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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

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Two unhinged performances — a comedic variety show and a taut thriller — are this week’s picks. YOUROBSERVER.COM

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‘Beethoven’s Eroica’ Sarasota Orchestra’s artistic adviser breaks down the celebration of the composer’s third symphony. PAGE 6

SEE THIS Klint Lowry

Doug Baird installs one of the 50 billboard-sized images in the Embracing Our Differences exhibit in Bayfront Park.

SEEING THE

Embracing Our Differences is more than just art in the park. PAGE 2

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IF YOU GO EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES When: Through April 5 Where: Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive Price: Free Info: Call 404-5710.

Klint Lowry

Taken individually and as a group, the artwork creates an interesting and meaningful landscape.

“We’ve really focused on trying to make it so it’s not just a one-time field trip to the park and that one day you focus on diversity. We’re trying to make it so it’s multiple, different experiences throughout the year.” — Sarah Wertheimer

KLINT LOWRY A+E EDITOR

fter 17 years, the Embracing Our Differences installation in downtown’s Bayfront Park is a familiar part of the seasonal landscape — a cool art thing in a city that cherishes its cool art things. The installation and the organization behind it go by the same name, and with a name like that and the messaging on the billboards, Embracing Our Differences’ identity seems obvious. What more do people need to know? That depends on what more

there is to know. Surely, there must be more to this organization than this one exhibition. Embracing Our Differences Executive Director Sarah Wertheimer smiles at the question. She’s aware that for many people, those 12.5-by-16-foot images in the park are the length and breadth and scope of Embracing Our Differences. But there’s more behind the images. “Our main focus is education,” Wertheimer says. The exhibition is one form of public education, but the organization is an education program throughout the rest of the year too.

Embracing Our Differences is a perfect example of the “think globally, act locally” philosophy. The exhibition reaches out to and gets attention from around the world, while most of the organization’s educational efforts are aimed at school children in Sarasota and Manatee counties. “We work a lot with the teachers, administrators and guidance counselors and make sure that they’re all aware of the free field trip opportunities that we pay for them, so that the kids can come in and have that full experience,” Wertheimer says. The work with schools extends

P I C K

well beyond the exhibition, she adds, but there’s no denying that the exhibition is the tentpole for the organization. Embracing Our Differences started when The Florida Holocaust Museum brought a traveling exhibit from Jerusalem to town 17 years ago, Wertheimer says. “It was a traveling art exhibit that was supposed to just be a onetime thing.” When local organizers saw the public’s reaction, Wertheimer says: “They just said, ‘This is amazing. We have to keep doing this.’” So they incorporated Embracing Our Differences and issued their first call to artists. NO TRANSLATION NEEDED

“That first year, we had 124 submissions,” Wertheimer says. The theme of the exhibition, then as now, was, “enriching lives through diversity and inclusion.” Wertheimer explains that they keep the creative parameters of the call to artists intentionally broad. Thanks in part to existing in the age of connectivity, Embracing Our Difference’s call to artists can be heard practically everywhere. This year, there were 16,118 submissions from all 50 states (a first) and from 127 countries. Wertheimer says the response demonstrates the human desire

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for self-expression. “So it’s really nice to have that,” she says. “I mean, for the last four or five years now, the countries with the most submissions after the U.S. have been Russia and Iran. And I think that shows this hunger and desire to be able to express their diversity, what they’re going through, that they can’t do in their own home place.” It means so much to some to have their piece selected for the exhibit that they will travel halfway around the world to see it. “We do have a lot of people who fly in,” Wertheimer says. “We just helped a guy from India get his visa who will hopefully be coming for the exhibit. Last year, we had someone from England, someone from Canada and someone living in Australia but from China.”

LASTING IMPRESSIONS

Providing people around the world with an outlet for expression is tremendously satisfying, but education is the organization’s priority. “The education program is what really has evolved over the years,” Wertheimer says. “It used to be mainly the field trips to the exhibit. And then we started doing more lesson plans and curriculum for the teachers to use before, during and after the field trips.” Now, Wertheimer says, “We’ve really focused on trying to make it so it’s not just a one-time field trip to the park and that one day you focus on diversity. We’re trying to make it so it’s multiple, different experiences throughout the year.” Embracing Our Difference

started the program Unity Day, in which students from all seven Sarasota County high schools engage in team-building exercises. For several years, the organization has coordinated volunteer reading days of books selected to initiate conversations about diversity, personal character and respect for others. The organization is particularly focused on bullying prevention. It is so important to reach children at an early age, Wertheimer says, to learn the importance of respecting one another. “And that way, if they’re not worried about who’s going to pick on them or who’s going to say this to them, they can actually focus on their academics and they can hopefully succeed more in life and know how to work with others.”

Klint Lowry

It’s a constant balancing act, Wertheimer says, among the immediate message of Embracing Our Differences, the exhibition and trying explain the bigger picture of what the organization is trying to accomplish. “We really do want to get it out there to people that it’s not just artwork that’s up there for you to see one time,” Wertheimer said. “It’s an entire initiative throughout the year.”

Above: Embracing Our Differences employees and workers look over part of the exhibit during installation day. Above Left: Shangxi Wu, an 11th grader from Pleasanton, Cal., submitted “I Have a Dream,” chosen Best in Show in the children’s division.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

THIS WEEK THURSDAY

JOHN DICROSTA 7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $18-$21 Call 925-3869.

‘JOYFUL ART FROM THE HEART’ 10 a.m. at Lexow Wing Gallery, Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Road Free Call 371-4974.

