Aebt 040617

ON THE FLIP SIDE: BLACK

TIE

FIREFLY GALA: Forty Carrots welcomes Flo Rida to ‘our house.’ > < CRITIC’S PICKS: Our favorite films of the spring season. 8

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

YOUROBSERVER.COM

SEE THIS

‘Insula Insula’

Samantha Burns’ printmaking explores fragmented memories.

PAGE 4

HEAR THIS

TALES OF OUR LIVES

‘Human Tale so examines the n Refrigerator Doors’ kitchen appli ance’s role in American storytelling.

SEE PAGE 2

Ringling Underground Roadkill Ghost Choir returns to Sarasota with its new album. PAGE 6

SEE THIS

‘Footloose’

Nick Friedman

Above: Martin Gold, UF CityLab director, sees refrigerator doors as a place where Americans tell the stories of their lives.

Players Centre for Performing Arts hosts this musical with depth.

PAGE 11

2

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Refrigerator doors:

A canvas that sticks NICK FRIEDMAN

IF YOU GO

A+E MANAGING EDITOR

E

Want Plumbing & Architectural Hardware?

We’ve Got It All!

‘HUMAN TALES ON REFRIGERATOR DOORS’ When: Runs through April 28 Where: Center for Architecture Sarasota, 265 S. Orange Ave. Tickets: Free Info: Call 350-5430.

Courtesy photo

Jerry Sparkman stands near his door in Venice, Italy.

event for architects and designers, Todd Sweet and Jerry Sparkman were invited to participate again in 2016. Last year’s theme challenged participants to tell stories sharing how architecture impacts local communities.

Karl Bernhard, who works at the architecture firm, worked in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. In their brainstorming sessions last spring, Bernhard

spoke about how when his family home was flooded, one of the most important things to save was their photo albums.

“This idea emerged about living in a precarious environment, which Florida is as well,” says Sparkman. “If you lost everything, what would be the most important things to hold onto?

It’s those meaningful personal mementos and keepsakes. And where do you often find those things? On a refrigerator door, behind a magnet.”

The form of expression, which Sparkman calls a distinct part of American storytelling, became the focus of the exhibit. To bring the concept to life, Sweet-Sparkman teamed up with master’s students and instructors from the UF CityLab program, as well as two Ringling College of Art and Design alumni.

Experience You Can Trust for

It’s not often you find everything

Results!

you’re looking for in one place. But at

The Plumbing Place, its that easy. From plumbing to architectural hardware,

Join ususforfor Join Seminar a FREE Free Seminar

by Dr. P. Hillstrom by Dr.Robert Robert P. Hillstrom

all our products are conventtly located in one stunning 6000ft2 showroom.

When:

Wednesday Wednesday ~- April April 19 20thth 5:30pm 5:30pm

Where:

5911 N. honore Honore Ave. Ave. 5911 n.

5911 Suite 120 Suite 120 Sarasota, FL 34243 34243 Sarasota, FL Light Light refreshments refreshments will will be be served. served. receive a complimentary consultation and the chance to win a free Botox®, Skin Care or Filler treatment.

5678 Fruitville Road

Sarasota, Florida 34232

Telephone: 941.378.5678

Call today toDay

www.theplumbingplace.com 216956

to reserve your seat, as space is limited.

941.355.3223

TopiCS inCLude:

• Botox® • Cosmetic Facial Surgery • Injectable Fillers • Latisse® • Medical Grade Skin Care

Harry Wright , MD HarryV.V.P. robert Wright Hillstrom , MD, Md, faCS ••Diplomate, American Board Diplomate, Board Certified, American American Board of Facial Plastic & of Board Facial ofPlastic Facial & Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Reconstructive & Reconstructive Surgery Surgery

••Board BoardCertified, Certified,American American Board ofOtolaryngology Otolaryngology– – Boardof Head Head&&Neck NeckSurgery Surgery

5911 N. Honore Ave., Suite 120 • Sarasota, FL 34243

www.HillstromPlasticSurgery.com

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment.

236472

Photos by Nick Friedman

“Beach Pavilion” by Martin Gold uses beach pavilions to express the idea that humans strive to create permanence in impermanent environments.

ntering someone’s home for the first time, there are two places one can look to quickly learn more about the homeowner.

The first, more obvious place is the bookshelf. A person’s collection of reading materials offers insight into their interests and beliefs one might not otherwise glean.

The second place is less obvious, but equally insightful: the refrigerator door.

It’s here people display some of the mementos and keepsakes closest to their hearts. Throughout American history, save-thedates, baby photos, portraits of ancestors and countless art projects and aced history tests have adorned the central appliance in a home’s most high-traffic area.

This was the idea behind “Human Tales on Refrigerator Doors,” a collaborative exhibit by Sweet-Sparkman Architects, UF CityLab Sarasota and Center for Architecture Sarasota.

Recently returned from its debut at the annual Venice Biennale of Architecture in Venice, Italy, the installation will be on display through April 28 at Center for Architecture Sarasota.

Following their 2012 participation in the Biennale, a showcase

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

‘GIMME SHELTER’

BY TODD SWEET

‘METAMORPHOSE’

‘COMMUNITY OUTREACH’

BY OLIVIA CRAIG

BY KARL BERNHARD

|

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

3

‘Gimme Shelter’ Todd Sweet’s door features oranges arranged in the shape of Florida, with black colors representing oil spills, coils depicting hurricanes and plastic houses showing environmentally sustainable structures.

‘Metamorphose’ Karl Bernhard’s door is an extension of the idea that spawned the exhibit’s theme. Bernhard’s family home was flooded in Hurricane Katrina, instilling the value of family keepsakes and photographs.

‘Community Outreach’ This door by Olivia Craig honors the rich tradition of architecture in Sarasota, as well as the effort to preserve it.

Craigslist, team members found seven doors they thought would make perfect canvases. They then developed seven American stories they hoped to tell, especially ones with connections to Florida.

Some are literal, while others tackle the subject matter more abstractly. Todd Sweet’s door, “Gimme Shelter,” features a series of miniature orange magnets arranged in the shape of the state of Florida. Monopoly pieces pinpoint locations of some of the state’s most sustainable projects, ranked LEED gold and platinum.

Standing in contrast, several

black oranges represent areas affected by the 2010 BP oil spill, depicted below in a mirrored Silly Putty imprint of a headline. Bent metal coils symbolize hurricanes.

“Metamorphose,” Bernhard’s door, reflects his experience in New Orleans. On a bright redand-white International Harvester refrigerator door, he affixed fragmented pieces of drywall with family photos attached.

After developing the rough concepts, the team shipped the doors to Venice, Italy, where it assembled them for the first time.

“It’s really gratifying to take

these stories out of context,” says Sparkman. “You appreciate it even more. Looking at them locally, they’re very familiar; you have reference points. But seeing actual vintage American refrigerator doors telling American stories in Italy, it makes it that much more special.”

Now, the doors have returned to Sarasota, where they’ll remain on display through April 28 at Center for Architecture Sarasota.

On April 18, CFAS will host “Tales from the Biennale,” a roundtable discussion with Martin Gold, Jerry Sparkman, Todd

Sweet and students Olivia Ellsworth, Chris Fadely and Karl Bernhard.

“I have to say,” says Gold, “the whole experience was kind of magical. Venice was a whirlwind, but seeing them displayed here in Sarasota is rewarding in its own way. I hope people have the same kind of aha moment we did. At first thought, refrigerator doors, storytelling and architecture don’t seem to have much in common. But it’s something universal — anyone can relate to it.”

blossoms & BRUNCH a f loral affair

APR APR22 22

10:30 AM

| Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden

Share the legacy of Mable’s beloved rose garden while you enjoy a beautiful brunch surrounded by blooming roses. Blossoms & Brunch will begin with a reception complete with entertainment and mimosas.

A seated brunch will follow at 11:30 AM.

World Class Dentistry and Facial Esthetics®

$120 | Purchase tickets at ringling.org or 941.358.3180

223441

Net proceeds will support ongoing maintenance and improvements of the Bayfront Gardens.

231065

“It was an exciting invitation,” says Martin Gold, UF CityLab director. “I love the idea of people creating permanence in an environment of impermanence and the role architecture plays in that.

