Many of our local restaurants and small music venues are finding creative ways to keep musicians and customers safe while still being able to enjoy the magic of live music. Some national acts are starting to return to the stage also. The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers has a busy schedule of rock and country artists the next six months. Hertz Arena and Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall also have some concerts on tap for this year (with more to be announced). When you do feel safe and comfortable to go out and about again, please support our local music venues and our local musicians. It has been a very difficult year for all of them. It’s no secret the arts and entertainment industries have taken an enormous hit. Rock on,

Jamie

Publishers & Owners

Jamie & Kathy Kuser

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

MAILING ADDRESS:

PO Box 9285, Fort Myers, FL 33902

(239) 278-5236

swfHappenings@earthlink.net

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THEATRE

Laboratory Theater of Florida returns to live performances with Five Times in One Night Chris Heartwell and Tamicka Armstrong in Five Times in One Night.

The Laboratory Theater of Florida is bringing live theater back to its stage Jan. 28 – Feb. 7 with Five Times in One Night by Chiara Atik. Explore the thrills and disappointments of sex through the ages, from the first to the very last couple on Earth. Five Times in One Night is a surprising, heartfelt, and delightfully quirky look at personal connection, relationships, and the different meanings associated with sex. Director Maddy Hayes says, “There’s something for everyone to connect with and laugh along to in this laugh-packed sex comedy, whether your relationship status is best described as “best we can do during the end of the world,” “pining through messages while avoiding a plague,” or “brainstorming ways to make an old relationship feel fresh." Five Times In One Night is a suggestive title that makes the show seem all about sex, and it is about sex but not just about sex. It’s about emotion, vulnerability, communication, and negotiation. The show mirrors the act itself by being nuanced without being vulgar. Tamicka Armstrong and Chris Heartwell are two profoundly intuitive actors who give the show palpable energy that is both heartfelt and hilarious,” adds Hayes. She says, “Lab Theater's intimacy contract was useful in making clear each person’s expectations and how to stay safe, which has given us smooth and productive rehearsals, and the theater's pandemic contract has been a blessing in giving peace 6 - FEBRUARY 2021

of mind. Since we all know for sure that everyone’s doing their best to stay safe, we can spend more time getting down to details that make the show so great.” Due to mature themes, sexual situations and partial nudity, this audience is limited to patrons 16 and older. Performance dates are Jan. 28 - 30 and Feb. 4 - 6 at 8 p.m. and Jan. 31 and Feb. 6 and 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $28 each or $10 for students with valid student ID. Seating is limited and sold by section for safety. For tickets, please call the box office at 239-218-0481 or online at www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com. For the protection of our cast, who will not be masked during the performance, the theater requires that all patrons wear their masks over their noses and mouths during their entire stay at the theater. The seats are spaced following current CDC regulations and may not be moved or adjusted. All theater surfaces are professionally coated with a specially developed antimicrobial sanitizer, and temperatures will be recorded upon check-in. For further information on what the theater is doing to keep its casts, crews and guests safe, visit the website and review the pandemic protocol. The playbill will be digital and delivered in the email confirmation with your ticket(s). For more information, visit www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com or the physical location at 1634 Woodford Ave. in the Fort Myers River District.

Happenings Magazine

Love Letters on stage in Naples through Jan. 31

Following nearly 10 months of upended performances due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gulfshore Playhouse officially celebrates the grand reopening of its live performance season with the acclaimed Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. The opening performance on Jan. 16 came on the heels of the announcement Gulfshore Playhouse has been named one of only two equity-approved producers in the state of Florida by Actors’ Equity Association. “Our foremost priority was serving our mission, keeping our artists working, and doing so safely. Therefore, we kept ourselves ready and proactive,” said Kristen Coury, founder and producing artistic director of Gulfshore Playhouse. “We brought back the majority of our staff as early as October. We wrote a one-man show, and when we couldn’t perform it live, we filmed it. We made another attempt with our production of Love Letters, which is a show naturally socially distanced, starring real-life partners and Broadway actors Bill Parry and Maureen Silliman, and added even more protocols to our health and safety plan based on what we’ve learned in the past six Happenings Magazine

months.” Love Letters takes audiences on a nostalgic tour of the complicated love story between two people during the latter half of the 20th century. From childhood birthday party invitations and valentines, to postcards from world travels, and tearfully penned goodbyes, the letters between Andy and Melissa are at the heart of their halfa-century-long relationship. A long-time Broadway veteran, Parry previously performed at Gulfshore Playhouse in the hit productions of All My Sons, Native Gardens and My Fair Lady. Part of the original Broadway production of Jesus Christ Superstar, he went on to work with its celebrated director, Tom O’Horgan, in a number of other productions. Silliman has appeared at Gulfshore Playhouse in Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Native Gardens and My Fair Lady. She has performed on Broadway in Shenandoah, I Remember Mama and “Is There Life After High School? Tickets range from $43 to $71 for performances now through Jan. 31 at The Norris Center in Naples. To purchase tickets, visit www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org FEBRUARY 2021 - 7

Florida Rep outdoor series THEATRE

continues with Godspell

Florida Repertory Theatre announces the opening of Godspell, the classic OffBroadway musical sensation as part of its ongoing outdoor theatre series. Presented by Florida Rep's Education Department as its winter Theatre Conservatory production, Godspell plays Jan. 28 through Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 31 and Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $60 to $100 for a 12 foot x 12 foot square that accommodates up to six people. Conceived by JohnMichael Tebelak and composed by Tony Award-winner Stephen Schwartz, Godspell celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Florida Rep's Conservatory production of features the 2021 Professional Acting Intern Company alongside teens from the Conservatory Program. "We are so excited to offer another outdoor production for our audiences," said artistic director Greg Longenhagen, "and Godspell is a truly joyful and inspirational musical that is perfect for this moment. We're all looking for something to lift us up and bring us joy, and this musical and its award-winning score do just that. We are taking all possible precautions to keep you safe, and this third production in our new outdoor series will keep you as safe as ever with our safety protocols in place. I hope to see you outside enjoy these students and our professional acting interns working together in this now-classic American musical!" Prepare ye for the timeless tale of friendship, loyalty, and love! "Godspell" is a musical parable loosely based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, and told against a modern backdrop. This Off-Broadway musical sensation is the first hit from Stephen Schwartz, the Tony Award-winning composer of Wicked, Pippin and many more. The award-winning score features "Day by Day" and a parade of beloved songs, including "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All for the Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side." The conservatory production of Godspell stars the 2020-2021 professional acting intern company of Patrick Agonito, Nayda Baez, Emily Foley, Sarah Joyce, Matt Kelley and Micah 8 - FEBRUARY 2021

Weese, who were seen in the previous outdoor productions of Golden and It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. In addition, the cast features conservatory students Brice Kingsley, Sophie Hagan, Haley Adkins, Chance Cintron, Kiana Raine Cintron, Sophia Condit, Shannon Gray, Sophia Gurule, Declan Ireland, Chloe Lowman, Katie Means, Heros Oliveira, Michael Shelley and Talia Tumminello. Education director Kody C Jones directs the production and leads an expert creative team, including choreographer Curtis Holbrook, a veteran Broadway performer seen most recently in SpongeBob SquarePants a New Musical. Joining Jones and Holbrook are musical director Rosalind Metcalf, costume designer Tony Toney, lighting designer Tim Billman, stage manager Aaron Martin and assistant stage manager Ellie Belcastro. “The beauty of Godspell is that the text and ageless themes it contains lend themselves to be conceptualized and changed each time it is produced,” said director Kody C Jones. “We try to challenge our conservatory students not just artistically but socially by inspiring them to use their art to make positive social change. That is why we made the decision to place our version of Godspell in a homeless community, as a parallel to the recent influx of homelessness in SWFL, in an effort to draw focus to the issue that continue conversations for that inspire progress.” Attendance is limited in the outdoor venue which is situated on Edwards Drive and Jackson Street on the lawn next to the Hall of Fifty States. Seating is socially distanced, and patrons sit in clearly marked 12' × 12' squares on the lawn. Florida Rep provides seating, but patrons are permitted to bring their own lawn or beach chairs and blankets if the weather is cool. Seating squares are six feet apart from one another and accommodate up to six people. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and the price per square ranges from $60 to $100 depending on its distance from the stage. Tickets and information are available at www.FloridaRep.org or by calling the Florida Rep box office at 239-332-4488. Happenings Magazine

THEATRE

‘Til Theft Do Us Part

at Off Broadway Palm

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents the premiere of Til Theft Do Us Part playing now through March 6. This laugh out loud comedy is written by Southwest Florida resident and Broadway Palm favorite Victor Legarreta. The all-new comedy tells of Winston Johnson, an investment banker who was sacked. He didn’t have the heart to tell his wife, so he resorted to theft, but when his conscience gets the best of him, he goes back to the homes he robbed to return what he stole. His “outings” cause his wife suspicion; so when she tries to “catch him in the act” his life gets turned upside down. The Off Broadway Palm has adjusted its seating arrangement and is

10 - FERUARY 2021

operating at a 50% capacity. For a list of the extensive health and safety measures the theatre has taken, visit

www.BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking including during the performance. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. Ticket prices range from $42 to $62. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. Happenings Magazine

THE NAPLES PLAYERS

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

Happenings Magazine

Adam Fasano

Lindsey Walsh

“Continuing to provide opportunities for our community to safely experience the arts has been a challenge to say the least,” said TNP executive artistic director and CEO Bryce Alexander. “But we’ve been able to safely produce magnificent shows and Footloose in Baker Park

will be a great bookend on this outdoor season.” To alleviate the concern and spread of COVID-19, patrons are asked to bring their own outdoor seating and are required to maintain social distance from other parties. Volunteers and staff will be on site to help mark specific seating circles in the grass for each party. VIP tickets will have socially distanced seating arranged for them. Digital playbills will also be provided via email or download at the event to read on your smart phones or tablets. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday and both general admission and VIP tickets are still on sale at the TNP box office. Those interested can visit online at www.NaplesPlayers.org anytime or call the TNP box office at 239-263-7990.

FEBRUARY 2021 - 11

THEATRE

Charley’s Aunt opens Feb. 4 in Cape Coral By Michael Moran Long before Mrs. Doubtfire, Tootsie and Some Like It Hot, there was Charley’s Aunt. The stage comedy is a situation in which a male finds himself dressed as a woman – in this case, impersonating the aunt of a college pal. Charley’s Aunt, though, of another era...is also surprisingly fresh in our socially distanced restaging of the show as a live radio broadcast. This classic production is full of side splitting laughs Michael Moran that you will talk about long after the curtain closes. Charley’s Aunt is on stage at Cultural Park Theater in Cape Coral from Feb.4 through Feb. 14. As the Cultural Park Theater reopened in accordance with and exceeding all guidelines for the performing arts, the safety of our audience, workers and performers has been and remains paramount. While we cannot be able to bring the risk to zero, we use every tool we have available to ensure safety. Sadly in doing so, we did find we had to close our second weekend of Little Shop of Horrors as our precautions are robust, and with patrons and performers safety first in mind, we felt the need to do so. As we move forward you can expect … We will screen every customer at the door. There will not be exceptions. We will take your temperature with a touchless thermome-

ter if your temperature is less than 100 degrees you may enter the theater. If you do not pass the screening we will offer to transfer your tickets, however we cannot refund them. All customers and non-performing staff will be masked. We do expect the use of cloth masks from our patrons covering their nose and mouth, including while they are seated watching the show, with exceptions for eating and drinking. If you have an ADA covered condition that prevents you from wearing a mask you are required to inform us prior to purchasing a ticket so that accommodations may be made if possible. We will not be able to make accommodations at the door as it may require the blocking off of certain sections of seats around you and your party. We have fewer seats We’ve measured distance around seats to ensure social distancing and we are operating at a 25% capacity so shows are likely to sell out quicker.

Arrival Time Our house will be open a 45 minutes before the show, no matter what. We ask that you arrive a half hour before the show and immediately take your seat. Because we will be opening the house 45 minutes before the show, no matter what, you may see some technical problem solving that happens before every show that we would normally keep behind closed doors. This may be the tail end of a mic check, or the refocusing of a light. We hope you actually enjoy this added experience as it’s unusual for an audience to see!

Things will be a little different We have removed most of the furniture from our lobby and ask that people only use our lobby to use our restrooms or to visit concessions. We ask that you remember to take your own trash from your seat when you leave and dispose of them in a trash can in our lobby. Please do not leave cups or torn tickets in your seating area.

