May 2021 Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Music • Calendar

MAY 2021

Key West hosts songwriters fest A Bronx Tale at Broadway Palm Marshall Tucker Band at The Ranch

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THE NAPLES PLAYERS:

An Ideal Husband

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

Publisher’s Spotlight

Season winds down

Our local theatre season is winding down for the spring after an off again, on again year for so many stages.

After such a devastating hit by the pandemic, our local theatres are looking optimistically at the 2021-22 season for an economic recovery.

Here’s what we still have on our stages right now.

A Bronx Tale plays now through May 22 at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers. The following week, Beehive, the 60s Musical will open on May 27 and play through June 26.

The Naples Players are reopening the Sugden Theatre. In Blackburn Hall, Calendar Girls is on stage now through May 23. The Tobye Studio will reopen on May 19 with Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband (our magazine cover). That production will run through June 13.

At the Langdon Playhouse, the Charlotte Players are staging You Should Be So Lucky May 14 - 23.

Florida Rep’s Education Department is presenting Into the Woods Jr. on its outdoor stage through May 2 in downtown Fort Myers.

In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater will have a concert with Aaron Caruso May 28 - 30 as it gets ready for the local youth actors to take over the stage this summer.

The Laboratory Theater of Florida presents Race on its Fort Myers stage April 30 through May 15.

The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs offers its Stage It! 10 Minute Play Festival May 14 - 16.

As mentioned earlier, some of our theatre groups are looking to next season and have announced their 2021-22 season lineups.

The schedule for the 17th season at TheatreZone in Naples includes Home for the Holidays, I Love My Wife, Bright Star, Camelot and The Bridges of Madison County.

Broadway Palm’s 29th season schedule has A Night on Broadway, The Sound of Music, Holly Jolly

4 - MAY 2021

Christmas, Singin in the Rain, Chicago, In the Heights, Rock of Ages and The Wizard of Oz. The Broadway Series at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall includes Rent, Summer - The Donna Summer Musical, Dear Evan Hansen, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, Blue Man Group, Jesus Christ Superstar, An Officer and a Gentleman and My Fair Lady.

Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples says its 2021-22 season will have Radio Golf, Higher, The 39 Steps, The Invisible Hand and Another Revolution.

IN THIS ISSUE

theatre

6

art

12

music

18

Film festivals

After taking a break in 2020, film festivals are returning to Southwest Florida.

The annual Fort Myers Film Festival is scheduled to run May 12 16. While most of the events will take place at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center, other venues will be part of the festival, too.

In Bonita Springs, the annual Bonita International Film Festival returns this month. The three-day event will run May 21 - 23.

Songwriters

It appears to be getting better and better each day for live music in Florida. So, we are very encouraged that the Key West Songwriters Festival returns this month. The fiveday fest will feature about 100 songwriters doing more than 30 performances at 16 different venues on the island. The 25th annual Key West Songwriters Festival runs May 5 - 9.

Adding to our excitement is that our Lee County folks are gearing up for the return of the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. Our local festival will run Sept. 17 - 26 and feature national, regional and local songwriters.

Organizers are still working out the details with various venues and artists to create a safe environment for performers and attendees.

Rock on,

Jamie

dining

30 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

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THEATRE

Susan (Cantrella Canady) looks on as lawyers Jack (Michael Massari) and Henry (Lemec Bernard) watch Charles Strickland (Brian Linthicum) write out his statement

Race by David Mamet on stage at Laboratory Theater of Florida The Laboratory Theater of Florida will present Race by David Mamet, opening April 30 and running through May 15.

The case is anything but black and white. Charles Strickland is a wealthy white businessman charged with assaulting a young black woman. He says they had a relationship. She says he raped her. Lawyers Jack and Henry must decide whether or not to take his case.

The simmering tensions continue to build until they threaten to engulf everyone. David Mamet turns the spotlight on what we think but can’t say, revealing dangerous truths and sparing no punches.

Artistic director Annette Trossbach says, “Pulitzer prize-winning playwright David Mamet gives us a provocative examination of guilt and prejudice in this compelling crime drama. Director Sonya McCarter has carefully guided our actors through a legal case that is a veri6 - MAY 2021

Lawyers Henry (Lemec Bernard) and Jack (Michael Massaria) in Race by David Mamet at Laboratory Theater of Florida.

table minefield of simmering racial tension.”

This show features strong adult language and mature themes.

Directed by Sonya McCarter, this show features Michael Massari as Jack, Lemec Bernard as Henry, Cantrella Canady as Susan and Brian Linthicum as Charles Strickland.

Performance dates are April 30, May 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15 at 8 p.m. and May 2, 9 and 15 at 2 p.m.

For the protection of the cast, which will not be masked during the performance, the theater require that all patrons wear their masks Tickets are $28 each or $10 for students with valid student ID. Seating is limited and sold by section for safety.

For tickets, call the box office at 239-218-0481 or visit online at www.laboratorytheaterflorida.com.

The Laboratory Theater is located at 1634 Woodford Ave. in the Fort Myers River District.

Happenings Magazine

Youth take center stage at Cultural Park Theater

By Michael Moran

don’t miss the award winning Children's productions will musical Godspell Junior. The original Godspell was the take center stage at Cultural first major musical theatre Park Theater alongside our offering from three-time concert season Grammy and this summer.

Academy AwardProductions winner, Stephen include Peter Pan Schwartz, and it Junior, Godspell took the world by Junior and Into storm. Boasting a the Woods Junior. score with chart Cultural Park topping songs, Theater and Godspell Jr. is a Performing Arts sensation that conCenter is the tinues to touch place to be from Michael Moran audiences.

June to August Our summertime this year for chilfamily theater concludes on dren and their adults with Aug. 1 at 3 p.m. with “Into three fantastic family shows the Woods Junior. Into the on a special summer offer of Woods JR. is an engaging only $10 per ticket for all and funny musical comedy ages. that twists familiar fairy tales Four times every year into a brand new story.

Cultural Park Theater offers When a Baker and his Wife classes for kids from the learn they've been cursed ages of 8 through 18. These with childlessness by the classes teach theater skills Witch next door, they such as acting, singing, embark on a quest for the improvisation and dance, but special objects required to equally as important they break the spell; swindling, help kids develop real life deceiving and stealing from skills like confidence, readCinderella, Little Red Riding ing, team work, self-esteem Hood, Rapunzel and Jack and communication skills. (the one who climbed the The amazing talent pool beanstalk)! of these students have Meanwhile, our summer prompted us to showcase concert season opens with three productions this sumthe incredible Aaron Caruso mer for the whole family as with his tribute to the Italian our talented students bring crooners on May 28 through to life on stage shows guar30. Shows are at 7 p.m. anteed to delight audiences Friday and matinees at 3 of all ages. p.m. on Saturday and First up is Peter Pan Sunday. All tickets are $2.

Junior on stage for one perAaron embodies a vanishing formance only Sunday, July species: the good-looking, 4 at 3 p.m. Based on J.M. good natured pull- out- allBarrie's classic tale and feathe- stops showman that turing an unforgettable score spawned Dean Martin and

by Morris "Moose" Charlap Danny Kaye. and Jule Styne with lyrics by Cultural Park Theater is Carolyn Leigh and Betty located at 528 Cultural Park Comden and Adolph Green, Blvd. in Cape Coral.

Peter Pan is one of the most For ticket information for beloved and frequently perthese shows and our other formed family favorites of all concert performances, time. This high-flying Tony please call our box office at Award-winning musical has 239-772-5862. been performed around the Michael Moran is the world and delighted audiexecutive director of the ences for 60 years.

Cultural Park Theater.

Next on July 18 at 3 p.m., Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 7

THEATRE

TheatreZone unveils 2021-22 shows

TheatreZone, a professional Equity theatre now in its 17th season specializing in Broadway musicals, announces its 2021-2022 season shows and concerts.

They are Home for the Holidays (Dec. 10 - 12); I Love My Wife (Jan. 13 - 23); Bright Star (Feb. 10 - 20); Camelot (March 10 - 20); and The Bridges of Madison County (April 21 - May 1).

“We are thrilled to return to presenting large-scale productions for our audience’s enjoyment,” says Mark Danni, TheatreZone’s founding artistic director. “We’re planning a blockbuster Season 17 with a world premiere, a variety of traditional shows, audience favorites and shows that maybe new to some audience members.”

“Not only are we following all state and local reopening guidelines, but we will be opening the box office one-half hour prior to showtime, and concessions will be available during intermission,” adds Danni.

We encourage potential patrons to purchase tickets sooner rather than later if you’re interested in reserving the best seats.”

The season kicks off Dec. 10-12 with four productions of Home for the Holidays, a TheatreZone original. Now in its fifth year, Home for the Holidays celebrates the joy of the season, with a professional orchestra and TheatreZone fan favorites performing holiday favorites among an array of sparking costumes and energetic dance.

