The Danielle Branchaud exhibit “Synchronicity” is on display starting at 5 p.m. March 11 at the DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery during the SoCo Second Saturday event. 1400 Colonial Blvd., Ste. 84. 590-8645 or daascoop.com. THEATER
Disney’s The Little Mermaid – At the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall March 14-19. Show times vary. $33- $88. 13350 FSW Pkwy. 481-4849 or www.bbmannpah.com.
Play On! – By the Laboratory Theater of Florida March 10-April 1 at the Kiwanis Hall. Performances are on March 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30, 31 and April 1 at 8 p.m. and at 2 p.m. March 19, 26 and April 1. $25 adults; $12 students. 1634 Woodford Ave. laboratorytheaterflorida.com or 218-0481.
Things My Mother Taught Me – At Broadway Palm Theatre March 9-April 29. 1380 Colonial Blvd. 278-4422 or www.BroadwayPalm.com.
Nunsense – At the BIG ARTS Strauss Theater March 16-April 15. 2200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island. 472-6862 or www.bigarts.org.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom – By Theatre Conspiracy through March 11 at the Alliance for the Arts Foulds Theater. $24 adults; $11 students. 10091 McGregor Blvd. 936-3239 or www.theatreconspiracy.org.
To Kill a Mockingbird – By Florida Repertory Theatre through March 11 in the historic Arcade Theater. 2267 Bay St., Fort Myers. 332-4488 or www.floridarep.org.
Shear Madness – By Florida Repertory Theatre through April 2 in the Art- Stage Studio Theatre. 2267 Bay St., Fort Myers. 332-4488 or www.floridarep.org.
Anything Goes – By Broadway Palm Theatre through April 1. 1380 Colonial Blvd. 278-4422 or www.BroadwayPalm.com.
The Hound of the Baskervilles – By Gulfshore Playhouse through March 12 at The Norris Center, Naples. (844) 811-4111 or www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org.
My Fair Lady – By The Naples Players through April 2 at Sugden Community Theatre, Naples. 263-7990 or www.naplesplayers.org.
Something Rotten! – At Artis— Naples March 15-19. 597-1900 or www.artisnaples.org.
SYMPHONY
Masterworks – Naples Philharmonic performs Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 at 8 p.m. March 10-11. 597-1900 or www.artisnaples.org.
South Pacific – By Gulf Coast Symphony and co-producer Broadway Palm Theatre March 10-11 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. 13350 FSW Pkwy. A pre-pops dinner precedes the show, with tickets sold separately. 481- 4849 or www.bbmannpah.com.
Small Stage Symphonies – The Southwest Florida Symphony presents “Concierto de Aranjuez,” featuring Cincinnati Pops guitarist Tim Berens, March 8-10 at various venues. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. March 8 at BIG ARTS on Sanibel; March 9 at Shell Point Village Church; and March 10 at the Southwest Florida Performing Arts Center. Prices start at $25 and vary by venue. www.swflso.org or 418-1500.
THURSDAY3.9
Film Fest – The seventh annual Fort Myers Film Festival runs through Sunday at various venues in Fort Myers. Ticket prices and show times vary. For complete schedule: www.fortmyersfilmfestival.com.
Funny Guy – Brandon T. Jackson performs tonight through Sunday at the Off the Hook Comedy Club. Tickets start at $22. Show times vary. 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road. 389-6901 or www.offthehookcomedy.com.
Art Event – An Art Council reception is set for 4-6 p.m. at the Co-Op Art Gallery at Coconut Point. 8074 Mediterranean Dr. 949-3073.
Benefit Event – The 14th annual Sam Galloway Jr. & Friends Soup Kitchen Benefit starts at 6 p.m. at Sam Galloway Ford & Lincoln. The evening includes cocktails, live entertainment and a southern style dinner. $150. www.CommunityCooperative.com or 332-7687, ext. 101.
World of Music – The National League of American Pen Women Southwest Florida Branch presents Kat Epple’s World of Music at 11 a.m. at the Caloosa Bayview Clubhouse. Ms. Epple is a world-renowned composer and flutist. 4282 Island Cir. Free, but reservations are required: 939-1639 or 565-3266.
Eco Cruise – Salty Sam’s Marina and Sight Sea-R Cruises offer an interactive eco tour cruise from 9 a.m.-noon every Thursday. Hosted by Capt. Phil, the tour includes an island visit, a touch tank and a chance to see marine life. $35 adults; $25 children; upgrades available. 765- 7272 or www.sightseaflorida.com.
