Several members of the cast of “Hair” may be making their last stage appearances in Southwest Florida. That’s because they’re heading to college in a few weeks to pursue degrees in musical theater.

On July 12 and 13, students from Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s Stage of Discovery summer musical theater camp will perform “Alice in Boogie Wonderland.” It’s an original musical written just for them by Jim Weaver, the Troupe’s Education Director and Artistic Associate.

For the Fourth of July, Song of the Day's Sheldon Zoldan is taking a crack at the classic patriotic hymn, Yankee Doodle Dandy.

Since the second week in June, dancers from around the globe have been training at Sarasota Cuban Ballet’s annual summer intensive. Now, they’re gearing up for On Stage 2025, a showcase performance at the Sarasota Opera House on July 19. Joining the summer intensive dancers this year are three headliners.

“Hair” is one of those shows that has it all – memorable music, interesting characters, a large, cohesive ensemble and relevant themes. “Hair” is, and continues to be, a protest piece. The musical reminds us that people interpret silence as tacit acceptance, if not approval, of government action. But protest prevents the dreaded spiral of silence, which begets further misapprehension about what a society collectively believes and wants.

“Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life” debuted in Fort Myers during Fringe Fort Myers in 2024. The show’s originator, Keith Alessi, returns this week as part of Theatre Conspiracy’s Farewell Tour. Alessi’s four performances will benefit six local nonprofits.

This week, two shows open, one show closes, four continue their runs and there are three limited engagements at Southwest Florida equity and community theaters.

The $115.5 billion budget signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis includes more than $18 million for 184 arts organizations. Most Southwest Florida arts and culture organizations remain on the outside looking in.

The Florida Division of Arts & Culture announced on Tuesday that the arts & culture grant cycle for 2025-2026 is now open. But don’t blink. Submissions are due by Monday, July 14.

We discuss a gripping novel that traces the effects of a death in the family on the generations to follow.