Some of the most compelling images from Hurricane Katrina are the ones that show a house that’s been destroyed, and all you can recognize in the pile of debris is something like a refrigerator.

Refrigerator doors are where we tell the stories of our lives.”

To tie the theme to America’s history, they decided to use vintage refrigerator doors. Scouring

4

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Sporadic

Revelations With laser-cut printmaking, New College professor Samantha Burns explores fragmented memories.

NICK FRIEDMAN A+E MANAGING EDITOR

Samantha Burns has been interested in art for as long as she can remember. Laughing, she recalls her family’s home movies, where she says there’s footage of her in tears because she wasn’t able to paint at the moment.

But it wasn’t until a college printmaking class that she decided to pursue art more seriously. In her freshman year at the University of Tampa, Burns says it was a moment of feeling out of place that started her on the path to becoming an artist.

“I was taking mostly business courses,” she says. “But I would show up to class straight from the printmaking lab in a black T-shirt and jeans, with ink and grit under my nails. I thought, ‘Am I supposed to be here? Probably not.’”

After switching to an art major — and convincing her parents it was a good idea — she says she finally felt she had found her calling.

“I remember being in the printmaking room, all by myself, working on a linoleum carving,” she says. “I was grinning ear to

Photos by Nick Friedman

Through 47 printmaking pieces in three series, Samantha Burns’ exhibit, “Insula Insula,” explores isolation, solitude and fragmented memories.

ear, and I just felt so at home. I had been in a car crash the year before, and that was the first time since that I had felt confident and relaxed. I knew this is what I

Jungle Trails

Burns uses laser cutters to create monoprints.

WE NEED MEN LIKE YOU!

and Bunny Tails

I heard it’s the best singles event in town!

FRIDAY, APRIL 14TH 50% OFF KIDS ADMISSIONS! EASTER EGG HUNTS: 11AM, 12:30PM & 2PM Live Bunny Interactions Bird, Reptile & Wildlife Wonder Shows Petting Zoo with New Animals Photos with the Easter Bunny* • Face Painting*

TRADITIONAL SPEED DATING AND MORE WE ESPECIALLY NEED MEN! WOMEN WILL BE ADDED TO THE WAITLIST.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19

BEER • WINE • APPETIZERS • ROCK & ROLL DJ

$20

TICKET INFORMATION

SINGLE TICKET

Children (Ages 4-16): ONLY $6.50 Children 3 and Under: Free Adults: $17.99 3701 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, FL 34234

AVAILABLE YOUR HOSTS

FRIENDSHIP CENTERS 1888 BROTHER GEENEN WAY RSVP REQUIRED Call 941.556.3265 or pgiasson@friendshipcenters.org

6PM UNTIL NINE PM

04.19.2017

MEDIA SPONSORS

Offer valid on 4/14/17 only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. *Available for purchase.

236828

SarasotaJungleGardens.com

236467

SPONSORS

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

“THE EXHIBIT features 47 pieces. I didn’t think I would make that many. I have trouble working on just one thing at a time, and the laser cutter lends itself well to that, because I can let one project start cutting and work on something else. I’ve never had the freedom to create so much.

“WHEN I CREATED this series, I was living in a small motherin-law quarters nearby. That spurred my concept for this work. I have a strong image in my mind of being in the hospital, recovering from my accident, and I was regaining my memory in fragments. Nothing came all at once — things came back in small pockets.

“I WANTED to show that sporadic remembrance of things with my art. I remember how isolated I was in the hospital, and again, I found myself in a state of solitude in this house. I wanted to play with the idea of how your state of mind can affect your situation and how solitude compares with isolation.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

IF YOU GO 'INSULA INSULA' When: Runs noon to 5 p.m. weekdays through April 21 Where: The Isermann Gallery, New College of Florida, 5313 Bayshore Road Tickets: Free Info: Call 487-5000.

ATHLETICS FOR SPRING

4995

$ “I STARTED with the idea of a desert island, or being shipwrecked. I took a day to learn how to make an origami sailboat, then I unfolded it, and it was a really interesting geometric pattern of lines and squares. I thought it was a beautiful representation of the theme, and it became the art in the promotional materials.

WOMEN’S

Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System® helps absorb shock

ASICS GEL VENTURE 5

“THE LASER cutter works by burning an uploaded image into a piece of paper. Depending on the settings, it will burn darker or lighter. Using the laser cutter helps me to not over-think things and just give in to the process. Along the way, there are these beautiful moments of discovery. Things reveal themselves, and the process and materials pave the way.

MEN’S

ASICS GEL VENTURE 5

MEN’S

WOMEN’S

Lightweight with foam molded insole

NIKE REVOLUTION 3

MEN’S

WOMEN’S

“THE SAME way my memories came back to me in fragments, this work doesn’t reveal everything to you all at once. The more time you spend with it, the more you get. These aren’t final thoughts, they’re more like a collection of middles of sentences.”

UNDER ARMOUR DASH RUN RN 2

NIKE REVOLUTION 3

EVA foam midsoles cushion your feet

UNDER ARMOUR DASH RUN RN 2

SHOP ONLINE ANYTIME AT PELTZSHOES.COM Plus, sign up for our email list to receive weekly promotions and offers!

SARASOTA 1920 Stickney Point Rd Mon-Sat 10am-9pm | Sun 11am-6pm

BRADENTON 5275 University Pkwy Mon-Sat 10am-9pm | Sun 11am-6pm

FT MYERS 13300 S Cleveland Ave Mon-Sat 10am-7pm | Sun 11am-6pm

Advertised prices valid through 4/9/17. Items are subject to availability and may not be available in all Peltz Shoes stores or at Peltzshoes.com. %/$ savings are off MSRP. Not all sizes in all widths/styles/colors & vary by store. Store hours may vary by location.

!

RYde R” ets R HU co E ck V i use SER on t B f “O % of 5 r2

5

OD FO

236471

wanted to do.”

After earning her MFA from Florida State University College of Fine Arts, she was invited to participate in a collaboration between the university and New College of Florida, in which she would teach printmaking at New College while creating her own body of work, currently on display in an exhibit at the college called “Insula Insula.”

Burns recently sat down to discuss the work, her process and the inspiration for the series.

|

MUS IC

fo

BE

FEST FEST ER

FUN

Saturday, April 15, 2017 | Noon-5 pm Nathan Benderson Park 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota, FL REGIONAL FOODS Free food samples from hometowns across the USA, provided by 40+ of our area’s finest restaurants

60+ CRAFT BEERS Free samples from regional breweries in the Northeast, Southeast, Southwest, Midwest and West Coast

LIVE MUSIC Twinkle and Rock. Soul. Radio. ★ Strangeways ★ Reverend Barry & Funktastic Soul

REGIONAL ADVENTURES Tampa Bay Bucs Kids Zone ★ SUP & Kayak Demos ★ Petting Zoo ★ Lots of Other Fun Activities

Tickets at MyHometownFest.org

Food & Beer - $40 | Food Only - $10 in advance $20 at the gate Kids 6 and Under - FREE Proceeds benefit Sertoma Club of Greater Sarasota and Sertoma Kids, registered 501(c)(3) charitable organizations benefitting children with speech and language needs.

TWO-COURSE LUNCH 18.95

941-366-0007

*

BESTFOOD.COM

234458

235038

THREE-COURSE DINNER 34.95

6

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

NICK’S PICK RINGLING UNDERGROUND This monthly music and art showcase returns with music

by Roadkill Ghost Choir, supporting its new album, “False Youth, Etcetera,” as well as Dea and Saint, from St. Petersburg, who combine hip-hop, hardcore and punk elements, and Pathos, Pathos, from Orlando.

SATURDAY SECOND ANNUAL LIDO BEACH SPRING FINE ART FESTIVAL 10 a.m. at Lido Beach, 400 Benjamin Franklin Drive Free Call 487-8061.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

GREAT ESCAPES 6: THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE 7:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail $38 Call 953-3434.

‘CAPTIVE’ BY MOTIONHOUSE 2 and 7 p.m. at The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road $15; free for 2 p.m.

Call 358-3180.

Sarasota Orchestra presents the finale in this season’s Great Escapes concert series, which includes selections of favorites from the past five years. Runs through Sunday.