Doo Wop – Solid Gold Doo Wop and Rock ‘n Roll takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. 13350 FSW Pkwy. 481-4849 or www.bbmannpah.com.
Comedy Show – Dave Merry and Brian Corrion perform tonight through Saturday at the Laugh In Comedy Café. Show times vary. 8595 College Pkwy. 479- LAFF or www.laughincomedycafe.com.
Live Music – The Josh Garrett Band performs at 7 p.m. at The Barrel Room. 2210 Bay St. 333-2225 or www.barrelroomfortmyers.com.
Paint Sessions – Vino’s Picasso hosts Paint What You Want from 3:30-6 p.m. ($15) and guided paint sessions themed “Dreamcatcher” from 4-5:30 p.m. ($26) and “Moonlit” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ($36). Includes all art supplies. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
FRIDAY3.10
History Program – The Bonita Springs Historical Society presents another program in its Armchair History series, “If This Building Could Talk, the Fort Myers Arcade Theatre,” with Robert Cacioppo, at 7 p.m. at the Bonita Springs Lions Club. A nominal donation is suggested for nonmembers. 10322 Pennsylvania Ave., Bonita Springs. www.bonitaspringshistoricalsociety.org/Happenings/ Upcoming/ or 992-6997.
Gospel Music – The Midwest Food Bank’s Winter Concert Series presents the gospel group Gold City at 6:30 p.m. at the food bank. Free and open to the public; donations welcome. 5601 Division Dr., Fort Myers. www.florida.midwestfoodbank.org.
Trade Show – The Florida Camera Club Council presents a conference and trade show titled “Photography: The Art and The Science” today through Sunday at Sugden Hall at FGCU. 11094 FGCU Blvd. N. www.f3c.org.
Nature Walk – A member of the Alligator Amblers Chapter of the Florida Trail Association leads a walk through the Estero Bay Scrub from 9:30 a.m.- noon today and Sunday. Meet at the west end of Broadway in Estero. Bring water, hat, sun protection and snacks. Free with $2 walk-in admission.
Wine & Fashion – Dress for Success SW Florida hosts Vines & Vogue, an evening of fine wines and fashion, from 6-9 p.m. at The Grape Base at Coconut Point. Guests can browse spring trends while sipping savory wines. $20; includes two glasses of wine and light appetizers. 23106 Fashion Dr., Estero. RSVP to florida@dressforsuccess.org. 992-9966.
Dance Gala – Edison & Ford Winter Estates hosts Rhythm on the River, a big band dance celebration, at 5:30 p.m. in the newly completed river pavilion. The Memory Makers Big Band plays hits from the 1930s and 1940s. Senior horticulturist, Debbie Hughes leads guests through the award-winning Moonlight Garden. $10 for members; $15 for nonmembers. A cash bar will be available. 334-7419 or EdisonFordWinterEstastes.org.
Movie Night – The Alliance for the Arts concludes its Outdoor Family Movie Nights series with a showing of “How to Train Your Dragon” at 7:15 p.m. at the Alliance campus. Suggested $10 family admission; bring lawn chairs, coolers and blankets. 10091 McGregor Blvd. www.ArtInLee.org or 939-2787.
Wonder-ful Night – A cappella group m-pact performs the music of Stevie Wonder at 6 and 8:30 p.m. at Artis— Naples. 597-1900 or www.artisnaples.org.
Spring Fest – The Lehigh Spring Festival runs today through March 18 at Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres. www.LehighSpringFestival.com.
Downtown Event – Mystery Walk starts at 6 p.m. in downtown Fort Myers. The event features a new theme each month. www.myriverdistrict.com.
Blues Music – The Bonita Blues Festival runs today through Saturday at Riverside Park on Old 41 Road. www.bonitablues.com.
Vocal Concert – Classical ensemble O Solo Trio performs selections from Pavarotti to pop at 8 p.m. at Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. $35-$45. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495-8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Blues Tunes – Frank Band & The Cook County Kings perform performs from 9 p.m.-midnight tonight and Saturday at The Barrel Room. $5 cover. 2210 Bay St. 333- 2225 or www.barrelroomfortmyers.com.
Paint Sessions – Vino’s Picasso hosts guided paint sessions themed “Semmer’s Fish” from 4-6 p.m. ($36) and “Gulf Fishing” from 7-9 p.m. ($36). Includes instruction and materials. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
Lecture Series – The “Ding” Darling Friday Lecture Series presents Jennifer D. McCabe and Brian J. Olsen, discussing “Migratory Birds in a Climate Changing World” at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center Auditorium at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. A book signing follows. Free, but seating is limited. 472-1100, ext. 241, or www.dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/ lecture-and-film-series.
