May 2024 AFTA at a Glance

May 2024
AFTA at a Glance

AFTA at a Glance is provided to the media as a short summary of events and programming each month at the Alliance for the Arts. For additional information or coverage opportunities, please contact Jen Falk at [email protected], or call 239-939-2787.

Name: Painting Impressionist Flowers
Date: Wednesday, May 1
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Terry Lynn Spry will lead students through the process of painting beautiful flowers in acrylic paint. Using photos from the instructor and students as well as real flowers, students will create dynamic works of art.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/painting-impressionistic-flowers/

Name: Biennial Artist Grant Recipient Exhibition
Date: On Display May 3-June 1
Time: Gallery Hours
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: The Alliance for the Arts invites the public to its opening reception for the Biennial Artist Grant Recipient Exhibition on May 3 from 5-7:00 p.m. The free event features the works of visual artists Linda Benson, Stacey Brown, Martha De La Cruz, Lily Hatchett, and Roland Ruocco. as well as light refreshments provided by Jayne Baker. The exhibit will be on view from May 3 – June 1, 2024 at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/grant-recipient/

Name: Sunsets and Silhouettes Painting with Shirley Hales (16+)
Date: Saturday, May 4
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Paint brilliant sunsets accented by dark silhouettes of trees, people, birds or boats. This workshop includes demonstrations to create dazzling skies overlaid with striking silhouettes using watercolor or acrylic mediums. All skill levels are welcome. Ample time is provided for individual instruction to complete a compelling landscape painting.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/sunsets-and-silhouettes-painting-ages-16/

Name: Katelyn & Jules: An Evening of Jazz
Date: Saturday, May 4
Time: 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Katelyn Gravel and Julian (Jules) Sundby have been performing together for over a decade. In 2011 they met at a blind audition when an agent asked them to play for a venue owner. Having never played together, they quickly found a song to present, “My Funny Valentine.” They rehearsed it once and it was “as if they had played together forever.” They got the gig and haven’t looked back. Tickets are $20 for AFTA members, $25 for non-members. .
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/katelyn-jules-an-evening-of-jazz/

Name: Getting Your Art into the Retail Environment Series (Virtual)
Date: Tuesday, May 7
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Demystifying Wholesale for Artists & Makers offers an essential introductory workshop, providing insights into the fundamentals of wholesaling and navigating the art industry’s retail landscape. This informative session delves into crucial topics, including the key components of a marketable product, audience identification, effective marketing strategies, indispensable tools for wholesaling, pricing methodologies, and valuable techniques for discovering, approaching, and maintaining relationships with retailers.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/getting-your-art-into-the-retail-environment-series/

Name: Art House Cinema at AFTA: 1946: The Mistranslation that Shifted Culture -A Film Screening
Date: Wednesday, May 8
Time: 6:00 – 9:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture is a feature documentary (part of the Southern Circuit Tour of Independant Filmmakers) that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Featuring commentary from prominent scholars as well as opposing pastors, including the personal stories of the film’s creators, 1946 is at once challenging, enlightening, and inspiring. Q&A session hosted by Tara Calliagan to follow with one of the film’s producers/directors.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/1946/

Name: Wednesday Night Market
Date: Wednesday, May 8
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Every second Wednesday of the month from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.,AFTA presents a pop-up Night Market featuring a selection of fresh produce, art for sale, live music, art activities for kids, food trucks and beer and wine.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/night-market-2023-11-08/2024-05-08/

Name: Open Mic Night at Wednesday Night Market
Date: Wednesday, May 8
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: AFTA presents Open Mic at the Night Market, celebrating local musicians. Guests can enjoy live performances in a vibrant atmosphere. Performers can register online to participate. Basic sound system provided. Limited to one song or 5 minutes per performer.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/openmicnight/2024-04-10/

Name: Manga Night (Ages 12-18)
Date: Thursday, May 9
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Join us for a Manga/cartoon drawing workshop- perfect for all levels! Popular Instructor Terry Lynn Spry focuses on creativity and drawing for those that are interested in Manga/Cartoon. Lessons will vary on proportions of form, perspective and composition in a fun and relaxed environment..
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/manga-night-ages-12-18-3/

