CONNECT TO THE ARTS

THIS WEEK

APRIL 2 - 9

ARTS COUNCIL

Cultural Umbrella Event Funding Applications Open

Completed applications due Friday, May 2, 5 p.m.

The Florida Keys Council of the Arts is pleased to announce the application for Tourist Development Council Cultural Umbrella funding is now available. The application is online www.keysarts.com. Requests for an application may also be e-mailed to director@keysarts.com. Cultural Umbrella funding is used for the advertising and promotion of cultural events taking place between October 1, 2025 and September 30, 2026.

Cultural Umbrella Event Funding

Application Workshop # 1

Tuesday, April 8, 4 p.m.

Join Via Zoom Meeting

Cultural Umbrella Event Funding

Application Workshop # 2

Wednesday, April 9, 11 a.m.

Join Via Zoom Meeting

Click HERE for more information, zoom logins and application.

Gather Round: Children’s Outreach Series

Wednesday, April 2, 11:15 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Marathon High School

350 Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon

Join us for a discussion with TWT’s Executive Director, Matthew Rawls, who will be our guide as we discuss the challenges and joy of bringing Broadway National Tours and performing artists to our island. TWT has partnered with the Monroe County School District to offer students the opportunity to experience live theater through this ABC grant. We will share the details.

You are invited to join us for a conversation and some light refreshments at 11:15, followed by a performance of Buckets N Boards scheduled at 12:45 in the school's Auditorium.

RSVP's REQUIRED to director@keysarts.com. You MUST sign in at main school office.

For more information and to become a member, click HERE.

THEATER

Buckets n' Boards

Wednesday, April 2, 6:30 p.m.

Marathon Performing Arts Center

305 Sombrero Beach Rd., Marathon

Thursday, April 3, 6:30 p.m.

Coral Shores Performing Arts Center

89901 Old Highway, Tavernier

Buckets N Boards is a hilarious and high-energy show chock-full of amazing percussion, ridiculous songs, spectacular tap dancing, inventive instrumentation and an incredible variety of musical talents! Matthew Levingston and Gareth Sever have hand crafted a fresh and unique clean comedy experience for the entire family to enjoy! The show was born from their shared passion for music, comedy, and rhythm, but it truly comes to life through the nonstop hilarious interaction between these two AND their audience.

For more information, click HERE.

Nunsense

Thursday through Saturday, though April 12, 8 p.m.

Marathon Communtiy Theatre

5101 Overseas Hwy. Marathon

Nunsense, the hilarious musical spoof that's sweeping the nation, is finally coming to Marathon! Five star-struck nuns will have you in stitches as they sing and dance their way through a show that defies all convention.

For more information, click HERE.

DUELING PIANOS: THE REMATCH! Adam La Salle and Paul Rigano

Friday and Saturday, April 4 - 5 , 7 p.m.

Studios of Key West - Helmerich Theater

533 Eaton St., Key West

They’re back for the ultimate rematch! After last year’s showdown ended in a devastating tie, Broadway’s dueling pianists/singers Adam LaSalle & Paul Rigano are settling the score. From the biggest hits of the ’70s and ’80s to your favorite show tunes, it’s a high-energy musical battle of words, wit, and talent to claim the title of reigning champ. Fun for the whole family!

For more information, click HERE.

Short Attention Span Theatre: “Alternative Facts”

Tuesday through Saturday, April 8 - May 3, 8 p.m.

Red Barn Theater

319 Duval Street (rear), Key West

Short Attention Span is a collection of short plays. Pertinent and funny short plays with several directors and a big handful of favorite Key West actors, this popular and all new Red Barn show returns to delight audiences.

For more information, click HERE.

ARTIST MARKETS

Waterfront Farmers Market

Thursday, April 3 (Every Thursday), 2-7 p.m.

Farmer's Market

Truman Waterfront Park, Key West

(end of Southard Street)

Culinary, beverages, produce, seafood, apparel, gifts, and art.

For more info contact Sean@dailyplan-it.net

Island Home: Local Artisan & Gourmet Market

Friday, April 4 (Every Friday), 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Island Home

88720 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier

Pick up and indulge in Artisan Breads, Local Honey, Nut Butters, Homemade Jams, Oils, Spreads, Dried Fruits & Veggies, Baked Goods, and more!