Live Music – The Brittany Russell Band performs from 6-9 p.m. at Miromar Outlets. Free. 948-3766 or www.miromaroutlets.com.
SATURDAY3.11
Bird Watching – a Lee County Bird Patrol volunteer leads a bird-watching hike from 8-10:30 a.m. at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. Participants will use binoculars to search for and identify birds from the 1.2-mile boardwalk. Bring binoculars and a water bottle. To reserve a spot: 533-7555. Free with paid parking of $1 an hour per vehicle or $5 a day. 7751 Penzance Blvd. www.LeeParks.org.
Tropical Luau – A Tropical Fun- Shine Luau starts at 7 p.m. at Rotary Park Environmental Center. The event features a tropical buffet (BYOB), a Polynesian dance show, a hula lesson and more. $20 in advance; $30 at the door. 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral. 549-4606.
History Walk – The Bonita Springs Historical Society hosts a “Downtown Walk” in Old Bonita from 10 a.m.-noon. Walk through historic downtown with local guides and listen to the stories of early Bonita Springs. The tour includes landmarks such as the Liles Hotel History Center, the banyan tree, Benson’s Grocery and more, with a stop at For Heaven Shakes for ice cream (not included in ticket price). $20 in advance; $30 at the door. The tour starts from the Liles Hotel, 27300 Old 41 Road. 221-8218 or calusaghosttours@gmail.com.
Speaker Series – Lee County Parks & Recreation concludes the Calusa Blueway Speaker Series, showcasing aspects of the blueway, Lee County’s 190-mile marked trail for canoeists, kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders, with “Florida Sawfish” by George Burgess at 2 p.m. at the Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center, 16760 Bass Rd. 432-2154, www.calusablueway.com or www.leeparks.org/blueway.
Mystery Writers – The Southwest Florida MWA meets at 1 p.m. in room 108 of the L building at Florida South- Western State College. Author Nancy Cohen discusses “Writing is Revising” as a great follow-up to the SleuthFest 2017 conference in Fort Lauderdale. Participants can park in Lot 7 next to the L building. An option lunch precedes the meeting at 11:30 a.m. at Jason’s Deli, 13550 Reflection Pkwy. author.mljoy@hotmail.com.
Benefit Event – The annual fundraiser for the Cape Coral Animal Shelter runs from 7-11 p.m. at Wicked Dolphin Distillery. The event includes music, dancing, contests, and live and silent auctions with a 1950s America theme. $75. 131 SW 3rd St., Cape Coral. www.capecoralanimalshelter.com.
ACMA Concert – The Americana Community Music Association presents Nouveau Honkies, with Mary Dani and Carolyn Stanley opening, at 7 p.m. at All Faiths Unitarian Church. Suggested donation $15. 2756 McGregor Blvd. 691- 4069 or www.americanacma.org.
Garden Sale – The Garden Club of Cape Coral holds its ninth annual “March in the Park,” a plant and garden art sale, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Jaycee Park in Cape Coral. Vendors and garden-related items are welcome. The sale features all kinds of plants, master gardeners answering questions, speakers, a Kids’ Booth, drawings, food and music. 257-2654, Huffmom5@aol.com or gardenclubofcapecoral.com.
Nature Walk – Lee County’s Conservation 20/20 hosts a guided nature walk from 9-10:30 a.m. at Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve. Volunteer naturalists identify and discuss native plants, wildlife and birds. The path is ADA-accessible. Bring water bottle, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Free. 204-1125 or www.conservation2020.org.
Bird Watching – Experience the beautiful birds of Bunche Beach with a bird patrol guide at 8 a.m. Meet on the beach at the south end of John Morris Road and bring water, binoculars, wading shoes and sunscreen. Free with paid parking. 707-3015 or www.birdpatrol.org.
Craft Show – The Heritage Palms Spring Craft Show is set for 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at The Lodge within Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club. Free admission; the public is welcome. 10420 Washington Palm Way off Six Mile Cypress Parkway.
Songwriters Event – The Americana Community Music Association presents a free Songwriters Showcase at 2 p.m. at the South County Regional Library. The showcase features local songwriters Ray Cerbone, Matt Hannam and Dave Martin. 2100 Three Oaks Pkwy. 691-4069 or www.americanacma.org.