Moving Forward We have some sad news about the remainder of our 2021 season. Due to several reasons, we cannot stage our spring musical Jekyll and Hyde. In compliance with our own and state guidelines for COVID-19 safety, we are only able to open at 25% capacity to allow for social distancing. We had planned our year, and our budget, hoping for over 70% capacity. We ran the numbers over and over again to try to make “Jekyll and Hyde" work and it just doesn’t. The only solution would have been to more than double the cost of our tickets, including re-asking subscribers. That didn’t seem fair. The show will be replaced with extra concert series performances,and we sure hope you choose this option as we desperately miss our audiences and our performers need you there. For those holding tickets for Jekyll and Hyde you may transfer your tickets into a donation or transfer your tickets into a gift certificate that never expires. If a refund is your only option, please let the box office know. The Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. Call the box office at 239-772-5862. Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company.

Happy Days at Broadway Palm

Adam Silorey as Fonzie and Jonathan Acorn as Richie Cunningham in Happy Days. 12 - FERUARY 2021

Goodbye gray skies, hello blue. Happy Days, A New Musical is sockhopping its way onto the Broadway Palm stage now through Feb. 14. Based on the hit Paramount Pictures television series, Happy Days, this all new musical will bring you back to 1959 complete with varsity sweaters, hula hoops and jukebox fun. This family friendly musical will have you rockin' and rollin' all night long. Happy Days are here again with Richie, Potsie, Ralph Malph and the unforgettable "king of cool" Arthur "The Fonz" Fonzarelli. The famed drive-in malt shop and No. 1 hangout, Arnold's, is in danger of demolition. The gang comes up with a plan to save it with a dance contest and a TV-worthy

wrestling match. Even Pinky Tuscadero, Fonzie's childhood sweetheart, returns to help and, what do you know, they rekindle their old flame. With delightful music from Oscar-winner Paul Williams and a book by the TV series original creator Garry Marshall, this is one trip down memory lane you will not want to miss. Broadway Palm is continuing to follow CDC guidelines while providing a delicious meal and exceptional entertainment in a safe and socially distanced environment. Tickets can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting online at www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. Happenings Magazine

Botticelli in the Fire opens Feb. 26

The Laboratory Theater of the rise of extremism, classism, and Florida will present the regional the scapegoating of sex and sexualpremiere of Jordan Tannahill’s ity for political agendas.” extravaganza, Botticelli in the Fire This show features Steven Coe Feb. 26 – March 14 in Fort Myers. as Sandro Botticelli, Steven Michael Sandro Botticelli is the promisKennedy as Leonardo da Vinci, cuous life of the party. While paintDaniel Sabiston as Poggio di ing his masterpiece, The Birth of Chullu, Madelaine Weymouth as Venus, the plague rages outside Clarice Orsini, F. Scott Davis as and a conservative preacher is Girolamo Savonarola, David Cooley blaming the sodomites. Set in a as Lorenzo de’ Medici, and Renée 15th century that has skinny jeans Freeman as Madre Maria. and cell phones, will the famous Costumes by Casey and Ariana artist sacrifice his painting or his Davis. Lighting design by Jonathan young apprentice, Leonardo da Johnson. Stage management by Vinci? Margaret Cooley. Director Annette Trossbach This show features adult lanLeonardo da Vinci (Steven Michael Kennedy), says, “Sassy, sexy, funny, heartguage, nudity, sexual situations, and Sandro Botticelli (Steven Coe), and Poggio di breaking, timely - Botticelli in the mature themes. No one under 18 Chullu (Daniel Sabiston) enjoy every minute. Fire is the most revolutionary thewill be admitted. ater I've read since Hamilton. For the protection of the cast, Author Jordan Tannahill excavates the queer history of Sandro which will not be masked during the performance, the theater Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci to tell the story of the creation requires that all patrons wear their masks over their noses and of The Birth of Venus with all the political machinations, fear, mouths during their entire stay at the theater. For further inforurgency, hysteria, and privilege experienced by the main mation on what the theater is doing to keep its casts, crews, actors at the time. Set in the 15th century, Jordan Tannahill and guests safe, visit the website and review the pandemic employs casual vernacular and modern elements (cell phones, protocol. Seating is limited and sold by section for safety. For skinny jeans) as well as 15th and 20th-century music to tell tickets, please call the box office at 239-218-0481 or online at this historically-based story, which is a masterpiece in modern www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com. The theater is located at theater. Guests will see parallels to today's world in the plague, 1634 Woodford Avenue, in the Fort Myers River District.

Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 13

At The Movies up next in Showstopper Series at TheatreZone February 4 - 14 THEATRE

TheatreZone, a nonprofit, professional theatre in its 16th season of performances in-residence at the G&L Theatre in Naples, will present At The Movies Feb. 4 - 14 as the third event of its Season 2020-21 Showstopper Series. At The Movies will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 and 14; and at 2 p.m. on Feb. 6, 7, 13 and 14. “We are so happy to be offering live performances for our audiences this season, and we have taken innovative measures to keep our patrons, performers and staff safe,” said TheatreZone founding artistic director Mark Danni. TheatreZone’s reimagined 2020-21 season is highlighted by the Showstopper Series. The Showstopper Series includes five 75-minute, themed concert-style events with professional live music and choreography. At The Movies is a trip through the many hit songs from favorite movies throughout history.

This event will include hit songs such as “The Way We Were” from the movie starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford, “Moon River” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and “Arthur’s Theme” from Arthur, disco hits from Saturday Night Fever and many more. The cast of At The Movies includes Adolpho Blaire (Bravo Broadway!, Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera), Sarah Cammerata, Brent Kuenning, Chris Lewis, Brooke Rosenbluthe and Whitney Winfield (Broadway World Regional Vocalist of the Decade/Equity for Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera). The Showstopper Series also includes Those Were the Days (March 4 - 14); and The Best of Bacharach (April 15 - 25). On Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m., TheatreZone will present Larry Alexander-Sinatra … My Way as part of its 2020-21 Concert Series. This concert will feature a one-of-a-kind performance by Larry Alexander, backed by his professional trio, celebrating the unparalleled career of Ole’

Charlotte Players: Edwards Twins, With This Ring & Cahal Dunne When the pandemic had Charlotte Players executive director Sherrie Moody scrambling to piece together a season of safe shows for audiences and performers, among the main questions the board of directors asked was “Can we get the Edwards Twins back?” and “If

The Edwards Twins perform Feb. 1 & 2 at Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda.

14 - FERUARY 2021

so, where will they perform?” The show of high-quality impersonations of famous male and female singers by a pair of identical twin brothers has been a highlight on the Charlotte Players calendar for many seasons. Their remarkable impersonations of Barbra Streisand, Cher, Bette Midler, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Engelbert Humperdinck and others have captivated audiences all over the world. The duo will perform at Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda for 7:30 p.m. shows on Monday, Feb. 1, and Tuesday, Feb. 2. Preferred seating tickets are $39, with regular seating at $34. Preferred student seating is $20, and regular student seating is $17. Tickets may be ordered at www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling 941-255-1022 weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. On Feb. 5, director Joe Simonelli brings his own play With This Ring to the Langdon Playhouse at 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. Written with Valentine’s Day in mind, this is the story of a wedding band that travels over five generations and the visceral effect it has on those couples who come to possess it. The ring is first presented to an Irish immigrant at the turn of the 19th Century and

comes full circle until finding its way to an engaged couple in 2007. Simonelli has been writing and acting in plays on the Jersey Shore, Staten Island, and Manhattan since 2000. His plays are performed around the United States and Canada on a regular basis. There are 14 shows Feb. 5 through Feb. 21. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students. On Feb. 21 and 22, auditions will be held at the Langdon rehearsal hall for the Players’ April production of Hotbed Hotel. Written by Michael and Susan Parker, the play concerns husband-and-wife hotel owners who put together a plan to make the place seem busier than it is for a prospective buyer. Director Jerry Jones will be seeing actors at 7 p.m. on both audition dates. Closing out the month is famed Irish tenor Cahal Dunne for one show only at the Langdon on Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students. The event marks a return to the Players for Ireland’s “Piano Man,” as Dunne is known. He possesses a certain magical quality that transcends talent and comes from deep within a great entertainer. This native of County Cork has a following of loyal admirers and friends and continues to make new friends with each appearance. Happenings Magazine

TheatreZone

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY

Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra. In order to safely resume indoor live performances, TheatreZone instituted stringent protocols for all areas of operations. These guidelines, which are available on TheatreZone’s website, provide specific line-item mandates for all areas, from stage doors, back of house, restrooms, common areas, dressing rooms, hair and make-up, to front of house (including the box office, ushers and volunteers). For example, audiences are limited to a maximum of 108 patrons per performance, and masks are mandatory throughout the duration of each performance. Doors will open 45 minutes prior to show time and there are no intermissions, which aids in social distancing by reducing foot traffic. In the theatre, air conditioning units are equipped with hospital-grade filters and increased fresh air intake to aid in circulation and sanitation. Tickets range from $50-$65 with premium seats available at $85. For more information, call the box office, 888966-3352 x1, visit www.theatre.zone or email info@theatre.zone. G&L Theatre is on the Community School of Naples campus, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples.

BOTTICELLI IN THE FIRE THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA PRESENTS

LIVE ON STAGE!

The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s

BROADWAY SERIES

February 4 - 14 Performances: Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m.

ELVIS TRIBUTE DAVID MORIN WITH

FEB. 20 & 21 3 PM AND 7 PM

Proceeds to Benefit A Brotherhood of Heroes

TICKETS: $20 for GA, $25 for VIP and includes private reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres prior to show and meet and greet with David Morin. Special thanks to our theatre sponsors

Sponsored by Ar lene Foreman

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

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

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers Happenings Magazine

Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

CALL FOR

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

FEBRUARY 2021 - 15

THEATRE

On Your Feet opens Feb. 18 at Broadway Palm

Broadway Palm is thrilled to present On Your Feet playing Feb. 18 through April 10. The inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believed in their talent, and each other, to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. This thrilling production follows their incredible journey from anonymity in Cuba to stardom in the United States. Everybody gather round now, let’s Conga! The story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan will arrive on stage in an exhilarating musical that won the hearts of critics and audiences alike, with the Chicago Tribune saying, “It’s a hit!” and The New York Times cheering, “The very air in the room seems to vibrate in this undeniably crowd-pleasing musical!” “If you aren’t humming a Gloria Estefan hit when you leave the theater, it might be time to check your pulse!” praises the Associated Press. Hear Rhythm is “Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “Coming Out Of The 16 - FEBRUARY 2021

Dark,” “1-2-3” and more. Broadway Palm is continuing to follow CDC guidelines while providing a delicious meal and exceptional entertainment in a safe and socially distanced environment. For a list of the extensive health and safety measures they have taken, visit www.BroadwayPalm.com. It is important to note that guests are required to wear masks while not eating or drinking. In addition, a temperature check will be performed on everyone that enters the building and admittance will not be allowed to anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. On Your Feet plays at Broadway Palm Feb. 18 through April 10. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. Tickets are $48 to $73. Children and group prices are available. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239-278-4422, visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or in person at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. Happenings Magazine

THEATRE

The Murder Mystery Dinner Train is back

half hours from Colonial After 10 months of dark Station in Fort Myers. cars, Seminole Gulf Your five-course dinner Railway has announced consists of a shared the return of its Murder appetizer platter, soup, Mystery Dinner Train at choice of salad or fruit the end of January. cup, choice of slow roast The 30th season of prime rib, poached murder begins Jan. 27 salmon, or naked chicken with The Illusion of Death as your main entrée, and playing Wednesday dessert, plus coffee, tea, through Sunday from Jan. and iced tea. A wide 27 through April 4. An range of wine, beer, cockescape artist and showtails and soft drinks are man extraordinaire conJan. 27 - April 4 available for purchase on fronts the great dare of all board the train. Menu in this turn of the century items may change from month to (19th to 20th century that is) mystery. month. The Murder Mystery Dinner Train is New murder mystery shows open a one-of-a-kind theatrical and culinary throughout the year. The 30th season experience. also includes Sing Me a Murder April Enjoy a five7 – June 20, Don’t Cry for Me June 23 course dinner – Sept. 5, Murder Wrap Sept. 8 – Nov. with a choice 25, Wicked Winter Wonderland Nov. from three 26 – Dec. 24 and Murder Without A entrees, preClue Dec. 26, 2021 – March 13, 2022. pared fresh on Murder Mystery Dinner Trains board the train depart promptly at 6:30 p.m. (5:30 while a live p.m. on Sundays and certain holimurder mysdays). tery show is Join the fun and become a super played out in sleuth as you try to solve “Who the dining cars Dunnit?” During the comical murder during your mystery show that plays out in the 40-mile round June 23 - Sept. 5 aisles of each dining car in between trip over 3 and the courses of your meal. Each passenger receives a playbill, clue sheet, and pen to follow along with the live scripted show, writing down clues as they go. Clue sheets are collected before the final resolution act. Not a local to Fort Myers or other Southwest Florida communities? Not to worry. Seminole Gulf

