Mark Sanders

Friday, November 22, 2024; 7:30pm

The music of Broadway comes alive in this exciting new concert series by stage veteran and South Florida favorite Mark Sanders.

Rick Howard - “Latin Guitar Summit! - Me Encanta La Guitarra”

Thursday, December 5, 2025; 7:30pm

There is no musical sound more enchanting and romantic than the beauty of acoustic guitars in Latin Music.

Rick Howard, Everton Vidal Azevedo (SLG) , El Gato Soleil, and Carlos Nunez will take you on a musical journey of Flamenco, Salsa, Tango, Bossa Nova, Samba and more that you won't soon forget. Also featuring Dorian Mendez and Alejandro Yaguaracuto ( Sudamerica) Intoxicating rhythms and sweet melodies await you on this evening of Latin Guitar!

Lee Roy Parnell, A Texas ‘Flavored’ Christmas

Sarutday, December 7, 2024; 7:30pm

Lee Roy Parnell is part of a long line of Texas roots-music eclectics and among the elite few who can be identified as a triple threat. An ace guitarist who is known as one of the best slide guitarists on the planet, smooth soul-drenched vocalist, hit top-shelf songwriter, his music runs the gamut of diversity. Combining the influences of Blue-Eyed Soul, Delta Blues, Road House Rock, Southern Boogie, Texas Swing, Country and Gospel, Parnell's sound defies conventional classification. He draws from a broad range of musical sources and combines them with seamless dexterity and, unlike many other hard-to-pigeonhole artists, Parnell has enjoyed a run of success on the country and blues charts.

Nashville Christmas: The Ultimate Country Holiday Concert! – Martin*

Thursday, December 12, 2024; 7:30pm

This holiday season, Nashville Christmas is bringing a star-studded lineup of Nashville’s finest to the stage for an electrifying night of country music and holiday magic! Don’t miss your chance to see a legendary group of musicians light up the stage with festive favorites, heart-pounding hits, and the spirit of Nashville itself.

Martin Short – A Nashville recording sensation who’s taken the stage at the iconic Ryman Auditorium and opened for megastars like Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, and Charlie Daniels! Martin’s mix of original songs and timeless covers creates a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Dusty Knapp – A seasoned performer who’s shared the spotlight with country royalty, from Brad Paisley to Loretta Lynn and Randy Travis! Dusty’s powerful stage presence and country soul will have you on your feet and singing along.

Billy Mason – The powerhouse drummer behind Tim McGraw’s biggest tours for nearly two decades, Billy has rocked stages across the world and appeared on The Grammys, Good Morning America, and more. Get ready to feel the beat from a true country music legend!

Steve Latanision – A multi-instrumentalist wizard who’s played with Grammy winners and appeared on countless albums and TV shows! Steve brings a rich blend of bluegrass, Americana, and Nashville soul to every song, adding depth and energy that’ll leave you breathless.

Geoff Buttersworth – A master musician and producer with unmatched skills on piano, guitar, bass, fiddle, and more! As the owner of Sound Paradigm Studio, Geoff’s magic touch has shaped countless tracks, and he’s here to add his signature style to this holiday celebration.

Mike Zito

Saturday, December 14, 2024; 7:30pm

Mike Zito is making his way to the stage at Arts Bonita!
Zito has been a part of the Blues game from a young age. He began playing the guitar at age 5, and by his late teens, he had already integrated himself into the local St. Louis music scene. After releasing his music as an independent artist, he won Song of the Year for his title track “Pearl River” at the Blues Music Awards in 2009.
Mike Zito has been awarded time and time again for his mastery in the blues, from his debut at the number one spot on the Billboard Blues Album chart to his many more Blues Music Awards wins, and many more accolades. After going through two separate music labels, Zito created his own with colleague Guy Hale, Gulf Coast Labels in Texas, where all the artists under this name share a mutual passion for uplifting Roots, Blues and Americana artists.
Mike Zito’s musical presence is powerful and emotional; at heart he is a performer.

