Fairy & Gnome Festival

Feb. 29-March 1

The magic of nature is on full display at the seventh annual edition of the popular family-friendly fest held on the beautiful bayfront grounds of Historic Spanish Point. (Expect lots of tots in fairy wings and tutus!)

Paul Taylor Dance Company

Feb. 28-March 2

An exclusive Florida engagement for this acclaimed modern dance company, whose “Paul Taylor: The Celebration Tour” honors its late founder; three of Taylor’s masterworks will be performed. Proving to be so popular that an extra Monday evening performance has been added. At the FSU Center.

Southwest Florida Heritage Festival

Feb. 29

Get back to nature on Leap Day as Crowley Museum and Nature Center presents a daylong celebration of Florida pioneer life, with costumed actors and demonstrators, music, food, hayrides and more. $20 per carload and bring cash—just like in the olden days credit cards won’t be accepted.

Mote’s “Savage Ancient Seas” 

Feb. 29  

Take a virtual trip back in time to the Late Cretaceous period, 87 to 70 million years ago, when giant ocean animals prowled beneath the waves. This special Mote Aquarium exhibit displays replicated skeletons cast from the real fossils of extinct giant sea turtles with 12-foot shells, flightless birds with teeth and more. Through May 31.

Les Misérables

Feb. 26-March 1

The Van Wezel presents eight performances of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s glorious Tony Award-winning musical about the French revolution. Bring hankies!

Your Arms Too Short to Box with God

Feb. 26-April 5

Next up for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe: the Broadway musical that tells the Biblical Book of Matthew through rousing gospel song. Through April 5 in WBTT’s wonderfully expanded and comfortably renovated theater.

Circus Sarasota

Ends March 1

Last chance to catch the 2020 edition of Circus Sarasota under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park; it closes Sunday. Our theater critic says, “a visit to Circus Sarasota is just the tonic you need.” Read her entire review here.