SWFLA To Do List: ‘Voice’ winner on Marco, ‘Cars as Art’ and more
MARCH
The Easter Bunny at Naples’ Coastland Center
Visits and photos daily through Saturday, March 30. Free admission. Photo packages are $20-$50. Reservations encouraged for photo-package sessions but not available for regular visits (no photo package). Near J.C. Penney at Coastland Center, 1900 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. Information: whereisbunny.com.
‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ at B.B. Mann Hall
The hit 2021 musical based on the popular 1993 movie starring Robin Williams. Broadway star Rob McClure plays an out-of-work actor who, after losing custody of his kids in a messy divorce, impersonates a Scottish nanny to be closer to them. Runs March 26-31. Cost: $49-$102. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Information: 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.
Jack Everly directs the Naples Philharmonic
Jack Everly directs the Naples Philharmonic as pianists and vocalists Tony DeSare and Frankie Moreno perform shows March 27 through March 30 at Artis―Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard. They are at 6 and 8:30 p.m. and tickets start at $80. Information: artisnaples.org.
Final two Friday Fakahatchee Tram Tours
The ‘Ghost Rider’ tram, named in honor of the famous Ghost Orchid found in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, will mark its final two tours of the season on March 29 and April 12. The Friends of Fakahatchee hosted more than 200 riders on the tram this season, allowing visitors to experience the Fakahatchee Preserve and learn about its importance to the fragile ecosystem of the Western Everglades. The Ghost Rider Tram Tour begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 12:30 p.m. For complete information and required reservations at $30 per person, visit orchidswamp.org and click “tours and events.”
Flamingo Island Easter Cottontail Bunny Trail
This Flamingo Island Flea Market favorite returns March 30 with family fun throughout the day. Ages 3-6 Easter egg hunt is from 9 until 10 a.m.; ages 7-11, noon-2 p.m., coloring contest 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., live entertainment 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., two food trucks, games and Easter Bunny all day. Candy and surprises while supplies last. At 11902 Bonita Beach Road SE., Bonita Beach.
Estero EGGStravaganza
This event for children 12 and younger, featuring an adaptive egg hunt and Easter Bunny visit, is at Estero Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., March 30. The first egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. $5 per child. Bring an Easter basket. Pre-registration is required by calling the Estero Recreation Center at 239-533-1470.
Author White at MIHM
The Marco Island Historical Society presents a children’s story time and book signing with historian and author Jonathan W. White at 2 p.m., March 30. White will do a reading from his book, “My Day With Abe Lincoln,” that includes stories of Lincoln’s childhood. Books will be available for purchase. The event is free and open to all ages. The Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is free, and the site is handicapped accessible. For general information visit themihs.org or call 239-642-1440.
Treorchy Male Choir at Davis Art Center
The celebrated male choir from Wales has been entertaining audiences for more than 140 years, both in the United Kingdom and around the world. They've performed with everybody from Ella Fitzgerald and Andrea Bocelli to Tom Jones and Burt Bacharach. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 30. Cost: $25. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., downtown Fort Myers. Information: 333-1933 or sbdac.com.
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APRIL
‘Voice’ winner on Marco
Josh Kaufman, 2014 winner of “The Voice,” will perform a “Beacon of Hope” benefit concert from 6 until 8 p.m., Monday, April 1, at Veterans Community Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Tickets are $50 and $100 for VIP seating can be purchased marcochurch.com.
‘Cars as Art’
Marco Island Center for the Arts has scheduled the annual “Cars as Art,” for April 6. Unlike traditional car shows, this show places an emphasis on the artistic merit of each vehicle, inviting qualified art professionals to judge entries based on their aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship. The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., April 6, at 1010 Winterberry Dr., Marco Island. This show is a collaboration between the Art Center and Island Automotive, promising a “one-of-a-kind experience” for enthusiasts of both art and classic automobiles. Owners of classic and antique cars who wish to participate can register their vehicles for an entry fee of $25 per car. Visitors to the event are encouraged to make a donation of $5 per person upon entry, which goes to support programming at the Art Center and Arts Center Theatre. For more information about registration and participation, interested parties can contact Island Automotive at 239-394-1887 or Marco Island Center for the Arts at 239-394-4221. Additional details are also available online at Marco Island Center for the Arts website marcoislandart.org/our-events/cars-as-art/.
