Theater

Before she became Gypsy Rose Lee, Louise Hovick was “excess baggage” in her mother’s eyes. Momma Rose wasn’t a monster, or even neglectful. It was a matter of focus - on June, her younger, more talented daughter. Lauren Perry plays Momma Rose. But Louise turns the table when her younger sister leaves to pursue a career as a legitimate film actor.

Eggs are top of mind for a lot of people right now. Back in 1595, they were for Nick and Nigel Bottom, too. In their quest to one-up William Shakespeare, they're producing history's very first musical, "Omelet."

Actor Lemec Bernard says that the struggles taking place onstage in August Wilson's "Jitney" are a microcosm of those we encounter in everyday life.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is celebrating Black History Month with playwright August Wilson’s “Fences.” Each of Wilson’s Century Cycle plays speak about the African-American experience in this country. In this context, says Artistic Director Nate Jacobs, “Fences” focuses on the universal theme of families, in particular, the father-son relationship.

The Brits love “The Da Vinci Code,” so the only surprise was that they waited until 2022 to adapt the 2003 novel for the stage. The drama jumped the pond in August of 2023, and Producing Artistic Director Tyler Young was first in line for the rights to produce the play in Florida.

Arts Center Theatre on Marco Island is presenting Neil Simon this season, starting with “Last of the Red Hot Lovers.” There’s an abundance of physical comedy, amplified by the cozy confines of the 82-seat theater, where the front row is a mere 4 feet from the stage.

Five shows open around Southwest Florida this week, another offers a sneak peek preview, two continue their run and one show closes. Read on for play dates, times and a synopsis of each show.

TheatreZone Artistic Director Mark Danni says “Once the Musical” is a unique theatrical experience that will move you to laughter, to tears, and to a deep understanding of the particular joy of joining together in song.

Theatergoers can celebrate New Year’s week with five theater entertainment choices, including the opening of "Spaceman" at Urbanite Theatre in Sarasota and "The Buddy Holly Story" at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre.

Luminary Hotel needs help solving "The Case of the Maltese Crow Murder," a captivating dinner theater event that will be performed February 1st and 2nd by the GibsonHouse Mystery Performers.