Arts and Culture

Performance art is divided between two intimate playhouses on Periwinkle Way.

The Schoolhouse Theatre, during the winter season, is home to Encore Productions. In a new 160-seat facility located at 2200 Periwinkle Way, professional performers entertain with New York cabaret and Broadway musical productions. (239) 472-6862

Sanibel Community Center, an Old-Florida-style building on Periwinkle Way hosts Sanibel Island’s annual Shell Show and Fair, as well as a range of community activities, from benefit dinners and bridge parties to crafts fairs and bird identification classes.

The Barrier Island Group for the Arts (BIG ARTS) Schein Performance Hall is the principle multi-purpose cultural organization on Sanibel. In addition to art exhibitions, dance and music, BIG ARTS has literary, film (video) programs, discussion groups and other cultural events. Workshops are held in art, dance, literature, languages, writing, piano, crafts, children’s art and yoga. The facilities are located next to City Hall at 900 Dunlop road. The office is open weekdays 9 am – 1 pm and visitors are encouraged to come in and look around. Located at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel (239)395-0960

Each March, the Sanibel Music Festival, a non-profit corporation, presents a fabulous season of seven performances, including chamber music and opera. Its mission is to present classical music of the highest standard and to provide emerging artists with performance opportunities. Its outreach program includes a children’s concert at the Sanibel elementary school and opera dress rehearsals for students.