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Railway has hotel packages to make your journey on board the real train a true Get-Away. Seminole Gulf Railway’s Murder Mystery Dinner Train is easily accessible from I-75 and US 41. Make your holidays even more special aboard the Murder Mystery Train. Some of the special events include the Sweetheart Express for Valentine’s Day, a Celtic Celebration of Food for St. Patrick’s Day, Ghost Trains with costume contest for Halloween, a New England style turkey feast for Thanksgiving, Christmas Rail-Boat Trains during December and a New Year’s Eve Gala! For truly unique dining experience with all-around entertainment, spend an evening with the Murder Mystery Dinner Train. Make your reservation today online at www.semgulf.com or call 239-275-8487. The station is located at 2805 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 19

Bonita Springs ART

National Art Festival

Feb. 6 & 7 at Riverside Park

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

while supporting the many programs of the Centers for the Arts. The festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The third festival will take place March 6 and 7. For more information, call the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs at 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

Carol Ferony

Hirdie Girdie features Jan Ellen Atkielski

your own creation Jan Ellen Atkielski is using those same Hirdie Girdie Gallery’s techniques. guest artist for the Jan Ellen’s paintmonth of February. ings are desired by Her accomplishcollectors around the ments are well known country, and her 40 in artistic circles both years of experience as locally and nationally, a lyrical impressionist and include author, lecpainter makes owning turer, painter, judge one of her paintings a and teacher. Most joy. recently, she was From Feb. 7 – 14, declared best muralist the gallery will be havin Cape Coral for 2020. ing a special Valentine Versatile in several promotion. The public mediums, her latest is encouraged to stop concentration has been in for a complimentary oil on canvas delivered lithographic art print of with master strokes a watercolor painting using a palette knife. by founding member Anyone taking her Don Daniels. There is workshops can attest Jan Ellen Atkielski a choice of two to her skill with the Sanibel themed paintpalette knife tool, ings and no purchase whether it’s spending a is required. couple of hours to create a palm tree or whipping up a few Hirdie Girdie Gallery is located at 2490 Library Way, powerful strokes on the canvas. When attending her workSanibel. shops it’s “down time” for fun, fellowship and learning as For more details, call 239-395-0027 or visit online at you watch her demonstrate her techniques in a painting www.hirdiegirdiegallery.com and then guide you into changing one of her photos into 20 - FEBRUARY 2021

Happenings Magazine

Mother-daughter exhibit at Davis Art Center ART

The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center offers a beautiful perspective on ethnicity, identity, family and love through the eyes of Wanda Hamilton and Challen Rivera (Hamilton). The February exhibition called Seed, Time and Harvest will be featured in the Grand Atrium. The opening night reception takes place during Art Walk on Friday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. and will be on display through Feb. 26. Courage to make a change starts with

Wanda Hamilton

the boldness to infuse within our children a sense of dignity and determination. This mother-daughter exhibition explores the elements of a brave new world for the nucleus of the black community; the family. This exhibit features mixed media works, sure to give viewers a unique perspective on ethnicity, identity, family and love through the eyes of the artists. Experience works of Wanda Hamilton and Challen Rivera (Hamilton). Wanda Hamilton was born and raised in Chicago. Growing up in a time of social and racial upheaval, Hamilton’s fondest childhood memories constantly centered around a grandmother’s unshakable influence. A family bible with color illustrations of masterworks fixed her young heart on the power of classical art. Her childhood love for art grew into seeing an apparent absence of notable blacks associated with this timeless form of art expression. From early on, her goal has been to help change that landscape. As a mother and grandparent, she now focuses on solidifying an artistic legacy for her descendants through encouragement, mentoring and building a body of work to inspire spiritual,mental and emotional growth. Being a self taught artist, Hamilton uses oils to create the majority of her pieces. Artist Challen “Lexie” Rivera is also known as “C. Lexicution” and “C Rivera Creations.” In two words, the creative style of this aspiring contemporary artist can only be described as intrinsic and saucy. Challen Rivera’s family roots,

Challen “Lexie” Rivera

though established in Fort Myers, harken back in large part to the mountains of Jamaica and the Calypso heritage and spring forth through each stroke of her brush. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more info, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.

Syzygy exhibit opens Feb. 5 during Art Walk

Syzygy Presents: The Great Collab Challenge for the month of February and will be featured in the Capital Gallery upstairs. The opening night reception takes place during Art Walk on Friday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 10 p.m. The Syzygy Collaborative Art Project was founded in 2016 in the spirit of a blending of unique and distinctive styles to produce artwork that challenged expectations. For years, founders Nick Masiello and Danielle Branchaud explored the endless possibilities uncovered by such an endeavor, and produced a series of work that debuted in 2018 in Syzygy Presents: Urban Dreamscapes. This year, Syzygy Presents: The Great Collab Challenge

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where artists are encouraged to come together, as a pairing or a group, to create something unexpected and profound. The Great Collab Challenge is an open call group show, and collaborative teams can submit their efforts for consideration for inclusion in the exhibition. The results are extraordinary when you take a chance with someone, and it is in that same spirit that Syzygy has invited local artists to undertake the same challenge. The minimum number of participating artists in any given project is two, and there is no maximum. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. For more, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933. Happenings Magazine

Fashion Smack to be at

Neenie’s House Feb. 6

Neenie's House is celebrating Black History Month with Fashion Smack. The latest happening at Neenie's House in Fort Myers will be the launch party and fashion show of Jessica Wajoli's new clothing line – WajoliAfricanWear on Saturday, Feb. 6. Jessica has been a fixture in the art scene locally, with her jewelry and handcrafts from her homeland, Ghana. Her new designs are for men, women, and children. The clothes are totally original - the hand made cloth, the hand sown garments, and all are her own designs. Cornell Bunting will be the emcee of the event, along with live DJ music playing reggae and afropop. Neenie's will also be showcasing African wines and coffees. The exposure of Jessica's West African culture is

Happenings Magazine

groundbreaking here, and well needed in our multi-ethnic artist community. Janeen Vanko, the owner of Neenie's House, is all about supporting and furthering local artists, at her East Palm Neighborhood shop & event space. It truly is an arts and cultural emporium. Please join Jessica and Janeen for this poshfunk event. Fashion Smack will be Saturday, Feb. 6 from 2 to 6 p.m. The event and parking are free. Neenie’s House also hosts the East Palm Mercado Neighborhood Marketplace every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Neenie's House is located at 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers (just off Palm Beach Boulevard). For more details, call 224678-4901 or visit online at www.neenieshouse.com.

Jessica Wajoliʼs new clothing line

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ART

Sea Grape welcomes Robert Richard and Pamela Richardson in February

Sea Grape Gallery announces that during the month of February it will be showcasing the art of both Pamela Richardson, fiber artist, and Robert Richard, wood sculptor. Pamela Richardson spent many years teaching art, design and textile design in several colleges until she decided to retire to Florida where she could devote more time to creating her art. She creates colorful fabric collages and painted Pamela Richardson silk scarves. Pam explains that she is intrigued by exploring the changing intensity of light and sub-tropical palette in southwest Florida’s environment. Her abstract “improvisational” collages are assembled from multiple design units of strips of fabric, the whole composition emerging like a jig-saw puzzle. When abstracting from a photograph, Pam fuses raw edge fabric shapes in layers on a painted or dyed ground. While designing her artwork, Pamela says, “I pay close attention to value and intensity of color, creating illusions of depth and volume”.

Robert Richard discovered his love of art and nature after a career in software development and education. He began to teach woodworking at a local high school in Grafton, Mass., which provided him with valuable hands-on experience with a variety of materials and techniques. Once Bob started spending winters in Florida, he began to focus on developing his carving skills creating beautiful relief and 3D wood sculptures both in the human figure and abstract designs. His love of nature and the beauty nature Robert Richard creates in wood is a major driving force in his creations. As Bob says, “I see nature as the creator of beauty and see myself obligated to bringing that beauty to the forefront of my work”. Bob has one of his pieces of artworks on permanent display at Punta Gorda’s Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens, being only one of 12 internationally renowned artists on display at the Gardens. Their artwork can also be viewed on Sea Grape’s website at www.seagrapegallery.com. Sea Grape Gallery is located at 113 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. To learn more about Sea Grape’s guest artist program call 941-575-1718.

Del Holt exhibit at ACT Gallery

Arts for ACT Gallery will hold an opening reception Friday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. for surrealist Del Holt in the main gallery, and artists Tom Breckenridge and Kate Swanstrom in the white gallery. Additionally, ACT co-op artists and volunteers will also be displaying a variety of Valentine art. Del Holt, a fine artist and illustrator, was educated in Sweden, Hawaii, California, Arizona and Ohio. He spent more than 10 years teaching art in Arizona and California, and his impressive body of work includes mural, graphic design projects, album and book covers, furniture, and various painting media. Holt paints his creatures, which range from dogs, to birds to monkeys, within familiar and almost human settings. His canvases refer to our world, often in whimsical and thought-provoking ways. Holt’s art can be found in the impressive collections of Malcom Forbes, Jan Goodall, 24 - FEBRUARY 2021

Del Holt

William Paley, John Houseman and H. David. Tom Breckenridge was born in in Keosauqua, Iowa, but he grew up in the Ft. Lauderdale area. Immediately after high school, he went into the Marine Corps. His

art styles reflect having traveled to 17 countries and five continents. In 2016, Tom brought his art skills to the SW Florida area. It is here he became a full time selftaught artist. He learned his unique style of color and composition using acrylics as his medium. Kate Swanstrom is a contemporary artist, American born abroad and a world traveler. Kate has been to Africa, Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, Mexico and all over the U.S. Inspired by gemstones and graduated from Gemology Institute of America. Kate would allow her artistic side to shine even when creating jewelry for competitions. Now that she is retired from the jewelry industry, Kate has been able to focus on her lifelong dream of creating art. This exhibit continues to Monday, March 1. The gallery is located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort Myers. The gallery can be reached at 239-337-5050. Happenings Magazine

Dilya Schauer at DAAS Co-Op Gallery

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is featuring the art of Colombian artist Dilya Schauer in February. The exhibition will feature a selection of newer works as well as retrospective pieces from the artist’s collection. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 5 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk. The exhibition will be on display through Feb. 27. Schauer is a veteran painter who studied art in her native Colombia under the tutelage of prominent figures like Luis A. Acuna, S.A.Gelvis and Rodriguez Naranjo. She furthered her studies by attending the Art Students League in New York. She has been a resident of Southwest Florida for more than a decade. Nature is the center of Schauer’s work. She is also a painter of still life and a gifted portrait artist. “For a still life painter,

Dilya Schauer

the initial challenge is to create a picture before the brush is put on the canvas,” explains the artist. “I arrange the items carefully, so that they become an artistic statement themselves, establishing by association significance and dynamic relationships through specific positioning,” concludes Shauer, who strongly believes that by juggling the objects into a meaningful still life, she reveals a great deal about herself. The gallery invites all Southwest Florida art collectors, supporters and enthusiasts to join them for the opening reception. DAAS Co-Op is located at 1815 Fowler St. in the Butterfly Estates complex in Fort Myers. The gallery’s temporary business hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information about the venue and how to become a member can be found at www.daascoop.com or by calling 239-590-8645.

Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show

Saturday, February 13th 10 am to 4 pm

Free Admission & Parking

Cambier Park

580 8th Street South, Naples

www.NaplesArtcrafters.com Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 25

ART

The Bokeelia Art Gallery exterior by artist Shah Hadjebi

Bokeelia Art Gallery

Wisconsin to Florida. Artwork, expertly displayed on these By Nancy Koucky pieces, gives the shopper a sense of what the work will look Simply walking into the Bokeelia Art Gallery is an like in a home setting enchanting experience. The natural light and space draw The Garskes have been longtime Southwest Florida resithe viewer into a captivating collection of artwork. dents but have also resided in Illinois and Michigan. In 2019, Ed and Carol Garske purchased Crossed Palms Drawing from all these locations, they have been adding art Gallery (established in 1989) in Bokeelia, at the northern tip to their personal collection for more than 30 years. Several of Pine Island, overlooking Charlotte Harbor. After purchasartists in their personal collection have been brought into the ing the property, Ed and Carol spent more than a year gallery introducing Southwest Florida remodeling and expanding the buildto works that have not previously ing, updating the property, collecting been shown. a remarkable collection of displays, A visit to the gallery is a relaxing, and choosing an enticing selection yet invigorating experience that of artwork culminating is a stunning everyone should experience. Give environment for an art and designer yourself the gift of a trip to Bokeelia craft gallery. and a long stop at the Bokeelia Art The gallery represents more than Gallery. 50 artists, of which 25 or more are The gallery is open seasonally Florida artists. They represent a from October to April. Hours are variety of mediums including paintTuesday through Saturday from 10 ings, jewelry, glass, pottery, clothing a.m. to 5 p.m. The gallery is located and wood. Some of the artists had at 8315 Main St. in Bokeelia. For been shown at Crossed Palms, but more info, call 239-738-5280 or visit Carol has added her signature to the the gallery online at collection by adding many talented www.BokeeliaArtGallery.com to get a artists. glimpse of all that the gallery has to Carolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sense of display is unique offer. While on the site, sign up for for a gallery setting. She has a wide the newsletter to received news and ensemble of tables, mirrors, cabiSome of the clay artists at Bokeelia Art Gallery info about new artists, events or nets, chandeliers, pedestals and include JoAnne Bedient (birds), Diane Palmquist (wall sculpture), Logan Pottery (mugs) and Chuck openings. You can also follow them shelves that she has acquired from Koucky (horsehair Raku pot). through Facebook and Instagram. antique and consignment shops from 26 - FEBRUARY 2021

Happenings Magazine

The Visual Arts Center launches exhibits for 2021

Florida’s Best and The Nature of Blue are the first in a lineup of exciting fine art exhibits slated for 2021 at the Visual Arts Center in Punta Gorda. Florida’s Best is on display in the main gallery, and The Nature of Blue is on display in Goff Gallery until Feb. 10. Florida’s Best features multimedia birds, beaches, sunsets, sailboats and more inspired by the Sunshine State. The Nature of Blue features oil paintings with tropical vibes by artists Laurel Garrison and Paris Milliken. A virtual tour of Florida’s Best is available to view online at www.VisualArtCenter.org. Next up on the Visual Art Center exhibit schedule is the VAC Student Show in the main gallery and Serenity in Goff Gallery. Both exhibits will run Feb. 13 – March 10. The center is located at 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. Call 941-639-8810 for more details.