Zach Bartholomew: The Music of Vince Guaraldi: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”

Thursday, December 19th, 2024; 7:30pm

Award-winning pianist and Arts Bonita Resident Artist Dr. Zachary Bartholomew and his trio will entertain you with an interactive and informative concert of everybody's favorite holiday music featuring the compositions and arrangements of jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi. In addition to enjoying a world-class musical performance, audiences will learn more about Guaraldi's music, life, and musical involvement with a Charlie Brown Christmas Concert. A must-see event!

The Band:
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew - piano
TBD - bass
TBD - drums

Compton & Bennett The Home... For the Holidays

December 21-22, 2024

The hilarious comedy team of Compton and Bennett are off their walkers once again in this all new, hysterical holiday sequel to the runaway hit about the nursing home and beyond. Christmas and retirement will never be the same.

Donna The Buffalo

Saturday, January 4, 2025; 7:30pm

Become a part of The Herd at Donna the Buffalo’s show, coming to Arts Bonita!
Thanks to a misunderstanding of their original name “Dawn of the Buffalo”, Donna the Buffalo have been actively creating music and performing for over 30 years. This group of musicians has dipped their toes into many different genres of music, including country, folk rock, reggae, roots, and many more. There is not much that this group of musicians can’t do. Not only have they written and performed original music, but Donna the Buffalo was a founding group and the host of annual Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance in Trumansburg, New York, which was where the group was founded.
Donna the Buffalo is bringing their dedicated Herd of people to Arts Bonita!

Zachary Bartholomew: Rodolfo Zuniga’s “Surfaces” Featuring Saxophonist Jeff Ellwood

Thursday, January 9, 2025; 7:30pm

Los Angeles based, Costa Rican drummer Rodolfo Zuniga’s "Surfaces” is an expression of his highly creative approach to orchestration on the drums. Zuniga envisioned the compositions written for this group with Piano, Tenor Saxophone, Upright Bass and Drums as “Surfaces” for improvisation and organic interaction. Zuniga’s “Surfaces” highlights compositions and arrangements conceived at the crossroads of music native country, Costa Rica, and it’s application in modern jazz. For this performance, Rodolfo is featuring Los Angeles based saxophonist Jeff Ellwood.

Zuniga and Ellwood, both composers and critically acclaimed bandleaders on their own, decided to join forces for this special quartet where they can present their original, global-influenced, contemporary jazz, mainly evoking elements from their diverse experiences as emerging artists in Miami, Boston, and Los Angeles.
The Band:
Jeff Ellwood-Saxophone
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew-Piano
TBD - bass
Rodolfo Zuniga - drums

Ricky Howard: Mudbone Jam

Thursday, Janaury 16, 2025; 7:30pm

ALLAN HARRIS  Jazz

Saturday, January 18, 2025; 7:30pm

Allan Harris, a Brooklyn-born and Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and band leader, is a distinguished luminary in the music world. Praised by the Miami Herald for possessing "the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King’ Cole," Harris exemplifies moving and majestic artistry. With a career that includes 14 recordings as a leader, he has mesmerized audiences globally with his extraordinary talent and charismatic presence.

• A three-time winner of the New York Nightlife Award for Outstanding Jazz Vocalist
• A distinguished DownBeat Rising Star Jazz Vocalist
• The prestigious 2022 Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition winner.
• Two-time recipient of Hot House Jazz Magazine's Best Male Jazz Vocalist award
• Back Stage award for Ongoing Achievement in Jazz.
• France's Palmares Award for 3rd Best Jazz Vocal Album.

Monroe Crossing

Thursday, January 23, 2025; 7:30pm

Come see the Monroe Crossing band at Arts Bonita!
Monroe Crossing has been a notable part of the Minnesota music scene. Though they have a heavy inspiration from Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass himself, Monroe Crossing has made a name for themselves with original music and performances. They were awarded the “Bluegrass Album of the Year” by the Minnesota Music Academy and were inducted into Minnesota’s Music Hall of Fame in 2016. They have also twice attended the “world of Bluegrass” convention, hosted by the International Bluegrass Music Association, and have also made appearances at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Monroe Crossing has been performing hundreds of shows each year, for over 20 years, and soon they’ll be making their way to Arts Bonita in southwest Florida!