Well received when TheatreZone staged the production in its fifth season, I Love My Wife (Jan. 13-23, 2022) is an innovative satire of the sexual revolution. Set in the 1970’s, this comedic production features musicians on the stage and melded into the play, where they sing, dress up in fancy clothes and comment on the action, all as kind of a Greek chorus.

8 - MAY 2021

“We are happy to bring this production back due to its previous success,” says Danni. “The topic sounds racy, but the show is not. It’s more about how the couples get to bed than what happens when they get there. I also love that the band are characters in the show and have nine costume changes.”

Bright Star, inspired by a true story and featuring a Tony-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, will be presented Feb. 10-20.

Bright Star tells a beautiful story of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds audiences tightly in its grasp. Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

From March 10-20, TheatreZone will present Lerner and Loewe’s Camelot, starring TheatreZone fan favorite Whitney Winfield (Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera) as Guenevere.

Audiences can expect to experience a youthful, edgier version of this legendary love triangle of King Arthur, Guenevere and Sir Lancelot.

Borrowing from the Arthurian legends, Camelot is the duo’s fantastical masterpiece which triumphed on Broadway in a legendary original production that lead to a film version, and numerous revivals in New York, London and across the globe.

“This new version of Camelot has been enhanced to create stronger connections within the delightful classic,” said Danni.

“The definitive score and memorable characters are all there but with a libretto and orchestration adapted for a production which I believe our audiences will appreciate and

enjoy.”

The Bridges of Madison County (April 21-May 1) is based on the best-selling novel and developed by the Pulitzer- and Tony Award-winning creative team of Jason Robert Brown (The Last Five Years, Parade, Songs for a New World) and Marsha Norman, captures the lyrical expanse of America’s heartland along with the yearning entangled in the eternal question, “What if…?”

Winner of the 2014 Tony Award for Best Score and Orchestrations, this sweeping romance about the roads we travel, the doors we open and the bridges we dare to cross will leave audiences breathless. Larry Alexander (Sinatra…My Way, Bravo Broadway!) will star in the lead role as National Geographic photographer Robert Kincaid.

“With its soaring score and touching story, The Bridges of Madison County is a strong addition to any theatre's season,” says Danni. “The powerful roles of Francesca and Robert are a dream come true for any actor, while the ensemble is rich with characters who tell their own individual stories and receive plenty of focus on stage.”

All evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Matinees at 2 p.m. will be offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets range from $50-$65 with premium seats available at $85. For more information, visit www.theatre.zone or call 888-966-3352 x1.

TheatreZone is located in-residence at the 250-seat G&L Theatre on the Community School of Naples campus, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Visit online at www.theatre.zone.

Happenings Magazine

Stage It! 10-minute play festival in Bonita Springs

Summer Theater Camp

FOR THESPIANS AGES 12 - 18

July 12 - 30

Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Performances: July 29 - 31 & Aug. 5 - 7 at 8 p.m.

Aug. 1 & 8 at 2 p.m.

Register Online Today - Limited Space

The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springsʼs international short play competition Stage It! Ten-Minute Play Festival is now in its fifth year. Donʼt miss this fantastic lineup of short plays from around the world and the multi-talented actors that bring each role to life. Festival dates are May 14 at 7 p.m., May 15 at 2 and 7 p.m. and May 16 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $25. The festival takes place in the Performing Arts Center, Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road in Bonita Springs. For tickets and information, call 239-495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org.

Happenings Magazine

The Laboratory Theater of Florida takes a "whole actor" approach to acting. In addition to physical theater, stage combat, voice modulation, blocking, stagecraft, and scene study, they also learn the basics of set design, lighting elements, lighting design, costuming, stage makeup, stage management, and theater etiquette and best practices. And, of course, theater games. The camp culminates in a professional production of Failure: A Love Story, which plays for two weekends.

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers

MAY 2021 - 9

An Ideal Husband on Naples stage THEATRE

The Naples Players is set to The production is being directreopen their Tobye Studio Theatre ed by Alexander’s longtime menon May 19 with An Ideal Husband. tor Steve Wilson, a Denver based Oscar Wilde’s relevant classic director known for his penchant comedy revolves around blackmail for the classics. “What could be and political corruption in late better than coming out of this pan19th-century England, while delivdemic with your friend and mentor ering endless laughs. helping to lead the charge? It’s a When Mrs. Cheveley homecoming and a fresh start in (Jamielynn Bucci) arrives in so many powerful ways.”

London, she brings only chaos Wilson will be leading an alland upheaval with her. She quickstar cast of Naples favorites, ly corners Sir Robert Chiltern many of whom have become reg(Peter McClug) by revealing a ular staples of The Naples Players past indiscretion. Robert is desmost popular shows. The cast perate to keep up appearances includes (in alphabetical): when he realizes that his profesJamielynn Bucci, Scott Davis, ON THE COVER: Chiara Padejka, Mark Vanagas, Jamielynn sional reputation is at stake as Nathan Eichhorn, Carole Bucci, Peter McClung and Tina Moroni in The Naples Players well as his marriage to Lady Fenstermacher, Shelley Gothard, production of An Ideal Husband.

Gertrude Chiltern (Tina Moroni); Peter McClung, Tina Moroni, who holds him to impossibly high Chiara Padejka, Mark Vanagas, standards. Robert’s trusted Tracy Weaver and David Whalley. friend, Lord Goring (Mark Vanagas) attempts to assist the To alleviate the concern and spread of COVID-19, the theatre Chilterns only to complicate matters further... will only be seated to 50% capacity. Tickets are expected to sell An Ideal Husband was originally set to take the stage at the quickly. A Red Carpet event open to the public is slated for Sugden Community Theatre in 2020. The Naples Players was Wednesday, May 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and features local forced to reschedule it when the theatre closed last March in vendors, food, drinks, and live music from the band Chariot. response to COVID-19.

Performances are Wednesday through Sunday and both gen“While not as famous as The Importance of Being Earnest, we eral public and season tickets are still on sale at the TNP Box were all taken aback by the relevance and punch of An Ideal Office. To accommodate the demand for more performances, TNP Husband to today’s politics. It’s funny, it’s relevant. It’s a great rehas added performances on Tuesday, May 25 and Tuesday June entry to the theatre” says executive artistic director Bryce 8 at 7:30 p.m. Those interested can visit www.NaplesPlayers.org Alexander. anytime or call the box office at 239-263-7990.

Charlotte Players present You Should Be So Lucky

Award-winning playwright Charles Busch, who penned Charlotte Players’ May offering, You Should Be So Lucky, is also an actor, screenwriter and female impersonator. He is known for his appearances on stage, film and television.

If you’re not familiar with Busch, a couple of his other play titles might give you an idea of where he’s coming from: Vampire Lesbians of Sodom and Psycho Beach Party. Both are considered classics by audiences and critics alike.

“I have always believed that every individual we encounter in our lives is sent for the purpose of helping us become a better person,” said Diane Messina, who is directing You Should Be So Lucky. “An unconventional storyteller, 10 - MAY 2021

Charles Busch captures this philosophy with unusual friendships, quirky antics and unexpected events.”

The play has been described as a contemporary Cinderella story set in Greenwich Village and reminiscent of the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s.

Christopher, a shy and eccentric young electrologist, helps an elderly millionaire, Seymour Rosenberg, when the old man faints in the street.

Rosenberg, touched by the young man's generous spirit, becomes his benefactor and sends Christopher off to a fabulous charity ball where he meets his Prince Charming, in the form of a neurotic young publicist named Walter. Fate takes a turn when Rosenberg dies suddenly of a heart attack in

Christopher's electrologist chair and leaves half of his millions to Christopher.

The other half of the estate goes to Rosenberg's fiercely embittered daughter, Lenore, who threatens to contest the will.

Christopher doesn't stand a chance against the suburban matron from hell until Rosenberg shows up as a ghost, seen only

by Christopher. Christopher and Lenore plead their case on an Oprah Winfrey-like show hosted by Wanda Wilson.

Audiences only have seven opportunities to see You Should Be So Lucky, which opens at the Langdon Playhouse in Port Charlotte at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 14.

There are four other evening performances and 2 p.m. matinees on Sunday, May 16 and 23. Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for students and may be ordered at www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling 941255-1022 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Monday through Friday. The Langdon Playhouse is located at 1182 Market Circle.

