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in P
Another Year E
nds
aradise
Another Year Ends in Paradise
there are many options to celebrate

by Claudia Polzin, Independent Consultant
s we bring 2025 to a close there At the heart of this drama is Carmen – a woman who refuses
are many options to celebrate all to be possessed, enchanting all who cross her path. But her
A month long – start by exploring independence clashes with Don Jose’s obsessive love, passion spirals
all of the holiday concerts that are into jealousy which leads to inevitable tragedy.
available in the community at our many With soaring vocals, thrilling choreography and a cast of
churches. But don’t go alone, dynamic artists, Gulfshore Opera’s Carmen immerses audiences
bring friends and create new memories. in a world where the universal thrill of live opera and dynamic
During the month there’s not only storytelling come alive.
concerts you can go to, but there are also But now it’s time to jump back into the Holiday spirit and
plays and holiday events. enjoy the original musical extravaganza –Home for the Holidays–
Begin the month by exploring the North Pole on Third – December 19-21 at TheatreZone. This original show is reimagined
downtown Naples – December 4 & 5 from 5 to 8 p.m. There will each year but always features traditional and popular Christmas
be seasonal music and lots of seasonal entertainment. You can songs, sparkling costumes, energetic dance routines and live
th
continue the celebration on December 5 and 6 on 5 Avenue. orchestra.
On December 5 there will be a Christmas Tree lighting in Sugden The Naples Players will feature Little Women: the Musical, a
Plaza at approximately 6 p.m. and continue with celebrations all timeless tale of love, family and resilience. The March sisters'
up and down 5th avenue until 10 p.m. On Saturday December 6, inspiring journey embraces the joy and spirit of togetherness this
the celebration continues from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. season. This will play at the Kizzie Theatre through December 21.
Sometimes we all need a break from all of the holiday Some fun family activities - December 9 from 6:30 to 9:30
festivities – and there are many options for that also – at the p.m. there is the Naples Christmas Parade. A unique adventure on
Norris Center on December 5 at 7 p.m. you can can’t get further December 12 at 6:30 p.m. in Sugden Plaza, enjoy the
from holiday than Hell on Wheels a Country Rock show that Tuba Christmas – the annual brass concert featuring local
features the unstoppable women who have ruled the charts – and national musicians.
Carrie Underwood to Miranda Lambert. If you prefer comedy Also on December 12 at 7 p.m. in the Norris Center CGO
– on December 6 at 7 p.m. at the Norris Center you can enjoy an Music International will present the Voyces of Christmas.
evening with comedian Kevin McDonald. Wherever you choose to spend your Holidays this
A complete change of pace on December 7 at 7 p.m. Gulfshore year –be sure to spend it with loved ones– make
Opera will present George Bizet’s beloved Carmen in Hayes Hall memories and be sure to start some new memories
at Artis—Naples. This story of freedom, fervor and fate is timeless and traditions.
where the thrill of freedom collides with the dangers of possessive See you in the New Year.
love. Set in the 1830’s in the sun-drenched hills and bustling
plazas of Seville, this production honors Bizet’s original spirit
with traditional Spanish scenery, rich hued costume and dramatic
visuals that capture the opera’s fiery soul.

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