Ronnie Baker Brooks

Suaturday, January 25, 2025; 7:30pm

Get ready for an electrifying evening as blues legend Ronnie Baker Brooks takes the stage at Arts Bonita! Born Rodney Dion Baker in Chicago, Ronnie first played guitar alongside his father at age nine. His debut album, "Golddigger," produced by Janet Jackson, earned him a Blues Music Award nomination. Known for his ferocious style and acclaimed albums like "The Torch," Ronnie has shared the stage with blues greats and performed at top festivals worldwide. Don’t miss your chance to witness this blues royalty live on stage at Arts Bonita!

The Weight Band

Featuring members of THE BAND and THE LEVON HELM BAND

Thursday, January 30, 2025; 7:30pm

The Weight Band originated in 2013 inside the famed Woodstock, New York barn of Levon Helm when Jim Weider and Randy Ciarlante —both former members of The Band— performed “Songs of The Band” with Band founder Garth Hudson. Inspired to carry on the rock band's legacy, Weider (guitar, mandolin, vocals), and Ciarlante began performing fan favorites from The Band catalog to audiences across the country, inviting Brian Mitchell (keyboards, organ, accordion, vocals) to complete their sound. The Weight Band later added Albert Rogers (bass, vocals), Matt Zeiner (keyboards, vocals), and Michael Bram (drums, vocals) to make up their current lineup with Weider and Mitchell. After years of touring, The Weight Band recorded a new album of original material, capturing The Band’s musical tradition and packaging for today’s Americana base.

Sudamerica Latin Groove Presents: Humans

Tuesday, February 11, 2025; 7:30pm

A window to the deepest parts of our being. Let us join you in an emotional journey through music, poetry and imagery, where an open mind is the best luggage. An audiovisual experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Sudamerica Latin Groove (SLG), formerly known as The Funky Tones, is a dynamic band renowned for seamlessly blending funk, jazz, rock, pop, world music, classical, and latin rhythms. Founded in 2013 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, the band has evolved into a musical powerhouse celebrating the cultural fusion of South and North American influences. Now based in Naples, Florida, SLG features a lineup of seasoned musicians from diverse South American backgrounds: Dorian Mendez (Argentina) music direction and bass, Everton Vidal (Brazil) on guitar, Alejandro Yaguaracuto (Venezuela) on drums, Renan Gerstenberger (Paraguay) on keyboards, and Kevin Morato (Bolivia) as vocalist, complemented by sound engineer Ezequiel Soliz (Bolivia). Renowned for their infectious music that exudes vitality, Sudamerica Latin Groove seamlessly merges traditional and contemporary elements. Their electrifying performances have positioned them as an emerging force in the SWFL music scene, creating a distinctive and vibrant sound that deeply resonates with diverse audiences.

Zach Bartholomew: "How My Heart Sings" The Music of Bill Evans

Thursday, February 13th, 2025; 7:30pm

One of the most influential jazz pianists of all time, Bill Evans was known for his delicate touch and the beautiful melodies and harmonies he created at the piano. After playing in Miles Davis’s band, Davis remarked: “Boy, I’ve sure learned a lot from Bill Evans. He plays the piano the way it should be played.” This concert will feature Evans' original compositions as well as jazz repertoire that is closely associated with him. A perfect night for jazz lovers, piano lovers, and folks looking for an ideal date night!

The Band:
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew - piano
TBD - bass
TBD - drums

Where do I begin: Love Songs & Music of Tony Bennett

Friday, February 14, 2025; 7:30pm

Join us at Arts Bonita for an unforgettable evening with "Where Do I Begin: Love Songs & Music of Tony Bennett," performed by the celebrated vocalist Eddie Bruce. With a career spanning over 40 years, Eddie Bruce has captivated audiences with his mesmerizing tributes to music icons such as Tony Bennett, Anthony Newley, and Frank Sinatra, drawing sold-out crowds at prestigious venues like Resorts, Harrahs, and the Borgata in Atlantic City, Feinstein’s, The Metropolitan Room, and Don’t Tell Mama in New York, as well as numerous venues across Philadelphia.