Happenings Magazine

A Bronx Tale at Broadway Palm

film in which he made his Broadway Palm directorial debut. presents A Bronx Tale Broadway Palm is conplaying now through tinuing to follow CDC May 22. guidelines while providing This streetwise a delicious meal and musical is based on exceptional entertainment Academy Award in a safe and socially disnominee Chazz tanced environment. For a Palminteri’s story that list of the extensive health The New York Times and safety measures they hails as “A Critics’ have taken, visit Pick! The kind of tale www.BroadwayPalm.com. that makes you laugh It is important to note that and cry.” guests are required to This hit crowdwear masks while not eatpleaser takes you to ing or drinking. a working class Performances are Italian American Wednesday through neighborhood in the Daniel Rosenbaum as Sonny and Ashton Heathcoat as young Sunday evenings with Bronx in the 1960s Calogero in A Bronx Tale at Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers. select matinees. Tickets where a young man is are $48 to $73. Children caught between the table story of loyalty, love, respect and group prices are available. father he loves and the mob boss and most importantly, family.

Tickets can be reserved by callhe would love to be.

The musical was adapted by ing 239-278-4422, visiting Bursting with high-energy dance Palminteri’s 1989 one-man show www.BroadwayPalm.com or at numbers and original doo-wop and that same show was also 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. tunes, A Bronx Tale is an unforgetmade into the 1993 Robert De Niro

Cultural Park Theater

Aaron Caruso

presents

BY DAVID

Aaron Caruso and his tribute to “The Italian Crooners” celebrates the music of the world’s best Italian vocalists from Dean Martin to Paul Anka to Mario Lanza.

Special thanks to our theatre sponsors

528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

Happenings Magazine

MAMET

April 30, May 1, May 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 at 8 pm

MAY 28 - 30

CALL FOR

RACE

THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA

May 2, 9 & 15 at 2 p.m.

This show features strong adult language and mature themes

LIVE ON STAGE!

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave. Downtown Fort Myers MAY 2021 - 11

ART

ACT Gallery features Amanda Zirzow

The Arts for ACT Gallery will showcase the original artwork of Amanda Zirzow during her first solo exhibition themed “A Starry Night in May.” The opening reception will be Friday, May 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. at ACT Gallery and Amanda’s artwork will be on display during the entire month of May. Amanda Zirzow is a prolific, self-taught artist and an Arts for ACT Gallery member artist and volunteer. Her bold, colorful, expressionist style of artwork is inspired by encounters from wildlife and her scuba diving adventures.

Combined with her unique style, she washes her subjects with texture and colors only found in her imagination. Her highcontrast style with bright colors and bold outlines draws the viewer in and sparks that wow factor.

Additionally, much of Amanda’s art is framed with hand-built wood frames constructed from discarded crab and lobster traps that add a unique, one-of-a-kind look and texture that are as original and unique as the art it encloses.

“Studying the life and works of Van Gogh has been a huge inspiration for me to chase my dreams and work hard,” says Amanda. A Starry Night in May will feature new original artwork with creatures from the

land and sea under the setting of the Starry Night, inspired by one of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings.

Since graduating from George Mason University with a Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences in 2011, Amanda has worked in research labs as a biologist and taught college biology, genetics, and microbiology.

When Amanda moved to Florida in 2016, she worked at Florida SouthWestern State College teaching and managing science laboratories. The natural beauty of South Florida and the wonderful art community encouraged Amanda to paint at every opportunity.

When the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a quarantine, she turned to her first love and passion in life, art. Amanda loves helping others and when she found out she could make a difference in the lives of others by sharing her art and raising money through the sales of her art, she knew this was her path.

Amanda founded Zirzow Gallery, a digital art gallery to showcase and sell her original artwork, in March 2020. In January 2021, she made the move to follow her dreams to pursue a career as a full-time professional artist.

Amanda Zirzow

Arts for ACT Gallery is located at 2265 First St. in Downtown Fort Myers. For more information, visit www.zirzowgallery.com.

ArtSmack is back at Neenies’s House May 23

ArtSmack is the fine art event when Neenie’s House highlights a local artist’s work.

A generous selection of the artist’s works are displayed, along with music and refreshments. On Sunday, May 23 from 1 to 5 p.m., artist Gil Sanchez will be featured with his incredible sculptures.

Gil is a self-taught artist, whose work has exhibited and won many awards.

They include showing at Naples Art, Center of the Arts Bonita Springs, Alliance of the Arts, COCO Art Gallery in Estero and BIG ARTS on Sanibel. His subjects can be the family pet to nightclub singers.

His works are full size, so the Peace Plaza at Neenie’s House is the perfect showplace for his fantastic artworks. The open air venue will have many of his imaginative, realistic sculptures of manatees, owls, cats and dogs, and much more. Gil also has serious pieces, dealing with loss and anxiety. This show will truly engage the emotional ranges of his art.

12 - MAY 2021

Gil Sanchez

Gil’s prolific artworks result from a neardeath work related fall. In his rehabilitation, he became more serious about doing his art, and it went from a hobby to his passion and profession. He is truly an example of human courage and faith. And from this, we have his wonderful works to enjoy.

Janeen Vanko, the owner of Neenie’s House, wants to see more sculpture, and large art, for the community. Her arts and cultural emporium supports music, fashion and written arts. For the last two years she has tried to create a bohemian, funky, scene in her East Palm neighborhood. With ArtSmack coming back, this only adds to her already happening events of ArtGrooves, Sunset Yoga and the weekly East Palm Mercado (on Saturdays and Sundays). And don’t forget Love Your Rebellion’s Zine Library is at Neenie’s. “So please, support the arts, and the East Palm neighborhood, and put some funk in Fort Myers,” says Janeen.

Neenie’s House is located at 481 Marsh Ave. (just off Palm Beach Boulevard). For more info, visit online at www.neenieshouse.com or call 224-678-4901.

Happenings Magazine

Davis Art Center unveils rooftop sculpture garden

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is announcing a full passion for balancing matter and spirit through color and open house of the entire building on Friday, May 7 during Art design has fueled ambiguity in his works, creating what Walk from 6 to 10 p.m. he calls a series of Unfunctional Function. Abuela Come see the brand new Sidney’s rooftop sculpture garden invites the viewer into a contemplation of oneself and reception area, enjoy a walk through of the Davis School while gazing directly into his own reflection. of Music classroom, check out Six Fingers Recording In contrast to Unfunctional Function, the Studios, and view the two newest exhibitions.

Functional Art group exhibit is being shown in Unfunctional Function, a solo art show from the the Capital Gallery as it illustrates quite simply beautiful mind of artist Juan Abuela, will be exhibthat we live in a world of practicality. ited in the Grand Atrium. And showing The long awaited opening of Sidney’s in the Capital Gallery is a contrasting rooftop sculpture garden and reception area exhibition where artists of many talis finally at hand. Join the vast art community ents were invited to participate in the as they celebrate the sharing of this phenomeFunctional Art group show. nal space atop the roof of the Sidney & Berne The unusual art show Unfunctional Davis Art Center on the evening of Friday, May Function offers another look at how things 7. Brand new at Sidney’s will be the serving of are used, or not used. Things are not Sidney’s signature cocktails while everyone always what they appear to be once peruses the newest works of art including the stripped of their functions. Striving to find spectacularly colorful Heaven’s Gate mural, crebalance by grasping at the intangible ated by Artsemble Underground's Cesar inner workings of the human mind, artist Aguilera and Brian Weaver. Enjoy a bird’s eye Juan Abuela bends the unbendable, makes view of the River District and take a walk workable the unworkable, and takes the through the sophisticated sculptures temporariimpossible into the possibilities. ly on display from Miami artists. These high-calAbuela comes from a long line of artists iber pieces will most assuredly please the eye. and carpenters originating from the Republic The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is of Cuba which is how he came to love the located at 2301 First St. in the historic downway simple timbers respond to his hands. He town Fort Myers River District. Visit somehow hears its call to become what it wants www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933 for more to become rather than what is expected. His information.

Artist Juan Abuela

Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 13

ART

Florida Girls and Boys and Their Toys exhibit in Bonita

Leesburg Boys with their go-cart (front), hand car and tricycle, probably 1910s.

The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs presents Florida Girls and Boys and Their Toys, a traveling art exhibition from the Museum of Florida History.

The exhibit is on display May 3 through July 28 at the Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road.

You're never too old to appreciate toys! In fact, as we get older, it's hard to erase the excitement we felt from owning a favorite toy.

Though toys have changed over time—plastics have replaced metals and corners aren't so sharp—they still occupy a very important place in our lives. Journey back through time and recapture the way that children have played with toys throughout history.

To find out more about the centers and their programs, call 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

DAAS Co-Op welcomes artist Junior Jimenez In the month of May, DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is presenting the art of Puerto Rican artist Junior Jimenez.

The exhibition, entitled Game of Life, Art During the Pandemic, proposes iconography and symbolism, conveying the struggle for control during this past year. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, May 7 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk.

The exhibition will be on display through May 29.

Junior Jiménez was born on July 16, 1967, in Paterson, N.J., to Puerto Rican parents.