Beer & Bacon – The Fort Myers Beer and Bacon Festival runs from 2-7 p.m. at the Lee Civic Center. General admission is $10 in advance; $15 at the gate. Upgrades are available. 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. www.ftmyersbeerandbacon.com.
Tasty Fare – Taste of Gateway runs from 1-5 p.m. at the Denny Grimes & Company Inc. Sales Center. Enjoy food from several Gateway area restaurants. 11900 Fairway Lakes Dr. www.dennygrimes.com.
Youth Improv – The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs’ youth improv group, Mission Improvable, performs at 4 p.m. at the Center for Performing Arts – Moe Auditorium & Film Center. $6 youth; $10 adults. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495- 8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Adult Improv – The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs presents Improv Tonight! at 8 p.m. at the Center for Performing Arts – Moe Auditorium & Film Center. Bonita City Improv performs musical improv, games and scenes that include suggestions by the audience. $12-$17. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495- 8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Music Fest – The Sanibel Music Festival continues its 31st consecutive season of bringing outstanding repertoire and artists to the island with a performance by the Daedalus String Quartet at 8 p.m. at Sanibel Congregational U.C.C. $45. 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 344- 7025 or www.sanibelmusicfestival.org.
Artful Night – SoCo Second Saturdays runs from 5-10 p.m. in the new SoCo district at McGregor and Colonial boulevards. The evening includes a variety of cultural venues, exhibits, music, vendors and more. Broadway Palm Theatre hosts the After Party at 10 p.m. SoCoSWFL.com.
Cool Bikes – Bike Night runs from 6-10 p.m. in downtown Fort Myers. Enjoy a variety of bikes plus music, dining and shopping. www.myriverdistrict.com.
Shrimp Fest – The Shrimp Festival Food, Fun & Crafts Expo runs today through Sunday at Lynn Hall Park. The Shrimp Festival Parade starts at 10 a.m. 950 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. 454-0043.
DAAS Exhibit – The Danielle Branchaud exhibit “Synchronicity” is on display starting at 5 p.m. at the DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery during the SoCo Second Saturday event. 1400 Colonial Blvd., Ste. 84. 590-8645 or daascoop.com.
Music Series – The Koreshan Music Series starts at 1 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays in the historic Art Hall at Koreshan State Historic Site. Concerts are free with park admission. Today’s show is by Brooks Brothers Reminisce. 3800 Corkscrew Road. 992-0311 or www.floridastateparks.org.
Paint Sessions – Vino’s Picasso hosts guided paint sessions themed “Paint Your Pet” from 3:30-6 p.m. ($50) and “Arching Oaks” from 7-9 p.m. ($36). Includes instruction and materials. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
Beach Yoga – Becky Lang teaches yoga from 8:30-9:30 a.m. every Saturday in March (except for March 11) on Fort Myers Beach. The Level One Flow Yoga practice is suitable for most levels and is held on the sand just north of the pier. Bring a yoga mat, sunscreen and water. In the event of inclement weather, cancellation info is posted at beckylang.com. Suggested donation: $10. 791-6538 or beckylang@comcast.net.
SUNDAY3.12
Legendary Band – EARTH WIND & FIRE takes the stage at 7 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. The band is America’s seventh top-selling musical group of all time. $69.50-$129.50. www.bbmannpah.com or 481-4849.
Art Show – The Jamaica Bay Art League holds its 38th annual Art Show from 2-5 p.m. in the Veranda at Jamaica Bay. More than 30 artists display 150- plus works of art. The event includes a Chinese auction, a JB Artists Painting Auction and a JB Artists Notecard sale, plus music and refreshments. Free admission. 15235 S. Tamiami Trl. Benefit Event – The Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club hosts the 19th annual Royal Palm Classic to benefit the I Will Mentorship Foundation. The event offers three route lengths: 62 miles, 40 miles and 15 miles, leaving at 8, 9 and 9:30 a.m. from Fort Myers Brewing Company. $45, includes lunch, aid stations, swag bag and more. 12811 Commerce Lakes Dr., Ste. 27-28. crbc.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=787276&module_id=169606&sl=633787907.
Pancake Breakfast – The Bayside Estates Men’s club hosts its monthly pancake breakfast from 8-11 a.m. in the Bayside Recreation Hall. Meals include and all-you-can-eat pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausages, coffee and orange juice for $5. 16601 San Carlos Blvd.
Chamber Concert – Soprano Sunhae Im and pianist Vladimir Feltsman perform works by Mahler, Zemlinsky and more at 3 p.m. at Artis—Naples. 597- 1900 or www.artisnaples.org.