Eddie Bruce’s recent tributes to the famed Latin Casino nightclub have electrified audiences at World Café Live and Drexel University’s Mandell Theatre. His legacy extends beyond live performances, having hosted the nationally-broadcast "Dancin’ on Air" television show and a long-running WWDB Radio talk show. Described as both electrifying and mesmerizing, Eddie Bruce embodies the enduring tradition of show business, bringing the joy of music from New England to South Florida.

Don't miss this enchanting tribute to Tony Bennett, a night filled with timeless love songs and unforgettable melodies, only at Arts Bonita.

Martin - Country

Wednesday, February 19, 2025; 7:30pm

With a career spanning over a decade, Martin has won over audiences with his unique blend of country and rock influences. His songs delve into themes of love, loss, and personal growth, touching the hearts of listeners everywhere.

BACKTRACK BLUES BAND Blues

Friday, February 21, 2025; 7:30pm

One of Florida’s longest-running and most accomplished bands, The Backtrack Blues Band, has performed high-energy, Chicago-style blues continuously since its founding in 1980. With impressive accolades that include a Grammy Award, two Blues Music Awards, and a Keeping the Blues Alive Award, Backtrack Blues Band stands as one of America’s enduring and highly accomplished blues groups. The band has a rich history of sharing stages with blues legends such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Gregg Allman, Koko Taylor, Johnny Winter, John Lee Hooker, and Robert Cray.

Their sound, deeply rooted in the early Chicago blues tradition, is both vibrant and soulful, featuring Sonny Charles' dynamic harmonica and vocals, Kid Royal's scorching lead guitar and vocals, Little Johnny Walter's steady rhythm guitar, Joe Bencomo's powerful drumming, and Stick Davis' solid bass lines.

“Backtrack Blues Band was the winner of the Coolest Blues Song of 2019 Contest run by Detroit’s Big City Blues Magazine. Clearly, these cats have it together.” Rock & Blues Muse

Soul Cruisers: Destination Soultown

Wednesday, February 26, 2025; 7:30pm

Soul Cruisers: Destination Soultown

Zach Bartholomew: "A Night in New York" Featuring NYC Vocalist Kate Kortum

Thursday, March 6th, 2025; 7:30pm

NYC vocalist Kate Kortum is one of the fastest rising jazz vocalists on the scene, with multiple albums under her own name and millions of streams from online music platforms. This concert features the incredible music from her albums - a combination of classic jazz repertoire and her original songs. This concert will have you tapping your feet, dancing in the aisles, and leaving with a smile!

The Band:
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew - piano
Kate Kortum - vocals
TBD - bass
Max Marsillo - drums

John Jorgenson Quintet

Saturday, March 8 2025; 7:30pm

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music as the world-renowned John Jorgenson’s Quintet takes the stage at Arts Bonita. John Jorgenson, celebrated for his unparalleled guitar prowess and versatile musicianship, has shared the spotlight with legends like Elton John, Luciano Pavarotti, and Bob Dylan.

The Quintet, often hailed as the "U.S. ambassadors of gypsy jazz," will transport you to 1930s Paris with their authentic string-driven swing, inspired by the iconic Jean "Django" Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. With a lineup that includes Casey Driscoll on jazz violin, Rory Hoffman on guitar, piano, and accordion, Simon Planting on bass, and Rick Reed on percussion, this ensemble delivers a dynamic performance that blends soulful romance with electrifying celebration.

Don’t miss this chance to witness Jorgenson’s breathtaking speed and artistry, a performance that has left audiences and critics alike in awe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to gypsy jazz, this evening promises to be an extraordinary musical experience!