Inspired by Rainer Maria Rilke’s poem, “The Panther,” four dancers perform in a large cage to close out The Ringling’s New Stages series, blending dance and aerial work to explore how humans, like animals, can be plunged into captivity. Continues Saturday.

BEST OF RINGLING 5 p.m. at Ringling College of Art

and Design, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail Free Call 255-7695.

The annual juried exhibition showcases work by Ringling students in every major.

MILLS, BEETHOVEN AND MOZART 7:30 p.m. at the Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice $22 to $37 Call 207-8822.

The Venice Symphony presents the Florida premiere of “Sequenzas Concertante.” Continues Saturday.

The Lido Beach Spring Fine Art Festival returns for its second year. Hosted by the Humane Society of Sarasota County, the festival features original handmade fine art by local, regional and national artisans. Continues Sunday.

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA CRAFT FESTIVAL 10 a.m. at 1 Central Ave. Free Call 561-746-6615.

This 15th annual event features contemporary crafts from more than 100 of the nation’s most talented artisans. Continues Sunday.

IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m., Thursday Where: The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road Tickets: $15 Info: Call 358-3180.

– NICK FRIEDMAN

GRAND TASTING, BRUNCH AND CHARITY AUCTION 11 a.m. brunch; 1:30 p.m. auction at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 7777 N. Tamiami Trail $125 Call 952-1109.

Florida Winefest & Auction concludes with its grand tasting, featuring wines from more than 50 wineries. Appetizer portions of signature dishes available during brunch, followed by a charity auction.

SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL WRAP PARTY 10:30 p.m. at Sarasota Sky, 1927 Ringling Blvd. $20 to $25 Call 210-3274.

Celebrate the finale of the Sarasota Film Festival with tunes by Atlanta electro-disco duo Hank and Cupcakes.

Easter Buffet

Blasé Café

IC US H T M IG E LIV RY N E EV

SUNDAY, APRIL 16TH

BUFFET AVAILABLE FROM 11AM-5PM $39 PER PERSON CALL FOR RESERVATIONS 941.479.7827 LAST SEATING 4PM

Monthly Events: Pig Roast AUCE Fish Fry AUCE Snow Crab Lobster Boil

Carving Stations Featuring

& Martini Bar

Shrimp Cocktail • Chicken Picatta • Mahi Mahi Mac & Cheese • Rice Pilaf Garlic Mashed Potatoes Seasonal Vegetables Field Greens Salad & Decadent Dessert Bar!

FREE BLOODY MARY OR MIMOSA

DRAG QUEEN BINGO MONDAY, APRIL 10 - 8:30PM

FULL MOON PARTY

941.349.9822

225326

TUESDAY, APRIL 11

1/2 OFF COSMOS

XNLV14031

XNLV13269

Many Other Dishes Including

SUNDAY BRUNCH 11-3PM

237113

Live Music 9x A Week Open Daily 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM swordfishgrill.com 4628 119th St W Cortez FL Marker 49 By Boat (941)798-2035

Prime Rib • Maple Glazed Ham • Boneless Leg of Lamb

Riviera Dunes Marina | 102 Riviera Dunes Way | Palmetto, FL 34221 blumangrove.com

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

7

SUNDAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

‘WOOD WORKS’ 5 p.m. at Art Avenue Art Gallery Westfield Southgate Mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail Free Call 870-9885.

‘NEW YORK NOTES’ 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave. $20 Call 772-834-7173.

JAZZ AT 2: BRUCE WALLACE QUARTET 2 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Road $15; $10 for members Call 366-1552.

In the finale of its inaugural season, ensemblenewSRQ performs a powerful display of contemporary chamber music in a virtuosic program featuring guest musicians from New York City.

Sarasota Musica Viva presents “Wood Works,” a concert featuring Nordic folk tunes arranged by the Danish String Quartet and performed by the Venice Symphony Chamber Players.

TUESDAY

FACES OF CHANGE 7 p.m. at the Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Free; reservations encouraged Call 351-8000.

Asolo Repertory Theatre’s fifth annual community-based documentary theater project is created from the real-life experiences of local residents and community members, inspired by this season’s productions of “The Great Society” and “The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity.” This year’s project tackles issues of racially motivated violence.

DON’T MISS SEA AND BE SCENE BLOCK PARTY Enjoy an evening of food and cocktails to celebrate another year of the Sarasota Film Festival at this block party with live music by Sarasota’s Hannah

‘A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’ WITH THE FSU/ASOLO CONSERVATORY 6 p.m. at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Ave. $27 to $29 Call 351-8000.

Jae and Kentucky-based psychedelic folk band Twin Limb.

Second-year graduate students at the FSU/Asolo Conservatory perform Shakespeare’s comedy, fittingly staged outdoors at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Runs through April 29.

IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m., Friday Where: JD Hamel Park, 2 Marina Plaza Tickets: $40 to $150 Info: Call 366-6200.

This regular jazz concert series concludes its season with bassist Bruce Wallace, vibraphone player Marty Morrell, pianist Richard “Stretch” Bruyn and drummer Ron Gregg.

ORIGINALS SHOWCASE 10 p.m. at Gator Club, 1490 Main St. Free Call 366-5969.

This original music showcase features Babyl, from Sarasota, a high-energy melodic alt-rock band; Memorycode, from St. Petersburg, a dreamy, atmospheric band; and Ryan Meeker, a singer/ songwriter from Sarasota. Artist Rae Grand will also produce live prints and illustrations.

SAILOR CIRCUS SPRING PERFORMANCE 7 p.m. at Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St. $20; $15 for children Call 355-9805.

Sailor Circus, often called the “Greatest Little Show on Earth,” has been dazzling audiences for 68 years. The 2017 spring performance features more than 100 young circus artists who will flip, fly and perform amazing feats in six performances. Runs through April 15.

ONLINE Find more information on these events and more at

YourObserver.com.

The Butcher’s Block

Voted Readers’ Choice 1st Place For 2017!

Thank you Sarasota for 23 Consecutive wins!

24 years in a row!

Voted #1 Readers Choice Winner for BEST MEAT MARKET Serving Sarasota for over 50 years!

USDA Prime Lamb from Colorado

i d • Del o o f a e s•S et Food m r u o •G Meats e m i r P s• s Wine s a l C d l Wor

® Honeycomb Shades Keep Cool this Summer with Duette Vertiglide ® ™

Silhouette Window Shadings with PowerView Motorization

Janet & Curt Mattson, Owners

Gallery 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota ®

Across from the Landings

941-925-7800

www.mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

MATTSON & MATTSON

In Lakewood Ranch Call 941-925-9802 MATTSON & MATTSON Janet & Curt Mattson, Owners Janet and Curt Mattson

SF-1749668

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc.... since 1989

Visit our beautiful showroom or call for an

Wallcoverings Blinds, Inc.... since 1989 Blinds • Shutters • Draperies • Wallcoverings Wallcoverings && Blinds, Inc....Since 1989 in-home appointment.

View our selection of Big Green Egg grills and accessories.

SF-1738904

Owners

Blinds · Shutters · Draperies · Wallcoverings 4801 S. Tamiami Trail,Across from The Landings x (941) 925-7800 x mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

(941) 955-2822 | 3242 17th St., Sarasota, FL | www.thebutchersblocksite.com

Sarasota County- 925-7800

Manatee County- 925-9802

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Across from The Landings • mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________

237117

236516

Big Green Egg Now Available!

O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

e ValOis alanchine obbins

SF-1749668 (100%) PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

Dame Ninette de Valois’

CHECKMATE

George Balanchine’s

VALSE-FANTAISIE

George Balanchine’s

TARANTELLA

Jerome Robbins’

FANCY FREE

“FANCY FREE is a perfect piece of musical theatre” - The Guardian

ADVERTISER: M&M WALLCOVERINGS & BLIN PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE SALES PERSON: SFSR01

PROOF CREATED AT: 10/19/2016 11:15:58 AM

3X5.25 SF-1738904 (100%) SIZE: PUBLICATION: SF-HERALD TRIBUNE

PROOF DUE: 10/19/16 09:59:55

NEXT RUN DATE: 10/20/16

ADVERTISER: M&M WALLCOVERINGS & BLIN

PROOF CREATED AT: 7/20/2016 2:53:19 PM

SALES PERSON: SFSR01

NEXT RUN DATE: 08/07/16

SIZE: 2X5

PROOF DUE: 07/20/16 15:59:55

PUBLICATION: SF-STYLE MAG

28 - 30 April 2017 | Sarasota Opera House

Performed with Live Music by the Sarasota Orchestra

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office 941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org

223482

“CHECKMATE shows de Valois’ unique theatrical genius’” - The Spectator

8

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Spring films liven season Awards season might be over, but there are plenty of films to get excited about this spring.

