Footlights

The Florida Keys and Key West are home to a thriving performing arts community that stages world class theater, dance and concert productions from Key West to Key Largo. Historical luminaries including playwright Tennessee Williams, novelist, Ernest Hemingway and poet Robert Frost, created some of their best works here and that tradition continues today as more and more writers, artists, musicians, dancers and performers flock to our small piece of paradise from all over the world.

Please confirm details with event organizers or venues in case of changes or cancellations.

ONGOING
Randy Roberts Live!
Key West: Spotlighted on television’s hit series “America’s Got Talent,” Randy Roberts shines in this live, multi-media tribute to some of the world’s most beloved performers. His uncanny impersonations of Cher, Better Midler, and Mae West are spot-on, and he’ll have you rolling in the aisles when he performs a titillating strip-tease as the bawdy Gypsy Rose Lee. But nothing compares to “Consuela,” Roberts’ self-created character, which can only be described as Ann-Margaret, Liza Minnelli, and Joan Rivers, all rolled into one powerhouse performer. Catch this fantastic show at La Te Da’s Crystal Room Cabaret, 1125 Duval St, Key West. Tickets and in-fo: 305-296-6706; lateda.com.

Daily
The Birdcage Cabaret
Key West: Home of North America’s foremost female impressionist, Christopher Peterson and Key West’s famous drag queens, The Aquanettes and the Birdcage Cabaret are a great hang any time, day or night. Peterson’s lavish new show, backed by the Aquanettes, takes place every Tu – Sa at 8 pm. The Aquanettes perform separately on M and Tu at 9 pm with two shows on W – Su at 7 and 9 pm. You can catch the lively Drag King show on Sunday nights at 7:30 pm. The bar is open Su – Th from 2 pm – 2 am and F and Sa from 2 pm – 4 am. The all-day Happy Hour doesn’t stop until showtime. You can find the Birdcage Cabaret at 504 Angela St in the Aquaplex. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.

Nightly
The Aquanettes
Key West: Key West’s talented female impressionist troupe transforms into a bevy of beauties using elaborate costuming, makeup, and lip-sync. Renowned for its outrageous and comic numbers, this adult-oriented, interactive show is one of the hottest tickets in town. Takes place M – Tu at 9 pm and W – Su at 7 and 9 pm. See it at the Aquaplex, 711 Duval St. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.

Nightly
Cabaret @ D’Vine Wine Gallery
Key West: This is an excellent hang if you want to kick back with a fine glass of wine and settle in for an intimate cabaret performance by some of Key West’s favorite performers, like classical guitarist Matteo Jampol and pianist Bobby Green. Takes place from 5 – 7 pm at The Gardens Hotel and Cottages, 526 Angela St. Info: 305-294-2661; gardenshotel.com.

Nightly
Jazz at Tavern N’ Town
Key West: Some of Key West’s top talent, including “Island Chanteuse” Carmen Rodriquez and Michael Thomas perform nightly from 5 – 7 pm during Key West’s best Happy Hour. Takes place at Beachside Resort & Residences, 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Info: 305-296-8100; tavernntown.com.

Every Tuesday
Glow Hours
Key West: This hip rooftop terrace offers the best views in town and is an ideal spot to catch the sunset and a drink with friends. The bar is open, admission is free, and everyone looks great in the golden twilight. Takes place from 6 – 8 pm at Hugh’s View on the rooftop located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org

Tuesday – Saturday
Christopher Peterson’s Birdcage Cabaret
Key West: Christopher Peterson is, without a doubt, one of North America’s foremost female impressionists — visually and vocally. Often compared to the legendary master of impersonations, Jim Bailey, Christopher’s new lavish 90-minute show is one of the hottest tickets in town. See him perform live, backed up by the outrageous Aquanettes Drag Queens, at his new digs every Tu – Sa at 8 pm. On stage at the Birdcage Cabaret, 504 Angela St, in the Aquaplex. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.

