The Alliance for the Arts is inviting artists, actors, builders, volunteers, sponsors, influencers, community partners, and Halloween enthusiasts to help shape the future of one of Southwest Florida’s most ambitious seasonal events during Summoning the Vision, the official concept reveal and community kickoff for Stage Fright Nights: Summoning the Damned, taking place Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Alliance for the Arts.
Following the success of last year’s 13 Nights of Stage Fright, the Alliance is once again transforming its campus into an immersive Halloween destination. Summoning the Vision offers the public an opportunity to peek behind the scenes and get involved in the creative process before construction begins. Rather than showcasing a completed attraction, the event offers a look at the creative vision, planning, and community collaboration that will bring this year’s experience to life.
Guests will receive a first look at concept art, storylines, characters, scenic designs, themed nights (aka “sideshows”), sponsorship opportunities, volunteer roles, and immersive experiences planned for this year’s haunted attraction.
The event is designed to bring together the many individuals and organizations whose talents and support help make Stage Fright Nights possible, from artists and performers to business leaders and community advocates.
“Last year’s 13 Nights of Stage Fright became so much more than a haunted house,” said Michael Hebler, Director of Events and Programming for the Alliance for the Arts. “It was a community-wide experience that brought together Halloween lovers, artists, performers, volunteers, and families in a way that exceeded our expectations. We saw people finding the Alliance for the first time, artists discovering new creative outlets, and community members experiencing something unique to our area.”
Hebler added, “We’re incredibly excited about what we’re planning for 2026. There will be returning favorites, entirely new experiences, and a few surprises we aren’t quite ready to reveal yet. If you’re curious about what’s coming this Halloween season, July 8 will be your first opportunity to find out.”
Attendees will also learn how they can become involved in the production through performance opportunities, scenic construction, design teams, volunteer positions, sponsorships, and community partnerships.
Whether you’re interested in helping build the sets, creating costumes and props, performing as a character, supporting the event as a sponsor, or simply learning more about the vision behind this year’s production, Summoning the Vision offers a unique opportunity to become part of the process from the very beginning.
EVENT DETAILS
Summoning the Vision:
The Official Concept Reveal & Community Kickoff for Stage Fright Nights: Summoning the Damned
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 6 p.m.
Alliance for the Arts
10091 McGregor Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33919
Admission is free. RSVP is encouraged at https://forms.gle/QJsJYoTHyrQs5Gi29.
For more information visit ArtInLee.org.
ABOUT ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS
The Alliance for the Arts is a nonprofit community visual and performing arts center located in the heart of Fort Myers, Florida. Since 1975, the Alliance has been committed to transforming lives and improving community through the arts. The Alliance campus and galleries are open to the public from 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard just south of Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers. For more information, please call 239-939-2787, visit us at http://www.ArtInLee.org, or find us on Facebook, Meetup and Instagram.