PAM NADON FILM CRITIC

P

ost awards season can sometimes put a damper on spring movie expectations. Looking at the season’s upcoming films, there are signs the forecast is not as predictable as it might seem. We’ve picked a few of our most anticipated upcoming options:

‘KEDI’ April 7 Set in Istanbul, where thousands of cats freely roam, man and felines happily coexist. As the camera mostly tracks felines and their resourcefulness, their human devotees speak about the inner peace these beloved animals provide. Directed by Ceyda Torun, this is rumored to be a film that’s good for your blood pressure.

‘FRANTZ’ April 14 Acclaimed French director Francois Ozon once again proves he “gets” women. After WWI, a young German woman who is visiting her deceased fiancé’s grave is curious to see a Frenchman laying flowers upon it. Who is this mysterious stranger, and what is his connection to an enemy soldier? Starring Paula Beer and Pierre Niney, questions abound in this game of mirrors.

‘TOMMY’S HONOUR’ April 14 Set in 1860s Scotland, father and son golfers — one a legend and the other a budding superstar — don’t see eye to eye on their futures. Their strained relationship evolves into a story of familial love and mutual respect amid the sand traps. Beautifully shot on Scotland’s east coast by director Jason Connery, the film stars Peter Mullan and Jack Lowden.

Warehouse

COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL PRESENTS THE INAUGURAL

Sale

Goldie Feldman Legacy Event

SAVE SAVE APRIL 7th and 8th ONLY! Friday - Saturday ONE-OF-A KINDS SCRATCH & DENT

Stressless • Natuzzi • Tempur-Pedic Sofas • Bedroom • Dining • Living Office • Entertainment • Accessories

SAVE SAVE

saturday, april 22 | 7:00 p.m.

sweetgrass farms | 8350 carolina street | sarasota

SAVE AT 2 LOCATIONS

H

ave a great time while honoring community leaders Ed and Betty Rosenthal! Enjoy cocktails, local farm-inspired tapas, a walking tour of the farm and live music.

12th St

Ed Smith Staduyn Stickney Pt

Outback Steakhouse

Copenhagen Imports

In-Store 7211 S. Tamiami Trail

Friday-Saturday 10:00-6:00

copenhagen imports

For further information, email SWeiss@CommunityDay.org, call (941) 552-2770 or visit our website.

All sales final. Excludes prior/pending orders.

237118

HOME INTERIORS

(941) 923-2569 • copenhagen-imports.com 233531

HTTPS://EVENTS.BLACKBIRDRSVP.COM/COMMUNITYDAYSGOLDIELEGACY

Lewis Ave

U.S. 301

attire: garden chic

1114 Lewis Avenue

3 blocks west of Ed Smith Stadium off 12th Street

Friday-Saturday 9:00-4:00

S Tamiami Trl

cost: $200

Warehouse

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

‘THEIR FINEST’ April 7 The casting alone is a major draw in this romantic British dramedy, which takes place during the German blitzkrieg of London. A film crew hopes to boost morale and encourage America’s support by making a propaganda movie. It’s a tale of love, war and the magic of movies. Lone Scherfig directs Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy and Jeremy Irons.

‘FANNY’S JOURNEY’ April 21 The trailer promises stunning cinematography against the backdrop of a horrifying journey that Jewish children endured during WWII. To escape the Nazis, a 13-year-old girl is in charge of getting her fellow pupils and two sisters to Switzerland. Danger lurks everywhere as they attempt to evade capture. The horrors of

war, as seen through the eyes of children, is explored in this true story told by survivors, starring Cecile de France as the children’s mentor and Leonie Souchaud as Fanny. Directed by Lola Doillon.

‘CITIZEN JANE: BATTLE FOR THE CITY’ April 21 Matt Tyrnauer’s documentary uses archival footage and insightful interviews to illustrate his subject matter in this film about urban defender Jane Jacobs. In 1961, her book, “The Death and Life of Great American Cities,” was instrumental in saving important architectural landmarks in New York City. She rallied a community to fight Robert Moses, the city planner who advocated destructive regentrification, and against all odds, she prevailed.

‘THE STUDENT’ April 21 In this cautionary Russian narrative, a young student becomes a religious fanatic. His obsession with the Bible evolves into anti-Semitism, homophobia and fundamentalism. No one can deal with him, because they lack the tools to do so, given the state of Russian policies. His growing extremism reflects what’s happening to the world in which we live and begs the question: What can be done about it? The film stars Pyotr Skvortsov and is directed

by Kirill Serebrennikov.

‘OBIT’ April 26 This documentary provides audiences a look behind the scenes at The New York Times’ obituary department. Limited to 500 words, staffers have to decide just who gets an obit. Not everyone war-

rants one — only those who have had some sort of recognizable impact. From the inventor of the Slinky to Phillip Seymour Hoffman, it’s a diverse cornucopia of notable individuals. Directed by Vanessa Gould.

P.S. It’s not morbid.

‘GRADUATION’ May 5 Cristian Mungiu was awarded Best Director at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival for this Romanian crime drama about a father prepared to do anything for his daughter. But when she’s viciously attacked just before graduation, he uncharacteristically pulls out all the stops to defend his precious daughter. Politics, infidelities and the compromises parents make for their children are examined in this morality play. Adrian Titieni and Maria Dragus star as father and daughter.

|

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

9

‘BERLIN SYNDROME’ May 5 A young woman in a strange town has a one-night stand with a charming man she has just met.

Upon waking up in his apartment, she finds he’s left and she is deadbolted into his den of iniquity. She alternates between physical hostility and complacency as she hopes for escape.

For months, their dynamic shifts back and forth. At times, her behavior borders on Stockholm Syndrome. This thriller, directed

by Cate Shortland and starring Teresa Palmer and Max Riemelt, has been described as one with “nerve-shredding tension.” This one’s NOT good for your blood pressure.

Dearly

DEPARTED A ComEDy By DAviD BoTTREll AnD JEssiE JonEs

apr 19-May 27, 2017 DEARLY DEPARTED is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York

theatre

troUpe

westcoastblacktheatre.org Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.

This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture, and the State of Forida.

WE ARE INSPIRED BY YOUR LIFESTYLE

219227

black

for tickets! 941-366-1505 OR

216891

westcoast

Sea Place

LBK

233204

Call Bob Elmes today for a free consultation 941 - 925 - 3723 • Sarasota / Longboat Key / Siesta Key’s Leading Condo & Home Remodeling Specialist with over 45 years experience in the trades.

• Renovations professionally designed to fit your style and budget. Complete turn-key project management

Showroom 5900 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite K Sarasota, Fl 34231 | State Certified General Contractor CG-C060087

CreativeKitchenAndBaths.com

10

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Small batch, big impact Brew Life Brewing focuses on small-batch beer lines.

NICK FRIEDMAN A+E MANAGING EDITOR

There’s a new brewery in Sarasota, and it’s out to prove that bigger doesn’t always mean better.

Brew Life Brewing, which opened its doors last weekend, specializes in small-batch brewing. Mick Cohn and Michael Evanoff have partnered with head brewer Tom Harris to open the operation, located at 5767 Beneva Road, in the former Beer Box .

Cohn and Evanoff previously partnered for the Beer Box, and Harris is former head brewer at JDub’s Brewing Co. and is a consultant with Chela Brewing and Big Top Brewing companies.

Together, they plan to offer beer brewed with a small, simple operation, as well as other experimental products, like specialty sodas.

“The brewing idea is something

that goes all the way back to the Beer Box days,” says Cohn. “The timing was finally right. Tom brought up the small-batch idea, and it was perfect. We want a sense of urgency about each beer we make — there’s literally only so much of it. It’s not always about quantity. It’s about quality.”

