Deen van Meer (2017)
Disney's The Lion King US North American Tour, Rafiki Tour opening night October 26 2017 at the Landmark Theatre, Syracuse cast: Gerald Caesar (Simba), Nia Holloway (Nala), Gerald Ramsey (Mufasa), Mark Campbell (Scar), Buyi Zama (Rafiki), Greg Jackson (Zazu), Nick Cordileone (Timon), Ben Lipitz (Pumbaa), Keith Bennett (Banzai), Martina Sykes (Shenzi), Robbie Swift (Ed)
Disney’s The Lion King April 3-21 at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, bbmannpah.com It’s been here before, you’ve likely seen it before, but there’s just no other Broadway show like it. Kids, adults; showtunes lovers, musical haters—we all admire this creative masterpiece. (Hence why it’s the No. 1 musical in the world.)
Blooms & Brews April 13 at Naples Botanical Garden, naplesgarden.org We’re digging (get it?) this combination of craft beer and good cause. At the inaugural evening event specifically benefiting the garden’s conservation efforts, savor a variety of local brews, music from “folk- and jazz-infused indie” band The Woodwork and, of course, the beauty of this botanical paradise under the stars.
Stars of Hamilton Leslie Odom Jr. (right) with the Naples Philharmonic on April 13 and Mandy Gonzalez on April 29, both at Artis—Naples, artisnaples.org Calendars already are marked for the indisputable star of next season: Hamilton. So why not enjoy somewhat of a preview, with performances by two stars of the hip hop-infused history maker? Odom Jr. performs alongside the Naples Philharmonic for the first time, and Gonzalez’s return here features beloved tunes from Broadway and beyond.
StayInMay Festival April 24 through May 8 at various Naples locations, stayinmay.com Labeling this pick as a “best” feels almost unfair, as it is so encompassing. But that’s exactly what makes it great. Art displays, diverse world-class concerts, culinary showings, short films—take your pick.
Festival of Tens April 26-28 at The Laboratory Theater of Florida, laboratorytheaterflorida.com For this inaugural event, five adult students who have studied with Lab Theater playwright Louise Wigglesworth for several years will each present a 10-minute play. And quick does not mean uninteresting or uncomplex. Take it from this writer: “Writing short” poses a unique set of challenges. We look forward to seeing the fruits of their creative labors.