Happenings Magazine

Laurel Garrison

FEBRUARY 2021 - 27

Art in the Park showcases local artists Feb. 6 ART

Naples National Art Show Feb. 20 - 21

ON THE COVER - Artist McKenzie Fisk is a participant in the national art festivals put on by Naples Art in 2021.

For decades, Naples Art has hosted seasons of some of Naples, and the nation’s, favorite and best outdoor art shows. This popular Naples tradition looks a bit different this year to ensure that artists and visitors are safe. There will be 6 feet between every artist; masks will be required of artists, and visitors will be encouraged to wear masks. Naples Art welcomes 40 juried, local artists to Art in the Park along with about 200 juried artists in the national shows - all held in the beautiful streets and parks of downtown Naples. The next Art in the Park takes place Saturday, Feb. 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Cambier Park with original painting, jewelry, ceramics, photography and more. Art in the Park is held the first Saturday of every month from November through April. Naples Art’s national outdoor shows consistently win the most prestigious awards in

the country, including the Sunshine Artist’s 200 Best for 2020. The next show, the 42nd Annual Naples National Art Show, is Feb. 20 – 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along 8th Street South and Cambier Park with 170 artists from across the county working in 17 different media. The final national show of the season will be the Naples Downtown Art Show March 20 and 21. An exciting, socially distanced series of outdoor art shows, to be sure. Visit www.naplesart.org or call 239-262-6517 for complete schedules and details. Naples Art’s ultra-chic Scene to be Seen will take place Feb. 5 at Naples Art. “STBS” showcases 15 artists and 33 fabulous wearable-art ensembles that will be presented as a live model show. Tickets for the live exhibition are available at www.naplesart.org/scenetobeseen Naples Art is located at 585 Park St.

Frank Verpoorten named Naples Art executive director

Naples Art announced the appointment of Frank Verpoorten as its executive director and chief curator. A renowned leader, professional and academic in the art world with more than 20 years of curatorial and artistic leadership in museums in the U.S. and Europe, Verpoorten will lead Naples Art into an exciting new phase as a premier Naples hub for artists, art enthusiasts and students. Verpoorten previously served as director and chief curator for Artis— Naples, The Baker Museum, where he grew and advanced the appreciation of the permanent collection during his seven-year tenure, raising the museum’s profile and building a reputation for distinctive, world-class exhibitions. Verpoorten’s impressive fundraising efforts during his tenure resulted in significant donations, gifts of art, endowment support, and exhibition sponsorship/underwriting. He oversaw the programming of stimulating exhibition seasons that included installations from The Baker Museum’s collection, national and international exhibitions, the acquisition of notable collections as well as showcases 28 - FEBRUARY 2021

Frank Veerporten

of emerging and under-recognized artists. Prior to his tenure at Artis—Naples, Verpoorten’s esteemed career includes 10 years in New York City as culture attaché at Flanders House (2009 – 2012), director of visual arts and exhibitions curator at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art (2005 – 2009) and curator of the Dahesh Museum of Art (2002 – 2005). Verpoorten attended the Ph.D. Program in Art History

at the City University of New York and holds dual Master’s Degrees in Cultural Studies and Art History from Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium. Naples Art Board chair Ricki Baker shares, “We are extremely excited to welcome Mr. Verpoorten to the helm of Naples Art and look forward to our continued growth in the Naples artistic community under his leadership.” Verpoorten adds, “I have long admired Naples Art’s commitment to art education as well as its prime location in the heart of Old Naples, adjoining a park teeming with activity and a pedestrian destination par excellence. I join the organization with the intention of propelling Naples Art to greater prominence, to elevate its exhibition program, and to ensure its future viability and relevance as an organization that embraces diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. This joining of forces is a welcome opportunity for me to continue to foster the relation with the Naples community, which I have come to know well over the past eight years. I am confident that I can strengthen the mission of Naples Art so that it may fulfill its greatest potential as an institution of art educational purpose.” Happenings Magazine

Naples Art classrooms are humming again

Artist Thomas Wargin was part of the Naples New Year Art Festival on 5th Avenue South Jan. 2 and 3. To find out more about Warginʼs sculptures, visit online at www.wargin.com. The next national art show is Feb. 20-21.

Naples Art classrooms are humming with classes for adults and youth learning and working on a fantastic array of subjects. Whether you’re a curious beginner, weekend painter, or accomplished artists, Naples Art has something for you. A sampling: Paint Naples, Paint Like Monet, Abstract Painting, Beginning Drawing, Clay Hand Building, Therapeutic Finger painting, Collage, Watercolor, Pastels and so much more. One- and two-day adult workshops have begun as well, with subjects like Watercolor Out Loud, Beginning Seascapes, Cold Wax, Abstracting Landscapes and Painting Mangroves. NA’s youth offerings include Art for Kids, Art for Teens, Clay for Kids, Elementary Art Adventure, and Junior Art Adventure. Reduced class size allows for generous social distancing. Naples Art has initiated enhanced cleaning protocols, mandatory mask wearing, extensive signage, sanitizers, and comprehensive protocols for keeping students, teachers, and staff safe. Online registration for the February session and the rest of the season is open. Visit www.naplesart.org/classes/

A Variety of Unique Original A r t i n A ll P r i c e R a n g e s

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

FEBRUARY 2021 - 29

ART

On display at Center for the Arts Bonita Springs

The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs have two exhibits in February. Ruthe Sholler’s passion for art and creativity propelled her into a lifetime of learning and teaching various media. She began her studies in Art/Art History at the tender age of 12. Sholler was enrolled in the Museum of Fine Arts—After School and —Saturday Art programs throughout her middle and high school years. She also studied privately with many notable artist/educators, prior to and after graduating from college. The need to constantly create would serve to define who Ruthe is, both as an artist and teacher. Ruthe Scholler adheres to the idea that, “in order to learn, you teach!" She began fulfilling her love for the process involved with creating in the visual arts, when first introduced to mono type print making; a medium in which she focused on figurative, landscape and still life in semi-abstraction. Following a number

Ruthe Sholler

of years involved with print making, her attention turned to oils, water colors, colored pencil painting and lastly, soft pastels. All of which she has taught during her 25 years as a public school art educator and privately in various Art Centers. Sholler

Exhibit at National Shell Museum focuses on water

From Feb. 9 through April 30, the BaileyMatthews National Shell Museum and the Alliance for the Arts are partnering to create an art exhibition focused on water. The exhibition hopes to bring many interpretations and responsDan Abrahamsson es to our infinite individual and communal connections to water. All artwork on display will be offered for sale to the public at a labeled price set by the artist, and a commission will be donated to the BaileyMatthews National Shell Museum. For more info on the museum, visit online at www.shellmuseum.org or call 239-395-2233. The museum is located at 3075 Sanibel Captiva Road on Sanibel. 30 - FEBRUARY 2021

achieved her Master in Education from Lesley University, Cambridge, MA. She continues to teach, paint and exhibit in her primary medium of soft pastels. Scholler’s pastel paintings have been accepted into many juried international, national and local exhibitions, winning numerous awards and acclaim. This exhibit is on display through Feb. 28 at the Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road. The annual members Only exhibit opens Feb. 5 and runs through Feb. 25 at the Visual Arts Center at 26100 Old 41 Road in Bonita This local favorite is a unique display of works, created in all mediums, by members of the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. This vast collection of artworks will reflect the diversity and creativity of our gifted community. For more about programming at the centers, call 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

Fine craft expo Feb. 13-14 at Cape Coral Art Center

The Fine Craft Expo is scheduled for Feb. 13 and 14 at the Cape Coral Art Center. The Southwest Florida Fine Craft Expo is brought to you by the Southwest Florida Fine Craft Guild. SWFFCG is a non-profit collective for creative minds in Southwest Florida. Every year, the Cape Coral Art Center is home to the expo and facilitates the learning environment for exciting events like this and others. One-day classes include: glass fusing with Sue Archer, silver wire wrapping with Nancy VanTassell, copper enameling with Val Jewell, journal making with Kathy Wood, metallic Raku glaze technique with Louis Ford, stained glass with Debbie Kramer, precious metal clay with Val Jewell, Pentangle with Maureen Ginpro, crackMary Ann Lehmann le Raku glaze technique with Louis Ford, alcohol ink tiles with Trudy Sampson, mosaics with Debbie Kramer and Nantucket basket with Nancy Giffin. One workshop costs $35, and two workshops cost $60. The fee is due upon registration. Supply kits are $20. Pre-registration is required. Call 239-574-0802 to register for the expo. The Cape Coral Art Center is located at 4533 Coronado Parkway.

Happenings Magazine

Ran Adler at BIG ARTS The sculptures of Ran Adler will be on display Feb. 4 through March 14 in the Dunham Family Gallery at BIG ARTS on Sanibel. Hours of the exhibit are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Masks are required and there is a 25person limit in the gallery. The virtual gallery will be available starting Wednesday, Feb. 10 for the run of the show, on www.BIGARTS.org. Ran is known for assembling a variety of natural elements into sculptural compositions that attach directly to a wall or may be free-standing. BIG ARTS is located at 900 Dunlop Road on Sanibel. For more information, call 239-395-0900.

Artist Ryan Hayes was among the participants at the fine art festival Jan. 2 and 3 at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers presented by Hotworks.org. For more about the artist, visit his website at www.artbyhayes.com. HotWorks.org plans another weekend festival Jan. 30 and 31 at JetBlue Park. Visit www.hotworks.org for more details.