Cohn says the 55-gallon system, which yields about 300 pints, allows for more precise control over each batch and helps them devote more of their resources to ingredients and beer.

The lineup will feature at least four year-round mainstay beers in various styles, and eight to 12 of the bar’s 15 taps will be Brew Life offerings. There will also be other guest Florida beers on tap, plus two lines just for Harris to experiment with things like sodas and carbonated waters.

“The fun thing about smallbatch brewing is the flexibility,” says Cohn. “It’s like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory — you have so much ability to explore your creativity.”

Nick Friedman

Mick Cohn and Tom Harris say focusing on small-batch brewing allows more room for creativity.

Choose Hunter Douglas shades today.

Save energy year-round.

Keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer with select, insulating Hunter Douglas shades. They’re the smart and beautiful way to help lower your energy bills.

January 14—april 10, 2017

$100 REBATE

*

ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES OF HUNTER DOUGLAS WINDOW FASHIONS Duette® Honeycomb Shades

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BUILT-INS | FLOORING | WALLCOVERINGS | FUR NITURE | ACCESSORIES

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT OR STOP BY OUR SHOWROOM | Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-12 noon | 1-4 p.m.

233928

2095 Siesta Drive (Across from Westfield Mall) | 941.951.1822 | Cell: 941.724.2353 Dick June

siestainteriorsfl.com

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS!

*Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/14/17–4/10/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. For certain rebate-eligible products, the purchase of multiple units of such product is required to receive a rebate. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 17Q1MAGDUCG1

Radio Theater Live

SWIMWEAR, RESORTWEAR & ACCESSORIES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

April 1 7 - 28th, 201 7

Our fit specialist will find you the perfect suit for your body

Return to the days of live radio theater as Powel and Gwendolyn Crosley host an evening of “Radio Theater” to promote their new radio station and the dramatic stories that they will be sending out over the airwaves. Music, mystery and good, old-fashioned promotion make for solid entertainment!

Sponsored by

a r & Events Program

Englewood-Swim Mart

Merchants Crossing 1500 Placida Rd

941- 474 - 4088

TicketMaster.com and at the Bradenton Area Convention Center Box Office 941-722-3244.

228468

Tickets on sale now! $15.00-$25.00 (plus service charge).

Tickets are $5.00 additional at the door. Group Discounts Available.

Ellenton-Swim Mart

5923 Factory Shops Blvd. (on the driveway into Ellenton Premium Outlets)

941-721-8924

Swim City-Longboat Key

Swim City-Sarasota

3170 Gulf of Mexico Drive

1960 Stickney Pt Rd

941- 383 - 2288

941- 922 - 4545

Swim City-SRQ 50 N Tamiami Tr

941-954-8800

231190

8374 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SARASOTA, FL 34243

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

|

THEATER CRITIC

“Footloose” is kicking up its heels at The Players Centre for Performing Arts. It’s a Tony Award-winning musical adapted from the 1984 movie of the same name. I’d never seen the original film. I figured I didn’t need to.

I knew the broad outlines of the plot: a holy roller gets dancing outlawed in a hick Midwest town; a young hoofer arrives from Chicago and sets everybody free. How predictable can you get? I expected a grab bag of teen-movie tropes set to catchy ’80s tunes by Kenny Loggins and friends.

Then the curtain goes up, and the musical actually has substance. Imagine my surprise.

Tropes, yes — but always with a twist. No Biblethumper, the Rev. Moore is a thoughtful man who quotes Walt Whitman and listens to classical music. He isn’t a mindless hater of fun; his anti-dance stance is a response to tragedy — a post-dance car wreck that killed five kids, including his son. Ren, the new kid, is a catalyst, not a moonwalking messiah. Suppression, not repression, kills the town’s exuberant expression of life. The Reverend isn’t a puppet master. The grieving menfolk want to clamp down, and they use his sermons as a convenient excuse. The men give up; the women shut up.

Cliff Roles

“Footloose” goes beyond tropes to find real substance.

But, as sure as eggs are eggs, Ren starts a dance revolution, and the musical ends with a life-affirming sock-hop. Yes, rock ‘n’ roll will move your body and free your mind! It’s the mother of all teen-movie tropes. But it doesn’t feel like a cheat.

Director Kathy Junkins walks the line between the musical’s artifice and the nitty-gritty reality it stands for. The shining example is the scene where Ren and Ariel speak of their hopes on a bridge one starry

night. I’ve seen it before, but she makes me buy it.

It’s a talented, high-energy cast, mostly youthful. They throw themselves into it and look like they’re having fun.

As the musical flips its tropes, it also subverts its stock characters. A.J. Cali’s Ren is charismatic without being “poor me” or “look at me” obnoxious. He can’t be reduced to picked-on outsider or swivel-hipped savior.

His love interest, Ariel, (Paige Galdieri) is fully aware of the

assumptions that “preacher’s daughter” triggers — and simultaneously revolts and uses it to her advantage. Willard (Martin McHugh) isn’t really a dumb cowboy. But he lets people think he is, because it lets him off the hook. Chuck (Jesse Rosenfeld) isn’t predestined to be a juvenile delinquent. But the town needs a bad boy, and he’s happy to oblige. Asia Dekle, Cassandra Caballero and Sunny Smith’s female characters aren’t minor; they're just marginalized by the

small-minded small town. The Rev. Moore once felt the touch of God and moved hearts with his words. “Thou shalt not” is the hole he crawled into after his son’s death. But he’s more than a grieving parent and more than the Reverend of No. They’re great performances based on well-written characters. The mind that imagined them actually cared.

The chart-topping ’80s hits, Berry Ayers’ music direction and Dennis Clark’s choreography gets everybody jumping for joy. Michael Newton Brown’s inventive set design serves the story and doesn’t compete. Tim Beltley’s costumes are goofy-funny and period accurate. Yes, Virginia, people dressed like that in the 1980s. Not me, personally. But some people.

If dance stands for the joy of living, the law against it stands for the fear of living — the urge to play it safe and keep your head down. That’s an easy target for caricature.

But the musical tries to make you understand the urge. The musical offers thoughtful character studies and a wellpainted portrait of small-town life.

“Footloose” isn’t perfect, but it’s honest. It could’ve easily been a facile, formulaic, feelgood musical. But it strives for a higher goal and never insults your intelligence.

You’ll feel good, but you won’t feel cheated.

REVIEWS

‘Footloose’ finds surprising substance in familiar territory MARTY FUGATE

11

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Quartz.

Stylish. Fun. Warm. Inviting.

The Experience

Behind Every Smile.

There’s A Distinctive Design For Any Style.

From soft shimmers to tantalizing textures and beyond, the experienced, trusted design and installation experts at Distinctive Surfaces specialize in bringing your vision to life.

Marble & More!

• Quality Design & Installation Services • Competitive Pricing on All Surfaces • Impeccable Craftsmanship • Fast Turnaround with Every Project • Serving Florida's Gulf Coast for Over 25 Years

Tarpon Shores D E N TA L

Call today for a design that’s Visually Powerful, Intellectually Elegant and Above All… Timeless.

St. ArmAndS • Venice • englewood For a concierge-style dental care experience designed to make you smile, call our St. Armands location at

941.377.7747 dsiflorida.com 8272 Vico Court Sarasota, FL (off Fruitville Road)

941-388-4114

Ask us about our referral rewards Programs.

231220

Smooth. Solid. Beautiful.

Shanaka L. Weerasooriya, D.M.D. Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

R. Scott Thompson, D.D.S. Fellow of the International College of Dentists Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists

St. ArmAndS • 544 John Ringling Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34236 • 941-388-4114 TarponShoresDental.com

219825

Granite.

When it comes to caring for your smile, experience counts. Not just the high level of experience of our renowned team of dentists, but also the comfortable, results-focused experience our patients enjoy with each visit.

• General • Cosmetic • Reconstructive • Implants • CEREC Single-Visit Crowns

The perfect place… you’ve pictured it for so long. You can close your eyes and see all the curves and colors that make it uniquely yours. It’s time to embrace your home’s personality – and your distinct style.