Name: Flamencodanza
Date: Friday, May 10
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: You loved them so much during Fringe Fort Myers, we’re bringing them back for their own show! Flamencodanza is an international duo collaboration based in Spain that started five years ago at the Avignon Festival in France. Elements of Flamenco, Brazilian music and jazz give the music a variety of colours. These elements fuse together in a unique manner producing an award-winning show with beauty and inspiration.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/flamencodanza/

Name: Oops We’re A Troupe presents Disorder In The Court
Date: Saturday, May 11
Time: 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Oops, We’re A Troupe, local improv, presents Disorder In The Court. A fully improvised, long form, musical Courtroom Drama…minus the drama! Be part of the fun by making suggestions along the way! Expect the unexpected in this hilarious 90 minute show, where everything is made up on the spot!
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/oopswereatroupe/

Name: Getting Your Art into the Retail Environment Series (Virtual)
Date: Tuesday, May 14
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Transforming Your Art into A Product Line is tailored to empower artists in envisioning their creations as distinctive and sought-after wholesale commodities. This comprehensive program encompasses various critical aspects, including generating innovative product concepts, sourcing optimal supplies and services, and implementing pricing strategies for sustainable profitability.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/getting-your-art-into-the-retail-environment-series/

Name: Zentangle for the Seasons
Date: Three Tuesdays, May 14 – 28
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Zentangle is an easy-to-learn method of drawing patterns step by step. It is relaxing, gratifying and a great way to exercise the creative side of your brain! Beginning with the basics in the first class, we’ll then create a variety of Art works throughout the month, based on the season.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/zentangle-for-the-seasons-3/2024-05-14/

Name: Fuck Up Nights
Date: May 16
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Fuckup Nights is a global movement (300+ cities, 90 countries) focusing on how failure can transform into radical solutions that help people make better decisions and challenge the status quo changing the way we think about failure. Three speakers will tell stories of professional failures, encouraging vulnerability, authenticity, and empathy among all those in attendance.
Website: https://www.artinlee.org/event/fuckup-nights-fort-myers-vol-5/

Name: FREE Family ArtLab
Date: Saturday, May 18
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Families can drop in for free, hands-on fun with art from 10 a.m. to noon. Kids can explore something new every month like art making, gallery activities, games and more – all inspired by artworks on view in the gallery, famous artists, national holidays and artistic traditions around the world.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/family-artlab-8/

Name: Getting Your Art into the Retail Environment Series (Virtual)
Date: Tuesday, May 21
Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Card Biology: Dissecting the Making of a Greeting Card Line is designed to offer a comprehensive exploration of the intricate process involved in creating a flourishing line of greeting cards. With their universal appeal, greeting cards serve as an ideal avenue for artists aiming to break into the wholesale market. Leveraging the untapped potential of their existing artwork collection, artists can uncover a promising avenue for additional revenue.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/getting-your-art-into-the-retail-environment-series/

Name: How to Photograph Your Own Work
Date: Wednesday, May 22
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: Every last Wednesday of the month Duncan Metts, professional photographer, will help participants get the very most out of photographs of their work. Whether they plan to send them to friends, post them on social media, or use them to promote their work professionally, this is the workshop for everyone!
Website: /www.artinlee.org/event/how-to-photograph-your-own-work-4/