E M P I R E OPENING 2.5.21 DURING ART WALK 1528 Jackson St., Fort Myers River District

OllieMackGentryPhotography.com

Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 31

FEBRUARY CALENDAR MON - 1

Sound Machine with Larry Wells The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Charlotte Players present The Edwards Twins Feb. 1 and 2 Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda, 941-255-1022

TGIM Indie Movie Mondays Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 7 p.m., $10, 239-333-1933

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

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

TUE - 2

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

Doggy Date Night Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 4 - 6 p.m., 239-489-1221

Happy Days Through Feb. 14 Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

THU - 4

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

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

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

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

Gulfshore Opera World of Webber concert Naples Art, 585 Park St., Naples 7 p.m., 239-529-3925

Cheryl Fausel and Nancy Green exhibit Through February Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, suite 104, Cape Coral www.harbourviewgallery.com

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Til Theft Do Us Part Through March 6 Off Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422

Gulf Coast Symphony Under the Stars: Broadway with a Twist! Feb. 2 - 4 Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., $29, 239-277-1700

WED - 3

World of Pearl The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com High Tide Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Art Alive Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours, Look for the magenta and white art flags. 1 - 6 p.m. Go to www.NaplesArtDistrict.com for directions and like us on Facebook

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 AURA The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com TheatreZone: At the Movies Feb. 4 - 14 G & L Theatre, 13274 Livingston Road, Naples 888-966-3352 x1 Gulfshore Opera World of Webber concert Gulf Theater, 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda 7 p.m., 239-529-3925 Smokin Aces Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Deb & The Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

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32 - FEBRUARY 2021

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Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY CALENDAR THU - 4 CONTINUED

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

Wild About Wildlife exhibit opens Through February Cape Coral Art League, 516 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5657

Charlotte Players present With This Ring Through Feb. 21 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022

Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers dinner 6 p.m., bingo 7 p.m. 239-219-6463 Charleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aunt Thursday - Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Five Times in One Night Through Feb. 7 Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Godspell Through Feb. 6 Florida Rep Outdoor Theatre, Edwards Drive and Jackson Street, Fort Myers 239-332-4488

FRI - 5

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com 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

34 - FEBRUARY 2021

The Stardust Memories Big Band will perform Feb. 8 & 22 in Cambier Park in Naples and Feb. 9 & 23 at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. For more information about the band, visit online at www.stardustmemoriesbigband.com

Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 -10 p.m. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 9 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Dilya Schauer exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers, 6 - 9:30 p.m., 239-590-8645 Empire exhibit Ollie Mack Gentry Photography Studio, 1528 Jackson St., Fort Myers 239-440-0061 Rodney Carrington The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

Hands on Art exhibit Through Feb. 25 Cape Coral Art Center, 4533 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral 239-574-0802 Wanda Hamilton & Challen Rivera exhibit opens Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Opening 6 - 10 p.m. 239-333-1933 Neon Summer Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Del Holt exhibit, 6 - 9 p.m. 239-337-5050 Claire Liparulo Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800

Naples Art presents 4th Annual Scene to be Seen Cambier Park 585 Park St., Naples 6 - 8:30 p.m. www.naplesart.org Legends Concert Series: Eagles & CCR tribute Sugden Park, Naples 5 - 10 p.m. www.legendsconcertseries.com

SAT - 6

Fashion Smack Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers, 2 - 6 p.m. 224-678-4901 CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Art in the Park Cambier Park 755 8th Ave S, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesart.org Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Happenings Magazine

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

Brunch, music with Michael Jay The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463

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

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

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

Blues Concert Series: Frank Bang Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901

Bonita Springs National Art Festival Saturday and Sunday Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 239-495-8989 Tracy Byrd The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com Punta Gorda Symphony FSW Charlotte Campus amphitheatre, Airport Road, Punta Gorda, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. www.pgsymphony.org Gulfshore Opera Night in Italy St. leo Catholic Church, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs 7 p.m., 239-529-3925 Cars on 5th 5th Avenue South, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.stmatthewshouse.org

Gulf Coast Symphony: An Andrew Lloyd Webber Celebration Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700

MON - 8

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

ArtFest Fort Myers Saturday and Sunday Riverfront Downtown Fort Myers 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday 239-768-3602 www.artfestfortmyers.com

Larry Alexander: Sinatra...My Way G & L Theatre, 13274 Livingston Road, Naples 888-966-3352 x1

SUN - 7

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

East Palm Mercado Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Happenings Magazine

TUE - 9

Wendy Renee The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 FEBRUARY 2021 - 35

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

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

WED - 10

THU - 11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check our Facebook page

Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Charley’s Aunt Thursday - Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers dinner 6 p.m., bingo 7 p.m. 239-219-6463 Godspell Jr. Through Feb. 14 Florida Rep Outdoor Theatre, Edwards Drive and Jackson Street, Fort Myers 239-332-4488 Evening on 5th 5th Avenue South, Naples An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of 5th Avenue South, plus dining, shopping and more. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. 239-692-8436

Chamber Music Series: James Ehnes & Orion Weiss Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $45, 239-333-1933

FRI - 12

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Gulf Coast Chamber Orchestra: Shostakovich, Walker, Shoenberg Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers $45, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Sunset Celebration Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 6 – 8 p.m., 239-334-7419 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Naples Fine Art Studio & Gallery

paintings by Edward Park

Americana Community Music Association and our website

www.americanacma.org for updates on all Events The ACMA continues to promote original music with Live Streaming and Concerts.

36 - FEBRUARY 2021

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Happenings Magazine

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

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

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 9 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

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

Carling Witt Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 TobyMac Friday & Saturday Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero www.hertzarena.com

Smokin Aces Electric Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m. Flora - 7 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901

Be My Furry Valentine Yappy Hour Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 6 - 8 p.m., 239-489-1221

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

Jazzy Nights: Dan Miller-Lew DelGatto Quintet with Wendell Brunious Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $45, 239-333-1933

Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Craft Show Cambier Park 580 8th Street South, Naples 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.naplesartcrafters.com

Drag Queens Live The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-219-6463

Winter Garden Festival Feb. 13 and 14 Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-334-7419

Country Slam Fest harborside Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda Ben Allen Band, American Made, Jack Michael Music, 6 p.m. 305-761-8860

SAT - 13

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 SW FL Fine Craft Expo Saturday and Sunday Cape Coral Art Center, 4533 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral 239-574-0802 Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 Easton Corbin The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com Happenings Magazine

SUN - 14

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Brunch, music with Stolen Fruit The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 Edith Diamond The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Collaboration Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Blues Concert Series: Damon Fowler CD Release Party Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901 Left Bank Art Fest The Esplanade, 760 Collier Blvd., Marco Island, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 239-290-7927 FEBRUARY 2021 - 37

FEBRUARY CALENDAR SUN - 14 CONTINUED

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

Gulf Coast Symphony: Love & Laughter—A Musical Valentine Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700

Gulf Coast Symphony Under the Stars: Opera Classics Feb. 18 - 19 Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers $29, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700

MON - 15

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

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

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

TUE - 16

Michael Glean The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Dale The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

David Morin will perform his tribute to Elvis on Feb. 20 and 21 at Cultural Park Theater in Cape Coral. For tickets, call 239-772-5862. Fat Tuesday Celebration 2254 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers Live music and food, 5 - 9 p.m. www.eventbrite.com

WED - 17

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

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

THU - 18

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

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

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

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

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

On Your Feet Through April 10 Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Tuesday - Sunday 239-278-4422 Gulfshore Opera - Viva Verdi Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel 7 p.m., 239-529-3925 Art & Poetry Networking Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 8 p.m., $10, 239-333-1933 Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers dinner 6 p.m., bingo 7 p.m. 239-219-6463

FRI - 19

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Fort Myers Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 p.m. www.explorefortmyers.com

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Email: SuncoastScrty@aol.com Happenings Magazine

Nostal Jah The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Red Hannah Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 9 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Sheena Brook The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 - 10 p.m. 239-219-6463 High Voltage Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Jenny Vereline Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 Ryan Montgomery The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

SAT - 20

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 11 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. 224-678-4901 Drag Queen Karaoke Brunch The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141

Happenings Magazine

Edison Festival of Light: Crafts on the River Saturday and Sunday Edwards Drive, Downtown Fort Myers, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org Jory Lyle & Company The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Trevor Earl - 1 p.m. Iconic - 7 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Edison Festival of Light: Food Trucks and Craft Beer Edwards Drive and Hendry Street, Downtown Fort Myers, 2 - 8 p.m. www.edisonfestival.org Gulf Coast Symphony-Jazz at the Center: Tribute to Louis Armstrong Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers $35, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Music & Art Night Lorneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gallery, Marina Village at Tarpon Point, unit 105, Cape Coral Featured artist Lorne Hosack, 5 - 8 p.m., 239-945-0866 Misty Morning Barn Music Fest 18810 Misty Morning Lane, Fort Myers, noon - 6 p.m. Cody Weaver Band, Sheena Brook and Pure Country of SW Florida 239-246-3118 Elvis tribute - David Morin Saturday and Sunday Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 3 and 7 p.m., 239-772-5862 SW Florida Symphony Courtyard Concert Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 5 - 6 p.m., 239-489-1221

FEBRUARY 2021 - 39

FEBRUARY CALENDAR SAT - 20 CONTINUED

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

Naples National Art Show Saturday and Sunday Cambier Park & 8th St., Naples 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., www.naplesart.org

TUE - 23

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

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

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

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

SUN - 21

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Brunch, music with Julie The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-219-6463 Laurie & Rusty Wright The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Thunder Beach Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Blues Concert Series: Skyla Burrell Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901

Gulfshore Opera - Viva Verdi Artisâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 7 p.m., 239-529-3925

The Charlotte Players welcome Cahal Dunne to The Langdon Playhouse on Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. For tickets, call 941-255-1022 Bonita Springs Concert Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 2 p.m. bonitaspringsconcertband.org Gulf Coast Symphony-A Tribute to Jerry Herman & John Kander Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Gulfshore Opera - Viva Verdi Gulf Theater, 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda 7 p.m., 239-529-3925

MON - 22

David Rojas Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Ferguson & Rogers Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Stardust Memories Big Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 7 - 9 p.m. $5 suggested donation 239-823-7240

WED - 24

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

Happenings Magazine

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40 - FEBRUARY 2021

CALL 239-278-5236 or email swfHappenings@earthlink.net

Happenings Magazine

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

Drag Queen Bingo for Charity The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers dinner 6 p.m., bingo 7 p.m. 239-219-6463

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

Gulf Coast Symphony: Elixir of Love Feb. 25 - 27 Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers $49, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700

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

THU - 25

Barbara B The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Justin Ross The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Smokin Aces Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Deb & The Dynamics Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Tom Beckman Beacon Social at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 - 9 p.m., 239-314-3800 The Naples Players present Footloose Through March 7 Baker Park, 50 Riverside Circle, Naples, 239-263-7990 Badfish-tribute to Sublime The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

Happenings Magazine

FRI - 26

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 Spin Zone The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Best of the Eagles Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 8 p.m. 239-495-8989 Flora Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5 - 9 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Electric Lipstick Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Claire Liparulo Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort My Botticelli in the Fire Through March 13 Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481

FEBRUARY 2021 - 41

FEBRUARY CALENDAR FRI - 26 CONTINUED Drag Queens Live The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-219-6463

Chamber Music Series: American Virtuosi Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 7:30 p.m., $45, 239-333-1933 Rhythm on the River: Neil Zirconia Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-334-7419

SAT - 27

CHI Girls The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 4 p.m., 239-995-2141 New York Rhythm The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Collaboration Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Trevor Earl - 1p.m. Soapy Tuna - 7 p.m. Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Matt Stell The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

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

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

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ACMA: The Long & Short of It Trio Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 4 p.m. www.eventbrite.com

Country Sunday with Brian The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, 3 p.m., 239-995-2141 Drag Me to Church The Standard Restaurant, 1520 Broadway, Fort Myers Brunch, 9 a.m., meet and greet 11 a.m., show noon 239-219-6463 Alan Small The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Blues Concert Series: Jeremiah Johnson Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m. 239-990-9901

SW Florida Youth Orchestra Courtyard Concert Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 4 - 5 p.m., 239-489-1221 Charlotte Players present Cahal Dunne Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 2 p.m., 941-255-1022 Gulf Coast Symphony Sunday Night Chamber Music Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers $25, 7 p.m., 239-277-1700 Taco Fest Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.bscevent.com

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Entertaining Southwest Florida since 1995 42 - FEBRUARY 2021

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MUSIC

Punta Gorda Symphony outdoor concerts Feb. 6

person-to-person contact will be kept After two successful holiday pops at a minimum. outdoor concerts in December, “It (the December event) was a Punta Gorda Symphony returns outhuge hit for our community,” says doors on Feb. 6 to perform a concert Badinger. “The COVID-19 precauinspired by romance, offering the tions went smoothly ... no bottlemusic of well-known composers from necks.” Hollywood and Broadway that tells One enthusiastic and new symstories of love. phony patron praised the Dec. 19 From Georges Bizet’s romantic concert and COVID-19 protocols in opera Carmen that captures the review: “As newcomers to the area, intense flush of a first love to the this was the first time my husband tear-jerking love themes of West and I attended a Punta Gorda Side Story, Symphony on the Lawn Symphony event, and it will not be will be filled with an endless supply the last time. Your commitment to of delightful and familiar love tunes. social distancing was outstanding. An arrangement of music from the The location was great. The performdramatic film Ben Hur will contrast in ance itself was wonderful and listenstyle from the rest of the program ing to the music transported me back and features PG Symphony’s conto so many wonderful memories.” certmaster Ming Gao as the violin All tickets will be $49 for general soloist on the love theme “Judah admission. Patrons interested in stuMeets Esther.” The program will also dent tickets must inquire with the include musical and pops medleys Punta Gorda Symphony office at from Guys and Dolls, Carousel and 941-205-5996 (which is still operatThe Sound of Music. All certain to be ing under limited hours). crowd-pleasers. For further details about Punta “There’s no substitute for live perGorda Symphony, visit formance,” declares Maestro www.PGSymphony.org. For updates Raffaele Ponti. With musicians and on all programs, join the audiences alike yearning for in-perPGSymphony email list at son cultural experiences, Punta www.PGSymphony.org/Join. Gorda Symphony is thrilled to continAs for future performances, ue presenting outdoor concerts. Badinger said the symphony is The performances will be “exploring other opportunities as the Saturday, Feb. 6 at 11 a.m. and 2 pandemic continues.” p.m., again in partnership with Meanwhile, Maestro Ponti’s popuFlorida SouthWestern State College lar Behind the Notes lecture series Charlotte Campus. Punta Gorda Symphony musicians perform socially- continues to be livestreamed online “We’re thrilled to be able to perdistanced and with face masks at the holiday pops and made available free of charge to form live music for our community,” outdoors concerts on Dec. 19. Photo by Jerry Beard all patrons. Ponti will host and intersays executive director Craig view audience-favorite guest artists Badinger. “After the success and and Punta Gorda Symphony musicians alike, ending with an rave reviews from our patrons at holiday pops outdoors, extensive question-and-answer session. Over the series, we’re confident audiences will continue to feel safe and will audiences will revisit with pianist Terrance Wilson from encourage their friends to come enjoy the music.” February 2019, violinist David Kim from January 2020, and Held in an outdoor amphitheater, concerts will be limited composer Kenneth Fuchs from March 2020; they will recogto socially-distanced audiences of 250, and will follow stannize longtime Punta Gorda Symphony percussionist Dean dard COVID-related health and safety guidelines. Patron Anderson, bassist Laurence Glazener, and harpist Richard seating on the lawn will be filled in order of arrival, guided by “Dickie” Fleisher. staff and volunteers to the next available space – a process Scheduling for Behind the Notes began in November. The familiar to those who visit theme parks in Orlando. next livestream lectures are planned for Feb. 26, March 19 Parties of two to four patrons will be provided chairs withand April 9. To find the lectures, click on “In the Community” in their own 6-foot grid on the lawn, face masks will be on the website. required, hand sanitizing stations will be available, and direct