12

REVIEWS

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Masterworks series ends with brilliant playing by all EDWARD ALLEY MUSIC CRITIC

The Sarasota Orchestra ended its Masterworks season last Sunday with a sold-out house with guest conductor Han-Na Chang in a program guaranteed to please.

Possibly due to her extensive European engagements, Chang reseated the orchestra in a European seating, with the second violins opposite the firsts, violas to audience left and the cellos to the right, inside the violins. Many conductors prefer this as they feel it adds to the antiphonal effect of the first and second violins. Chang is slight of build and large of gesture, with a clear-cut technique that gives no doubt about what she wants from the orchestra, and she certainly achieved that in her opener, Rossini’s Overture to William Tell.

The “William Tell Overture” has acquired an after-life of its own, even beyond Rossini’s opera about the Swiss hero. It was Rossini’s last — and many say greatest — opera. From the lushness of the opening cello solo, throughout the storm, calming English horn solo and final galloping allegro, the orchestra was in top form. This is not an easy piece to play, and it was virtually tossed off as if it were a simple C Major scale, with brilliant playing from every soloist and the entire orchestra.

Bertrand Chamayou was the soloist in Mendelssohn’s “Pia-

Courtesy photo

Guest conductor Han-Na Chang led the Sarasota Orchestra using a European seating arrangement.

no Concerto No. 1” in G minor.

Composed when he was 22, and despite the somber opening, it still bears a great resemblance to the overture to “Midsummer Night’s Dream” written three years earlier, with multitudes of notes challenging the technique of both soloist and orchestra.

Chamayou rose to this challenge and executed them all, even though some passages seemed to run together a bit.

This concerto, played without pause much as the violin concerto, has a lovely second move-

ment that was beautifully performed by soloist, conductor and orchestra. Chamayou is an excellent pianist, and it would be a pleasure to hear him in a varied program.

Surely the highlight of the concert was the performance of Beethoven’s 7th Symphony in A major. This symphony ranks as a favorite with audiences, players and conductors, and it is a challenge for all. This performance, while brilliantly played, seemed to be very driven in tempo without much subtlety

of interpretation. Very often Chang’s tempi were so rapid that clear articulation was virtually impossible to achieve.

On the other hand, the slow movement with its unrelenting ostinato figure had some lovely playing by everyone. The final two movements were taken at a roller coaster pace that left little time for the music to breathe, which it badly needed. To me, it was merely fast and not thrilling; nevertheless, the audience loved it, and the applause was long and hearty.

The Masterworks Series this season has presented us with a wide variety of repertoire, from traditional to contemporary with excellent soloists and conductors. Yet the most outstanding and inspiring part of this orchestra continues to be the players, those who devote their lives and professional skills to the art of making beautiful music for those of us who are fortunate enough to live in Sarasota.

May 6, 2017 at 6:30pm Sarasota Opera House

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office

SPMF_BO_0317_MECH.indd 1

3/8/17 8:32 AM

223466

231445

941.359.0099 | www.SarasotaBallet.org

ON THE FLIP SIDE: A+E Refrigerator Art: Installation shows artistic value of kitchen appliance.

Girl Power: Girls Inc. hosts empowering and inspiring luncheon. 10

BLACK

YOUROBSERVER.COM

TIE

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Top: Jamie Becker, Chairwoman Ariane Dart and several other guests dance during the Flo Rida concert at Firefly Gala on April 1, at The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club.

Above: Guests dance and take photos while Flo Rida performs.

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Flo Rida performs at Firefly Gala on April 1 at The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club.

Firefly Gala Saturday, April 1, at The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club | Benefiting Forty Carrots Family Center NIKI KOTTMANN | BLACK TIE REPORTER

Forty Carrots Family Center Executive Director Michelle Kapreilian and Chairwoman Ariane Dart

Jeff and Ellen Steinwachs with Evan and Ben Morgan

M

iami Gardens native Flo Rida brought his house to Lakewood Ranch on April 1 at The RitzCarlton Members Golf Club.

Firefly Gala, an annual fundraiser for Forty Carrots Family Center, sold out at 585 guests this year.

Festivities began with a lively cocktail hour that featured temporary tattoos, a photo booth and a silent auction table along with an â&#x20AC;&#x153;online super silent auction.â&#x20AC;?

During dinner, guests took part in a live auction led by international champion auctioneer Wendy Lambert. The auction featured everything

PAGE 2

Matt and Diana Buchanan

2

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

GETTING INKED Guests like Lizette James channeled their inner music star with airbrush tattoos featuring the Firefly Gala logo. Dixie Painting makeup artist Suzy Kalin’s creations were such a hit we even saw one adorning a bald head.

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Tony Pinho and Roger Capote

FROM PAGE 1

from a five-night ski trip to Beaver Creek, Colo., to a meet-and-greet with gala performer Flo Rida.

After finishing an artistic chocolate raspberry tart that almost looked too good to eat, guests made their way to the golf course for the main event. Flo Rida, his band and dancers brought the house down with an electrifying performance that had guests out of their seats and dancing along.

When the concert was over, the party wasn’t. The fun continued back in the dinner tent, which event workers transformed to an upscale lounge for a late-night after party. Flo Rida made a surprise appearance at the soiree, where he danced and took selfies with guests until the early hours of the morning.

WORD-PLAY WISDOM As a way of demonstrating the values of Forty Carrots, guests played a game in which they pieced together sentences with their tablemates. Board Chairman Rick Gomez then explained how they relate to the nonprofit’s services.

Mike and Tina Granthon

New York Designers

SHOWCASING at Dream Weaver | April 6 - 7 | 10am - 6pm

Internationally renown clothing designers Emmelle and Yeohlee will be at Dream Weaver with their latest collections. New York jewelry designer Biba Schutz will send in her collection to accessorize these collections.

YEOHLEE works with sleek proportions, layering fabric and color mixes with a chic nonchalance in architectural shapes. She believes in no waste of material and often cuts and folds to use the entire piece of fabric!

MI JONG LEE, designs her EMMELLE COLLECTION, as well as her namesake collection, influenced by her multi cultural upbringing of art and architecture, placing the flow of prints and color with the drape of the fabric. Both international designers speak to every woman, regardless of lifestyle or age!

Jewelry designer BIBA SCHUTZ, will coordinate a silver collection to accent these two designers work. All three women work, design and craft their designs in the garment district in NYC and are available at Dream Weaver year around.

Dream Weaver dresses the woman who dares to be different and dresses according to her individual personality!

We represent over 50 of North America’s top fiber artists and designers as well as up and coming European designers. We are the largest gallery of fine Art-to-Wear in the country.

235859

364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, Florida | 941-388-1974 |dreamweavercollection.com like us on facebook

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

3

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

BLACK

Celebrating a Decade of Webb Monday, March 27, at FSU Center for the Performing Arts Benefiting Sarasota Ballet

TIE Gwen Watson and Eleanor Williams

Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb, Sarasota Ballet Executive Director Joseph Volpe and Dick Johnson

Kim and Kevin Fulcher with Pat Golemme Marianne Murray and her niece, Carly Murray

Co-Chairwomen Sydney Goldstein and Vivian Kouvant

SkinSmart D E R M AT O L O G Y

heating & COOling applianCeS plumbing

Skin Safety

®

E L I Z A B E T H F. C A L L A H A N, M D

SUPER $ OF SAVINGS 25

Begins with SkinSmart

F*

Complimentary * Skin Screenings for National Melanoma Awareness Month.

book any of our services before may 31, 2017 and receive $25 OFF. 941.777.2004 BadgerBobs.com

Join us every Thursday through May 25th for your complimentary skin screening!

SkinSmart D E R M AT O L O G Y

*Valid through May 31, 2017. No cash value. Must present this coupon. Not valid with any other offer.

Service... it’s Who We Are.

®

Call 941.308.7546 today to learn more or to schedule your screening.

™

Keeping your home’s heating & cooling systems, plumbing and appliances running smoothly and efficiently doesn’t take super powers – just super service.

Call 941.777.2004 and send badger bob’s to the rescue.

SkinSmart D E R M AT O L O G Y

®

E L I Z A B E T H F. C A L L A H A N, M D W I L L I A M B. A D A M S , M D

5911 N. Honore Ave., Ste. 210 Sarasota, FL 34243

941.777.2004 | BadgerBobs.com License#: CFC1427129, CAC1815977 Financing Options Available.