Sudamerica Latin Groove - World Music Celebration Vol.2

Wednesday, March 12, 2025; 7:30pm

SLG continues to celebrate the music that influenced their unique style in this second part of a musical journey across the globe and spanning centuries of music. A night filled with classical music, jazz, tango, boleros, rumba, bachatas, pop,rock, latin jazz and other surprises that keep audiences guessing while enjoying some original arrangements of beloved songs from all ages.

Sudamerica Latin Groove (SLG), formerly known as The Funky Tones, is a dynamic band renowned for seamlessly blending funk, jazz, rock, pop, world music, classical, and latin rhythms. Founded in 2013 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, the band has evolved into a musical powerhouse celebrating the cultural fusion of South and North American influences. Now based in Naples, Florida, SLG features a lineup of seasoned musicians from diverse South American backgrounds: Dorian Mendez (Argentina) music direction and bass, Everton Vidal (Brazil) on guitar, Alejandro Yaguaracuto (Venezuela) on drums, Renan Gerstenberger (Paraguay) on keyboards, and Kevin Morato (Bolivia) as vocalist, complemented by sound engineer Ezequiel Soliz (Bolivia). Renowned for their infectious music that exudes vitality, Sudamerica Latin Groove seamlessly merges traditional and contemporary elements. Their electrifying performances have positioned them as an emerging force in the SWFL music scene, creating a distinctive and vibrant sound that deeply resonates with diverse audiences.

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen

Saturday, March 22, 2025; 7:30pm

Join us for a night of electrifying bluegrass with multi-Grammy nominated Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen! Renowned for their dynamic rhythms and powerful vocals, this band has taken the bluegrass scene by storm. With Grammy nominations for their last two albums and multiple IBMA awards, they're a force to be reckoned with.

From The Grand Ole Opry to major festivals worldwide, their performances are unforgettable, blending bluegrass tradition with rock, country, jazz, blues, and soul influences.

Gulfshore Opera presents Rusalka

Tuesday, March 25, 2025; 7:00pm

Gulfshore Opera presents Rusalka, Dvořák’s enchanting take on the Little Mermaid fairy tale. This chamber opera is about a water nymph's tragic romance with a human prince. Experience the hauntingly beautiful "Song to the Moon" brings the poignant story intimately to life.
New English translation.

Compton & Bennett:
ASSISTED LIVING THE MUSICAL

Saturday, March 29, 2025; 2 & 7pm
Sunday, March 30, 2025; 2pm

Assisted Living: The Musical® features a lively cast of eccentric characters, portrayed by two actors who play 18 different roles, supported by a three-piece band. From Lotharios to lawyers, nurses to neurotics, the show is a comedic parade of personalities, including golfers, gropers, and a retired Catskills comic. Touring nationally and receiving standing ovations in sold-out venues, it promises an entertaining experience without sad songs or inappropriate language—guaranteed fun for audiences of all ages, much like other beloved productions that defy stereotyping.

This show is for everyone who hopes to grow old with laughter and joy...including you.

“Audiences are laughing so hard they cry.”
-Associated Press

“Absolutely thrilling.” -Broadway World

"You'll die if you don't see this show."
-San Jose Mercury News

Rick Howard - Rick Howard Blues Meets Jazz: Howard, Bergeron, Bartholomew

Thursday, April 3, 2025; 7:30pm

Sudamerica Latin Groove - Brazil Latin Groove

Wednesday, April 9, 2025; 7:30pm

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Brazilian music as presented by Sudamerica Latin Groove. Bossa Nova, Samba, MPB, Funk Carioca, Pagode. Let the rhythm take control and enjoy.

Sudamerica Latin Groove (SLG), formerly known as The Funky Tones, is a dynamic band renowned for seamlessly blending funk, jazz, rock, pop, world music, classical, and latin rhythms. Founded in 2013 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, the band has evolved into a musical powerhouse celebrating the cultural fusion of South and North American influences. Now based in Naples, Florida, SLG features a lineup of seasoned musicians from diverse South American backgrounds: Dorian Mendez (Argentina) music direction and bass, Everton Vidal (Brazil) on guitar, Alejandro Yaguaracuto (Venezuela) on drums, Renan Gerstenberger (Paraguay) on keyboards, and Kevin Morato (Bolivia) as vocalist, complemented by sound engineer Ezequiel Soliz (Bolivia). Renowned for their infectious music that exudes vitality, Sudamerica Latin Groove seamlessly merges traditional and contemporary elements. Their electrifying performances have positioned them as an emerging force in the SWFL music scene, creating a distinctive and vibrant sound that deeply resonates with diverse audiences.