‘Love Letters’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 10-21: “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney – A heartwarming tale of lifelong correspondence between two captivating characters. With five unique casts performing in rotation, experience the depth of feeling and precision of detail that has made this play a smash hit both off and on Broadway. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
‘Giving Back – A Repatriation Story’
The Southwest Florida Archaeological Society (SWFAS) recently announced a presentation on “Giving Back – A Repatriation Story.” The presentation will be at 7 p.m., April 17, at the Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. This is a free public program.
‘ ‘Til Death Do Us Part … You First’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 24: “ ‘Til Death Do Us Part … You First,” with Peter Fogel, directed by Chazz Palminteri – A comedic masterpiece follows the journey of eternal bachelor Peter Fogel as he navigates the complexities of love and commitment in a riotous whirlwind of relatable characters and witty humor. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
‘Southern Gothic Novel’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 27: “Southern Gothic Novel” by Frank Blocker – A darkly comedic tale of crime and love through a solo portrayal of 17 different characters. Blocker unfolds a gripping narrative set in a secretive Mississippi town, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
Spirit Awards
The Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime recently announced a “big” social event for April., the 14th Annual Spirit Awards of Marco Island Great Gatsby Gala. The event will be held at the Island Country Club at 5 p.m., April 27. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing, dining, awards and more. Join the Great Gatsby spirit and dress in Roaring 20s or cocktail attire. The individuals and organizations that are being honored for their exceptional contributions to the community are the Marco Island Historical Society, Jennifer and Derek Tenney, the YMCA of Collier County and Mike Stanczak. Guests have the opportunity to honor award winners by sponsoring a table. For sponsorship details and/or ticket sales contact Al Diaz, 239-438-5285 or manager@RoyalMarcoWay.com. Proceeds from the event will go back to supporting the needs of the community.
‘Voyces’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre April 28: The Carl Granieri Orchestra’s “Voyces” – Harmonious vocals performing intricate arrangements of songs from every era and genre. Featuring vocalists selected from the CGO Stars of Tomorrow Educational Program and accompanied by Carl Granieri, conductor, pianist, keyboardist, arranger, producer and vocalist. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
ONGOING
‘Daydreaming,’ Niki Butcher’s hand-painted photography at MIHM
The Marco Island Historical Society (MIHS) presents “Daydreaming,” Niki Butcher’s hand-painted photography at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) on display now through June 8. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The exhibit includes more than 60 images created over five decades by photographer and artist Niki Butcher. Inspired by vintage hand-painted postcards of the 1930s, Butcher invites the viewer to see the historical, beautiful, and sometimes quirky aspects of Florida and the world through the eyes of a thoughtful optimist.
‘Vanities’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Arts Center Theatre presents “Vanities,” directed by the award-winning Marilee Warner, known for her direction of last season’s “Hollywood Arms.” This production takes audiences on a journey through the lives of three girls, det against the backdrop of Texas in the 1960s and 1970s, “Vanities” follows the lives of Joanne, Kathy, and Mary, portrayed by the trio of Jennifer Driggers, Melissa Hennig, and Louise K. Cornetta. “Vanities” runs through March 30, at the Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. Tickets are now available for purchase online at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or by calling 239-394-4221.
South Collier Market
From 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., Sundays, South Collier Market at its new location, Florida Southwestern State College/Collier Campus, 7505 Grand Lely Drive in Naples. This market features food trucks and 70 tents of beautiful SWFL produce, bakeries, artisan foods, jewelry, clothing, local artists and photography, specialty items and gifts. The market is held weekly through April 15, but closed for holidays on Nov. 25, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Vendor information and applications may be found at 41markets.com. Shop Local Productions has operated farmers markets in SWFL since 2015, helping hundreds of small businesses.
Marco Island Farmers Market
The Marco Island Marco Island Farmers Market is at Veteran’s Community Park on Wednesdays. The market is from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., every Wednesday through April at the park, located at 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Information: 239-642-0575 or cityofmarcoisland.com.
Italian American Society of Marco Island
The Italian American Society of Marco Island will hold their monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month, November through April, at Mackle Park's Community room. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. with meetings beginning at 5:30. This energetic group of men and women with Italian heritage, over the age of 21, are dedicated to remembering their roots while socializing through dinners, dances, bocce, trips, golf and so much more. Visit iasmi.org, or our Facebook page: Italian American Society of MI or call the president, Fred Adani 239-228-7607 or membership chair, Ann D'Onofrio 401 450-9260 for more information.