Appliance Showroom • 215 Interstate Boulevard • Sarasota, FL 34240

*Complimentary skin screenings are for new patients only and are conducted while patients are fully clothed.

Patients can show the care provider their areas of concern at that time.

For a FUll body screening, we recommend scheduling a regular office visit.

234573

231474

Family Owned & Operated Serving Sarasota, manatee & Charlotte Counties for 30+ years

SarasotaDermatologist.com

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Sarasota Challenge Dinner Sunday, March 26, at Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Andrew Phillips, Marianne de Waal and Jon Hagman

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Above: Event organizer Sid Pocius Below: Junior participants were given participation awards.

Lyn Sky Yulia Rudenco and Daniil Rostvinschii perform the jive at the Sarasota Challenge on March 26 at Hyatt Regency Sarasota.

Susan Malloy Jones and Vidas Orlovas

SAILOR CIRCUS presents

ONCE UPON A

C RCUS

TUES APR 11 – SAT APR 15 SAILOR CIRCUS ARENA • 2075 BAHIA VISTA ST. SARASOTA

One Donor 35 Innovative Afterschool Programs 200 Perfect Attendance Records 600 Better Report Cards

Be The One See over 100 kids flip, fly and soar! $20 ADULT $15 CHILDREN

941.355.9805 CircusArts.org

cfsarasota.org

Each one of us has the potential to impact a person, a cause, a community. For more than 35 years, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has matched donors to the right causes, creating lasting impact. You can be the one to make a difference.

Call us today, (941) 955-3000.

228586

6

Only ances perform reatest of The G ow h “Little” S ! on Earth

235881

4

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

Tidbits

BLACK TIE STAFF

The birthday that never ended

Photo courtesy of Tomeika Koski

Robert Bullard, David Koffman, Clarence Henderson; Front: Umbreen Khalidi-Majeed, Donna Koffman, Tomeika Koski and Caroline Ellerson

En route to the altar

Baby boom

Friends of Mollie Nelson got to hear how she met her fiancé Nick Holland on April 1 at a lively bridal luncheon. The story begins on Match.com, where the pair quickly discovered shared interests in piloting boats and airplanes. But Mollie kept Nick at arm’s length for a good, long time. They finally met at Newark Airport on the way to a doozy of a first date: an eight-day visit to Scotland.

Nelson shared her story with 34 guests at the luncheon, which was hosted by Nancy Bishopric Blackburn, Sharon Black Floyd, Nikki Feldbaum Sedacca and Margaret Wise at the Wise home.

It was the weekend of baby bliss in Sarasota March 31 - April 2, and we’ve got the low-down: Brigid Saah celebrated her third and fourth showers for baby Piper on April 1 and 2, both at Sarasota Yacht Club, and several of Piper’s future little friends attended the April 2 soirée including Lyla Saba and Ross Taplinger.

Allison Cornell held her tropicalthemed soiree (not jungle, as she noted) on April 1 at The Field Club. The chair she opened her gifts in was a gift from best friend Aliena Shea who searched high

and low for the Pinterest find that Allison wanted for baby-to-be Carter Cornell’s nursery.

Melissa Hembree was sprinkled with love at an intimate brunch on April 1 at the home of Kyle and Caprill Hembree. “Half a Dozen Hembrees” was co-hosted

by Erin Christy and Caprill Hembree, and parents Joe and Melissa Hembree are expecting their fourth child in May. Sarah Lodge had 35 guests gather at her Siesta abode on April 1 to celebrate her future baby girl.

She wanted guests to mingle and sprinkle as much as possible so they were asked to bring gifts unwrapped to be admired easier.

A trade last for Ariane Dart …

No less a partygoer and thrower than Scott George voluntarily proclaimed the Forty Carrots Family Center’s Firefly Gala the “best event ever staged in Sarasota.” He’s entitled to an opinion, having attended uncountable fundraisers and produced many a winner himself, including the memorable grand reopening of the Historic Asolo several years ago. Congratulations to Chairwoman Ariane Dart and her committee … Dress code dilemma ...We’ve noticed some pretty unique dress codes listed on invitations for several social occasions lately, but our favorites are “Farmer’s Market Chic” for the Designing Daughters PreGala Party: Fashion Market at Big Top Brewery on April 9 and “farm chic, comfortable shoes” for the Goldie Feldman Legacy Event on April 22 at Sweetgrass Farms.

Not sure what to wear? We’re preparing our bedazzled overalls as we speak (feel free to copy).

5

TIE

Tomeika Koski knows how to party for a cause, and her birthday weekend was no exception. The philanthropist had 14 friends from Atlanta and four from New York City fly in to celebrate her 39th birthday, and it all started March 30 with April Fools’ Fete, where Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs and Executive Director Julie Leach surprised Tomeika with a birthday cake and a group rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Friday morning, Tomeika and her gal pals attended the Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon, and that evening she hosted a “Purple Rain”-themed party at her house, where guests were decked out in full Prince attire. Saturday night she and her squad attended Firefly Gala, where she got to meet Flo Rida and dance with him onstage during “Low.” Sunday morning, the girls went to brunch at Peridia Golf & Country Club, and Monday they sipped “No Stress” drinks at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Club on Lido Key.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

BLACK

Final Four After many weeks of intense competition, we’ve finally narrowed our Black Tie Bracket to the top two women and top two men. If you want a say in who our winning fashion standouts of the 2016-2017 should be, go to YourObserver.com/contests/ BTBracket to cast your vote once a day from now until April 9. We’ll count the votes and make the official announcement in our Black Tie Standouts special section that will be available on May 4.

FINAL FOUR

Melissa Howard

BLACK TIE BRACKET

Diana Buchanan

Who will be the standout stars of the Black Tie scene?

Vote for your favorites at YourObserver.com/contests/BTBracket.

Nati Shabat

Winners will be announced in our Black Tie Standouts special section May 4.

James Helmich

234524

BLACK TIE & TALES

|

6

TIE

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Sue Lamy appears as the “belle of the ball” in a Linda Bernell gown available at Designing Women Boutique during the style show March 30 at Designing Women Boutique.

Salon Series: Denise Pope

BLACK

Thursday, March 30, at Designing Women Boutique Benefiting Designing Women Boutique

Sally Altman and Margaret McCurry

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Joan Campo-Liga, speaker Denise Pope, Tom Urfer and Ida Zito Gudrun and Jorgen Graugaard

So Many

Possibilities 4551 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.355.8437

2510 1st Street West Bradenton, FL 34208 941.748.4679

1734 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293 941.493.7441

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/manasotafloor

Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/manasotafloors

manasotaonline.com

236714

Worth Exploring

R E �orida studio theatre V O HELD “fun and playful” - Sarasota herald-tribune

“crowd pleasing” - The Observer

READY, SET, SAIL CRUISE EVENT WITH HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Wednesday, April 12th

“upbeat”

- The Observer

|

2 pm

Join us & learn how you can enjoy FREE onboard gratuities & up to 500 onboard cash credit. Book a suite & get a $100 internet credit.*

$

Plus, attendees who book by April 20th get up to an additional $150 onboard cash credit.*

Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director

This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the State of Florida

366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

(941) 254 6484

5215 University Parkway, Sarasota

cruiseshipcenters.com/Sarasota

*Offers are per person based on double occupancy, for new cruise or Land+Sea Journeys only on select June 2017 - March 2018 sailings, for 1st and 2nd guests in the stateroom and are not combinable with any other discounts. Onboard cash credits are per stateroom, are not redeemable for cash and cannot be transferred or refunded. Not transferable or refundable & subject to availability. Other restrictions apply. Contact us for full terms and conditions. Fl.Seller of Travel Reg No.ST39379

235062

by Richard Hopkins, rebecca hopkins, and Catherine Randazzo with Caroline Kaiser and Arrangements by Jim Prosser

236788

SPACE IS LIMITED - RSVP TODAY

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

7

GROUNDBREAKING DE VELOPER PRICING

Artist’s Rendering

Dramatic city-view residences NOW from the mid $600,000s!