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James Ehnes, Orion Weiss to perform Feb. 11 CHAMBER SERIES AT DAVIS ART CENTER

The next concert in the Chamber many awards for his recordings, includMusic Series brings highly accoming a Grammy Award for his live recordplished violinist James Ehnes and ing of Aaron Jay Kernis' Violin Concerto pianist Orion Weiss to downtown Fort with the Seattle Symphony. James Myers on Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Ehnes plays the "Ex-Marsick" James Ehnes has established himStradivarius of 1715. self as one of the most premiere violinOrion Weiss, one of the most desired ists on the international stage, gifted young American pianists of his generawith a rare combination of stunning virtion, has performed with major orchestuosity, serene lyricism and an unfaltertras including the Chicago and Boston ing musicality. Symphonies, as well as the New York Ehnesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; long list of orchestral engageand Los Angeles Philharmonics. His ments include the Boston, deeply felt and exceptionChicago, London, Vienna, ally crafted performances Los Angeles, New York, go far beyond his techniMunich, Cleveland and cal mastery and have won Philadelphia Orchestras. him worldwide acclaim. As Alongside his concerto stated in The Washington work, Mr. Ehnes mainPost, "Weiss has both tains a busy recital schedpowerful technique and ule. He performs regularly exceptional insight, and at Wigmore Hall, brought an almost sculpCarnegie Hall, Symphony tural presence and weight Center Chicago, to the music." Amsterdam As a recitalist and Concertgebouw, Ravinia chamber musician, Weiss and the Verbier Festival. has appeared across the Ehnes has an extensive U. S. at venues and festiOrion Weiss discography and has won vals including Lincoln

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James Ehnes

Center, the Ravinia Festival, La Jolla Summerfest, the Kennedy Center, and the Bard Music Festival. The Chamber Series is part of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yearly music programming. Each season, the chamber concerts bring exquisite classical music to Southwest Florida. Visit www.sbdac.com for details or call 239-333-1933. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the Fort Myers River District.

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MUSIC

Gulf Coast Symphony season in full swing at two venues

Gulf Coast Symphony has returned to live performances in full season swing. In February, the Gulf Coast Symphony will present 14 nights of performances between the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW and its own new venue, the Music & Arts Community Center located off of Daniels Parkway in Fort Myers. Here is how the month is looking:

Under the Stars: Broadway with a Twist!

Feb. 2 - 4 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $29. Under the Stars: Broadway with a Twist features vocalist Martina Long. Enjoy Broadway tunes from Gypsy to Oklahoma! with perhaps a bit of pop and rock music mixed in.

An Andrew Lloyd Webber Celebration

Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Tickets start at $29. Andrew Lloyd Webber has composed some of the world’s best-known musicals. When Sunset Boulevard joined School Of Rock, Cats and The Phantom Of The Opera on Broadway in 2017, he became the only person to equal the record set in 1953 by Rodgers and Hammerstein with four Broadway shows running concurrently. Other musicals include Aspects Of Love, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Love Never Dies.

Gulf Coast Chamber Orchestra: Shostakovich, Walker, Shoenberg

Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $45. Join the newlyformed professional Gulf Coast Chamber Orchestra for its inaugural performance, featuring Shostakovich’s Chamber Symphony (Op. 110a), Walker’s Lyric for Strings, and Schoenberg’s Transfigured Night (Op. 4).

Love & Laughter—A Musical Valentine

Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW 46 - FEBRUARY 2021

Martina Long

Parkway, Fort Myers. Tickets start at $29. Singing and dancing duo Kirby & Beverly Ward join the Gulf Coast Symphony for a Valentine’s Day concert featuring Broadway’s best love ballads and comedic moments!

Under the Stars: Opera Classics

Feb. 18 - 19 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $29. Under the Stars: Opera Classics features the members of our cast from the Elixir of Love performing your favorite opera arias.

Jazz at the Center: Tribute to Louis Armstrong

Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $35. Louis Daniel Armstrong, nicknamed “Satchmo,” “Satch” and “Pops,” was an American trumpeter, composer, vocalist, and actor who was among the most influential figures in jazz. His career spanned five decades, from the 1920s to the 1960s, and different eras in the history of jazz. This will be performed by the Gulf Coast Jazz Collective.

A Tribute to Jerry Herman & John Kander

Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. at Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW

Parkway, Fort Myers. Tickets start at $29. The evening will be a tribute to two of Broadway’s greatest writers John Kander and Jerry Herman. Academy award winner John Kander wrote the scores for 15 musicals, including Cabaret and Chicago, both of which were later adapted into award winning movies. He also wrote the standard “New York, New York.” Two time Tony award winner Jerry Herman composed the scores for the hit Broadway musicals Hello, Dolly!, Mame, and La Cage aux Folles. In 2009, Herman received the Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, and was a 2010 Kennedy Center Honoree.

Elixir of Love

Feb. 25-27 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers Tickets are $49. The Elixir of Love is a delight for all lovers of 19th-century Italian bel canto. Nemorino, a poor peasant is in love with the wealthy Adina, but she only has eyes for the striking Sergeant Belcore. Enter Dr. Dulcamara, a quack who woos Nemorino with a promise: drink the elixir and Adina will fall in love with Nemorino within a day. But, does this strange potion really work? This will be sung in English.

Sunday Night Chamber Music

Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at Music & Arts Community Center, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $25. Under the Stars events are hosted in the outdoor screened pavilion of the Music & Arts Community Center. Enjoy the beautiful Florida outdoors in an intimate setting. Tickets for all shows are available at www.GulfCoastSymphony.org or by calling 239-277-1700. Patrons can receive 10% off all Music & Arts Community Center events by becoming a MACC member for $50. More information about membership is available by calling 239-277-1700. Gulf Coast Symphony is following stringent health and safety protocols. Temperature checks, facial coverings, and socially distanced seating are required for all events.

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Eagles tribute in Bonita Feb. 26

The Center for the Arts Bonita Springs welcomes Best of the Eagles on Friday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. at Hinman Auditorium. Don’t miss one of the top Eagles tribute bands in the country, performing their greatest hits from the ’70s, ’80s and beyond. What makes this tribute unique is that our “Joe Walsh,” sings the Joe Walsh Songs, our “Glen Frey” sings the Glen Fry songs and our “Don Henley” replicates all of his incredible vocals. It is the most authentic recreation next to seeing the Eagles live. Darrell Scott will perform at Hinman Auditorium in Bonita Springs on Friday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. Multi-instrumentalist and singersongwriter Darrell Scott mines and cultivates the everyday moment, taking the rote, menial, mundane, and allowing it to be surreal, ever poignant, and candidly honest, lilting, blooming, and resonating. The words he fosters allow us to make sense of the world, what is at stake here, and our place in it. And ultimately, Darrell knows the sole truth of life is that love is all that matters, that we don’t always get it right, but that’s the instinctive and requisite circuitous allure of things, why we forever chase it, and

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Best of the Eagles

why it is held sacred. Hinman Auditorium is located a 10150 Bonita Beach Road. For more about programming at the centers, call 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

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Stardust Memories Big Band fills Naples & Bonita Springs parks with ‘big’ music

The Stardust Memories Big Band has returned for its seventh season, performing outdoor, evening concerts in Cambier Park in Naples and Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. The band plays the music of the legendary American big bands including Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Doc Severinsen and many more. Remaining shows for the 2021 outdoor schedule consist of five different themebased shows, each of which is performed in Naples (Monday nights) and in Bonita Springs (Tuesday nights). The ten remaining performances are. “Sammy Nestico/Quincy Jones” on Feb. 8 and 9 “A Sentimental Evening” featuring Michelle Amato on Feb. 22 and 23 “Woody Herman” on March 1 and 2 “Count Basie” on March 22 and 23 “Best of the Season by Request” on March 29 and 30 See the band’s remaining 2021 outdoor schedule on page 35 of this issue, or on the “Shows” page of their website www.stardustmemoriesbigband.com 48 - FEBRUARY 2021

All shows are from 7 to 9 p.m. The band requests a $5 per person suggested contribution per show. COVID protocols for our outdoor concerts (as long as they continue to be in effect) In accordance with City of Naples and City of Bonita Springs requirements, audience seating in the park will be socially distanced by markings on the park grounds: Cambier Park, Naples – two chairs may be placed within the white circles that can be seen on the park grounds. Riverside Park, Bonita Springs – two chairs may be placed next to the orange flag markers that can be seen on park grounds. The band is the vision of founder and band leader Craig Christman, and brings together some of Florida's finest jazz musicians (Naples, Fort Myers, Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando and Miami). These working professionals have a collective resume that includes The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra (which is currently led by The SMBB saxophonist Terry Myers), The Woody Herman Band (led by Woody), The

Si Zentner Big Band, The Chick Corea World Tour, The Count Basie Orchestra, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, The Airmen of Note, and performances with artists including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Doc Severinsen, Quincy Jones, Johnny Mathis, Nathalie Cole, Steve and Eydie Gorme, Nat King Cole, Ann Hampton Callaway, Tom Jones, Lou Rawls, Barry Manilow, The Temptations, The Four Tops and numerous orchestras and Broadway shows. The band’s primary mission is to provide the highest quality big band entertainment available to audiences in SW Florida. For 2021, the band will continue its mission objective of providing direct financial support to Music for Minors Foundation, and The Music Foundation of SW Florida. These two local area nonprofit organizations provide instruments, summer training camps, and scholarships to young, aspiring musicians from our local schools. To learn more about the Stardust Memories Big Band, visit online at www.stardustmemoriesbigband.com Happenings Magazine

Bonita Springs Concert Band to play Feb. 21 at Riverside Park

The next free concert of the season by the Bonita Springs Concert Band will be on Sunday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Park in downtown Old Bonita. Guest soloists are Carolann Sanita and Gerritt VanderMeer singing “Lucille,” “As Long as He Needs Me” and “This is My Life,” all arranged by Rick DeJonge. The concert will follow the CDC Covid-19 guidelines. The band Carolann Sanita will be winnowed down to 45 members and be socially distanced. They ask the audience to social distance as well and to wear a mask while walking in and out of the park. There will be no intermission. Other songs include the popular “Macarena,” “The Simpsons” from the popular TV show, “Disney Film Favorites,” George Cohen’s “Give My Regards to Broadway” and John Philip Sousa’s “The Corcoran Cadets.” Carolann is a New York City native, now living in Naples. She has toured as Marian in the first national

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tour of The Music Man and as Maria in the European and Asian tours of West Side Story. Gerritt brings more than 20 years of professional experience as an actor in independent and feature film, television, commercials, voice-overs and classical, contemporary and musical theatre. He has toured with the Broadway musical The Music Man. Gerritt VanderMeer The Bonita Springs Concert Band is under the direction of Gary Smith who retired after 24 years as conductor of the University of Illinois Marching Illini Band. This is the seventh season that Gary has led the band. Gary says “the talent of these musicians is tremendous, ranging in age from 15 to 94.” Become a “Friend of the Band” for just $50. Find out more at www.bonitaspringsconcertband.org. Bring your family, a friend and a lawn chair Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Park.

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Gulfshore Opera continues busy season throughout SW Florida

Gulfshore Opera has adjusted to these challenging times by offering an “Opera al Fresco” concert series which, by popular request, is extended into high season. General director Steffanie Pearce explained, “ the open air concerts introduced this fall have met with such warm reception that we decided, just this week, to extend the series by offering some of our high season concerts in an outdoors setting. We are particularly grateful for St. Leo Catholic Church in Bonita Springs for the use of various locations on their campus.”