Key West Artisan Market

Sunday, April 6, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Key West Wildlife Center parking Lot

1801 White Street, Key West

Come enjoy bloody mimosas along with a full bar, coffee, smoothies, natural juices and cut fruit, multiple food trucks and stalls offering eat-here or take-away. Shop a curated outdoor market offering fine crafts, art and jewelry from talented Florida Keys makers. Listen to awesome local musicians of the trop rock variety and meet talented local writers.

Click HERE for more information.

ARTIST RECEPTIONS

COMING TOGETHER …OPPOSITES ATTRACT: New Works from B. Lucy Stevens and Lisa Brunn

Wednesday, April 2, 5:30 -7:30 p.m.

Jag Gallery

1075 Duval St., Space C23 Key West

The return of popular Key West artist and instructor B. Lucy Stevens along with one of the gallery’s popular and emerging artists, Lisa Brunn for a two person show of new works from a pair of artists with very different styles, illustrating the fact that, though wildly contrasting in subject, a visually appealing and compelling pairing proves the age old question that opposites really do attract.

Click HERE for more information.

First Thursday Open House

Thursday, April 3, 6 - 8 p.m.

Studios of Key West

533 Eaton St., Key West

A Fifty Year Retrospective: David Wegman

Long-time resident and self-described pirate David Wegman epitomizes Key West’s bohemian spirit. His artwork vividly portrays his seafaring life, bringing to life the vibrant places he has explored and the colorful characters he has encountered along the way.

Interior: Wendell Smith

Using alternative materials and rooted in folk traditions, Smith’s works explore vulnerability and the resiliency of the human spirit through the lens of Caribbean society and culture.

Beach Blues

Paige’s distinctive artistic styles, united by shades of blue. Her paint and pen series depicts semi-abstract beachgoers, complemented by her light abstract works inspired by ocean landscapes, blending figurative and abstract art to celebrate coastal life.

This is Key West

Celebrate Key West’s beauty, architecture, and vibrant spirit through oil paintings inspired by Nosyk’s time spent in residency at The Studios. This exhibition captures both her plein air studies and expansive studio works, reflecting her deep connection to this unique island.

Friends new and old are invited to join us for each month’s First Thursday Open House event, when we keep our lights on late and throw our doors open to celebrate the newest work in our galleries.

Click HERE for more information.

Echos of the Past Art Show

Friday & Saturday April 4 - 5, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Key West Women’s Club

319 Duval St., Key West

Opening April 7, 10am-5pm Daily

Key West Art Center

301 Front St., Key West

In celebration of the 110th Anniversary of the Hellings-Curry House, The Key West Art Center is partnering with the Key West Women’s Club to present Echos of the Past art show. This exhibition will focus on images of old Key West, ie: the Hellings-Curry Museum, tall ships, fishing and other historical sites around Key West. On display at Key West Art Center April 7 - 21. All artwork is for sale and the show is free & open to the public.

Click HERE for more information.

On the Way by Gloria Avner Reception

Saturday April 5, 5 - 7 p.m.

Our Place in Paradise

88711 Overseas Hwy., Tavernier

Our Place in Paradise presents “On the Way: A Nomadic Artist Shares Her Journey.” This new solo exhibit by Gloria Avner features fresh artwork as Gloria experiments with spontaneous color and the mystery of the unsaid.

Click HERE for more information.

Channel The Opening Reception

Thursday April 10, 6 - 8 p.m.

Hale Gallery

81888 Overseas Hwy Unit 2, Islamorada

Channel explores the connection between humans and God that is experienced in nature and art. Refreshments will be served in person and pieces will be available online taylorhalepaintings.com. We are so excited to share this with you!

Click HERE for more information.

ARTIST STROLLS

First Fridays on Fleming

Friday, April 4, 6 -9 p.m.

500 block of Fleming to Grinnell St., Key West

Vibrant boutiques, galleries, antique stores, artist studios, restaurants, a cocktail lounge, bookstore, yoga

Click HERE for more information.

FESTIVALS AND FUNDRAISERS

Key West Women's Club 110th Anniversary: Historic Days Celebration

Thursday through Sunday, April 3 - 6, various times

Various locations, Key West

Celebrate Key West’s history and the Key West Woman’s Club’s 110-year legacy of community impact with four days of historic tours, panels, cultural events, and culinary experiences at the Hellings Curry Museum.

Click HERE for full schedule of anniversary events.

Click HERE for more information on Hellings House Museum,

home of The Key West Woman’s Club.

Habitat for Humanity of Key West & the Lower Keys' Tropical Gala

Friday,, April 4, 6 p.m.