Crews will soon begin construction on the area’s most eagerly awaited downtown address – The Mark. But breaking ground isn’t the only thing that’s groundbreaking! For a limited time, Kolter is offering a special release on its popular Landmark residences, featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths + den, NOW from the mid $600,000s!

Stylish residences and elevated club level amenities provide a luxurious, private resort lifestyle – all just moments to the world-class arts, boating and beaches that make Sarasota the crown jewel of Florida’s West Coast. The Mark is the in-town, on-the-town lifestyle everyone has been looking for … at a price no one expected.

Artist’s Rendering

Main Street

State Street So

ut

h

Pi n

ea

Mc

pp

le

S sh

South Lemon Ave

Artist’s Rendering

Av e

are

qu

An

Just South of Main Street at the corner of Pineapple Ave. and State Street

Visit Our Onsite Sales Gallery Today

1400 State Street | Sarasota, FL 34236 941-202-6502 | THEMARKSARASOTA.COM

Broker Participation is welcomed and encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state.

This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices and availability are subject to change at any time without notice.

®

235930

LUXURY RESIDENCES | PROMENADE SHOPPING & DINING | EXECUTIVE OFFICES

8

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

April Fools’ Fete Thursday, March 30, at Michael’s On East | Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Ron and Rita Greenbaum with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs

Jonna Keller, Co-Chairwoman Carol Poteat-Buchanan and Dario Ferrer

The picnic-themed April Fools’ Fete was held March 30 at Michael’s On East and featured festive picnic-basket centerpieces.

Audrey and Bill Coleman

Alphonso and Brenda Belsito

FINE ART FESTIVAL

Saturday & Sunday April 8-9

10 am - 5 pm Original Juried Art

SCULPTURE • PAINTING • JEWELRY • PHOTOGRAPHY GLASS • CERAMICS • MIXED-MEDIA • FIBER ART GRAPHICS • METALWORK • WOODWORKING and much more!

Sponsored by:

www.paragonartevents.com

204626

Lido Beach • 400 Benjamin FrankLin dr, SaraSota

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

9

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

BLACK

Wine Walk to Cà d’Zan

TIE

Friday, March 31, at The Ringling | Benefiting Cà d’Zan Preservation Fund

Alice Murphy, Tina Shao-Napoli and Dan Napoli

Chief Conservator of Cà d’Zan Barbara Ramsay and Keeper of Cà d’Zan Ron McCarty

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Above: Steven High, executive director of The Ringling, with his wife, Lisa High Left: Aerialist Allison Pierce surprises guests at station No. 2.

Sonja Shea and Megan Salazar-Walsh

Rich, complex and “

ROUSINGLY FUNNY” — StageandCinema.com

APRIL 4 – 30

In the Cook Theatre, Transformed into a Pro-Wrestling Arena!

ASOLO REP

ASOLOREP.ORG • 941.351.8000 Garrett Turner in The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity. Photo by John Revisky.

The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity Sponsors:

Season Sponsors:

219674

By KRISTOFFER DIAZ Directed by JEN WINEMAN

10

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

|

L ved again Boutique

Gray Bkg.:Layout 1 11/9/15 8:18 PM Page 1

Celebration Luncheon

UPSCALE WOMEN’S CONSIGNMENT STORE 4141 S.Tamiami Trail next to Trader Joe’s in Chili’s Plaza 941.702.8159

234068

“Our dedication to design Maraby - Armani - Planet - Hermes - Stuart Weitzman - plus Art to Wear leaves our customers knowingMaxus name”

Friday, March 31, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Benefiting Girls Inc. of Sarasota County Right: Leadership Award winner Alex Perez and She Knows Where She’s Growing Award winner Shayla White Below: Members of the Girls Inc. of Sarasota County choir perform Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” for guests at the Celebration Luncheon.

JANUARY 14—APRIL 10, 2017

Duette® Honeycomb Shades

$100

Choose Hunter Douglas shades today.

Save energy year-round.

REBATE

*

Keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer with select, insulating Hunter Douglas shades. They’re the smart and beautiful way to help lower your energy bills.

ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES OF HUNTER DOUGLAS WINDOW FASHIONS

Stan Writesel

941.924.4481 www.B2END.com 4453 Ashton Road / Unit C / Sarasota, FL / 34233

Alan Gravley

235624

Beginning to End Interiors & Blinds

*Manufacturer’s mail-insrebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made purchases 1/14/17–4/10/17 participating dealers in the U.S. only. For dealers certain rebate-eligible products, purchase of multiple units of such product is requiredof * Manufacturer’ mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying madefrom 1/14/17–4/10/17 from participating in the U.S. only.

Forthe certain rebate-eligible products, the purchase to receive a rebate. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card multiple units of such product is required to receive a rebate. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the Subject to applicable $2.00 monthly will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating property of Hunter Douglas orlaw, theira respective owners.fee 17Q1MAGDUCW2X

dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 17Q1MAGDUCW2X

9 4 1 . 9 2 4 . 4 4 8 1 w w w. B 2 E N D. co m

4453 Ashton Road / Unit C / Sarasota, FL / 34233 WCAA & IDS MEMBERS

April 6-9, 2017 27th Annual Florida Winefest & Auction

Child Protection Center Presents

BLUE and TIES

Buerflies April 6PM-9PM 19, 2017

William Kelley, Sarasota Artist is our Featured Artist for 2017 This original oil painting will be available for bidding at our Charity Auction!

Michaels On East

2017 Schedule of Events

$200 per person

April 6 – Thursday – Wine & winemaker dinners in & around Sarasota 6:30 pm April 7 – Friday –Bayfront Showcase Lunch Tasting 11:00 am April 7 – Friday –Banquet on the Block (Lemon Ave, Downtown) 6:30 pm April 8 – Saturday –Grand Tasting & Brunch 11:00 am – Charity Auction 1:30 pm April 9 – Sunday – Wine on the Water 1:00 pm April 15 – Saturday – James Beard Dinner 6:30 pm

Tickets available 2017btb.eventbrite.com

To purchase tickets & for details: floridawinefest.org or call 941-952-1109

A

RI

19

CH

91

CAR IN

FOR CHIL

EN DR

G

.

TIE • EST S

EST. 1991

FLORIDA WINEFEST AUCTION

RSVP by April 9th to myaw@cpcsarasota.org or 941-365-1277 Ext. 120

Over $8.2 million has been awarded to local disadvantaged children’s charities.

233686

A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 1-800-435-7352, toll free within the State.

Our Florida registration number is CH4346, Florida Winefest & Auction, Inc., is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendations by the State. Federal ID #65-0455486.

231735

SPONSORED BY

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

|

11

BLACK TIE

Guests ate Dare to Fly Cupcakes, lemon bars and assorted macarons for dessert at the 29th Annual Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon: Girl Power on March 31 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.

Girls Inc. of Sarasota County Executive Director Angie Stringer, She Knows Where She’s Going Award winner Dr. Karen Hamad, Visionary Award winner Kim Cornetet and Girls Inc. of Sarasota County Board President Jennifer Compton

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Co-Chairwomen Susan Malloy Jones, Sally Schule and Veronica Brady

Alane Vertucci and Emmy Charris

TM

THE MUSIC OF POPS:

SINATRA

STARRING MICHAEL ANDREW

APRIL 21 & 22 | VAN WEZEL Andrew Lane, Principal Pops Conductor The Best is Yet to Come. This silky, smooth concert features jazz vocalist Michael Andrew and the Sarasota Orchestra. Enjoy classic favorites from the Sinatra songbook with narration that highlights some of the biggest moments in life of the legendary Ol’ Blue Eyes.

Tickets from $35 SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434

“ CROONER “ THIS IS HIP TO THE SOUNDS OF THE 40s & 50s.”

- THE NY POST

234548

- THE ORLANDO SENTINEL

HARRY CONNICK, JR.”

THE NEXT

The Observer

BLACK TIE

TIE

Sarasota Film Festival Opening Night Party

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017

Friday, March 31, at the Sarasota Opera House Benefiting Sarasota Film Festival

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Jah Movement performs after the opening-night film.

Mirella Martinelli and Cynthia Semerar

Pedro Perez and Les McCurdy Pam Snyder and Bob Meehan

Christine Conradis and Jamie Marks

230354

BLACK

12