Jesus Christ Superstar
April 11 - 19, 2025

Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock opera by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Based on the Christian Gospels, it follows Jesus Christ and his apostles during the last week before Jesus' execution. The protagonist of the show is Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrays Jesus.

Friday, April 11, 2025 7:00PM
Saturday, April 12, 2025 7:00PM
Sunday, April 13, 2025 2:00PM & 7:00PM
Thursday, April 17, 2025 7:00PM
Friday, April 18, 2025 7:00PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 7:00PM

Zachary Bartholomew: Caliente! Evolutions and Revolutions in Latin Jazz

Thursday, April 24, 2025; 7:30pm

This concert features an all-star group with musicians from all over the country led by Miami-based award-winning pianist/composer and Resident Artist Dr. Zachary Bartholomew.

Featuring Dr. Michael Bakan, renowned percussionist and Professor of Ethnomusicology, Florida State University.

Victor Wainwright and the Train

Saturday, May 10, 2025; 7:30pm

“Savannah, GA native Victor Wainwright is all about boogie woogie piano, deep soul, and a voice that recalls Dr. John at his best. He is a blues star, a tremendous player.” -Chicago Blues Guide

Victor Wainwright and the Train have garnered widespread recognition for their exceptional musical prowess. The band has been honored with numerous awards, including the coveted Blues Music Award for the Pinetop Perkins Piano Player of the Year, which Wainwright has clinched three times. Their album "Victor Wainwright and the Train" received critical acclaim and earned the 2019 Blues Blast Music Award for Blues Band of the Year. Known for their high-energy performances and a fusion of various musical styles, Victor Wainwright and the Train continue to captivate audiences around the world, solidifying their status as one of the preeminent forces in contemporary blues music.

"Victor Wainwright is a world champion piano player, two times over! Not only is Victor one of the greatest blues piano players in the business, he’s also a world-class entertainer and vocalist." - Blues Revue Magazine

Journeyman: A Tribute to Eric Clapton

Friday, May 16, 2025; 7:30pm

Shaun Hague, a prodigy named “The Best Young Blues Guitarist” by The House of Blues at just 17, brings his incredible talent to the stage in a breathtaking tribute to his biggest musical influence, Eric Clapton. By 21, Hague was already playing guitar for blues sensation Kenny Wayne Shepherd and has since shared the stage with Amos Lee, John Waite, Terra Naomi, performed on Jay Leno, and even jammed with John Fogerty.

Now, Hague's "Journeyman: A Tribute to Eric Clapton" is celebrated as the #1 selling tribute to Eric Clapton in North America. Don't miss this electrifying performance at Arts Bonita, where you'll be transported through Clapton's legendary hits, masterfully brought to life by Hague's exceptional guitar prowess.

Martin - Country

Friday, May 23, 2025; 7:30pm

With a career spanning over a decade, Martin has won over audiences with his unique blend of country and rock influences. His songs delve into themes of love, loss, and personal growth, touching the hearts of listeners everywhere.

Zachary Bartholomew: Oscar Meets Ella!

Thursday, July 24, 2025; 7:30pm

In a concert titled Oscar Meets Ella, music by the Maharaja of the Keyboard, Oscar Peterson, and the First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald, come to life with piano virtuoso and Resident Artist Dr. Zachary Bartholomew and the sweet vocals of Miami-based singer Linda Alvarado Stermer. They’ll be joined on stage by a world-class band for a show that will have you tapping your feet, swaying in your seats, and leaving with a smile on your face. If you love Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, or just great classic jazz, this show is for you!

The Band:
Zachary Bartholomew - piano
Linda Alvarado Stermer - voice
TBD - bass
TBD - drums