Wednesday – Sunday
Comedy Magic Bar: The Magic of Frank Everhart
Key West: Key West comedian and magician Frank Everhart, never ceases to amaze. Renowned as one of the country’s top comedians and magicians, his regaled “Chicago-style, close-up magic show” not only showcases his awe-inspiring magic, it’s also absolutely hilarious. Takes place W – Su starting at 7 pm at the notorious Schooner What Bar, 202 William St in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info: 305-292-9520; schoonerwharf.com.

Every Wednesday
Renee Breslin
Key West: Performing modern covers and vintage hits, local favorite Renee Breslin always gets the crowd going! Takes place from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Birdcage Cabaret, 504 Angela St, in the Aquaplex. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.

Wednesday – Saturday
Cabaret in The Gardens
Key West: Key West’s Gardens Hotel is one of the most luxe boutique hotels on the island. Every W – Sa, from 5 – 7 pm, you can enjoy outstanding live piano music in the Hotel’s intimate Cabaret. Full bar and stellar wines are the coup de gras. Find the Gardens Hotel at 526 Angela St. Info: 305-294-2661;gardenshotel.com

Every Sunday
Jazz in the Gardens
Key West: Enjoy terrific jazz amidst lush flora and fauna during this free hang that draws Key West’s top jazz cognoscenti. Full bar, champagne, and fabulous wines. This popular Sunday happening takes place from 5:30 – 8 pm at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St. Info: 305-294-2661; gardenshotel.com.

Every Sunday
Flip the Bird Jazz Cabaret
Key West: Billed as “a musical comedy show that doesn’t suck,” this original one-of-a-kind comedy show swirls together stand-up, sketch comedy, and live music into one big rumble of a night. Takes place from 7 – 9 pm at the Birdcage Cabaret, 504 Angela St, in the Aquaplex. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Now – February 8
The Angel Next Door
Key West: The Florida Premiere and only the fourth production of this recently published new farce is sheer joy, sophistication, and wit of a 1940s screwball comedy. Brace yourself for what one critic called “a perfect storm of comedic chaos, irresistible charm, and rapid-fire banter.” Showtime: 8 pm with a 2 pm matinee on Sat, Feb 1. Takes place at the Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St in Mallory Square. Info & tickets: 305-294-5015; waterfrontplayhouse.org.

Now – February 22
Ms Holmes and Ms Watson, Apt 2B
Key West: A satirical take on the Sherlock Holmes series, Kate Hamill’s original screenplay cheerfully desecrates the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. On stage Tu – Sa at 7:30 pm at the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. Info & tickets: 305-295-7676; keystix.com.

February 4 – 5
Old Town New Folk Series:
Will Kimbrough In Concert
Key West: Will Kimbrough, a Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist and the 2004 “Instrumentalist of the Year” by the Americana Music Association has co-written songs with Jimmy Buffett and collaborated with Rosanne Cash. Takes place on Tu, February 4, at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and on W, February 5, at 6 pm on Hugh’s Rooftop – both located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

February 8
Dive Into Art & Music:
Grateful Dead Experience Benefit Concert
Islamorada: This special benefit concert and art exhibit tributes legendary musician, artist, and avid diver Jerry Garcia of the prolific rock band, The Grateful Dead. Headlining the event is Rainbow Full of Sound, a renowned Grateful Dead Experience Concert band who performs a rockin’ roster of timeless tunes. Presented by Islamorada History of Diving Museum, this amazing night of music, community, and philanthropy also helps to preserve the fascinating history of diving and underwater exploration. Takes place from 5:30 – 9 pm at Safe Harbor Angler House, 80500 Overseas Hwy. Tickets & info at 305-664-9737; divingmuseum.org.

February 9
Impromptu Concerts:
Dover Quartet
Key West: Named one of the greatest string quartets of the last 100 years by BBC Music Magazine, the two-time Grammy-nominated Dover Quartet is one of the world’s most in-demand chamber ensembles. Showtime 4 pm at St Paul’s Church, 401 Duval St. Info: keywestimpromptu.org.

February 9 – 10
Vail Johnson Is BASSically Incorrect
Key West: During his 40-year career, star Bassist Vail Johnson performed with some of the top names in music. His new one-man show includes behind-the-scenes stories, and almost every note of the great music he’s ever had a hand in. Whatever style of music or what particular artist you like, there’s a good chance that Vail Johnson has a story to share about touring with them. Showtime: 7:30 pm at the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. Info & tickets: 305-296-9911.