Antique Market – The Shell Factory Antique Market runs from 8 a.m. -2 p.m. at the Shell Factory. 2787 N. Tamiami Trl., N. Fort Myers. (586) 504-4405.
Cool Cars – The seventh annual Cruisin’ for Care Car Show is set for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Six Bends Harley-Davidson. Registration is $15. The show includes music, food and raffles. 9501 Thunder Road. www.21stcenturycare.org.
Blues Tunes – Blues and Bloody’s Sunday runs from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at The Center Bar at the Promenade at Bonita Bay. The event features three live blues bands to benefit the Bonita Blues Charitable Foundation Inc. Free admission. Food is available for purchase. 26811 S. Bay Dr., Ste. 128. 325-3583 or info@The- CenterBar.com.
Tribute Show – Dwight Icenhower’s Tribute to the King, an Elvis Presley tribute show, runs today and Monday at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. Both matinee and evening performances are scheduled. 1380 Colonial Blvd. 278-4422 or www.broadwaypalm.com.
American Music – Michael Feinstein performs classics from the Great American Songbook at 7 p.m. at Artis— Naples. 597-1900 or www.artisnaples.org.
Yoga Workshop – Yoga Bird presents Restorative Yoga and Healing Crystal Bowl Meditation with Linda from 4-6 p.m. Participants experience deep relaxation body and soul as they surrender into restorative poses. $25. No yoga experience necessary. 1400 Colonial Blvd. 936-6940 or yogabirdstudio.com.
Choral Concert – Voices of Naples presents “Homeward Bound” at 3 p.m. at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church. Free, but freewill offering appreciated. 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita Springs. 455-2582 or www.voicesofnaples.org.
Paint Sessions – Vino’s Picasso hosts guided paint sessions themed “Beach Signs” from 2-4:30 p.m. ($40) and “Paint What You Want” from 4-6:30 p.m. ($15). Includes instruction and materials. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
Dog Day – The Calusa Nature Center hosts Dog Day Afternoons from noon-3 p.m. on Sundays. $5 per human; dogs must be leashed. 3450 Ortiz Ave. www.calusanature.org or 275-3435.
Music Event – The Americana Community Music Association and HBS host a Singer/Songwriter Circle from 2-5 p.m. on Sundays at All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd. Join local singer/songwriters in an open, creative atmosphere. Free; donations welcome. 910-5657 or www.americanacma.org.
Blues Tunes – The Buckingham Blues Bar hosts an Open Stage Blues Jam from 3-6 p.m. on Sundays and from 8-11 p.m. Wednesdays. 5641 Buckingham Rd. 693-7111.
Jazz Brunch – Joe Delaney and Brandon Robertson perform from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. during Jazz Brunch at The Barrel Room. 2210 Bay St. 333-2225 or www.barrelroomfortmyers.com.
MONDAY3.13
Chamber Ensemble – The Naples Philharmonic Chamber Ensembles perform at 7:30 p.m. in the U. Tobe Recital Hall at FGCU. $25 for the public; $15 for students. www.fgcu.edu/CAS/BSMA.
Downtown Birding – Audubon of SWFL presents “History & Urban Birding in Historic Downtown Fort Myers” at 6:30 p.m. Experience birding and local history on this downtown outing. Led by chapter birders, with local-history aficionado Gerri Reaves, participants learn about the history of the town and look for birds at sunset. The event starts in Centennial Park. Free but donations are welcome.
Play Readings – Theatre Conspiracy continues its Play Reading Series with a reading of “Biblically Speaking” by John Repa at 8 p.m. at the Alliance for the Arts. A Q&A session follows with the playwright. $5 admission. 10091 McGregor Blvd. www.TheatreConspiracy.org or 936-3239.
Clewiston Tour – The Bonita Springs Historical Society hosts “A Sweet Invitation” tour of Clewiston, leaving from the Liles Hotel on private bus at 8:15 a.m. The tour includes an introduction to sugar cane harvesting, processing and packaging, plus info on other crops, a visit to the Clewiston Museum, Lake Okeechobee, Southern gardens Citrus and lunch. 27300 Old 41 Road. $35 members; $45 non-members. www.bonitaspringshistoricalsociety.org/Happenings/ Upcoming/ or 992-6997.
