Arts & Culture

The Foulds Theatre Gallery at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers is showcasing an exhibition of works by Southwest Florida-based artist and painting instructor Terry Lynn Spry. We talk with the artist about works in the exhibition, her creative process, and approach to arts education.

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.

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.

In collaboration with the National New Play Network’s Rolling World Premiere program, Florida Repertory Theatre is mounting a production of playwright Brent Askari’s new comedy “ADVICE.” We’ll learn more about the play and the NNPN’s efforts to showcase contemporary playwrights and new plays in a conversation with Askari, the director of the Florida Rep’s production Brendon Fox, and NNPN Executive Director Nan Barnett.

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.

Matlacha artists have united to assist in the rebuilding process in the wake of Hurricane Ian and rekindle a popular tradition of the community's art walk to bring visitors back to the island.

After years of hiatus, Jennifer Rena Bennett, owner of Matlacha's Island Flair, has partnered with the Matlacha Civic Association to resurrect Matlacha's Art Walk. Its resurgence returned to the small island on June 13, 2025. Since then, the event has gained increased attention with an intrinsic goal of rejuvenating and reinvigorating the quaint business community, home to the historic fishing village, during the times of stability prior to the cavalcade of hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton—all of which impacted the low-lying island in different ways.

A Southwest Florida tradition has returned with Players Circle Theater’s currently running production of the company’s original musical revue titled “Ho! Ho! Ho! The Christmas Show.” We take a deeper dive into the show with co-writers Robert Cacioppo and Ted Wioncek.

From Sarasota to Marco Island and Venice and Sanibel to Arcadia and LaBelle, Southwest Florida is home to more than a dozen art centers. Most host visual art exhibitions showcasing member, regional and nationally renowned artists that change every month. In December, there are 23 shows at these venues, underscoring the importance of the arts in our part of the country.