Tom Hall

Producing Artistic Director Joe Simonelli has announced the closing of Cape Café Dessert Theatre in Cape Coral. Citing sparse ticket sales, the theater will close permanently as of January 1.

George Balanchine is often called the father of American ballet, A groundbreaking choreographer and co-founder of New York City Ballet, his innovative neoclassical style made him one of the most transformative figures in dance history. In “Masters of Movement,” Sarasota Ballet pays tribute to Balanchine with two dances that celebrate composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

The 15th Annual Coconut Point New Year’s Art Festival will be held in Estero Dec. 27 and 28. This two-day outdoor art festival takes place in the parking lot along Via Villagio Drive.

This week, one show opens, 10 close and 10 continue their runs at Southwest Florida equity and community theaters.

The Robin Dawn Academy Holiday Showcase 2025 takes place at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall on Monday, December 15. Academy dancers ages 3–18 will light up the stage with high-energy routines in every style — ballet, jazz, hip hop, and more — set to favorite holiday hits.

When daily 10-hour practice sessions at the University of Indiana caused tendonitis, violinist Janice Martin focused on vocals, dance and the Alexander Technique for mind-body balance. But it was a performance by Cirque du Soleil that got her thinking about combining violin with aerial silks and hoops.

Gulfshore Ballet has cast alumna Anna McKinney in role of Sugar Plum Fairy in 'The Nutcracker.' It almost didn't happen.

Whether you are a fan of musical theatre, improv or a classic symphony, Southwest Florida is home to some of the best holiday performances around.

Every December, the Marco Island Center for the Arts hosts an exhibition of work by members of its Clay Guild. Executive Director Hyla Crane provides context. “It is a collective group of artists working out of the clay studio that we have here. This year they've themed their exhibition. It's called ‘Glazed and Amazed.’”

“Paradise” is one of four exhibitions currently on view at Art Center Sarasota. The exhibition is a visual exploration of utopia, beauty, and escapism – a forum in which artists imagine and create visions of a perfect world. From serene landscapes to fantastical realms, “Paradise” showcases compelling interpretations of what paradise can be.