Math Night – “Family Math Night” is set for 5:45-7:30 p.m. in Building U, Room 102, at the Florida SouthWestern State College Thomas Edison Campus. The free, family-oriented event for students in kindergarten to grade 8 features fun math games. 8099 College Pkwy. To register: familymathnight@fsw.edu. For info: mary.robertson@fsw.edu.
Free Kids’ Films – Pavilion Paragon Theater provides a free screening of kids’ movies 10 a.m. today through March 17. The line-up includes “The Bee Movie,” “Ice Age: Collision Course,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Home Alone” and “Horton Hears A Who.” 833 Vanderbilt Beach Road. 596- 0008 or www.paragontheaters.com.
Monday Film – BIG ARTS presents the Monday Night Film “Queen of Katwe” at 7 p.m. in Schein Hall. $10. 900 Dunlop Rd., Sanibel. www.bigarts.org or 395-0900.
Film Series – The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs host a screening of “Finding Vivian Maier” at 7 p.m. at the Center for Performing Arts – Moe Auditorium & Film Center, Refreshments are available and a discussion follows. $10. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495-8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Paint Session – Vino’s Picasso hosts a guided paint session themed “Bonita’s Wonder” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. $32; includes instruction and materials. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
Irish Show – Irish comic George Casey performs at 7:30 p.m. at the Laugh In Comedy Club. $20. 8595 College Pkwy. 479-LAFF or www.laughincomedycafe.com.
TUESDAY3.14
Music Fest – The Sanibel Music Festival continues its 31st consecutive season of bringing outstanding repertoire and artists to the island with a performance by the Boston Chamber Music Society with harpist Ann Hobson Pilot at 8 p.m. at Sanibel Congregational U.C.C. $45. 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 344-7025 or www.sanibelmusicfestival.org.
Play Scrabble – The Fort Myers Scrabble Club meets from 6-10 p.m. every Tuesday at Brookdale Senior Living. All ages and all levels are welcome, from beginner to expert. Suggestion donation $2. 8351 College Pkwy.
Dinner & Lecture – Douglas Brinkley, one of America’s most renowned contemporary historians, attends a private dinner and lecture in his honor and in honor of the National Wildlife Refuge System’s anniversary at 5:30 p.m. at the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center on Sanibel Island. He discusses his new book, “Rightful Heritage: Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Land of America,” with dinner to follow. $100. 472-1100, ext. 256, or carrie@dingdarlingsociety.org.
Davis Gardens – The Berne Davis Gardens are open to the public from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesdays through May 23. The botanical gardens include bromeliads, hibiscus, rare and tropical fruit, roses, herbs, native plants, orchids and a bonsai display. 2166 Virginia Ave.
WEDNESDAY3.15
Gala Event – The Sanibel Historical Village hosts a “Let’s Get Historical!” dinner and dance at 6 p.m. on the village grounds. The benefit supports the ongoing needs of the historical village and features music by Kelly & Shelly and a sit-down dinner by Sanibel Catering Co. by Bailey’s. $150. 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. 472-4648 or info@sanibelmuseum.org.
Bluegrass Program – Strolling Through the Bluegrass with Kitty and Vernon McIntyre starts at noon at the South County Regional Library. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy. Registration is required: 479-4636.
Guitar Concert – Patchouli & Terra Guitarra perform at 8 p.m. at Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. $25. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495-8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Film Series – The fifth annual “Ding” Darling Wednesday Film Series presents the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society’s project Why Just One?” at 1 p.m. in the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center auditorium. The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge hosts the free biweekly film series. Seating is free, but limited. dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/lecture-and-film-series.
State Day – Bootleggers Waterfront BBQ hosts Illinois State Day from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. The event includes football, tailgate games, food, drinks and more. 2200 Main St., Fort Myers Beach. 463-3043.
Special Event – Singer Pat Daley performs at 7:30 p.m. at the Laugh In Comedy Club. $20. 8595 College Pkwy. 479-LAFF or www.laughincomedycafe.com.
Paint Sessions – Vino’s Picasso hosts guided paint sessions themed “Glass Class” from 4-5:30 p.m. ($26) and “Deco Palm” from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ($36). Includes instruction and materials. No experience needed. 15250 S. Tamiami Trl., #109. Register at VINOSpicasso.com or 288-6953.
Blues Tunes – The Buckingham Blues Bar hosts an Open Stage Blues Jam from 8-11 p.m. Wednesdays. 5641 Buckingham Rd. 693-7111.
UPCOMING
Sharp Dressed Men – ZZ Top and Edgar Winter Band perform at 7 p.m. March 16 at Germain Arena. $50-$100. 948-7825 or www.germainarena.com.