Harry S. Truman Little White House

111 Front St., Key West

Join us for another beautiful night where your support builds more than just homes, it builds a stronger, brighter future for our community. Habitat's Tropical Gala will feature gourmet dining, crafted cocktails, an inspiring program, games, exciting auctions, and more.

Click HERE for more information.

Afro Roots Fest 26th Annual

Friday through Sunday, April 4 - 6, 6 p.m.

Florida Keys Brewing Co.

200 Morada Way, Islamorada

Afro Roots Fest has historically celebrated the widespread influence that Africa continues to have on music and furthers the mission of Community Arts and Culture, which is to foster an appreciation of the arts and culture through education. It is as much about root African culture as it is about the syncretism of it with Western cultural traditions.

Click HERE for more information.

Florida Keys Island Fest 32nd Annual

Saturday & Sunday, April 5 - 6, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Founders Park

MM 87, bayside, Islamorada

Island Fest returns to Islamorada featuring a juried art show, live music, great food, classic cars and much more. The annual Islamorada Chamber of Commerce fundraiser is now in its 33rd year,

Click HERE for more information.

Event Venue Open House

Wednesday, April 9, 6 - 9 p.m.

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

5210 College Rd., Key West

Food, drink and ambiance for those interested in the perfect place for a birthday party, wedding, reception, anniversary, commitment ceremony, redo their vows, etc

Click HERE for more information.

ART FROM THE ATTIC

Donate Your Treasures to

Support Local Artists & the Key West Community

Donated art accepted on Saturday April 12, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Woman’s Club

319 Duval St., Key West

Do you have treasures tucked away and unappreciated? Have you changed your décor or don’t have any more wall space? The Anne McKee Artists Fund and the Key West Woman’s Club are once again ready to fix those problems with our Art from the Attic benefit.

Click HERE for more information.

FILM

No Closet Space:The History of Gay Key West

Thursday & Friday, April 3 - 4, 3:30 p.m. ( 7:30 Friday)

Tropic Cinema

416 Eaton St., Key West

If you haven’t seen No Closet Space: The History of Gay Key West yet, don’t miss your last chance! This powerful documentary has sold out three times and is back for just a few more screenings at the Tropic. Join us for Tim Daham's acclaimed film, exploring Key West’s rich LGBTQ+ history through rare found footage. Step back in time with Tennessee Williams, The Monster, The Copa, and Atlantic Shores—all pivotal in shaping this iconic community.

Click HERE for more information..

LECTURES

Art by Mario Sanchez

Lunch & Learn: Seaweed Frank Hawkins & Liv Hawkins

Monday, April 7, Noon - 1 p.m.

Fl Keys History & Discovery Center

82100 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada

Mario Sanchez, 1908 American, whose art tells the unwritten history of Key West and in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian American art Museum, and the American of Folk Museum in New York.

Click HERE for more information

Art by Mario Sanchez

Mario Sanchez

Daily, 2 p.m.

Gallery on Green

606 Greene St, Key West

Mario Sanchez, 1908 American, whose art tells the unwritten history of Key West and in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian American art Museum, and the American of Folk Museum in New York.

Click HERE for more information

LITERARY

Elizabeth Bishop's Postcards

Tuesday - Thursday, through May 5, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Key West Literary Seminar

624 White St., Key West

In partnership with the Archives & Special Collections Library at Vassar College, Key West Literary Seminar presents Elizabeth Bishop's Postcards, an exhibition of the beloved poet's extensive postcard correspondence dating from her early life to her final years.

Click HERE for more information.

Keys Writers Meeting

Wednesday, April 2, 1 p.m.

Big Pine Library Conference Room

Winn-Dixie Shopping Plaza, Big Pine Key

Explore writing in a fun, supportive environment with the Keys Writers Group! All styles and abilities are welcome. Participants may bring up to five pages, double spaced, to read aloud. If you can, bring 5-7 copies to share. The group offers feedback in a friendly, constructive way. Not ready to share? Come to a meeting to get acquainted and offer feedback. "Writers need readers!"

Nature is Art Creative Writer’s Workshop

Saturday, April 5,1 - 3 p.m.

Garden Courtyard

Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

5210 College Rd., Key West

Sunday, April 6, 8 - 10 a.m.

Hemingway House

907 Whitehead St, Key West

Join author Kristina Neihouse for this 3-day generative, all-age, all-weather workshop that includes a private tour of the Hemingway Home, Hemingway’s Studio and our historical botanical garden. Inspirational quotes and prompts will be provided before participants go out into the Garden.

Click HERE for more information.

