‘Nutcracker Key West’ Features Island Flair (and Roosters!)

A unique subtropical version of the classic ballet “The Nutcracker” awaits holiday-loving audiences Dec. 10-18 in Key West, flavored with characters and sets that spotlight the island’s colorful history, magnificent coral reef environment and even quirky free-roaming local roosters. “Nutcracker Key West” combines 15 professional dancers from around the world with dozens of local children and adults — all passionate about using their talents to bring the beloved story to life.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2016-11-16T23:17:41-05:00November 16, 2016|

‘I Love Stock Island’ Spotlights Seafood and Working Waterfront

The lighthearted I Love Stock Island Festival celebrates the cheerfully rustic island's culture, heritage and working waterfront — with yummy culinary offerings featuring fresh-off-the-boat seafood, wine and beer tastings, history and art studio tours, watersports, live music, and much more.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2016-11-17T17:48:50-05:00November 9, 2016|

Michelle’s Island Inspiration

Michelle Lowe’s paintings seemingly pop off the canvas. Each scene is a snapshot of lively-eyed creatures like hogfish, angelfish, large-scaled tarpon, tangs and turtles, or the unmistakeable contours of native seagrape trees, palm fronds and plumage of island birds.

By Julie Botteri|2021-05-13T15:28:16-04:00September 28, 2016|

Only in the Keys

"Only in the Keys!" has become a common response from people hearing about everything from a Key West parade for dachshunds to mermaids attending a Lower Keys music festival (FYI, these are both actual things).

By Carol Shaughnessy|2016-09-29T13:15:51-04:00September 21, 2016|

Authors and Artists Make Key West a Creative Haven

Authors and artists, playwrights and poets have long been lured to the seductive island of Key West — rightfully known as one of America’s most fascinating playgrounds for creative spirits.

By Laura Myers|2020-04-07T13:43:22-04:00August 31, 2016|

‘Custom Made’ Shines Spotlight on Old Key West

With 12 fireplaces and a roof steeply angled so snow can’t accumulate on it, the Custom House isn’t exactly a typical building in frost-free Key West. But it’s definitely one of the most architecturally significant — and this year it celebrates its 125th birthday.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:27:15-04:00August 24, 2016|

Robby McClung: Bluegrass and the Keys’ Creative Vibe

As a co-producer of Islamorada’s annual Baygrass Bluegrass Festival, local singer/songwriter Robby McClung is passionate about generating more interest in that musical genre — and about bringing performers from around the world to enrich the Florida Keys' cultural and arts community.

By keysvoices|2021-05-13T15:27:57-04:00August 17, 2016|

COASTing Along with Billy Kearins

Billy Kearins is the founder of COAST — a rustic, funky space made up of a retail store showroom, studio workshops, an event venue and more — all located on Stock Island’s Front Street where a hand-painted sign indicates “Mellow Folk Welcome.”

By keysvoices|2016-08-03T23:38:04-04:00August 3, 2016|

Islamorada Captain Makes Rod-Building an Art

When Randy Towe was 10 years old, he asked his mother to buy him a $200 custom fishing rod. His mother didn’t agree, so he convinced her to spend considerably less and purchase the necessary parts. The young fishing fanatic then built his own rod -- and today, he crafts prized rods for others from his store in the Florida Keys.

By Andy Newman|2016-07-27T19:46:48-04:00July 20, 2016|

Hemingway Days Events Celebrate Past and Present Literary Stars

Whether you’re an experienced or aspiring writer, a passionate reader, or simply a fan of Ernest Hemingway’s exuberant Key West lifestyle, you’ll find a rich roster of literary events during Hemingway Days 2016.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-08-03T16:54:54-04:00July 13, 2016|

Arts