February short on days Long on events by Claudia Polzin, Independent Consultant

Claudia Polzin

Naples Players begins the month with their presentation of The Cake which opens on February 2 and runs through February 27. This is a dramatic comedy with adult themes. North Carolina baker, Della finds herself with a moral dilemma. Does she bake the wedding cake for her deceased best friend’s daughter or does she follow her faith which disapproves of gay marriage? The two brides and a baker must face their differences with no clear answers.

The Norris Center located in the heart of Naples – will present Legends and Laughter with Jimmy Mazz – this is a musical and comedic tribute direct from the Las Vegas strip – the show is presented on February 5 at 7 p.m.

February is known as the month of love and TheatreZone’s presentation of Bright Star fits right in. The play with its Tony nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell is a true story of love and redemption. A woman meets a young soldier home from World War II and that meeting brings up dormant emotions for a child she lost. This production run select days and times February 10 through February 20.

Gulfshore Opera presents two very interesting programs in February – February 12 will feature Songs of Love in the exotic atrium of the Innovation Hotel on the campus of Arthrex in Naples. Back by popular demand the concert brings a mix of popular and operatic love songs. The evening includes a glass of champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres.

One of the fortunate things we enjoy in Naples is the fact that we have options for entertainment – and with the issues of COVID we can always have options for outdoor concerts. The City of Naples has a full schedule of concerts in Cambier Park – which offer the options of a band concert and then a stroll downtown and finding something to eat along 5th Avenue or 3rd Street South. February does not disappoint for concerts and begins on February 6 at 2 p.m. with the Gulf Coast Big Band; and then on February 7 if you prefer an evening concert at 7 p.m. the Stardust Memories Band will perform. One of the oldest bands in Naples – the Naples Concert Band will be performing on February 13 at 2 p.m.; and you can end the month on February 21 at 7 p.m.
with the Stardust Memories Big Band or on February 27 at 2 p.m. with the Naples Dixieland Band.

Gulfshore Opera will close out the month with a unique opportunity on February 27. Florida’s only touring opera company will bring The Bat’s Revenge (Die Fledermaus) to Silverspot Cinema at Mercato. Enjoy this unique experience in Theatre 12 – where you will have an opportunity to party with the stars immediately after the production with wine and hors d’oeuvres served. This popular operetta by waltz king Johann Strauss has been given a makeover, and is set in the Golden Age of 1930s Hollywood. This new concept is introduced by innovative director Josh Shaw of Pacific Opera Project. This is one of the touring productions of Gulfshore Opera, and will tour all three counties in our region – Collier, Lee and Charlotte.

If you are new to Naples – this is definitely the month for you to get to know all of the wonderful entertainment opportunities in our beautiful community.