Review: Swing At Broadway Palm

If you're a fan of the Big Band Era and want a show that will make you want to jump and jive, you have to see Swing at Broadway Palm in Fort Myers.

Friday night I was invited to opening night of Swing at Broadway Palm Dinner Theater and this show was such a good time! I'm a regular goer to the Broadway Palm, always impressed with not only the shows, but the dinner before hand. Swing was different than other musicals that I've seen in that there wasn't any dialogue, but rather all singing and dancing. You'll hear all your favorites from "It Don't Mean a Thing if it Ain't Got That Swing", "In The Mood", "Sing Sing Sing" and more.

I've always enjoyed music from the Big Band Era. There's so much positivity and fun in the music you can't help but move to it. And move they did. The dancers in this production were absolutely incredible! I even texted my parents at intermission saying "these dancers are like Dancing With the Stars good!" My favorite number that really highlighted just how talented the dancers were was "Throw That Girl Around".

The band on stage was cool to watch too and it was a full band! Stand-up bass, guitar, saxophone players, trombone, trumpet players and a pianist. The singers were incredible and I love that even without any speaking, a story was told and I was fully engaged throughout the entire performance. You have plenty of time to enjoy the show. It runs through June 22nd.

Broadway Palm has announced the lineup for their 32nd season. Shows for 2024-2025 include:

You can find more info and purchase tickets here

There was a so-called soft opening over the weekend. However, the new downtown Fort Myers food truck park officially opened with a ribbon cutting and VIP party yesterday. It's called Bay Street Yard and it's a great addition to the downtown scene.

Bay Street Yard is crafted from old shipping containers creating an urban chic vibe. It's casual but still has class. It also has a good flow from the entertainment area to the seating and the food trucks. People are excited about it.

The city's first official food truck park takes up some 12,000 square feet in a former parking lot across from the Luminary Hotel and behind the parking garage.

Paradise Hospitality Group is operating the three food trucks found along the back perimeter of the park. First, Bay Street Butcher serves the meat. Think slider, burgers, and a variety of hotdogs all with gourmet toppings.

Next, Rick's Taco Cartel serves several kinds of tacos, including vegan. You can also get spicy queso, nachos and crispy corn bites that were the hit of the evening. For dessert, they have churros.

Finally, Bonzai Asian Street Cuisine serves food such as Korean fried chicken and pork belly bao buns. You'll also find sushi inspired dishes such as an Ahi Tune Crisp and a California roll that gets deep fried into a perfect little bite.

There are two full-service bars with craft cocktails, draft beer and wine. For big events there are also pop-up beverage carts to help with wait times.

The park features an impressive stage for bands and entertainment. There are LED screens perfect for big sporting events, and lawn games for the entire family. Reserve one of the three VIP spaces on the roof for a great view and some privacy. They have shade, comfortable seating and bottle service.

Click here for a video of the action from the official opening celebration.