Name: Youth Theatre Presents: Alice By Heart
Date: May 23-26
Time: 7:30 & 2:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: From the Tony® and Grammy® award-winning creators Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, and co-written by Jessie Nelson, Alice by Heart is a touching musical inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alice by Heart explores the poignancy of first love, coming to terms with loss, and finding the courage to move forward. This world premiere musical encourages us all to celebrate the transformational power of the imagination, even in the harshest of times.
Website: www.artinlee.org/event/youth-theatre-presents-alice-by-heart/all/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers
Date: May 30-June 2
Time: Varies
Location: Alliance for the Arts & Broadway Palm Dinner Theater
Description: Fringe Fort Myers 2024, presented by the Alliance for the Arts and Broadway Palm Dinner Theater will host 48 performances on three different stages May 30-June 2. Fringe Fort Myers is the newest Fringe theatre festival in Southwest Florida and maintains long-standing Fringe traditions of being 100% uncensored, 100% unjuried and 100% inclusive. Even better, 100% of ticket sales go directly to the artists. All of the shows are $16, and patrons can buy multiple shows for a discount: 3 shows for $45 or 6 shows for $80. All shows are included in the discount except the Carousel of Burlesque.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Flamingle Fringe Fort Myers Opening Night Reception
Date: Thursday, May 30, 2024
Time: 5 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: “Flamingle with the Artists” Reception in the Alliance Gallery followed by the fun and frenetic Teaser Show, with each performance group having three minutes to sell you on their show. How they do that is up to them! Tickets $5.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life
Showtimes: Thursday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 2:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: When faced with a cancer battle,Keith Alessi’s lifelong dream becomes the key to saving his life. This show is suitable for all ages.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: The Carousel of Burlesque: Behind the Curtain
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 8:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 8:45 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 4:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: The Carousel of Burlesque premiered last year with the history of burlesque in the US. Now it’s time to take a look behind the curtain.
This show contains nudity and is not suitable for those under the age of 18.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: TransMasculine Cabaret, Starring Vulva Va-Voom
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 1:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance for the Arts
Description: “TragiComic transgender-identifying true confessional” and “obscene, maniacal burlesque headliner” seem like incompatible elements…but this gritty song-and-dance nightclub comedian has combined stranger, stickier things onstage. Nine-time Fringe honoree Vulva Va-Voom asks of queer identity: “Who gets to define whether someone is a drag queen, king, or an in-between?” Hardships, meet hilarity.
This show contains adult language and content and is not suitable for those under the age of 18.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: The Other Side
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 1:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance For The Arts
Description: The Other Side is a story of survival, an experience of magic, and a message of hope. Magician Sebastian Gerhardt was 22 years old when he was diagnosed with an inoperable, malignant brain tumor and told he had six months to live. It was time to say goodbye to his family, friends, and loved ones. This show is his story; combining magic and storytelling to express his newfound appreciation for life and inspire others to do the same.
This show is suitable for those 12+.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: Cock Talk
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 8:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 7:15 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 2:30 p.m.
Location: Alliance For The Arts
Description: A male version of the play ‘Vagina Monologues’. Four men explain, discuss, and debate the trials and tribulations of the “member.”
This show contains adult language and content and is not suitable for those under the age of 18.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: LOVE LETTERS TO HUMANITY
Showtimes: Thursday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 8:45 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 4:00 p.m.
Location: Alliance For The Arts
Description: This one-woman show weaves dance, theatre, and stand-up comedy to reveal both the dark and the light on the search for inner peace. From movement poetry to grotesque play, this piece holds satire with compassion in a hilarious depiction of the wild reality of being human.
This show contains adult language and is rated PG-13.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: The Chase: A Light Bringer Story
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 1:00 p.m.
Location: Off Broadway at Broadway Palm
Description: performed by Laila Lee, who weaves a tale of mystery, intrigue, and survival that begins with a rude awakening to being stuck between a virtual rock and a hard place.
This show is suitable for those 16+.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: Stabilized Not Controlled
Showtimes: Thursday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 8:30 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 4:00 p.m.
Location: Off Broadway at Broadway Palm
Description: Evil landlord “Killer” Joe goes to war on the tenants of his five-floor, stabilized apartment building in Manhattan. Septuagenarian sex addict Lorna Breedlove, the “mother” of them all, guides her eccentric neighbors to keep up the good fight in this biting comedy that ran for two years at Manhattan’s Stage Left Studio.
This show contains adult language and content and is not suitable for those under the age of 18.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/

Name: Fringe Fort Myers Presents: Runaway Princess: A Hopeful Tale of Heroin, Hooking and Happiness
Showtimes: Friday, May 31 at 8:30 p.m., Saturday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 2 at 2:30 p.m.
Location: Off Broadway at Broadway Palm
Description: Former New York City call girl Mary Goggin shares the true, award-winning story of her traumatic Irish Catholic upbringing, alcoholism, drug addiction and prostitution. Fortunately, like all fables, there is a happy ending. As we peel away the last layer of a broken woman who never felt she fit in, we find the princess, reunited at last with her most precious treasures.
This show contains adult language and content and is rated PG-13.
Website: www.artinlee.org/experience/fringe/