February 14 – 16
MICROPARTY
Key West: This unique live performance fuses acting, live music, puppetry, and dance as it transports young explorers and their families on a whimsical journey through a universe of unlimited imagination. Takes place on F, Feb 14 at 6 pm, and on Sa, Feb 15, and Su, Feb 16 at 3 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

February 16 – 17
Gerri Louise Standup:
Senior Moments Or What the Hell Happened?
Key West: A consummate performer, local icon Gerri Louise Gates has performed regularly on Key West stages and done stand-up comedy for many benefits over the last 25 years. Her cutting-edge humor is guaranteed to garner more than just a few chuckles. Showtime: 7:30 pm at the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. Info & tickets: 305-296-9911; redbarntheatre.com.

February 18 – March 1
Goodnight, Oscar
Key West: There’s a fine line between genius and insanity. Tonight, that line appears on national television. Smart and Funny. Produced by Art House, Fringe. Showtime: 7pm at the Armory, 600 White St. Info and reserved tickets: 305 295-7676; keystix.com.

February 20 & 22
The Myth of the Two Marcos
Key West: Two boys may have the same name but very different personalities and outlooks on life. When they discover a mutual love of comic books, the local comic store becomes their sanctuary and is also where they meet an Aztec superhero who becomes their guide. Takes place at 8 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

February 22
Pops In the Park: Kokomo Key
Key Largo: This Keys Community Concert Band free outdoor concert moves to Key Largo for a night of island favorites. Pack a picnic basket and bring a blanket or lawn chair. Kicks of at 4 pm at Peace Park, Murray E Nelson Center, 102050 Overseas Hwy (MM 102 Bayside). Info: 305-451-4530; keyscommunityconcertband.org

February 23
Impromptu Concerts: Avery Gagliano
Key West: Heralded as Impromptu’s 2025 “Rising Star,” pianist, Avery Gagliano came to international acclaim as the First Prize and Best Concerto Prize winner at the 2020 National Chopin Piano Competition. She was also the only American semifinalist at the 18th International Chopin Competition in 2021. Showtime: 4 pm at St Paul’s Church, 401 Duval St. Info: keywestimpromptu.org.

February 26 – March 22
The La Cage Aux Folles
Key West: Winner of six Tony Awards, this classic American musical is about family, tolerance, love, and understanding. Showtime: 8 pm at the Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St in Mallory Square. Info & tickets: 305-294-5015; waterfrontplayhouse.org.

February 28
Come Rain or Shine:
The Story of Judy Garland’s Comeback
Key West: Through a meticulously curated selection of songs, Darcy Cooke pays homage to Judy Garland, a perennial inspiration who embodies determination and unsurpassed talent. Takes place at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 4 – 29
Brooklyn Laundry
Key West: Pulitzer Prize- and Tony-winning author, John Patrick Shanley returns with the world premiere of this wonderful new play. Shanley’s latest work is about three sisters, a guy who runs a laundry in Brooklyn, and the sometimes savage tricks life plays on them. Showtime: 7:30 pm at the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. Info & tickets: 305-295-7676; keystix.com.

March 5
Anne McKee Artists Fund Performance: Sam Carlson In Concert
Key West: Acclaimed singer-songwriter Sam Carlson takes the stage for a one-of-a-kind concert in this first collaboration between the Tennessee Williams Theatre and the Anne McKee Artists Fund. Carlson’s soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics blend the power of music with the magic of theater. Takes place from 8 – 10 pm at the Tennessee Williams Theater, 5901 College Rd. Info & Tickets: 305-295-7676; keystix.com.

