Variety of Art in Naples – Inside and Outside

Claudia Polzin
Independent Consultant

February, 2021 brings an altered variety of art experiences to all of us in Naples – from Drive-In Movies to Opera to Art Galleries. Beginning the month with an old art experience that has had a revival during our current health crisis – drive-in movies. The Naples Players found a way to continue movie experiences by bringing back the drive-in movies –

February 2 and 3 you can enjoy Twister; and on February 16 and 17 –Hairspray will be featured. The shows are at 300-8th Street S and you can obtain tickets at the Naples Players website. Parking is open at 7 p.m with the shows beginning at 8.

If you love Broadway – then you might want to explore the option by Gulfshore Opera on February 2 at Naples Art – there will be a concert featuring the music of one of the best known composers of modern times – Andrew Lloyd Webber. A trio of artists will perform works from Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, Evita, Aspects of Love, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Featured will be tenor – John Reisen – Opera News described his performances as heartfelt and musically and dramatically satisfying. Your ticket for this event will also include an outdoor wine reception.

One of our local treasures – TheatreZone – is beginning its 16th season – and will open February 4 with a trip through the hit songs from our favorite movies. Many movies we remember by the songs – and some of these will be featured in this production – The Way We Were, Moon River, Arthur’s Theme and Saturday Night Fever. I have to confess that as I looked at this list I could hum the songs, but in some instances could not recall what the movie was actually about – which again proves the enduring quality of music. February 8 – Larry Alexander will perform the music of Sinatra in a concert titled Sinatra… My Way.

In 2020 the Naples Players found ways to still provide entertainment and they have continued with unique offerings like the drive-in movies; however, they have also published their schedule for 2022. Why note this? Because we all need something to look forward to – so plan now for January to February, 2022 to enjoy the production of the Savannah Sipping Society. This is a laugh a minute comedy (which is just what we all need) – and the story of four unique Southern women. All of these women need an escape from their lives and are drawn together by fate in an impromptu happy hour. It’s time to meet Randa, Dot, Marlafaye and Jinx – laugh with them and enjoy their adventures.

An opera option will be available on February 23 at Artis-Naples with Gulfshore Opera presenting Viva Verdi. Many who don’t know that much about opera can hum some of the arias from Verdi’s works – so enjoy his most beloved operas – Il Trovatore, Aida, Othello and Requiem. Come and enjoy the beauty of opera with one of the most beloved composers – Verdi.

I encourage everyone to visit the new Holocaust Museum & Education Center. The exhibition that will be there through May 25, 2021 is titled Girl Power – Heroines of the Holocaust, World War II and Beyond. This exhibition features the undercover radio operators, resistance fighters, social workers and many other heroines who stood up against oppression and made a significant difference for many.

Sincerely hoping that all of our venues are returning to being able to hold concerts and events for all of us to enjoy and that 2021 sees a resurgence of the arts we love.