World of Lloyd Webber

Gulfshore Opera presents World of Lloyd Webber for an Opera meets Broadway concert. A dynamic trio of versatile artists will perform songs and ensembles from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, Evita, Aspects of Love, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Featured tenor, Glenn Seven Allen is garnering critical acclaim on theatre, opera, and concert stages throughout the United States as a consummate

singing actor, lauded for his dynamic interpretations of heroes and leading men, alike. Introduced in the fall, our “Opera al Fresco” series of outdoor concerts proved to be a great success. Responding to requests for their continuation, we are delighted to confirm that our Feb. 2 World of Webber concert will be outdoors. Your booking ensures you an escape to an hour of fresh air, exquisite music, and an outdoor wine reception at Naples Art. Our Feb. 4 World of Webber concert is in partnership with The Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda. GO is also offering online streaming for this concert only. Tickets are available for $20.

A Night in Italy

Songs of Love will be presented Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. in the Grand Atrium of the Innovation Hotel in Naples.

Almost every Italian town has a beautiful Piazza where everyone goes for an evening stroll and to enjoy some outdoor music making. Gulfshore Opera artists will transport you to Italy with an all Italian program of great arias, duets, and songs followed by a wine reception in a piazza setting complete with fountain and night lights on the campus of St. Leo Catholic Church on Feb. 6 at 7 p.m.

Songs of Love

Originally scheduled for Feb. 28, Gulfshore Opera has rescheduled its 2021 gala for March 23 at 5 p.m. at St. Leo Catholic Chuch in Bonita Springs. The event will feature guest artist Anthony Kearns. For tickets, visit www.gulfshoreopera.org. 50 - FEBRUARY 2021

Join Gulfshore Opera professional artists for an evening of favorite love songs and scenes from opera to Broadway Feb. 13 in the Grand Atrium at the Innovation Hotel, which is located on the Arthrex campus in Naples. The featured artist is returning dramatic soprano Robyn Marie Lamp who joined GO for Passionate Puccini last year and performed the title role of Lucrezia Borgia in the Season 5 Gala to great acclaim. She will be joined by tenor Derrek Stark, mezzosoprano Daniela Magura, and baritone Jean Carlos Rodriguez, accompanied on piano by Brian Holman. Your ticket includes a glass of champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres. Cash bar available.

Viva Verdi

Nineteenth century Italian opera composer Giuseppe Verdi created 26 operas with rich themes and lifelike characters, vividly illustrating conflicts and love-hate relationships. The featured artist is returning dramatic soprano Robyn Marie Lamp who joined GO for Passionate Puccini last year and performed the title role of Lucrezia Borgia in the Season 5 Gala to great acclaim. Of her Verdi, one reviewer wrote, “Robyn Lamp has a radiant soprano voice which she handles with great expertise and ease. She plucked bell-like high As, Bs, and Cs out of some celestial sphere, always interpreting the text with deep-felt emotion." She will be joined by tenor Derrek Stark and baritone Jean Carlos Rodriguez, accompanied on piano by Brian Holman. They will present some of the master’s wonderful arias and ensembles, excerpted from Il Trovatore, Aida, Ernani, Don Carlos and other works to ensure both a musically appealing and emotionally infectious evening of opera highlights Feb. 18 – 23 in Sanibel, Punta Gorda and Naples. For tickets, call 239-529-3925 or visit www.gulfshoreopera.org.

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Wendell Brunious joins Dan Miller-Lew DelGatto Quintet for concert Feb. 12 at Davis Art Center

Southwest Florida favorites Dan Miller - Lew DelGatto Quintet along with legendary Wendell Brunious swing into downtown Fort Myers on Friday, Feb. 12. The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center welcomes New Orleans trumpeter and vocalist Wendell Brunious for a special evening of music with the Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet. Brunious is a wonderful vocalist & a true master of jazz trumpet. He is a member of one of the great royal families of New Orleans music, spanning generations of brilliant musicians. If you have never heard this legendary master of New Orleans music play the trumpet & sing before, get ready for a jaw dropping experience. This man is a mustsee. NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including legendary tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2006 & Frank Sinatra), the spectacular pianist from NYC Roy Gerson, bassist Brandon Robertson and drummer Tony Vigilante.

Wendell Brunious

Cocktails begin at 6:30 pm. Feb. 12, and the performance is at 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $45 ($50 day of show). A table of eight VIP tickets is $450. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the downtown Fort Myers River District. For more info, call 239-333-1933 or visit online at www.sbdac.com

ACMA & Alliance: Long & Short of It Trio Feb. 28

The Americana Community Music Association (ACMA) presents another concert in partnership with The Alliance for the Arts in February. The Feb. 28 concert at 4 p.m. will feature a trio of musicians well known to ACMA members and friends. Bill Metts, Bruce Gallant and Jim Visone are The Long and Short of it Trio. Each one of them has over 45 years of performing experience so you can always expect a very enjoyable show. All three of the members are multiinstrumentalists, vocalists and competent song writers as well. You will Happenings Magazine

be entertained by their fine musicianship and vocal harmonies, and be treated to a list of mostly original tunes with a sprinkling of timeless covers. The Long and Short Of It Trio promises a great show. For safety reasons, all tickets must be purchased in advanced. Seating is limited and attendees will purchase a pass for a 6Ă&#x2014;6 square space on our GreenMarket lawn. In order to maintain social distancing, all lawn spaces will be 6 feet apart. Guests are required to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. A pass

for a 6Ă&#x2014;6 square space is $12.50 for 1 person, $25 for two people or $50 for a group of four people. The average per person price is $12.50 plus fees. Reserve your square at www.eventbrite.com. Event staff and volunteers are required to wear masks at all times. Attendees are required to wear masks indoors of the Alliance, for bathrooms and when social distancing is not possible. The Alliance is located at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

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Sunday blues at Coconut Falls Tiki

bands as a teenager and young adult, working her way up and down Southern California. She relocated to the East Coast in her early 20's where she continued learning and growing from her musical experiences and eventually coforming the Skyla Burrell Band. In addition to her singing, writing and guitar duties, Skyla also plays piano.

The blues come alive every weekend at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill in Fort Myers. The popular blues concert series continues in February with Frank Bang on Feb. 7; Damon Fowler on Feb. 14; Skyla Burrell on Feb. 21; and Jeremiah Johnson on Feb. 28. All shows run Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 with $5 off your entree purchase.

Frank Bang Frank Bang is an energetic musical force … On stage or in studio. He has 14 current songs on rotation on B. B. Kings Bluesville SiriusXM.

Damon Fowler After spending time touring with the band Southern Hospitality, Damon Fowler is back with his third solo project for Blind Pig Records, Sounds of Home. Damon chose swamp blues master, Tab Benoit to produce and record him at Tab’s rural Louisiana home studio, and their collaboration has resulted in Damon’s strongest effort to date. The tension between his measured, laid-back vocal delivery and the hallmark intensity of his guitar virtuosity has never been keener, and the stories told in his songwriting exhibit a combination of depth, grace and humor very few of his contemporaries can match.

Skyla Burrell Skyla Burrell was born in Los Angeles and raised in Orange County, California.

Skyla Burrell - Feb. 21

52 - FEBRUARY 2021

Frank Bang - Feb. 7

Damon Fowler - Feb. 14

Skyla formed her first band at the age of 13 and has been a working musician ever since. Skyla played with several

Jeremiah Johnson Jeremiah Johnson blends the sounds of the south, with Mississippi River blues and a touch of country flair. Emotionally charged southern blues rock, powered by the common man’s passion for life and all the struggles in-between. Songs with meaning, a powerfully persuasive voice and master class musicianship. “Unemployed Highly Annoyed” has caught lightning in a bottle with this masterful snapshot of these difficult times and is truly a testament to his talent. Possibly the best record of Johnsons career, born from the most challenging time in his life as a musician. Released on Oct. 30, 2020, “Unemployed Highly Annoyed” hit #4 on the Billboard Blues Album Charts on Nov. 14, giving Jeremiah Johnson the unique honor of having two new releases in 2020 hit the top 5.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill is located at 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers. For more info, call 239-990-9901, visit www.coconutfalls.com or follow them on Facebook.

Jeremiah Johnson - Feb. 28

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MUSIC

Symphonic Chorale reschedules memorial concert for March 14

The Symphonic Chorale’s Memorial Concert “Before the Morning Watch” dedicated to its founding president Alan Wioskowski was canceled suddenly last March due to Covid. The chorale has announced that it is now rescheduled for Sunday, March 14 at 4 p.m. in Naples. Admission is free, but tickets are required and available through the church’s website beginning Feb. 23. The concert is part of Moorings popular Hyacinth Series, celebrating its 39th season. The highlight of this Memorial Concert is the performance of John Rutter’s glorious Requiem accompanied by organist Thomas Goetz on the beautiful Nichols & Simpson Organ with over 4,300 pipes. “The acoustics and the organ at Moorings are spectacular,” said chorale artistic director Trent Brown. “It is a wonderful venue to perform in and even through everyone will be masked and spread out across the large altar area, it will be a powerful experience for everyone involved.” Celebration of Song Concert on Dec. 13 at City of Palms Stadium The chorale is inviting members of the SW Florida community to join with them at this Memorial Concert in remembering a deceased loved one with a memorial gift to the March 3 to be included on the poster. Chorale of $50 or more. Loved ones will be recognized on a For a link to request a free ticket to this concert or to get more large poster at the Concert and donors will be sent a Keepsake information about making a memorial donation, visit online at Certificate after the performance. Names must be received by www.symphonicchorale.org or call 239-560-5695.

American Virtuosi wraps up chamber series Experience the grand finale of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s 2020-2021 Chamber Music Series at the American Virtuosi concerts on Friday, Feb. 26 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Workshop, Luminary Hotel’s culinary theater. Experience world-class chamber music from violinist Peter Winograd, violist Jim Griffith and cellist Andres Díaz. This unique engagement will also include very special guests, pianist Rohan de Silva (accompanist for Itzhak Perlman), violist Milena Pajarovan de Stadt of the Dover String Quartet and co-concertmaster of the Naples Philharmonic Emerson Millar. Enjoy two separate unforgettable evenings of live classical music from some of the world’s leading concert artists. Saturday’s ticket purchase includes dinner at the new Silver King Ocean Brasserie restaurant located at the Luminary Hotel and a special performance in the Workshop Culinary Theater. Peter Winograd joined the American String Quartet as the first violinist in 1990. He gave his first solo public performance at the age of 11, and at age 17 he was accepted as a scholarship student of Dorothy DeLay at the Juilliard School. Recognized early as an exceptionally promising young artist, Winograd was a top prizewinner in the 54 - FEBRUARY 2021

1988 Naumburg International Violin Competition. He then made his New York debut to critical acclaim and has since appeared as a guest soloist with numerous orchestras and in recitals across the country and abroad. Peter holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from The Juilliard School and has been a member of the violin and chamber music faculties of the Manhattan School of Music and the Aspen Music School since 1990. Jim Griffith received his M.M. degree from the Juilliard School. He also received his undergraduate degree from the Manhattan School of Music and attended Florida State University. He formerly served as principal violist of the New York Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra and the New York Virtuosi. Currently, he is enjoying his 33rd season as a violist in the Naples Philharmonic. Griffith is also the executive director of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Andres Díaz has exhilarated both critics and audiences with his intense and charismatic performances since winning the first prize in the 1986 Naumburg International Cello Competition. He was awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant and was nominated for a 2009 Latin Grammy. The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in downtown Fort Myers River District. For tickets and info, visit www.sbdac.com Happenings Magazine

Ben Allen Band

rocks Hertz Arena

NBCĘźs The Voice semifinalist Ben Allen and his band performed Jan. 9 at Hertz Arena in Estero. The sold out show allowed for a socially distanced audience of 2,200 fans. The Deplorables band (of Naples) opened. Photos by Jamie Kuser Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 55

IN CONCERT

PERFORMANCES IN SW FLORIDA,

MAY 4

Old Dominion

Key West Amphitheater

SUN COAST & KEY WEST

MAY 25

Mike Tramp, John Corabi

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JAN 30

Allie Colleen

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 27 Brit Floyd

Hertz Arena, Estero

FEB 5

Rodney Carrington The Ranch, Fort Myers

FEB 6

Jim Messina

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Tracy Byrd

The Ranch, Fort Myers

FEB 10

Buckcherry

The Ranch, Fort Myers

FEB 12 & 13 TobyMac

Hertz Arena, Estero

FEB 13

Easton Corbin

The Ranch, Fort Myers

FEB 19

Christopher Cross

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Ryan Montgomery The Ranch, Fort Myers