March 5 – 6
Old Town New Folk Series: Over the Rhine In Concert
Key West: A supremely talented couple, Karin Bergquist and Linford Detweiler’s music bursts at the seams with loss, lament, and resilient hope. Karin’s timeless voice “has the power to stop the world in its tracks.” Takes place on Tu, March 5, at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and on W, March 6, at 7 pm on Hugh’s Rooftop — both located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 7
Journey of the Two Spirit: Table Read + Conversation with Moriah Joy
Key West: A tale of self-acceptance through the lens of Native American culture, Joy presents her latest work, followed by a conversation about finding your voice through the arts and turning marginalization into power. Takes place at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 8
Drag Story Hour With Pudding Taine
Key West: Key West’s official 2024 Queen Mother brings children’s tales to life during this fantastical, glitter-fueled experience. A fun time for all ages. Takes place at 7 pm in the PEAR House Courtyard at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 9
Impromptu Concerts: Poulenc Trio
Key West: A pioneering oboe, bassoon, and piano ensemble, the Poulenc Trio garnered international recognition and has firmly established themselves as one of the most active and sought-after touring piano-wind ensembles in the country. Showtime 4 pm at St Paul’s Church, 401 Duval St. Info: keywestimpromptu.org.

March 11 – 12
Old Town New Folk Series:
Ellis Paul & Radoslav Lorkovic In Concert
Key West: Paul’s storytelling songs meet Lorkovi’s eclectic piano, blending folk, blues, and classical influences for a concert that spans genres and generations. Takes place on Tu, March 11, at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and on W, March 12, at 6 pm on Hugh’s Rooftop — both located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 12 – 14
Kaleidoscope
Key West: The inner story and musical journey of a prodigy turned island pianist. Produced by Art House, Fringe. Showtime: 7pm at the
Armory, 600 White Street. Info and reserved tickets: 305 295-7676; keystix.com.

March 13
Hayden to Hendrix: Classical Crossover with Irie Monte & Stephanie Jaimes
Key West: From Messiaen to Radiohead, Chopin to Queen, Monte and Jaimes draw their inspiration from a rich classical repertoire, reshaping the context of the music to link past and present. Takes place at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 18 – 19
Old Town New Folk Series: Beth Nielsen Chapman In Concert
Key West: From #1 hits to inspiring tales of survival and creativity, Chapman’s music blends heartfelt storytelling with a diverse range of influences. Takes place at 7 pm on Hugh’s View Rooftop located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 21
Tennessee Williams Festival: The Men of Tennessee Williams
Key West: Pulitzer-winning playwright Tennessee Williams often portrayed strong male characters in his works. This staged reading of two of Williams’ one-act plays explores these men in greater detail. Stakes place from 8 – 9:30 pm at Williams Hall, 729 Fleming St. Tickets & info: twfest.org.

March 21
ACT OUT!
Kids Spring Break Performance
Key West: This short but very sweet presentation was conceived by a small group of local kids who spent their spring break tuning their funny bones and honing their theatrical muscles. Takes place at 2 pm on the Hugh’s View Rooftop at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 21 – 22
Swimming in the Dark:
Workshop of a New Opera
Key West: Set in Poland in 1980, this riveting opera explores a consuming love affair between two young men engulfed by a political thriller in a country being torn apart. Takes place at 8 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 23
Impromptu Concerts:
Duo Beaux Arts: Catherine Lan & Tao Lin
Key West: This world-renowned husband-and-wife concert pianists and recording artists are renowned for their adrenalized performances. The dynamic Duo has performed across Europe, the US, and China to critical and audience acclaim. Showtime: 4 pm at St Paul’s Church, 401 Duval St. Info: keywestimpromptu.org.

March 27
Spring Has Sprung
With Libby York
Key West: A perennial Key West favorite, Libby York has curated a special collection of songs celebrating rebirth, fresh starts, blooming flowers, falling rains, and all things fresh and new. Takes place at 7 pm on the Hugh’s View Rooftop at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 27 — March 29
Tennessee Williams Festival
A Distant Country Called Youth
Key West: Spanning the twenty-five years from Tennessee Williams’ boyhood to the opening of his hit play, The Glass Menagerie, this unplugged one man show evokes the evolution of an American genius through his extraordinary correspondence with family, friends, lovers and other writers. Hilarious, raunchy, and poetic in turn, the piece spotlights these somewhat obscure years in Williams’ life. Showtime: 8 pm at the Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St in Mallory Square. Info & tickets: 305-294-5015;
waterfrontplayhouse.org.