When he was four years old, his family moved to Camuy, a small town in north Puerto Rico. From early childhood, he was intrigued by the power of religious iconography, the symbolism found mostly in the Catholic Church and also visible in the Taíno and African cultures, which are part of Puerto Ricans’ DNA. The island’s colonial architecture, his childhood passion for archeology, and future visual references from the pop culture of the 60s, 70s and 80s would come together and emerge as the defining influence on his body of work. He attended the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón

14 - MAY 2021

in San Juan, Puerto Rico and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Kean University in New Jersey. His long career in the advertising world both as an art director and a creative became the launchpad for his future career in the visual arts.

“As a mixed media artist, I always like to incorporate my own photographs into my pieces and develop them into a multilayered artistic statement. Originally, I wanted to use portraits and photos of

random people in the streets walking amid the invisible enemy.

But going out and exposing myself to the virus was not an option,” comments Jimenez, who uses mixed media as a way to represent his ideas. “So, for the main visuals, I decided to use my personal collection of vintage photo portraits from the 1800’s.

The dead would have a chance to come back to life to warn us of the devastation that could follow in the wake of the pandemic,” adds the artist.

DAAS Co-Op is also starting a series of classes hosted by published author Winslow E. Dixon, starting in May 2021.

Topics include book publishing, selfcare and homeopathic home living, among others. For a class schedule and sign-up link visit www.daascoop.com/events.

The gallery invites all Southwest Florida art collectors, supporters and enthusiasts to join them for the opening reception May 7. 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.

Happenings Magazine

Alliance for the Arts announces

artists for billboard campaign

The Alliance for the Arts has announced the participating artists of Art Lives Here. The campaign transforms billboard space throughout Lee County into public art. It is made possible by Alliance season sponsor Carter Outdoor.

Of the submitted works, the Art Lives Here committee juried in local artists Tania Alves, Bruce MacKechnie, Doug Smithwick, Khaysie Tiburcio and Susi Wingenroth.

The project, now in its third year, aims to bring artwork outside of the traditional context of museum and gallery walls, bringing attention to

“Fandiggity Fandango” by Bruce MacKechnie emerging artists' work and making the arts accessible to all.

For more info, call 239-939-2787 or visit www.ArtInLee.org.

NEENIE’S HOUSE presents

ArtSmack Gil Sanchez • Amazing Sculpture

Sunday, May 23 1 - 5 pm • Free event and parking

481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers

224.678.4901 l www.NeeniesHouse.com Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 15

Arts & Eats Café opens as part of Union Artist Studios ART

A new and exciting their studios, and seeing eating and art experiall the art is just someence is coming to thing I always wanted to Southwest Florida in experience.” – add the May. artist, who also owns and Arts & Eats Café is co-founded DAAS Co-Op opening its doors as part Art Gallery in the Butterfly of the Union Artist Estates campus.

Studios expansion, in The artists at The the Alliance for the Arts Union are thrilled to be campus. The idea, envipart of this project. Some sioned by award winning ended up transitioning visual artist and entrefrom the second floor in preneur David Acevedo the original space and and his partner Jamie others newly joined.

Burnette, is unique to “Our artists family our area. Guests will grew,” says muralist and have the opportunity to long-time Union artist Erik order and eat scrumpSchlake. “We can’t wait to tious sandwiches (or see everyone coming by handhelds), pastries, to enjoy the art, the food desserts, coffees, teas and the coffees,” adds and even Italian sodas, Schlake, who recently while strolling artists stucompleted a series of dios and shop local cremurals as part of the David Acevedo and Jamie Burnette at the new Arts & Eats Cafe ations.

McCollum Hall restoraThe official opening tion. day is scheduled for The new café owners Saturday, May 1 starting at 9 a.m. During its first weeks, the café invite all Southwest Florida foodies, art lovers, supporters and hours will be limited to weekends and events. enthusiasts to support this new artsy venue located at 10051 “As far as I know, this concept is unique,” says Acevedo, who McGregor Blvd, suite 101, in Fort Myers (corner of Colonial and created and founded the Union Artist Studios in 2012 as an effort McGregor). More information and updates in hours and events to have an organized studio space for local artists. “The idea of will be posted in the café’s Facebook page at facebook.com/artcoming into this cool coffee shop, then hanging out with artists at sandeats.

Marcus Jansen solo exhibit at Baker Museum

Artis—Naples announced the Courtney McNeil, museum director first solo museum exhibition in and chief curator, The Baker Museum, Southwest Florida for internationaladded, “Since the 1990s, Marcus ly exhibited artist Marcus Jansen of Jansen has been creating powerful, Southwest Florida. painterly works of art that critically The exhibition – Marcus explore urgent topics, from industrial Jansen: Two Decades of agriculture to the impacts of gentrificaRelevance – opened April 24 and tion on city dwellers. He has experiis part of the season-long celebraenced a meteoric rise over the past tion of the 20th anniversary of The few years, as art audiences in the Baker Museum. The exhibition will United States and Europe have be on view at The Baker Museum embraced artists with the ability to in Naples through July 25. compellingly portray the issues and Kathleen van Bergen, CEO and tensions that shape our lives in these president, said “We are honored to challenging and complicated times. be welcoming Marcus Jansen and Jansen is not only sensitively attuned his work to The Baker Museum, to the world around him, but he is also Marcus Jansen, Rural America, 2018. Oil enamels, oil especially while celebrating the a dazzling practitioner of an expresstick, paper, cloth and spray paint on canvas. 50 x 74 museum’s 20th anniversary. We sive, gestural style of painting that inches. From the collection of Corrado and Christina. have been thrilled to safely open arrests the viewer’s attention with its our doors this season to the comvibrancy and energy.” munity, and we invite everyone to For Baker Museum hours and inforand intellectual, and he has built an interexperience Marcus’ show. Marcus’ works mation about other exhibits, visit online at national reputation for fully engaging the are simultaneously emotional, introspective www.artisnaples.org or call 239-597-1111. viewer in critical topics about our world.”

16 - MAY 2021

Happenings Magazine

MUSIC

Bonita International Film Festival May 21 - 23 The annual Bonita International Film Festival returns May 21 - 23.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of film. This exciting threeday event presents carefully curated narrative, documentary, animation and short films from around the world, plus, live music, workshops, Q & A sessions with filmmakers and more.

Opening Night Party, Film & Concert Your premium tickets include a cocktail reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, screening of the 2020 comedy/drama Paint (the story of three friends from art school who struggle to start their careers in the bizarre New York City art world, while trying to get by in life and figure themselves out) and an exciting performance by seven-piece band NightBird, The Ultimate Tribute to Stevie Nicks.

The closing night party of BIFF on May 23 will include a musical tribute to Meat Loaf.

Friday’s events start with a cocktail party at 5 p.m., film at 6 p.m. and the concert at 8 p.m.

For a complete schedule of films and festival events, visit www.artcenterbonita.org/biff

Nightbird - The Ultimate Tribute to Stevie Nicks will perform May 21 at the opening night of the Bonita International Film Festival.

Closing Night Party, Film, Awards & Concert Your premium tickets include a cocktail reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, screening of the 2020 documentary The Last Sermon (filmmakers travel across Europe to uncover the truth about Islam, terrorism, refugee camps and healing music) and awards ceremony, followed by an engaging concert with a tribute band paying homage to operatic rock legend Meat Loaf.

Sunday’s event starts with a cocktail party at 5 p.m., film and awards at 6 p.m. and the concert at 8 p.m.

For more information, call the Centers for the Art Bonita Springs at 239-495-8989 or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

Bonita Springs Concert Band to play May 9

The next free concert with the Bonita Springs Concert Band will be Sunday, May 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Riverside Park in Downtown Old Bonita Springs.

The band will have a special Mother’s Day Musical Celebration in tribute to mom. The concert will feature musical highlights from the 2020-21 season.

Heather Ivy and Mark Sanders will return to repeat their vocal performances, and George Sims will perform on bagpipes with the band. The new guest performer with be Ansel Norris, assistant principal trumpet with the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra.

The band is half its normal size follow18 - MAY 2021

Heather Ivie

Mark Sanders

ing Covid guidelines for social distancing.

Members are under the direction of Gary

Smith who retired after 24 years as conductor of the University of Illinois Marching Illini Band and Symphonic Band. This is the 7th 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. The concert will also be available on Facebook at Bonita Springs Concert Band.

Bring a lawn chair and a friend Sunday, May 9. Attendees are asked to wear a mask into the park and socially distance per CDC guidelines.

Happenings Magazine

Gulfshore Opera will present Puccini’s Tosca in spring 2022

Puccini's Tosca, a grand opera production with professional orchestra and chorus, is scheduled for April 26, 2022, at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers.

Gulfshore Opera returns to Barbara B. Mann after their successful debut of La Bohème in January, the first full production at the venue since the COVID -19.

