Southwest Florida Theatre Company announces world premiere of ‘Once Upon a Christmastime’

November 2, 2025

The Southwest Florida Theatre Company proudly announces the world premiere of Once Upon a Christmastime, an original holiday musical that brings heartfelt cheer and fairy-tale magic to the Music & Arts Community Center (13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers, Fla.).

Performances run from Wednesday, Nov. 19, through Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Showtimes and tickets available at GulfCoastSymphony.org.

Once Upon a Christmastime is a brand-new production conceived by Gulf Coast Symphony Founder and CEO, Dr. Andrew M. Kurtz, and created by Julie Carver, Music Director of the Southwest Florida Theatre Company. Blending timeless holiday songs with imaginative storytelling, this heartwarming musical invites audiences into a land far, far away, where beloved fairy-tale characters discover the true meaning of Christmas.

A magical mix of laughter, holiday tunes and a touch of “happily ever after,” the production captures the wonder, joy and spirit of the Christmas season, making it perfect for audiences of all ages — and a new holiday tradition for Southwest Florida families!

“With Once Upon a Christmastime, I wanted to create an enchanting holiday experience that’s magically musical and full of heart,” says creator Julie Carver. “Combining cherished Christmas songs with a fresh story featuring fairy-tale characters, and inspired by The Gift of the Magi, this production is a joyful blend of music and storytelling that reminds us what makes this season so special.”

Once Upon a Christmastime will be directed by Broadway veteran, actor, director and frequent Southwest Florida Theatre Company collaborator, Raymond McLeod, and will feature Matt Michael, Natalie Brouwer, and Reba Hartman.

Performances will take place at the Music & Arts Community Center (located off Daniels Parkway at 13411 Shire Lane in Fort Myers). To purchase tickets for Once Upon a Christmastime, call (239) 277-1700 or visit GulfCoastSymphony.org.