Chamber Jazz – A classical jazz quartet featuring flute, violin, viola and cello performs from 7:30-9:30 p.m. March 16 at Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs. $25. 10150 Bonita Beach Road. 495- 8989 or www.artcenterbonita.org.
Lonely Boy – Paul Anka performs at 8 p.m. March 16 at Seminole Immokalee Casino. $125. (800) 218-0007 or www.moreinparadise.com.
Irish Party – A real St. Patrick’s Day Party is set for 5-10 p.m. March 17 at St. Columbkille’s Iona Hall. The show features Ireland’s own Brian Bonner, Irish step dancers and a sing-along with Lee Van Asten, plus a corned beef and cabbage dinner and beer and wine setups. $35. 12171 Iona Road. 489-3973.
St. Pat’s Event – The Shell Factory & Nature Park holds a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration from noon-7 p.m. March 17. The event includes live entertainment by Chuck Peterson and authentic Irish Dancers plus green beer, corned beef and cabbage, and more. An adult costume contest starts at 6 p.m. Free admission. www.shellfactory.com.
Funny Lady – Carol Burnett returns to the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at 7:30 p.m. March 21. During “An Evening of Laughter and Reflection,” she takes questions from the audience and shows video clips from her shows. $59-$149. www.bbmannpah.com or 481- 4849.
Pet Party – Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida hosts GoldenFest VIII from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 26 at Doggy Heaven at the Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers. Events include pet vendors, dog dock diving, pet portraits, a grooming booth, raffles, auctions, a GRRSWF Korean dog reunion tent and more. All breeds of well-mannered, leashed dogs are welcome. Admission and parking are free. Dog-related vendors are welcome. info@grrswf.org or 369-0415.
ONGOING EVENTS
Gallery Show – The Alliance for the Arts main gallery show “Art Beyond Boundaries” is on exhibit through March 25. Work by Toni Ferrell Sutton is on display in the Theatre Gallery. The Fort Myers Eight is in the Member Gallery. 10091 McGregor Blvd. 939-2787 or www.ArtInLee.org.
Art Show – The Mano 3: Down and Dirty exhibit, featuring 2D and 3D contemporary works as well as visual art projections, runs through March 20 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. 2301 First St. 33-1933 or www.sbdac.com.
Art Exhibit – Arts for ACT Gallery presents work by Peter Stilton and new works by co-op artists through April 3. 2265 First St. www.artsforactgallery.com or 939-2553.
Sanibel Exhibit – The “Audubon Inspiration” exhibit, curated by Cello Bennett, widow of the late artist Gale Bennett (1939-2008), along with artists Marcy Calkins and Jane Hudson, can be seen at the J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge visitor & Education Center on Sanibel through April 30. The exhibit features the work of a group of local fine artists. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. 472-1100. dingdarlingsociety.org.
Comedy Night – Gulf Coast Comedy presents nationally touring comedians at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa through April 5. $15. gulfcoastcomedy.com or 542-3869.
Typography Exhibit – The Florida Gulf Coast University Art Galleries of the Bower School of Music & the Arts present the “Visual Language: The Art of Typography and Creative Writing” exhibition through March 30 in the Art- Lab Gallery. The exhibit is co-curated by graphic design instructor Sasha Minsky and writing instructor Jesse Millner. 10501 FGCU Blvd. S. Parking is available in Lot 7 for gallery visitors. artgallery.fgcu.edu, 590-7199 or asturdiv@fgcu.edu.
Art Event – Harbour View Gallery presents work by March Featured Artists Zdenka Fiala, stained glass jewelry, and Jean Stanish, palm fronds, through March. 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, Suite 104, Cape Coral. 540-5789 or art@harbourviewgallery.com.
Cool Cars – The Shell Factory & Nature Park hosts a Classic Cruise In from 4-7 p.m. every Thursday in the front parking lot adjacent to U.S. 41. Live entertainment and Capt’n Fishbones discounts are available during the show. 2787 Tamiami Trl. N. Fort Myers. 292-9360.
Fine Art – “The Itty Bitty Art Exhibit” is on display through March 18 in the BIG ARTS Founders Gallery. The exhibit features tiny 2-D treasures of wide and varying mediums. The Petticoat Painters of Sarasota exhibit is on display through March 18 in the Phillips Gallery. 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. 395-0900 or www.bigarts.org.
