This week, one show opens, six close, three continue their runs and there are five limited engagements at Southwest Florida equity and community theaters.
OPENING
“Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” [In the Kizzie Theater of The Naples Players]: This is a thrilling, fast-paced musical adventure that serves up a blend of razor-sharp wit, unforgettable melodies, and a dash of delightful mischief. A Tony-award-winning tale from Stephen Sondheim, the show bursts with humor, heart, and soaring songs accompanied by an 18-piece live orchestra. Opens June 25 and runs through July 27. This week’s performances are Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. For tickets, telephone 239-263-7990 or visit https://my.naplesplayers.org/overview/4242.
LIMITED ENGAGEMENTS
“In the Heights” [Alliance Youth Theatre]: "In the Heights" tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. This dynamic and heartfelt musical brings together a cast of 20 young performers, ages 15 to 18, representing over 10 different cultures from schools throughout Lee County. Performances are Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/allianceforthearts/3107 or telephone 239-939-2787.
“Stage 2 Improv” [Arts Center Theatre]: Naples-based improvisational theatre group, Stage 2 Improv, is at it again creating scenes, songs and games driven by suggestions from the audience. You may even be able to participate! Created on the spot, each show is uniquely hilarious unto itself. Actors include Peter Caporal, Kat Ebaugh, Ashley Estrada, Kit FitzSimons, Tom Gregus, Jesse Hughes, Mikael Kipila, Ralph Krumins, Adam Santa Fe, Judith Santos, Mike Santos, Melinda Steffey. Read/hear on WGCU: "Three Stage 2 players share their insights into maximizing the improv experience." Also: "Marco Island Center for the Arts books Stage 2 Improv for three shows." Tickets are $20 per person. One performance only on Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or telephone 239-784-1186.
“The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” [Gulfshore Playhouse]: As the half-blood son of a Greek god, Percy Jackson has newly discovered powers he can’t control, a destiny he doesn’t want, and a mythology textbook’s worth of monsters on his trail. When Zeus’ master lightning bolt is stolen and Percy becomes the prime suspect, he has to find and return the bolt to prove his innocence and prevent a war between the gods. Adapted from the bestselling book “The Lightning Thief,” by Rick Riordan, and featuring a thrilling original rock score, “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” is an action-packed mythical adventure “worthy of the gods” (Time Out New York). Performances are Friday, June 27 at 7 p.m. [SOLD OUT]; Saturday, June 28 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 3 p.m. [SOLD OUT]. For tickets, visit https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/buy-tickets/8141/36601 or telephone 239-261-7529.
“The Sound of Music – YPE [Fort Myers Theatre]: The final collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein became the world’s most beloved musical. It features a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Every Mountain,” “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and the title song. There are two casts. The Blue Cast performs Thursday, June 26 at 2:30 p.m. and Friday, June 27 at 6 p.m. The Red Cast performs Thursday, June 26 at 6 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 10:30 a.m and 2:30 p.m.
“The 24-Hour Playwriting Project” [Laboratory Theater of Florida]: The perennial favorite bucket list event, The 24-Hour Playwriting Project, is back for Season 17! The theme for this season is once again a well-guarded secret, as are the handicaps, props, and other requirements given to the playwrights at the absolute last minute. Playwrights will be assigned a theme, a director, and actors. Within just 24 hours, you will see the fruits of their labor when The Lab presents all of their short plays to be judged by a panel of area theater and arts professionals. A hugely popular event! One performance only on Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. Included in season pass upon request. For tickets, visit https://laboratorytheaterflorida.com/ or telephone 239-291-2905.
CLOSING
“Comedy Lottery” [Florida Studio Theatre at Bowne’s Lab]: Twelve lucky audience members determine the fate of FST’s improv team by selecting the night’s lineup of games. FST’s cast of funny people is off to the races spinning scenes, sketches, and songs to win your laughter. What will they come up with next? We have absolutely no idea. But one thing is for sure: every Saturday night, their destiny is in your hands. Closes June 28. This week’s performance is Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/2025-summer-improv/25-comedy-lottery or telephone 941-366-9000.
“From 145th to 98th Street” [Urbanite Theatre]: When Jackie and Cedric moved their family from the heart of Harlem to 98th Street, they did so to create better economic opportunities for their children. But when their son, Jamal, is wrongfully accused of a crime and their daughter, Fatima, doubts her college plans, the Curtly family must either come together in adversity or watch as their clashing quests for success pull them apart. A riveting drama that captures the Curtly family’s struggles and triumphs, “From 145th to 98th Street” chronicles a family’s challenge to reconcile what they each want and what they think is best for each other. Closes June 29. This week’s performances are Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. [SOLD OUT]. For tickets, telephone 941-321-1397 or visit https://ci.ovationtix.com/34772/production/1204853.