The three-act opera will be performed in Italian with English supertitles, lush costumes, and The Batʼs Revenge will be presented Feb. 24 in original sets. It opens on April 24, Punta Gorda.

2022, at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center in Punta Gorda.

Tosca is a political thriller set in At its core, Tosca is tale of romance Rome in June 1800, during the over politics, featuring a heroic painter, Napoleonic wars and a time of great Cavaradossi, a despicable police chief, political unrest. Listed as #5 of the top Scarpia and an opera superstar, Tosca ten best operas of all time, Tosca is a herself! Featured in this opera are two lethal opera where both the good and of the most famous powerful arias ever the bad guys all perish by the end. The written, “Vissi d'arte” and “E lucevan le action takes place in less than 24 hours, stelle.” making it an intense experience!

Gulfshore Opera will mount a fun

Happenings Magazine

new concept of “The Bat’s Revenge” or Die Fledermaus, moving the action to a time period modern audiences can relate to; the Golden Age of Hollywood. This delightful production, sung in English, will tour Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties mid-February next year.

With a new setting and libretto for Die Fledermaus, director and librettist Josh Shaw hopes to make a little more sense of things with the use of movie magic. It's not so hard to believe that an actress would have access to her Hungarian Princess costume from a recent picture, that her maid is an aspiring chorus girl, that a mysterious Russian playboy has come to town to throw around some money, or that a matinee idol has a panache for the ladies and is in a little hot water with the local police.

Tickets go on sale this summer. For more information, go to www.gulfshoreopera.org or call us at 239-529-3925.

MAY 2021 - 19

MUSIC

Blues series at Coconut Falls

The blues concert series continues in May at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill in Fort Myers.

May’s blues series continues includes Nigel Mack Band on May 2, Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia on May 16, Albert Castiglia Band on May 23 and Frank Bang on May 30.

All shows are on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 with $5 off your entree purchase.

Nigel Mack Chicago blues “triple threat” (slide guitar, harmonica and vocals) Nigel Mack delivers a high-energy show that fuses blues classics with the punch of contemporary original blues. Seamlessly switching between instruments, Nigel Mack is equally proficient at them all.

These are talents honed by years of relentless touring in support of his critically acclaimed CDs, Devil’s Secrets, Road Rage and High Price to Play.

Nigel’s latest release, the award winning, all-original, Devil’s Secrets, was the #1 Canadian blues CD of 2012, nationwide in Canada on Galaxy Satellite radio. Mack’s original compositions have been featured on television sound-tracks for Dawson’s Creek, The Street and Time of Your Life.

Mike Zito He may be one of the most lauded artists in the contemporary blues

20 - MAY 2021

Mike Zito

Nigel Mack

arena today, and rightfully so, but for Mike Zito, the thing that counts the most is maintaining his honesty, authenticity and integrity. Those are the qualities that have steered Zito’s career since the beginning and continue to define every effort he’s offered since. Zito’s 16th album is descriptively titled Rock N Roll: A Tribute to Chuck Berry, finds him broadening his boundaries still further even as it marks a return to his roots. The album consists of 20 Chuck Berry classics performed by Zito and an impressive array of 21 guest guitarists, among them Joe Bonamassa, Walter Trout, Eric Gales, Robben Ford, Sonny Landreth, Luther Dickinson, Albert Castiglia, Anders Osborne and, significantly, Chuck’s grandson, Charles Berry III. Albert Castiglia As most artists will attest, the most unexpected circumstance can spark artistic inspiration. That’s a fact that hasn’t been lost on singer, songwriter and guitarist extraordinaire Albert Castiglia. With his latest album, the aptly named Masterpiece, he celebrates an unfore-

seen triumph -- a connection with a daughter he never knew he had.

The result is a work that’s both personal and provocative all at the same time.

Castiglia calls this the most meaningful album he’s ever made.

“My daughter finding me and opening up my world to an additional family, including two grandchildren, brought out the deepest material I’ve ever created,” he notes, “along with my wife, they were my muses.” Indeed, songs such as “Keep On Swinging,” “Masterpiece” and “Bring on the Rain” address the unexpected emotions that infused his psyche with the discovery of a family he never knew.

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.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill is located at 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers. For more info, call 239-9909901, visit www.coconutfalls.com or follow them on Facebook.

Albert Castiglia

Happenings Magazine

David Mayfield Parade at Davis Art Center May 21

In celebration of bluegrass American roots music, the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center presents the David Mayfield Parade on Friday, May 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Grammy & Emmy nominated producer David Mayfield on guitar, mandolin and vocals joins two-time National Bluegrass Banjo Champion Steven Moore, and former member of The Railsplitters, Christine King on fiddle and vocals, multiinstrumentalist Andrew Bonnis on bass and vocals and former member of Cadillac Sky. Together, they parade into town for a lighthearted, fun-filled night of harmony, hot licks and laughs the whole family can enjoy.

David Mayfield grew up playing bass and touring with his family’s bluegrass

band. As a teenager he established himself as a hot picker collecting national awards for his dexterity on guitar and mandolin. His knack for colorful performances was evident as a backing player

in his sister Jessica Lea Mayfield’s band including their appearance on “The Late Show with David Letterman.”

He oozes personality on stage - a trait that makes him a natural frontman.

He took his skills and personality when he joined the bluegrass outfit Cadillac Sky, playing sold out shows with British folk revivalists Mumford and Sons. Around then Mayfield began writing songs after hearing artists like Randy Newman and Simon & Garfunkel.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door.

For more information, visit www.sbdac.com or call 239-333-1933.

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

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

Check our Facebook page

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.

Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 21

MUSIC

Sister Hazel

Drew Copeland (left) and Ken Block (right) of Sister Hazel

Sister Hazel performed an acoustic show April 16 at The Ranch Concert Hall and Saloon in Fort Myers. photos by Jamie Kuser

TheatreZone announces 2022 concerts

TheatreZone in Naples has announced its 20212022 season concerts.

The concert series includes the return of the extremely popular Mersey Beatles, who have sold out shows on its stage for the past four seasons, as well as a world premiere and three great new concerts: Simon & Garfunkel: Live in Central Park, revisited; The Feud: Sinatra & Rosselli, Two Guys from Hoboken; The Mersey Beatles; Mack is Back: The Music of Bobby Darin; and Larry Alexander: Broadway and Back.

TheatreZone’s first concert event of the season, Simon & Garfunkel: Live in Central Park, revisited, will be presented at 4 and 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 17, 2022. In September 1981, this iconic folk rock duo’s free benefit concert drew 500,000 people and became the seventh-largest concert attended to date in U.S. history. Performed with proceeds benefiting the redevelopment and maintenance of Central Park, the set list for this tribute concert includes such hits as “The Sound of Silence,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “The Boxer” and “Late in the Evening.”

On Jan. 29, at 2 and 7:30 p.m., TheatreZone will host the world premiere of The Feud: Sinatra & Roselli: Two Guys 22 - MAY 2021

from Hoboken, The Story and The Music. The Feud is based on the 40 plus-year professional and personal relationship between Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Roselli, both great singers who lived on the same block in Hoboken, N.J. Once Sinatra was hired by Harry James, his career skyrocketed, and he became a legend in motion pictures as well as music. Roselli, on the other hand, was a true saloon singer, working in small nightclubs and beer halls for years until he started to achieve success in his early thirties.

“The world premiere of The Feud is a fascinating story with a unique premise, and it features songs everyone will know and enjoy,” says Danni. “It’s a memory play

by Dennis DelleFave, the former road manager for Jimmy Roselli, and it illustrates so many of the different stories and events that he lived through.”

The Mersey Beatles will return to TheatreZone’s stage on Feb. 22 (4 and 7:30 p.m.) to perform its all-new “Favorites of Naples” show. These fan-favorite concerts include beautifully designed costumes, as well as replica guitars, amplifiers and drums, creating an authentic look and

sound of the Beatles. Like the original Fab Four, The Mersey Beatles are a band from the great city of Liverpool. These childhood friends share a love of Beatles music, and will perform hits spanning 40+ years, with special emphasis on the songs TheatreZone’s Naples audience espouses.

Mack is Back: The Music of Bobby Darin will be presented on Feb. 24 at 4 and 7:30 p.m. Grammy Award-winning American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, film and television actor. This special show honors the legacy of Darin’s career, which spans genres and generations, with popular songs like “Splish Splash,” “Mack The Knife,” “Dream Lover,” “Beyond the Sea,” “Artificial Flowers,” “Clementine,” “That’s All,” and more.

On March 14 at 7:30 p.m., fan favorite Larry Alexander returns to TheatreZone for one performance of Larry Alexander: Broadway and Back…, the story of how a boy from Tampa gets to New York and ends up in one the greatest musicals in Broadway history. The show will include some of the audience’s favorite Broadway songs as well as stories about the people, some famous, some not, that he met along the way.