March 28 – March 29
Vienna, Vienna, Vienna
Key West: Three generations of Jewish women from a close and complicated family arrive in Vienna for an award celebration, discussing the past, present, and future while eating chocolate cake. Takes place at 8 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

March 29
Pops In the Park: Twilight Tunes
Islamorada: The Keys Community Concert Band performs another great, free outdoor concert under the stars. Pack a picnic basket and bring a blanket or lawn chair. Kicks off at 4 pm at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Hwy (MM 87 Bayside). Info: 305-451-4530; keyscommunityconcertband.org

April 4 – 5
Adam & Paul: Dueling Pianos The Rematch
Key West: After last year’s showdown ended in a devastating tie, Broadway’s dueling pianists/singers are settling the score. It’s a high-energy musical battle of words, wit, and talent to claim the title of reigning champ. Takes place at 8 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 8 – May 3
Short Attention Span Theater: Alternative Facts
Key West: This collection of eclectic short plays includes an intriguing mix of characters who are in conflict with larger forces. Always a season favorite. On stage Tu -Sa at 7:30 pm at the Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. Info & tickets: 305-295-7676; keystix.com.

April 11 – 12
Wilma
Key West: In 1999 South Carolina, a mother tamps down her fury at the President while her daughter vies to win a speech contest. Trapped by a flood, the two women contend with mass media, each other, and the most brutal stages of life. Takes place at 8 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 15 – 16
Old Town New Folk Series:
John McCutcheon In Concert
Key West: A master of the hammer dulcimer and folk music’s “Rustic Renaissance Man,” John McCutcheon delivers an unforgettable concert blending traditional and original songs with engaging storytelling. Takes place on Tu, April 15 at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and on W, April 16, at 8 pm on Hugh’s Rooftop — both located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 16 – May 3
Wait Until Dark
Key West: Cited by the New York Post as a “First Rate Shocker,” this classic suspense drama takes place in Greenwich Village during post-WWII. The story unfolds as a blind woman is being imperiled by con men who are trying to recover diamonds that have accidentally come into her possession. Showtime: 8 pm at the Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St in Mallory Square. Info & tickets: 305-294-5015; waterfrontplayhouse.org.

April 17
DAR HE: The Story of Emmet Till
Key West: This powerful story chronicles the murder, trial, and unbelievable confession of the men accused of Emmett Till’s lynching. Takes place at 7 pm at the American Legion Post 168, 803 Emma Street. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 18
A Game Apart
Key West: Writer Mike Wiley gives a powerful and entertaining glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during a bygone era. Although the star baseball player was showered with adulation on the field; he became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. Takes place at 7 pm at the American Legion Post 168, 803 Emma Street. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 19
Pops In the Park:
Conch Classics
Islamorada: Groove to some of your favorite island tunes during the Keys Community Concert Band’s final outdoor concert of the season. Pack a picnic basket and bring a blanket or lawn chair. Kicks off at 4 pm at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Hwy (MM 87 Bayside). Free! Info: 305-451-4530; keyscommunityconcertband.org

April 22 – 23
Old Town New Folk Series:
Henhouse Prowlers In Concert
Key West: Blending powerful Bluegrass with global influences, this enthralling quartet rocks the House with a robust repertoire of unique traditional American music. Takes place on Tu, April 22, at 7 pm in the Helmerich Theater and on W, April 23, at 8 pm on Hugh’s View Rooftop — both located at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.

April 23 – 24
Key West Characters: More True Stories
Key West: This beloved show includes some previous favorites, as well as a host of new (true) Key West Characters. Produced by Art House, Fringe. Showtime: 7pm at Williams Hall, 729 Fleming St. Info and reserved tickets: 305 295-7676; keystix.com.

April 26
Remarcable Dance Project
Key West: A special benefit for MARC House, this innovative dance program combines the talents of Dance Key West, Blue’s Clues’ Steve Burns and everyone’s favorite “Remarcable” Citizens. Takes place at 4 pm in the Helmerich Theater at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.