“Jesus Christ Superstar” [Asolo Repertory Theatre]: Love. Betrayal. And Redemption. Under the hot Judean sun, tempers fray and a rogue apostle questions his Messiah, who in turns questions his God. The choices they make will change the course of the world -- forever. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice revolutionized theater when their epic rock opera debuted fifty years ago, introducing the world to such songs as “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Heaven on Their Minds.” Following his celebrated interpretations of “Cabaret,” “The Sound of Music” and “Evita,” Josh Rhodes returns to Asolo Rep with a fiery and revelatory new production. Closes June 28. This week’s performances are Tuesday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, June 25 at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.asolorep.org/events/detail/jesus-christ-superstar or telephone 941-351-8000 or 800-361-8388.
“Legally Blonde” [Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre]: Based on the iconic movie, this ultimate tribute to girl power follows the journey of sorority girl Elle Woods to the Harvard halls of justice. Watch as she tackles stereotypes, chauvinism, elitism, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. With the help of new friends, Elle realizes her potential and proves that self-discovery never goes out of style! Packed with memorable songs, this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! Closes June 28. This week’s performances are Wednesday, June 25 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, June 28 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. [Lunch service begins at 11:30 a.m. for matinees, with dinner service beginning at 5:30 p.m. for evening performances.] For tickets, telephone 239-278-4422 or visit https://broadwaypalm.com/shows/legally-blonde/.
“The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition” [Off Broadway Palm]: When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob, Patrick and the rest of the quirky island residents must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up demonstrating that the power of optimism really can save the world. With songs, vibrant dances and plenty of hilarity, this show is a perfect treat for kids and families alike. Closes June 27. This week’s shows are Tuesday, June 24 at 1 p.m. and Friday, June 27 at 1 p.m. [Lunch service begins at 11:30 a.m.] For tickets, telephone 239-278-4422 or visit https://broadwaypalm.com/shows/spongebob-square-pants/.
“Men Are Dogs” [Cape Café Dessert Theatre]: Cecelia runs a support group for single and divorced women. Along with her cadre of crazed patients she must deal with her overbearing mother who offers her daughter her own relationship advice! Add to the mix the substitute package delivery man she meets and it soon becomes uncertain whether Ceclia will be able to practice what she preaches. Listen on WGCU’s Gulf Coast Life Arts Edition to “A conversation with Southwest Florida-based playwright Joe Simonelli.” Closes June 29. Performances are Saturday, June 28 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. For tickets, email capecafetheatre@gmail.com or telephone 239-363-0848.
CONTINUING
“Dames at Sea” [Florida Studio Theatre in Gompertz Theatre]: Ruby, a hopeful chorus girl from Utah, arrives in New York with dreams of making it on Broadway. With help from Dick, a sailor and aspiring songwriter, she lands a role in a struggling show. When the star suddenly drops out, Ruby gets her big break—until the theatre gets demolished. Featuring songs like “Good Times Are Here to Stay” and “Broadway Baby,” this tap-filled romance celebrates the sparkle of 1930s Broadway. Extended through July 6. This week’s performances are Tuesday, June 24 at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, June 25 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 7 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. [SOLD OUT]. For tickets, telephone 941-366-9000 or visit https://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/2025-summer-mainstage-series/dames-at-sea.
“How Sweet It Is” [Florida Studio Theatre at Goldstein Cabaret]: When Motown Records burst onto the scene, it changed popular music forever. This show celebrates the iconic songs, stories, and surprising connections between Motown stars and music legends. With fresh takes on classics like “How Sweet It Is,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and “Stop in the Name of Love,” “How Sweet It Is” explores Motown’s legacy—enriched by personal accounts of collaborations with The Beatles, Eric Clapton, and James Taylor. Runs through August 3. This week’s performances are Tuesday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit https://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/events-and-tickets/2025-summer-cabaret-series/how-sweet-it-is or telephone 941-366-9000.
‘Til Death Do Us Part: Late Night Catechism 3” [Florida Repertory Theatre in the ArtStage Studio Theatre]: After teaching countless students about the saints, venial sins, limbo and more, Sister is now offering up hilarious lessons on the Sacraments of Marriage and the Last Rites, including her own wacky version of the Newlywed Game. Classroom participation is a must, so bring along your sweetie and your sense of humor for a session with the country’s feistiest couples’ counselor! Stars Denise (Marie Christina) Fennell as Sister. Runs through July 3. This week’s performances are Wednesday, June 25 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Thursday, June 26 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Friday, June 27 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday, June 28 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m. For tickets, telephone 239- 332-4488 or visit https://ci.ovationtix.com/36930/production/1234682.
Support for WGCU’s arts & culture reporting comes from the Estate of Myra Janco Daniels, the Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation, and Naomi Bloom in loving memory of her husband, Ron Wallace.