IS FALL SPICE IN THE AIR? by CLAUDIA POLZIN, Independent Consultant

November—the official beginning of Season in Southwest Florida—and beginning of the gearing up for the arts organizations for their 2022-23 schedules. Also, all of the fast food places, and coffee shops started early—in September with their pumpkin spice varieties of coffee and sweets. So by now you may have had your fill of pumpkin spice—just be sure you save a little taste for pumpkin on Thanksgiving. But with November comes the official end of Hurricane Season—something to celebrate.

If you are looking for something a little different to enjoy in Naples— on November 1 through November 26 the HARMON-MEEK ART GALLERY in downtown Naples will be featuring the expressionist work by Mally Khorasantchi. She describes her work as large-scale contemporary art inspired by nature. Mally has been a resident of Naples for 25 years. This German born artist became a citizen in 2006, and knew that she wanted to be an artist at the age of 9.

THE NAPLES PLAYERS will conclude their run of “By The Way, Meet Vera Stark” on November 6. Vera Stark is an aspiring starlet but current maid to Gloria Mitchell, an aging star grasping at her quickly fading career. In the Golden Age of Hollywood, Vera finally lands a trailblazing role in an antebellum epic—only to realize her boss is the star of the project. Vera Stark’s career path resembles those of other black actresses of her era—but Vera is a fictional character. This play is being featured in the Tobye Studio.

Just in time for your holiday visitors The Naples Players will open “A Christmas Carol The Musical” in the Blackburn Hall. This timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, Bob Cratchit, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future and of course, Tiny Tim. This story originally published in 1843 was written by Charles Dickens. The play will open on November 23 and run through December 18.

The day after Thanksgiving, November 25, NIGHT LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN AT THE NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN will open. It will run through December 23, then between December 26-30, and once more on January 1, 2023. It will feature creative illuminations, blooming gardens, festive food and roaming entertainment. Tickets sell out fast so if you want to attend on the night of your choice be sure to get your tickets early.

GULFSHORE OPERA will feature two unique entertainment opportunities in November. The GO Divas will present a concert on the lawn at Mercato. This popular women’s vocal ensemble returns with a series of fun and friendly concerts. This concert features rich vocal harmonies from opera scenes to popular contemporary songs of the 60’s and 70’s. This diverse new program will feature pop favorites like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Happy Together”, and ensembles from The Magic Flute
and Carmen.

On November 17, explore the beauties of Latin music with LATIN INFUSION. This concert and four course dinner will be at Bodega Olé restaurant downtown Naples. Latin Divo, Fernando Gonzalez from Cuba and GO Diva Erika Ramirez from Venezuela, alongside a Cuban guitarist, pianist and percussionist, will be performing a kaleidoscope of Latin music. Experience everything from boleros, Zarzuela Latin pop, traditional folk music from Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, Spain and much more.

November is a month of anticipation—anticipation for the Holiday season; anticipation of the exciting season of entertainment in Naples; anticipation of pending guests that will arrive from the north.

Be sure to check all of the websites of your favorite entertainment venues so that you don’t miss out on your favorites; and share your favorites with friends and introduce them to new opportunities to be found in Naples.