Symphony, Concerts, and Opera in Southwest Florida

 

The timeless ballet Swan Lake comes to life on May 15 at 7:00 PM in Hayes Hall, presented by Naples Ballet with live accompaniment by the Naples Philharmonic under associate conductor Manuel López-Gómez. This production features student dancers performing alongside professional artists from American Ballet Theatre, bringing to the stage the iconic score of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in a powerful story of love, betrayal and redemption, combining elegant choreography with sweeping live music for an unforgettable evening of classical ballet. 

 

Rodney Carrington brings his signature blend of stand-up comedy and country music to the stage on May 16, 2026 at 7:00 PM for a night of laugh-out-loud entertainment geared toward mature audiences. A multi-talented comedian, actor and platinum-recording artist, Carrington has spent more than two decades as one of the top-grossing touring comedians, with hit albums like Hangin’ With Rodney and Morning Wood, as well as his Netflix special Here Comes the Truth. Known for his edgy humor, storytelling and musical comedy, he delivers a high-energy show packed with sharp wit, hilarious songs and unforgettable moments that keep audiences laughing from start to finish. 

 

The Spring Chamber Ensembles Concert by the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra takes place on May 16 at 4:00 PM in Ubben Signature Event Space, offering a free, ticketed performance that highlights the artistry of student musicians performing in small chamber groups. Under the direction of Manuel López-Gómez and coached by members of the Naples Philharmonic, these young performers showcase their musical growth and collaboration in an intimate setting that emphasizes the expressive power and close communication of chamber music. 

 

Jim Breuer: Find The Funny Tour hits the stage on May 21, 2026 at 8:00 PM, delivering a high-energy night of laughter from one of comedy’s most enduring performers. Known for his breakout run on Saturday Night Live—where he created iconic characters like “Goat Boy”—Breuer blends sharp observations, hilarious family stories and spontaneous crowd interaction into a show that’s both relatable and wildly entertaining. With decades of stand-up success, viral comedy bits and appearances on major podcasts, Breuer continues to connect with audiences through his authentic, quick-witted style, reminding everyone that no matter what life throws your way, there’s always a way to find the funny. 

 

Patriotic Pops returns to Hayes Hall on May 21–22 at 7:30 PM, bringing together the Naples Philharmonic, the Naples Philharmonic Chorus, and the Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus under associate conductor Manuel López-Gómez, with vocals by Broadway performer Julie Benko. This annual celebration features powerful orchestral and choral works by American composers, honoring service, resilience, and unity through soaring patriotic music and beloved national anthems in a stirring tribute to the American spirit.

 

Josh Gates Live! An Evening of Legends, Mysteries and Tales of Adventure takes place on May 22, 2026 at 8:00 PM, offering a thrilling, story-filled journey led by the charismatic explorer best known from Expedition Unknown and Josh Gates Tonight. Blending humor, suspense and real-life adventure, Gates shares unforgettable moments from his global expeditions—diving into ancient legends, unsolved mysteries and behind-the-scenes tales that bring audiences to the edge of discovery. From laugh-out-loud mishaps to awe-inspiring encounters, this live experience is perfect for fans of travel, history and the unknown. 

 

Community Day at Artis—Naples takes place on May 23 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, offering free admission to the campus including Hayes Hall and The Baker Museum for a full day of art, music and family activities. Highlights include performances by the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (Youth Symphonia concerts at 12 PM and 2 PM), the Gulfshore Opera Harmony Choir at 1 PM, and the H.U.G.S. ukulele group at 3 PM, along with interactive art stations, storytelling, a musical instrument petting zoo, food trucks, and more, making it a vibrant, community-wide celebration of creativity and the arts. 

 

Side-by-Side brings together the Naples Philharmonic and the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra on May 24 at 7:00 PM in Hayes Hall, conducted by Manuel López-Gómez for a powerful combined performance featuring nearly 100 musicians. The program includes works by Richard Wagner, Jacques Ibert, and Ludwig van Beethoven, culminating in Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 5, alongside a featured solo performance by flute soloist Miranda Leone, creating a thrilling showcase of mentorship, collaboration, and orchestral power. 

 

Art After Hours takes place on May 27 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Baker Museum, offering free admission to museum exhibitions and an evening of art, music, and community at Artis—Naples. Guests can explore galleries throughout the evening while enjoying live saxophone music by Jim Blackburn and light refreshments at Heidi’s Place, making it a relaxed, family-friendly cultural experience that blends visual art with live performance.

 

Brincos Dieras brings his wildly entertaining, high-energy show to the stage on May 30, 2026 at 8:00 PM, delivering a bold blend of comedy, improvisation and audience interaction. Known offstage as Roberto Carlos Oliva Barajas, this larger-than-life performer has built a massive following with his colorful clown persona, fearless roast-style humor and anything-goes approach that keeps every show unpredictable and unforgettable. With sharp wit, outrageous antics and constant crowd engagement, Brincos Dieras turns each performance into a full-on comedy spectacle packed with big laughs and vibrant personality.

 

Turn up your Saturday nights with Sounds on Strada! Join us in the Piazza every Saturday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for the ultimate weekend wind-down. From now through May 30, we’re bringing the best local talent to Mercato—don’t miss the soulful vibes of The Kelly & Mason Duo (May 16), the captivating Claire Liparulo (May 23), or the high-energy Reckless Saints (May 30). Whether you’re looking to sit back and relax or kick off your evening with a beat, the Piazza is your destination for live music, fresh air, and great vibes! 

 

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical – Broadway musical at Gulfshore Playhouse though May 31 with multiple showtimes (some sold out). This triumphant show tells Carole King’s inspiring story from teenage songwriter to voice of a generation, featuring hits like “You’ve Got a Friend.” Tickets are $39 to $119. 100 Goodlette-Frank Road South, Naples. 239-261-7529 or gulfshoreplayhouse.org.


Jazz Concert – The Jazzmasters perform at The Norris Center from 1-3 p.m. every Saturday. Free admission, but donations are appreciated. 755 8th Ave S., Naples. 239-213-3058 or www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/ page/norris-community-center.

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