FSW Art – Florida SouthWestern State College presents the “Ann Hamilton: Phora” exhibit through March 18 at the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery. The exhibit explores the origins of public speaking from the first forums to ongoing political debate. 8099 College Pkwy. 489-9313 or www.RauschenbergGallery.com.
Public Exhibit – The Bob Rauschenberg Gallery at FSW presents a yearlong public exhibition of the artist’s iconic triptych, “Autobiography” (1968) in the Humanities Hall (Building L). Measuring more than 12 feet wide, the exhibit highlights seminal events from the artist’s life. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. 489-9313 or www.RauschenbergGallery.com.
Butterfly House – The Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife offer hosted tours of the Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly House at 10:30 a.m. on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral. Free admission. 549-4606 or www.CapeParks.com.
Historical Village – The Sanibel Historical Village is open for the season, with hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Full guided tours take place at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at no additional charge, depending on docent availability. 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. $10 adults. 472-4648 or www.sanibelmuseum.org.
Model Train – Free tours of the 40-foot-by-40-foot miniature train display are offered from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at The Creativity Center on The Island at Shell Point. Spot hundreds of recognizable geographic landmarks representing notable sites throughout Florida during complimentary tours. 15000 Shell Point Blvd. Call 454-2290 for groups of 10 or more.
Dolphin Cruise – Banana Bay Tour Company hosts a 1½-hour Dolphin Nature Search on Sunday, Monday and Friday. $30 adults; $25 children. 5781 Cape Harbour Dr., Cape Coral. 728-8687 or www.bananabaytourcompany.com.
Eco Tour – Banana Bay Tour Company hosts a three-hour half-day Ecological Dolphin & Lunch Cruise on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The outing includes a deli-style lunch while cruising San Carlos Bay. $56 adults; $51 children. 5781 Cape Harbour Dr., Cape Coral. 728-8687 or www.bananabaytourcompany.com.
Sunset Cruise – Banana Bay Tour Company hosts a 1½-hour Dolphin & Sunset Cruise on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. $30 adults; $25 children. 5781 Cape Harbour Dr., Cape Coral. 728-8687 or www.bananabaytourcompany.com.
Home Tour – Banana Bay Tour Company hosts a 1½-hour Homes & Harbour Tour on Sunday and Friday. View estates and yachts while cruising the waterways around Cape Coral. $30 adults; $25 children. 5781 Cape Harbour Dr., Cape Coral. 728-8687 or www.bananabaytourcompany.com.
Haunted Tours – True Tours offers Haunted Tours through the historic Fort Myers River District from 8-9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Tours are also offered at 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of the month. Tours offer glimpses into the unseen, with stories of reputed paranormal activity. Tours leave from the Franklin Shops 2200 First St. $14. For reservations: 945-0405 or (800) 979-3370. www.Truetours.net.
History Tours – True Tours offers River District History Tours from 10:30 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Tours provide narratives of local history, and acquaint participants with the colorful personalities of the founders of the city. Tours leave from the Franklin Shops 2200 First St. $13. For reservations: 945-0405 or (800) 979- 3370. www.Truetours.net.
Legends & Legacy – True Tours offers a Legends and Legacy Tour at 10:30 a.m. on Fridays. The tour reveals the legacy of civic-minded and philanthropic men and women in the area. Tours leave from the Franklin Shops 2200 First St. $16. For reservations: 945- 0405 or (800) 979-3370. www.Truetours.net.
Matlacha Tour – True Tours offers a Flavors of Matlacha tour at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. The tour is a history, public art, eco and taste adventure covering Matlacha’s salty history with the signature tastes of this fishing village that transformed itself into an artist colony. $18. Tours start at The Old Fish House Marina Restaurant, 4530 Pine Island Rd. For reservations: 945-0405 or www.truetours.net
Car Cruise – The Shell Factory and Nature Park hosts Larry Day and his Cruise In from 4-7:30 p.m. every Monday in the front parking lot adjacent to U.S. 41. 2787 N. Tamiami Trl., North Fort Myers. larrycruisinlist-swfl.com.
Historical Site – The Mound House is open to visitors, with Calusa Shell Mound Tours, guided beach walks at Newton Beach Park, shorebirds programs and guided museum tours regularly scheduled. Explore the newly restored historic home, see exhibitions and wander the scenic grounds. 451 Connecticut Street, Fort Myers Beach. www.moundhouse.org or 765-0865.
Flea Market – The Shell Factory and Nature Park holds flea markets at 7 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. 2787 N. Tamiami Trl. shellfactory.com, 995-2141 or 243-7472.
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