Key West Poetry Guild Meeting

Sunday, April 6 , 7 p.m.

327 Elizabeth St., Key West

The KWPG Monthly Open Mic is open to all Poets interested in sharing original poetry. Bring original poems to read or come to listen.

Click HERE for more information.

Old Town Literary Walking Tours

Wednesdays & Sundays, 10 a.m.

Departs from Key West Public Library

700 Fleming St., Key West

Join us each week for the Old Town Literary Walking Tour, a stroll through downtown Key West, illuminating stories of writers that have called our island home. Inspired by David A. Kaufelt’s original literary walking tour, our new tour features the former homes and favorite haunts of writers, including Tennessee Williams, Shel Silverstein, Elizabeth Bishop, and Robert Frost, and highlights tales of our lesser-known local talent. Sponsored by the Key West Literary Seminar.

Tours commence in front of the Monroe County Public Library, 700 Fleming Street (between Elizabeth and William Streets) and end near Greene and Elizabeth Streets in Key West. Tours last approximately 90 minutes. Please be on time and wear comfortable shoes.

Click HERE for more information and to register (required).

MUSIC

Awaken: The Music of YES

Sunday, April 6, 8 p.m.

The most authentic live YES show in the world, providing a dramatic musical experience that is guaranteed to impress even the most critical and passionate YES fans. Since 2018, AWAKEN has provided its fans with the most authentic live YES show in the world: by performing YES music the way the fans remember it

Key West Theater

512 Eaton St., Key West

Click HERE for more information.

Keys Chamber Orchestra: An Easter Celebration

Wednesday, April 2, 7:30 pm

Venture Out Christian Church

701 Spanish Main Dr.,Cudjoe Key

Thursday, April 3, 7:30 pm

San Pablo Catholic Church

89500 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier

The Keys Chamber Orchestra joins the Lower Keys Community Choir each year to perform Easter Concerts.

The Rat Pack - One More Time!

Saturday April 5, 8 p.m.

Tennessee Williams Theatre

5901 College Rd., Key West

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. return to stages all across America as the famous and infamous Rat Pack is resurrected by our three critically acclaimed entertainers. Sinatra, Martin and Davis were the kings of Las Vegas Swing and they formed The Rat Pack as their own nightly on-stage party. Relive those amazing nights with our international star performers. Featuring a live orchestra and the fabulous Swinging Showgirls,

Click HERE for more information.

Key West Jazz Society Duo

Thursdays, 4-7 pm

Hemingway Social Club

201 Simonton St, Key West

Vintage and Latin Jazz with Channing (clarinet, sax, flute) and company.

For more information, click HERE.

Jazz In The Gardens on Sundays

Sundays, 5-7 pm

The Gardens Hotel

526 Angela St., Key West

DANCE

Learn to Dance with Lucy & Friends

Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m Thursdays: 6 p.m.

Swing, Latin & Ballroom

Williams Hall, 729 Fleming St Key West

Fridays, 7 p.m.

Salsa & Salsa Rueda

CoffeeMill Dance Studio

804 White St, Key West

Private lessons for all occasions

CoffeeMill Dance Studio

For information and private lessons call Lucy at 305.745.5578.

Click HERE for more information and for up-to-date schedule.

ARTIST CLASSES

Workshops

Dates and Times vary

Florida Keys Watercolor Society

The mission of the Florida Keys Watercolor Society is to promote the fine art of water based painting through fellowship and education within its membership base. The Shows, Workshops, and Paint-Outs offered by the FKWCS invite its participants to immerse themselves in the joy and rewards associated with the water based medium.

Click HERE for more information.

Life Drawing Classes

Annamarie Giordano Artist

Tuesdays, 11 - 2 p.m.

3 hours of continuous drawing. All levels and mediums are welcome. Reservations are required and classes are held in Key West.

Reservations are required text 609-884-3474 or email annamariegoirdanostudios@gmail.com.

Figure Drawing Pop-Up Classes

Most Wednesdays from 5 - 7 p.m.

The Key West Art Center

301 Front St., Key West

On the last Wednesday of each month (Jan, Feb and March of 2025), the figure drawing monitor, KWAC member Lothar Speer, MFA, will offer an informative hands-on 2.5 hr long instructed figure drawing workshop in the 19th Century Russian Sauce Technique. These workshops will culminate in an art show at KWAC in April 2025 of select student work from the figure drawing classes. Bring your own sketch pads, instructor will provide the special crayons used for this unique technique.

Click HERE for more information.