For tickets and information, visit www.theatre.zone or call 888-966-3352 x1.

TheatreZone is located in-residence at the G&L Theatre on the Community School of Naples campus, 13275 Livingston Road., Naples.

Happenings Magazine

IN CONCERT

PERFORMANCES IN SW FLORIDA,

AUG 6

Slightly Stoopid

Key West Amphitheater

SUN COAST & KEY WEST

AUG 20

Tedeschi Trucks Band BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

APR 29

Blackberry Smoke

SEP 10

Alan Parsons Live Project

Bertʼs Back Porch, Port Charlotte

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAY 4

Old Dominion

Key West Amphitheater

MAY 7

Pryor and Lee

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 8 Kansas

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAY 14

Marshall Tucker Band The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 16

The Beach Boys

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAY 20

Koe Wetzel

The Ranch, Fort Myers

MAY 22 & 23 Foreigner

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

MAY 23

Sammy Hagar & The Circle

Key West Amphitheater

MAY 25

Mike Tramp, John Corabi

The Ranch, Fort Myers 24 - MAY 2021

Rebelution

SEP 19

Sammy Hagar & The Circle

Rams Heads Presents Sammy Hagar & The Circle at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West on May 23 at 7 p.m. For tickets and information, visit online at www.thekeywestamp.com. photo by Leah Steiger

Key West Amphitheater

OCT 2

Little River Band

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

John Michael Montgomery

The Ranch, Fort Myers

OCT 17

Pat Benetar & Neil Giraldo

MAY 28

Red Clay Strays

JUN 17

JUN 4

Allman Betts Band

JUN 22

Rodney Atkins

Ann Wilson of Heart

OCT 21

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUL 2

OCT 22

The Ranch, Fort Myers Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

JUN 5

Jerrod Niemann

Kix, Vixen

The Ranch, Fort Myers BB Mann Hall, Fort Myers

Justin Lee Partin

The Ranch, Fort Myers

The Ranch, Fort Myers

JUL 23

JUN 11

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Alabama

Hertz Arena, Estero

JUN 13

Travis Tritt

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net

Firefall, Poco & Pure Prairie League

JUL 24

Slaughter, L.A. Guns The Ranch, Fort Myers

AUG 5 Styx

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

Collie Buddz

The Ranch, Fort Myers

Casting Crowns, Matthew West Hertz Arena, Estero

NOV 19

Chris Stapleton, Sheryl Crow Hertz Arena, Estero

DEC 3

Toby Keith

Hertz Arena, Estero

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

Marshall Tucker Band, Rodney Atkins, Jerrod Niemann & more at The Ranch

The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon has added more shows to its 2021 schedule of rock and country artists.

The Sam Galloway Ford Concert Series welcomes Pryor and Lee on May 7, Rodney Atkins on June 4, Jerrod Niemann on June 5, John Michael Montgomery on Oct. 2 and The LACS and Demun Jones on Dec. 4.

Other concerts at The Ranch Concert Hall (not part of the Galloway series) include the Marshall Tucker Band on May 14, Koe Wetzel on May 20, Mike Tramp and John Corabi on May 25, The Red Clay Strays on May 28, Kix and Vixen on June 17, Justin Lee Partin on July 2, In the End-Linkin Park Experience on July 22, Slaughter and L.A. Guns on July 24 and Collie Buddz on Oct. 21.

Marshall Tucker Band

Gold Entertainment presents the Marshall Tucker Band at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon on Friday, May 14.

The Marshall Tucker Band is Doug Gray

Rodney Atkins - June 4 photo by Jamie Kuser

Happenings Magazine

which also set the record for longest-running single in Billboard Country Air play history at 57 weeks.

Rodney’s latest single “A Little Good News” is available now.

Marshall Tucker Band - May 14

– lead vocals, B.B. Borden – drums, Tony Black – bass / vocals, Marcus James Henderson – keyboards / saxophone / flute / vocals, Chris Hicks – guitar / vocals and Rick Willis – guitar / vocals.

Whenever you drop that proverbial quarter into the virtual jukebox of songs that always manage to reach down and touch your soul the exact moment you cue them up, you inevitably find certain artists have a deeper resonance than others when it comes to providing the soundtrack that mirrors the highs and lows of your own life. The Marshall Tucker Band is one such group that continues to have a profound level of impact on successive generations of listeners who’ve been searchin’ for a rainbow and found it perfectly represented by this tried-and-true Southern institution for over five decades.

Rodney Atkins With eight Top 5 singles, six No. 1s, and 1 Billion career on-demand streams under his belt, Atkins is one of Country music’s most prominent artists.

Continuing to be recognized as a powerful voice on Country radio, his Platinum-selling No. 1 “Watching You” earned the songwriter a BMI “Million-Air” award and the top spot on Country Aircheck’s top-played songs of the decade list. Atkins was the second most-played male artist of the decade overall. He has also sold over 11 million units and earned ten career Gold, Platinum and Multi-Platinum RIAA certifications to date, including his latest Gold-certified single, “Caught Up In The Country (feat.The Fisk Jubilee Singers),”

Jerrod Niemann After almost a decade as a major-label artist, prolific Nashville hitmaker Jerrod Niemann has put his heart on his sleeve like never before with the patriotic anthem, “Old Glory.”

Describing the resolute ballad as “100 percent heart, zero percent politics,” the singer-songwriter wrote the track in honor of U.S. soldiers following the 2017 Tongo Tongo ambush in Niger.

A veteran of multiple USO Tours, Niemann knew how much those heroes were willing to sacrifice in the name of duty – from missing their children’s first steps and soccer games to holidays, anniversaries and so much more. He performed “Old Glory” live for the first time during that year’s USO Holiday Tour, and is now bringing it to the American public. Also in 2017, Niemann dug deep into his journey for criticallyacclaimed album THIS RIDE – which includes the feel-good jam, “I Got This,” the uplifting duet “A Little More Love” (with Lee Brice) and the classy romance of “God Made a Woman.” Known for clever wordplay and attention-grabbing lyrics, the engaging singer-songwriter topped country charts with his Platinumcertified anthem “Drink to That All Night,” a multi-week #1 from the 2014 album High Noon – on which he cowrote eight of the 12 tracks.

The Ranch is still adhering to limited capacity for concerts and events.

Schedules are changing constantly, and ticket buyers are advised to always check with the venue before the event.

For tickets and details, go to www.theranchfortmyers.com. The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839.

For most concerts, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, which is located at 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

MAY 2021 - 25

Fort Myers Film Festival FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

May 12 - 16 at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and other venues

The 11th Annual Fort Myers Film Festival will be held May 12 - 16 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, along with other select venues around Southwest Florida.

The festivities begin May 12 with the Black Tie Red Carpet Opening Night Gala followed by movie screenings May 13 – 16.

The Black Tie Red Carpet Opening Night Gala will be celebrated with excitement and style May 12 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center at 7 p.m. The event will begin with the red carpet rolling out, paparazzi clicking and doors opening at 5:30 p.m. for drinks, mingling nad musical entertainment with local and international filmmakers prior to the featured movie. Tickets are $15 for movie only or $100 for movie and VIP meet and greet.

Guests will enjoy a full bar and a chance to meet with the stars of the evening’s film, other filmmakers and event VIPs. For VIP guests, the event will provide delicious food and beverages.

Join the festival for all of the programming at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and other event centers around town. The official films selected for the 2021 Fort Myers Film Festival will include movies in the categories features, documentaries, shorts, short shorts, strictly local, student and environment. Films and short film blocks are $10 the rest of the festival with an option for an all day pass for $20. Participants’ and attendees’ safety

The red carpet opening night gala is May 12 at the Davis Art Center.

will be prioritized with organizers implementing reduced capacity with spaced seating, extra sanitization measures, strongly encouraging the use of masks, and social distancing.

On Sunday, May 16, meet all of the local and international filmmakers as we celebrate the winners of the Fort Myers Film Festival at the closing award ceremony. Champagne and dessert will be shared, short award winning films will be played and toasts will be deservedly announced.

The Fort Myers Film Festival is an intelligent independent filmmaker's preferred event to create, unite and showcase the finest artistic cinematic works. The Fort Myers Film Festival, founded by Eric Raddatz, is known for world-class swagger and support of local filmmakers. The festival event offers “the most vibrant intellectual and edgy crowd to grace Lee County in decades.”

The event has featured hundreds of local filmmakers and is a must attend for cinema lovers who like indie film and film festivals living in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District. Go online for listing and tickets at www.sbdac.com/fortmyers-film-festival-2021

Edison & Ford Estates hosts festival May 14

Fort Myers Film Festival founder Eric Raddatz 26 - MAY 2021

On May 14 at 7:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Fort Myers Film Festival. Four films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River where guests will watch movies under the stars.