FEB 27

Matt Stell

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAR 5

Parmalee

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net 56 - FEBRUARY 2021

JUN 11 Alabama

TobyMac

Hertz Arena, Estero

The TobyMac Hits Deep Tour will stop at Hertz Arena in Estero Feb. 12 and 13. For tickets and info, visit www.hertzarena.com

MAR 6

Slaughter and L.A. Guns

MAR 25 & 26

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAR 12

Little River Band

MAR 27 & 28

Red Clay Strays

APR 3

BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

MAR 13

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Ricky Scaggs

MAR 15

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

Collie Buddz

MAR 18

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Pablo Cruise

MAR 19

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

MAR 19

Tracy Lawrence

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Foreigner

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

The LACS, Demun Jones

The Ranch, Fort Myers

APR 10

Craig Morgan

The Ranch, Fort Myers

APR 30

Toby Keith

Hertz Arena, Estero

MAY 1

Randy Houser

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUN 17

Kix, Vixen

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUL 2

Sebastian Bach

The Ranch, Fort Myers

AUG 6

Slightly Stoopid

Key West Amphitheater

AUG 20

Tedeschi Trucks Band BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

Rebelution

SEP 19

Key West Amphitheater

OCT 22

Casting Crowns, Matthew West Hertz Arena, Estero

NOV 11

Chris Stapleton Hertz Arena, Estero

Due to COVID-19, concert dates subject to change Happenings Magazine

Rodney Carrington, Tracy Byrd & Easton Corbin to play The Ranch

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon “Watermelon Crawl” the second album continues the new year with a lengthy list crossed the half million sales mark and of rock and country artists in the first half certified Gold. The release of the 4th and of 2021. last single on this project moved Byrd to The updated Sam Galloway Ford the top of both the Billboard Album and Concert Series welcomes country artists Singles charts. The song was called Allie Colleen on Jan. 30, Rodney “The Keeper of the Star’s” and it shot to Carrington on Feb. 5, Tracy Byrd on Feb. #1 on the singles charts and pushed the 6, Easton Corbin on Feb. 13, Matt Stell album to Double Platinum Status, which on Feb. 27, Parmalee on March 5, The certifies sales of over Red Clay Strays on March 13, Tracy “The Keeper of the Star’s” won Lawrence on March 19, The LACS and Academy of Country Music’s “Song of Demun Jones on April 3, Craig Morgan the Year” award in 1995. on April 10 and Randy Houser on May 1. Other concerts at The Ranch Concert Easton Corbin Hall (not part of the Galloway series) With two No. 1 singles, multiple Tracy Byrd - Feb. 6 include Buckcherry on Feb. 10, Ryan awards and nominations, plus performMontgomery on Feb. 19, Slaughter with ances on some of the biggest stages in L.A. Guns on March 6, Collie Buddz, the world, Easton Corbin has made a Keznamdi and 4th & Orange on March 18, Mike Tramp and lasting impression on the country music landscape. He is laudJohn Corabi on May 25, Kix and Vixen on June 17 and ed for his traditional country sound, authentic lyrics and mastery Sebastian Bach on July 2. of understatement. His self-titled debut album released in 2010 and spawned Rodney Carrington back-to-back hits “A Little More Country Than That” and “Roll Rodney Carrington is a multi-talented comedian, actor, With It;” making him the first country male artist in 17 years to singer and writer playing sold-out shows around the world as have his first two consecutive singles reach No. 1. one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the In 2012, the Gilchrist County Florida native released his past two decades. A sophomore album, All Over The Road, which included the Top 5 platinum-recording artist, hits “Lovin’ You Is Fun” and “All Over The Road.” Corbin set a Rodney’s recorded eight career-best debut on country airplay with his top 5 hit single, major record label come“Baby Be My Love Song,” from his No. 1 debuting album About dy albums, followed by To Get Real. three albums on his own Corbin spent 2016 on one of the biggest tours in country record label, Laughter’s music-Carrie Underwood’s The Storyteller Tour which Billboard Good Records. His last named the #1 album “Here Comes the country tour of the Truth” (released 2017) first half of 2016 climbed to #3 on the Forbes picked it as comedy charts, accruing one of 10 hottest tens of millions of tours of the fall. streams on Spotify and Corbin’s new sineven spawned a Netflix gle, “A Girl Like Rodney Carrington - Feb. 5 special. You,” from his upcoming fourth studio album is Tracy Byrd Top 30 and climbTracy Byrd became a household name on the country music ing and was scene in 1993 when his third single, called “Holdin’ Heaven,” off released to rave of his MCA Records, self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the reviews. Billboard Country charts. The album also included the remake Easton Corbin - Feb. 13 The Ranch is hit of Johnny Paycheck’s “Someone to Give my Love to” still adhering to limitcementing Byrd as a traditional country troubadour. The debut ed capacity for conalbum went on to be certified gold, a reward signifying sales in certs and events. Schedules are changing constantly, and ticket excess of 500,000 copies. buyers are advised to always check with the venue before the Byrd’s second project, “No Ordinary Man,” kept building on event. For tickets & details, go to www.theranchfortmyers.com. the momentum the first album created, the first radio single The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839. For most confrom it called “Lifestyle’s of the Not so Rich and Famous” certs, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & reached #4, followed by another top five hit, “The First Step,” Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. then with the release of the smash, chart topping hit Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 57

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

ArtFest Fort Myers returns Feb. 6 and 7

ArtFest Fort Myers returns to the downtown Fort Myers riverfront Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 6 and 7, with 175 artists displaying unique sculpture, fine painting, jewelry, photography and decorative ceramics and more. The 2021 art festival has new protocols including timed entry tickets and masks required to enhance safety for everyone. Time start at $5, and organizers ask attendees to buy theirs in advance to avoid lines at the gates. Want to see all the artists? Do a little pre-shopping? You can visit the online gallery at www.ArtFestFortMyers.com, and the artists will all be there with their artwork and links to their websites. And beginning Jan. 29, you can visit and shop the artists on ArtFest@Home – right from the art festival’s main website. The entire family will enjoy Southwest Florida’s premier art festival. Take time to enjoy the talented high school artists’ work at the Art Under 20 Exhibit and Competition and prepare to be astonished as the students create large street paintings in the Chalk Block. Check out the We Are Overflowing sculptural exhibit, featuring the recycling, reuse Carla Bank is the 2021 Run to the Arts T-shirt artist and upcycling message through art. Food & beverage areas will be available to provide a relaxing break. You may be asking how stations; requiring masks at all times; hiring professional ArtFest Fort Myers is stepping up to meet the challenge of cleaning crews for all touch points; reducing food vendors; being a “safe” event in this challenging COVID time. The art creating tables and chair relax locations for two or four only festival staff has attended too many best-practices trainings and most selling locations are touchless and cashless. to count (virtually, of course). Following best practices, ArtFest Fort Myers values the safety and enjoyment of ArtFest Fort Myers is limiting crowd size by fencing the everyone participating – attendees, artists and volunteers. entire festival site and designating five entrance & exit gates; Not quite ready to venture to a large gathering – even instituting timed ticket access – with advance online ticket outdoors? ArtFest Fort Myers has launched an all-new sales to avoid the queue; installing 120 plus hand sanitizer 58 - FEBRUARY 2021

Happenings Magazine

online virtual art festival – ArtFest@Home – as close as your computer or phone or iPad. You will find: • A super easy shopping experience featuring all the artists who are at the art festival in person. One shopping cart with one click check out. Shop from all the artists; talk to them via Zoom video chat; watch their demo videos; listen to their round table discussions; see how to use their artwork in decorating your home. • All the fun activities from ArtFest Fort Myers. Art Under 20, high school art show; Chalk Block street painting; Publix Art Yard with art projects and entertainment; We Are Overflowing art installation based on recycled items; Food & Entertainment for all to enjoy. • VIP Club experiences in a virtual art gallery and more • Festival posters and T-shirts to order shipped directly to you Join ArtFest’s VIP Club and take advantage of reserved weekend parking; relaxing on the VIP Club Terrace with morning treats and coffee; a delightful lunch and beverages all weekend long. The VIP Club packages start at $45 per person and quantities are limited – visit www.ArtFestFortMyers.com for all the options. Your support helps ArtFest Fort Myers through this challenging time when all arts organizations are focused on getting to the other side financially intact. Attendees often ask “How do the 175 festival artists get chosen”? These artists are the best-of-the-best as a jury panel of five professional artists spent an entire Zoom day selecting them from the 700 artists who applied. The fest runs 9 a.m. to 5 pm. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information visit www.ArtFestFortMyers.com

Charise Bundeson Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 59

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

Southwest Florida Reading Festival

will be virtual throughout March

The 22nd annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival this March will be a month-long, fully virtual celebration of the power of reading brought to the community by the Lee County Library System. Nearly 30 acclaimed authors will provide nightly programming March 1 - 12. Other highlights include the opportunity to video chat with headlining and local authors during the festival’s live booth hours from 1 - 3 p.m. Saturday, March 6, and Saturday, March 13. Grab-and-go crafts, a reading program with festival bingo and online S.T.E.A.M. contests featuring Lego builds, art and creativity challenges are also

60 - FEBRUARY 2021

part of the fun. “Our library system is pleased to once again provide our signature event for the community,” said Mindi Simon, library director. “The online format allows us to extend

the festival’s length and scope.” Patrons can log on to EventHub beginning Feb. 22 for a preview of the festival. Author presentations will broadcast weekday evenings March 1 - 5 and March 8 - 12, with youth and teen authors at 6 p.m. and adult authors at 7 p.m. Each interview is followed by an interactive, live meet & greet to interact with authors and ask questions via video or text chat. Additional opportunities to chat with authors will be offered during the Saturday live booth sessions at 1 p.m. After live events conclude on March 13, festival attendees will be

Happenings Magazine

able to watch recorded content on-demand through March 31. Participants are encouraged to sign up for the online reading and activity challenge or complete the paperbased reading bingo for SW Florida author and illustrator chances to win Kathy Kuser will participate in the prizes and book local author marketplace. baskets with festival author book titles. The deadline to log reading and activities is March 31. S.T.E.A.M. contest prizes include numerous Lego sets, as well as arts and crafts supplies, with contest entries accepted through March 14. Online public voting will take place March 15 - 31. The eligible entries with the most votes will win the prizes for each category. The library systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to reading continues with providing each participating child and teen with a new, free book. This year, the free books will be distributed in age-appropriate grab-and-go craft bags, available while supplies last at the 13 Lee County Library System branches starting Feb. 22. Adults will receive a book in their craft kits as well, which will incorporate various patterns to become part of a folded book art craft. The lineup of award-winning authors scheduled to participate in the festival includes adult authors Jennifer Chiaverini, Gregg Hurwitz, Jayne Ann Krentz and Kyle Mills, as well as youth and teen authors J.C. Cervantes, Greg Pizzoli, Julie Berry and Ryan La Sala. The complete list of authors can be found at www.ReadFest.org. The Southwest Florida Reading Festival is free and community-supported through donations, sponsorships and grants. To help ensure the continuation of this free community event, visit www.ReadFest.org to make a secure online donation. More information is available at www.ReadFest.org or by calling 239-533-4832.

FIRST FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH

(rain or shine) 6 PM

The next Art Walk is February 5.

Happenings Magazine

FEBRUARY 2021 - 61

DINING

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

1st Street Deli

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

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

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar & Grill

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

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

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee’s EE-TO-LEETKE Grill enhances the dining experience and offers new and exciting menu selections. The interior design of the EETO-LEET-KE Grill is elegant yet comfortable and features a theater-style kitchen that allows for transparency as chefs prepare dishes “from scratch” to the table. The EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill menu features contemporary regional cuisines utilizing the freshest selections of Prime aged beef, fresh seafood, and an array of locally-sourced produce. The wide-ranging menu offers pastas, house made soups, steaks, seafood and chef specialty items including awardwinning fajitas, pork osso bucco and the ever-popular braised short rib pot roast.

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

62 - FEBRUARY 2021

Ella Mae’s Diner

Nostaglia served with a smile. A fun retroinspired eatery serving up comfort food and classic diner fare. Slide into a booth or pull up to the counter for a burger and milkshake or the best allday breakfast you’ve ever had. Ella Mae’s provides a welcome twist to the classic southern diner. Celebrating Dr. Ella Mae Piper’s legacy, it’s here the community comes together to share stories as they enjoy a meal amidst vintage-inspired finishes and a bright color palette. Pictured, Ella Mae’s Grilled Salmon Special ($12.90) served with almond rice pilaf, green beans, and a lemon-caper butter sauce.

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

Le Macaron French Pastries

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

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

Silver King Ocean Brasserie

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

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

Happenings Magazine

Southern Grill

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

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

The Standard

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

1520 Broadway, Downtown Fort Myers 239-219-6463 www.thestandardfortmyers.com

Happenings Magazine

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort

There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort. Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days. Kitchen open late.

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

FEBRUARY 2021 - 63