Cape Coral Welcomes Unique Dessert Theatre Featuring Comedies and Cookies!

110 N.E. 2nd Place, Cape Coral, Florida, USA - The vibrant scenes of Cape Coral just got a delightful boost with the newborn Cape Café Dessert Theatre, nestled inside Durso’s Delite Bakery & Café. Opened in March 2025, this charming venue, which combines the love of theater with a delicious dessert experience, is the brainchild of playwright Joe Simonelli and café owner Chris Durso. As part of an inviting atmosphere, attendees can enjoy delightful complimentary desserts while they watch engaging performances. The café theater is situated conveniently across from the popular Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park, making it an ideal night out for locals and visitors alike.

Joe Simonelli, who relocated to South Fort Myers in 2019, has been stirring excitement with his comedies, which are enjoyed not just across the U.S., but internationally in countries like Canada and the UK. Much of his inspiration for the café theater model stems from the First Avenue Playhouse in New Jersey. The intimate setting, which seats around 32 patrons, provides a cozy environment that enhances the overall theatrical experience. Simonelli has even implemented improvements to the space since its opening, such as expanding the stage and adding new lighting, further elevating the audience’s experience.

Current and Upcoming Productions

The theater’s inaugural show, “Men Are Dogs,” is a witty romantic comedy spotlighting a psychologist named Cecelia who juggles a chaotic support group for single and divorced women, along with her overbearing mother and a substitute package delivery man. With a straightforward ticket price of $25—covering both coffee and dessert—this is a great way to enjoy local talent. Audiences can catch this comedy through the end of summer, with performances every Wednesday and on select dates across the weekends. Reservations are highly encouraged, especially since doors open half an hour before every show for a leisurely coffee and dessert experience.

The play has experienced a warm reception, featuring a talented cast including Chris Durso, Sherri Heppler, and Kristen Wilson, all of whom contribute to a performance that promises a night filled with laughter. Moreover, Simonelli is not stopping here; another comedy, “Backstage Broads,” is slated to hit the stage on July 17, keeping the laughter rolling. Tickets for each performance can conveniently be booked through their contact details which include an email at capecafetheatre@gmail.com or by calling 239-363-0848.

A Unique Experience Awaits

Cape Café Dessert Theatre is not just another venue; it is a place where creativity meets comfort. The ambience is tailored for an „actors’ theater,“ permitting a creative freedom that promises originality and engagement. Accompanied by an assortment of beverages available for purchase, including beer and wine, attendees can settle in at cabaret-style tables, making for a truly delightful evening out.

Whether you’re a seasoned theater-goer or a newcomer curious about local performances, the Cape Café Dessert Theatre stands out as a gem in the community’s cultural landscape. As the excitement unfolds, this venue proves once again that there’s something to be said for thoughtful collaboration within the arts. So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle? Grab a friend and enjoy a night at the theater—your taste buds and funny bone will thank you.

For more on the exciting happenings at Cape Café and a complete lineup of shows, visit News-Press or check out Cape Coral Breeze.