Films include an Edison silent picture, a production featuring the late Sam Galloway, Jr. and two originals, "Stay Wild" and "A

Greenlander." The site is one of several locations hosting the Film Festival.

The event is fitting since Thomas Edison invented the motion picture camera. His first films were without sound, but nonetheless groundbreaking for the time.

Tickets are $10 for Edison Ford members, $15 for nonmembers and may be purchased online at www.EdisonFord.org.

Happenings Magazine

Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 27

FORT MYERS RIVER DISTRICT

McCollum Hall murals celebrate rich history

www.FortMyersMuralSociety.com

The Fort Myers Mural Society and the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency partnered with local artists Erik Schlake and J.P. Almonacid to celebrate and capture the essence of McCollum Hall, a cultural center of the community in the 1940s and 50s. McCollum Hall is located at the intersection of Cranford Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. The murals adorn a wall separating the hall from the Dunbar neighborhood.

Dean Park historic walking tour

Dean Park Historic District, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Fort Myers, is making its neighborhood walking tour – and its new “Dean Park Historic Walking Tour” brochure -- available throughout the year.

This past December, Dean Park welcomed hundreds of visitors to the neighborhood with a “Holiday Stroll” brochure – a self-guided walking tour brochure available in a kiosk at the Dean Park Triangle, a small park recently refurbished with new plantings by the City of Fort Myers and located at the intersection of Cranford Avenue and Providence Street .

“We were pretty amazed at all the people who came to visit our neighborhood. We printed a thousand brochures, and only had a few brochures left at the end of December,” said Sheila Pastor, chair of the event. “Most people walked through the 28 - MAY 2021

neighborhood, but quite a few picked up the brochures, then drove around in their cars, too.”

The brochure has now been reprinted and updated for use yearround. It features 50 homes in Dean Park, where the first home was built in 1916, and has a photo and brief history of each home. Many of the homes are in the Craftsman style so popular in the 1920s. Other houses are in the Spanish Revival and Colonial Revival styles.

Just one mile east of downtown Fort Myers, Dean Park was designated as a historic district in 1997 and was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.

The walking tour map and more information on all Dean Park houses is available at www.deanpark.org. Click on “MAP” to download the interactive map with links to a description of each home in Dean Park.

Happenings Magazine

FIRST FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH (rain or shine) 6 PM

The next Art Walk is set for May 7.

THIRD FRIDAYS EVERY MONTH 6 PM

The next Music Walk is May 21.

Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 29

DINING

IN

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

30 - MAY 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 all-day 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 Bourbon Pecan French Toast is made with thicklysliced bread dunked in a sweetened egg wash. Cooked until golden brown and served hot off the griddle with a topping of bourbon and brown sugar glazed apples and pecans and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

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

Ichiban Japanese & Chinese

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

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

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

Oxbow Bar & Grill

For lunch at the new Oxbow Bar & Grill, try the Baja Style Fish Tacos – spicy seasoned grilled fish filet topped with charred pico de gallo, shredded cabbage, radish and a slice of avocado served on a tender flour tortilla and sprinkled with fresh cilantro. Oxbow Bar & Grill offers casual dining right on the Caloosahatchee. Open daily, serving lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. Live music Thursday through Sunday.

1300 Hendry St. Fort Myers 239-314-3856 www.oxbowfortmyers.com Happenings Magazine

Rib City

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill

Rib City smokes Baby Back Ribs to fall off the bone perfection! Ribs so good, we guarantee them! If you have to pick up a knife to eat our Baby Back Ribs, we’ll pick up your meal! No bones about it! We’re open seven days a week proudly serving Baby Back Ribs and Real Barbecue throughout Southwest Florida. Visit us today at any of our 11 neighborhood locations in Lee and Collier counties!

For locations and online ordering, visit RibCity.com

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

Silver King Ocean Brasserie

Twisted Vine Bistro

11 Locations throughout Southwest Florida www.ribcity.com

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 Sea Scallops ($36) served with Purple Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, Shimeji Mushrooms, Bourbon, Cashews & Herbs.

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

Happenings Magazine

at Dolphin Key Resort

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

Located in Fort Myers River District, we pride ourselves in an eclectic menu, full liquor bar, boutique wine list and extraordinary dining experience.

Twisted Vine Bistro, located in downtown Fort Myers' historic river district, prides itself in an extraordinary dining experience. We are a beautiful polished, casual upscale restaurant that has an eclectic menu, a full liquor bar, and a wonderful boutique wine list. We offer only the freshest seafood, certified Angus Beef, and other local unique innovative entrees.

We also feature an extensive wine list, with over thirty wines by the glass. We even grow our own house herbs and spices in our courtyard garden, which is available for private parties and events. The Barrel Room (next door) offers live music also.

2214 Bay Street, Fort Myers 239-226-1687 www.twistedvinebistro.com

MAY 2021 - 31

SAT - 1

MAY CALENDAR

A Bronx Tale Through May 22 Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Performances Wednesday - Sunday 239-278-4422 Florida Rep Theatre Conservatory presents Into the Woods Jr. Through May 2 Outdoor stage, downtown Fort Myers 239-332-4488 Jeff Whidby Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 224-678-4901 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

K-Luv - 7 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Florida Girls and Boys and Their Toys exhibit Through July 28 Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 Brian Markley Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 CJ Matthew The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Naples Players: Calendar Girls Through May 23 Blackburn Hall, Sugden Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples 239-263-7990 Rusty Wright The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-333-2225 Dannell Lytell and Wendy Drummond exhibit Through May Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, suite 104, Cape Coral www.harbourviewgallery.com 32 - MAY 2021

The Collaboration Band brings their unique sound to many venues across Southwest Florida. In May, you can catch the band at the Dolphin Key Resort Tiki Bar in Cape Coral on May 9 and The Center Bar in Bonita Springs on May 29. In May, every Wednesday is Ladies Night with The Collaboration Band at Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill in Fort Myers. To find out more about the local super group, visit www.collaborationbandswfl.com Race by David Mamet Through May 15 Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Nicole D’Andrea Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687 John Housley Flamenco Nuevo Guitar The Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 7 p.m., 239-213-3049 Half Step Down Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

SUN - 2

Brian Spainhower Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Jazz Brunch with Roy Gerson and Don Mopsick The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

239-333-2225 Blues Series: Nigel Mack Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901

Jacob’s Ladder Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m., 239-540-8454

Art Alive - Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours 1 - 6 p.m. For directions, visit www.naplesartdistrict.com

MON - 3

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

Gabriel of Jacob’s Ladder Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

TUE - 4

Fire and Ice The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

WED - 5

Frank Sinatra tribute with Michael Dutra Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Josh Rowand, Pitbull of Blues Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

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

THU - 6

Sam Galloway Jr. & Friends Soup Kitchen Benefit Sam Galloway Ford, 1800 Boy Scout Drive, Fort Myers 5:30 p.m., 239-332-7687 Tom Beckman Beacon Social Rooftop Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 p.m., 239-314-3800 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Isaiah Suriel Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Happenings Magazine

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

Rooftop Sculpture Garden open house and Juan Abuela exhibit Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Opening 6 - 10 p.m. Two art exhibits, rooftop sculpture garden unveiled and studio open house.

239-333-1933

Carling Witt Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5:30 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Art Edge Gallery & Studios Through May Mercato, Suite 5155, Naples Grand opening 5 - 9 p.m. featured artists are Ray Gallo, Sandee Mahler and Silvina Maranzi 239-631-2122

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

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

Sandra Escribano Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

FRI - 7

Fort Myers Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 -10 p.m. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Pryor & Lee The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com

Happenings Magazine

Junior Jimenez exhibit opens DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1815 Fowler St., unit 3, Fort Myers, 6 - 9:30 p.m., 239-590-8645

Randy and Brad Duo can be heard throughout Southwest Florida in May. The duo will play Marcoʼs Snook Inn on May 2 and North Naples Country Club on May 7. They can be seen in Bonita at Seaside Bar & Grill on May 5 and 21 and at Sneaky Peteʼs on May 12 and 26. To find out more about the duo, visit www.randybradduo.com

ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., Fort Myers Amanda Zirzow exhibit, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-337-5050

MAY 2021 - 33

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

FRI - 7 CONTINUED

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

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

Legends Concert Series: Queen, Def Leppard and AC/DC tribute Sugden Park, Naples 65 10 p.m. www.legendsconcertseries.com

FRI - 14

SAT - 8

James Prathers Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 224-678-4901 Alan Small Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Trevor Earl - 1 p.m.

The Deplorables - 7 p.m.

Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 239-990-9901 Deb & The Dynamics Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 The Old 41 Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 7 - 10 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Nicole D’Andrea Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687 Battle of the Arts Artsemble Underground, Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, 5 - 8 p.m., 239-489-1221

SUN - 9

Bonita Springs Concert Band Riverside Park, Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 6:30 p.m. bonitaspringsconcertband.org Mother’s Day on the Murder Mystery Dinner Train Seminole Gulf Railway, Colonial Station, Fort Myers, 5:30 p.m. www.semgulf.com 34 - MAY 2021

The annual Bonita International Film Festival returns May 21 - 23 to the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. For details, schedules and tickets call 239495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org

Jazz Brunch with Roy Gerson and Don Mopsick The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

239-333-2225 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 Juan Dehoyos Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Blues and Bloodys Concert The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, noon - 7 p.m., Champs Jaxon Band, Ellie Lee Band www.thecenterbar.com

MON - 10

Gabriel of Jacob’s Ladder Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Gene Masters Salerno Memorial exhibition May 10 - 14 Visual Arts Center, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989

TUE - 11

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

WED - 12

Fort Myers Film Festival May 12 - 16 Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 239-333-1933 Frank Sinatra tribute with Michael Dutra Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 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 The Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901

THU - 13

Carling Witt Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Isaiah Suriel Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5:30 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Stage It! 10-Minute Play Festival May 14 - 16 Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 ArtGrooves Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 6 p.m. 224-678-4901 Charlotte Players present You Should Be So Lucky Through May 23 Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle., Port Charlotte 941-255-1022 Flora Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Matt Dendy Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Marshall Tucker Band The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com David Rojas Jr. Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Yappy Hour Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 6 - 8 p.m., 239-489-1221

SAT - 15

A Day of Celtic Music Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Esplanade, Punta Gorda Noon - 4 p.m. 941-639-8721 Happenings Magazine

MON - 17

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 224-678-4901

Gabriel of Jacob’s Ladder Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

TUE - 18

Sandra Escribano Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

Fire and Ice 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 1 p.m., 239-990-9901

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

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

WED - 19

Frank Sinatra tribute with Michael Dutra Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800

Paula Canon Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers, 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Jazz at the Center: Tribute to Nat & Cannonball Adderley Music & Arts Community Center 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers Performed by Gulf Coast Jazz Collective, 7 p.m., available in person or livestream, 239-277-1700

Cultural Park Theater in Cape Coral welcomes Aaron Caruso in concert as he pays tribute to the Italian Crooners May 28 - 30.

For tickets and details, call 239-772-5862 or visit online at www.culturalparktheater.com

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

Doug Scott’s 50th Birthday Party with Crossfire Creek and Iconic Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 7 - 11 p.m., 239-990-9901

Tweenies Weekend Concert Series: Sheena Brook Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, Captiva, 7:30 p.m., 800-223-5865 Nautical Expo May 15 & 16 Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, Fort Myers Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.nauticalmilemagazine.com

Happenings Magazine

SUN - 16

Bill Zink Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Sean Paxson The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 5 - 8 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Jazz Brunch with Roy Gerson and Don Mopsick The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

239-333-2225 Blues Series: Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901 Cars and Coffee Mercato, Naples 9 - 11 a.m. www.mercatoshops.com

Josh Rowand, Pitbull of Blues Band The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com The Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 The Naples Players: An Ideal Husband Through June 13 Blackburn Hall, Sugden Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples 239-263-7990 New Cats of Country: Ingrid Andress, Cam, Matt Stell and Tenille Arts Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers doors open at 6 p.m. 813-395-9494 www.catcountry1071.iheart.com

MAY 2021 - 35

MAY CALENDAR SUN - 23

WED - 19 CONTINUED

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

ArtSmack - Gil Sanchez Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 1 - 5 p.m. Featured artist is sculptor Gil Sanchez, 224-678-4901

THU - 20

Jazz Brunch with Roy Gerson and Don Mopsick The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

239-333-2225

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

Juan Dehoyos Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

Isaiah Suriel Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Gulf Coast Leisure: Art & Poetry Networking Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers 239-333-1933 Tom Beckman Beacon Social Rooftop Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 p.m., 239-314-3800 Joey Fiato The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Douglas Coventry Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

FRI - 21

Fort Myers Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6 p.m. www.explorefortmyers.com Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5:30 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Matt Dendy Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Jersey Mike Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687 36 - MAY 2021

Thunder Beach Band Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Ann Wilson of Heart will perform June 22 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW in Fort Myers. For tickets and information, visit www.bbmannpah.com

David Mayfield Parade Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m.

239-333-1933 Torched Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Gary Greenstein Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Jose Ramirez The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-333-2225

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

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

Joey Tenuto The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 8 p.m. 239-333-2225

Carling Witt Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

Bonita International Film Festival May 21 - 23 Performing Arts Center, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 www.artcenterbonita.org

Nicole D’Andrea Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687

SAT - 22

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 224-678-4901

Trevor Earl Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 p.m., 239-990-9901 Not Guilty Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

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

MON - 24

Gabriel of Jacob’s Ladder Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

TUE - 25

Mike Tramp & John Corabi The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, doors open at 7 p.m., 239-985-9839 www.theranchfortmyers.com Manny T The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com Captain Paulie Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

WED - 26

Frank Sinatra tribute with Michael Dutra Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 The Collaboration Band Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 6 - 9 p.m., 239-990-9901 Happenings Magazine

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

THU - 27

Isaiah Suriel Lobby Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 6 p.m., 239-314-3800 Beehive - The 60s Musical Through June 26 Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Tom Beckman Beacon Social Rooftop Bar at Luminary Hotel & Co., 2200 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers 5 p.m., 239-314-3800 Dale The Center Bar, The Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 6 - 9 p.m., www.thecenterbar.com

Bryan Spainhower Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Alan Small Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort, 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral, 6 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

FRI - 28

Sunset Celebration - High Tide Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 5:30 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Aaron Caruso: Tribute to Italian Crooners May 28 - 30 Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862

East Palm Mercado Every Saturday & Sunday Outdoor Neighborhood Marketplace at Neenie's House, 481 Marsh Ave., Fort Myers 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 224-678-4901

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

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

SAT - 29

Jersey Mike Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687

Music & Art Night Lorne’s Gallery, Marina Village at Tarpon Point, unit 105, Cape Coral Featured artist Lorne Hosack, 5 - 8 p.m., 239-945-0866

Juan Dehoyos Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

Jeff Whidby Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856

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

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

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

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

Nicole D’Andrea Twisted Vine Bistro, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., 239-226-1687

SUN - 30

Jazz Brunch with Roy Gerson and Don Mopsick The Barrel Room, 2214 Bay St., Fort Myers 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

239-333-2225 Douglas Coventry Oxbow Bar & Grill, 1300 Hendry St., Fort Myers 4 p.m., 239-314-3856 Blues Series: Frank Bang Coconut Falls Tiki Bar and Grill, 17200 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers 1 - 4 p.m., 239-990-9901

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Entertaining Southwest Florida since 1995 Happenings Magazine

MAY 2021 - 37

Songwriters Festival May 5 - 9 in Key West

the ticketed events After its postponesold out in April shortment in 2020, the Key ly after being West Songwriters announced.

Festival returns this year The festival webon May 5 - 9, said festisite has the artist and val founder Charlie performance informaBauer. tion.

The 25th annual fesBauer suggests tival will feature approxiattendees join the mately 100 artists over mailing list to get the the five days of events. most up to date info Many of the veteran or download the festisongwriters are returnval app. ing this year, Bauer Since 1997, the said. festival coordinators Confirmed artists have worked to bring include Lee Brice, Liz Music Row to Duval Rose, Robert Randolph, Street and beyond, Brandy Clark, Bob creating a unique DiPiero, Dean Dillon, environment where Lori McKenna, Jeffrey industry professionals, Steele, Steve Cropper, The Key West Songwriters Festival marks its 25th anniversary this year. songwriters, locals Barry Dean, Chuck The festival was last held in 2019 (above). Photo by Jamie Kuser and tourists are able Cannon, Bobby Pinson, to experience the Scotty Emerick, Clint best of Nashville in Daniels, Luke Laird, Shy Blue Mojito Bar, Fury, The Marker the most intimate of venues. Over the Carter and many more.

Resort, Dante’s Key West, Southermost years, the highly anticipated festival has Sixteen different stages are set up Beach Resort, Southernmost House, 24 become a proving ground for breaking on the island for more than 30 shows North Hotel Sunset Event Lawn, Key new talent and is one of the most over five days and nights.

West Marriott Beachside Hotel, the sought after invites within the Nashville Most of the performances will be in Perry Hotel ad Ocean’s Edge Resort. songwriting community. open air venues like Smokin Tuna There will not be a massive street The festival was postponed in 2020 Saloon (festival headquarters). The party or concert like in the past, Bauer due to the pandemic. other locations include Ocean Key said.

For festival information, visit online Resort, Opal Key Resort, Hank’s Hair of Events are being divided between at www.keywestsongwritersfestival.com the Dog, La Concha, Key West Theater, ticketed and free admission. Many of or follow them on Facebook.

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