Marco Men’s Club
Marco Men’s Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the social room at Marco Lutheran Church (9:30 for coffee and donuts). Each meeting has a speaker and then a short update of upcoming activities such as golf, luncheons, sporting events, and discussion subgroups (investments, technology, travel, etc.). Many activities, such as dances, theatre, dinners and cruises involve the spouses. Information: marcomensclub.com.
Calusa Garden Club
Calusa Garden Club of Marco Island meets 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., the second Monday of October through March at the library Rose Hall, with a speaker at 12:30 p.m. Contact calusagardenclubcommunication@gmail.com. Go to calusa.org for more information.
Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime
Rotary Club of Marco Island Noontime meets the first Thursday of the month by Zoom at noon and the 3rd Thursday of the month for luncheon meeting 11:45 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Bistro Soleil. Contact Kathy Pasternak for zoom link or reservations email KathrynPasternak@BHHSFloridaRealty.net.
Monday Night Bingo
Monday Night Bingo at the Jewish Congregation of Marco Island is back! It’s 23rd season. Bingo is played every Monday Night at the Synagogue, located at 991 Winterberry Drive through May and then twice a month in the summer. Doors open at 5:30 pm. A complimentary supper is served at 6 p.m. The supper is a kosher hot dog, on a special roll, with relish, sauerkraut, and onions. Dessert is cake, ice cream and a beverage of coffee or tea. Bonanza is posted at 6 pm and an additional prize, Hot Ball, is also offered. For further information call the Synagogue office at 239-642 0800.
Rookery Bay Eco Kayak & Boat Tours
Join Rookery Bay Research Reserve for a guided boat tour or kayak adventure into the beautiful waters of Rookery Bay Reserve. With our kayak tours, guests paddle through beautiful mangrove tunnels, teeming mudflats and intricate oyster reefs while searching for amazing wildlife like sea stars, large snails, birds, dolphins and manatees! Our boat tours are small 6-passenger boats and offer a comfortable and informative ride. Guests can choose from different tours including a shelling trip to a deserted a barrier island or a sunset tour. Find out more at RookeryBay.org or call 239-530-5972.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
The attraction features aquariums, touch tanks with marine critters, natural history, environmental and wildlife exhibits art gallery, picnic area and walking trails. Hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12 and children 3 and under are free. Admission benefits the Friends of Rookery Bay, a nonprofit that supports the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Guests may apply their admission fee toward Friends of Rookery Bay membership on the day of their visit. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Information: RookeryBay.org.
Key Marco artifacts
Thanks to an unprecedented five-year loan extension by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, the world-famous Key Marco Cat will continue on exhibit at the Marco Island Historical Museum (MIHM) through 2026. Through April 30, 2024, 13 additional Key Marco artifacts from the PENN Museum will be on exhibit at MIHM. Marco Island Historical Museum is located at 180 S. Heathwood Drive. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. For information, call 239-389-6447 or visit theMIHS.org.
Naples Zoo
New hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Offering timed online tickets to the general public. All guests will be required to reserve a timed ticket online, with reduced ticket prices. Tickets can only be purchased online. Information: 239-262-5409, napleszoo.org.
MAY
‘La Comedia of Errors’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre May 4: The Naples Players present “La Comedia of Errors” – Laugh along with The Naples Players as they present “La Comedia of Errors,” a bilingual adaptation of one of William Shakespeare’s zaniest comedies. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
‘Paradise and Mr. Prince’ at Arts Center Theatre
Marco Island Center for the Arts coming to the Arts Center Theatre May 16-19, 23, 25, 26: “Paradise and Mr. Prince” by local playwright Mitch Eil – Join private investigator Dan Paradise on a thrilling adventure. Set against the backdrop of Marco Island, this gripping tale of murder, friendship, and self-discovery. Tickets are available now. At Marco Island Center for the Arts' Arts Center Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit marcoislandart.org or call 239-394-4221 or marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/.
For more event listings, navigate to the Entertainment section and click on the SWFLA To Do List at marconews.com or visit the-banner.com. Calendar items must be emailed to mail@marconews.com or news@naplesnews.com and should be submitted at least a week before desired publication.