Beethoven v. Coldplay
May 4 at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, swflso.org
Southwest Florida Symphony gifts us with this mashup, conducted by composer Steve Hackman of Stereo Hideout Fusion. The combination of the classical genius and particularly contemplative rock force is unexpected yet makes total sense.
Minto US Open Pickleball Championships
Through May 4 at East Naples Community Park, usopenpickleballchampionship.com
It’s safe to say pickleball has graduated from somewhat surprising trend to sport with staying power. And Naples is at the heart of the madness. Whether you’re already a convert or have yet to see what all the fuss is about, this premier tournament (as in, the world over) is the place to enjoy it.
JUXTAPOSITION
May 3-31 at Alliance for the Arts, artinlee.org
You’ll find a wealth of energetic and imaginative creations in this exhibit featuring Mila Bridger, known for her whimsical photography, and Mariapia Malerba, an artist of many trades (you’ll recall her handmade silk fashions from our March issue, for one, and this exhibit showcases her multimedia works). Count on the display making you think and making you smile.
PlayLab Festival
May 9-12 at Florida Repertory Theatre, floridarep.org
For this sixth-annual event, Florida Rep selected seven plays from more than 50 submissions for workshopping, discussion and development. The readings and talkbacks, plus a playwright panel, are a wonderfully up-close look at and dissection of the creative process.
Sizzle SWFL Restaurant Week
May 30 through June 12, sizzleswfl.com
For two weeks twice a year, the local culinary world becomes our oyster as more than 50 restaurants from Marco Island to Cape Coral present special—and specially priced—menus. Better still: The affair raised more than $30,000 for the Sizzle SWFL FGCU Food & Beverage Scholarship in 2018, with $1 from every meal donated, and organizers hope to raise $50,000 in 2019.
For more things to do, check out our calendar.