John Dicrosta likes to say he has “multiple character disorder,” which can cause him to break out in any number of different voices or even, during extreme bouts, ventriloquism. Luckily, he learned long ago how to harness those traits to his benefit — and yours if you come see his comedy show. Runs through Saturday.

After many successful years in musical theater, Sally Myers took up painting as an Act II career. This exhibition highlights Myers’ love of nature and use of color as an expression of joy. The exhibit is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Runs through Feb. 13.

OAK STREET STAGE SANCTUARY SERIES: HECTOR OLIVERA 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St. Free Call 955-8119.

FRENEMIES OF CONTEMPORARY PERFORMANCE: DANCE 6 p.m. at Perrett Studio, The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road Free; reservations required Call 360-7399. Do you like fresh, innovative approaches to the arts? Or do you dislkie all that modern stuff? The Ringling has resurrected a program that goes back to its beginnings, a series of roundtable discussions between those who favor pushing the envelope and those who are old school all the way. This month’s discussion is on contemporary dance, with moderator Leah Verier-Dunn, the co-founder and artistic director of Moving Ethos Dance.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance has a tradition of bringing together many of the contemporary dance world’s most impactful choreographers of the moment for an annual showcase celebration of the dance genre. Enjoy modern works by Terrence Henderson, Bliss Kohlmyer, Maria Bauman-Morales and Adele Myers. Runs through Sunday.

DON’T MISS CHANG PLAYS DVORÁK Arts organizations always talk up their guest artists in advance, but the word on celebrated violinist Sarah Chang is that she leaves audiences and even fellow musicians awestruck. The Sarasota Orchestra and guest conductor Ludovic Morlot welcome Chang to work her magic in this Masterworks series concert. The program will include

Leoš Janáček’s “The Cunning Little Vixen Suite,” Claude Debussy’s “Ibéria” and Antonín Dvorák’s “Legends.” The evening will finish with Chang playing Dvorák’s Violin Concerto. Runs through Sunday. IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m. Friday Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $35-$98 Info: Call 953-3434.

Expect heavenly sounds to emanate from First Presbyterian Church, which recently got a brand new pipe organ and has invited one of the best organists in the world to take it for a spin. Hector Olivera is one of them. Olivera was a child prodigy in Argentina, who, at the age of 5, he played a concert before Eva Perón. He went on to play Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral and at the Olympic opening ceremonies. DANCE MAKERS 2020 7:30 p.m. at Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail $15-$50 Call 350-0099.

‘SENDER’ 8 p.m. at Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. $32 Call 321-1397. Everybody has to grow up sometime, but it usually isn’t as complicated as it is in this dark comedy. A Chicago man returns to his former apartment a year after his staged death to fix his relationships with the people mourning him. The show addresses various challenges faced by millennials, especially delayed adulthood. In case you’ve delayed seeing this show, the run has been extended to Feb. 23.

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FRIDAY JAZZ AT TWO: DANNY SINOFF TRIO 2 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Road $10-$20 Call 366-1552. Jazz Club of Sarasota presents Danny Sinoff for the next installment of its weekly afternoon concert series. He isn’t yet 40, but Sinoff is considered one of this area’s go-to guys for old-school jazz piano. Joining him onstage will be drummer Patricia Dean, who will share on the vocals, while bassist Scott Smith rounds out the trio. COLOR US 40 PARTY 5 p.m. at Art Uptown Gallery, 1367 Main St. Free Call 955-5409. The longest-running fine art gallery in downtown Sarasota celebrates its 40th year with monthly presentations and demonstrations. But this night is the official birthday party. Come see why the gallery is still going strong while you peruse works by more than two dozen local artists.

SATURDAY SARASOTA VISUAL ARTISTS STUDIOS OPEN STUDIO SERIES 10 a.m. at Various SVAS studios Free Call 993-9391. Nine artists bring a neighborly vibe to the local art community by inviting the public to visit their eight studios on the first Satur-

MONDAY

day of the month through March. Meet the artists, see what they’re working on, and learn about the artistic process. Visit SarasotaVisualArtistsStudios.com for the list of artists and locations.

AMY BURTON AND JOHN MUSTO 10:30 a.m. Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road $10 Call 365-6404.

SARASOTA BALLET: REDEFINED MOVEMENT 2 and 7:30 p.m. at FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail $35-$115 Call 359-0099. If ballet dancers need to limber up, maybe ballet viewers do too. The Sarasota Ballet opens the new year with an eclectic program that will get those spectating skills into midseason form. It includes three ballets from three different eras, representing three different styles. The program starts with Sir Frederick Ashton’s “Les Rendezvous” and Paul Taylor’s “Brandenburgs” then concludes with Dominic Walsh’s “I Napoletani.” Runs through Monday.

SUNDAY ‘SISTER ACT’ 7:30 p.m. at The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail $14-$34 Call 365-2494. If you’ve been procrastinating, this is the last chance to mend your ways. Catch the closing night for the divine 2006 musical comedy based on the hit 1992 movie starring Whoopie Goldberg about a woman disguised as a nun who is hiding in a convent.

Talk about a harmonious relationship. Renowned soprano Amy Burton and her husband, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and pianist John Musto, make beautiful music together, and they’ll sit down and talk about it during this installment of SILL’s Music Monday series. STEVE SOLOMON’S ‘MY MOTHER’S ITALIAN, MY FATHER’S JEWISH & I’M IN THERAPY’ 8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $17-$52 Call 953-3368.

OUR PICK REBEKAH PULLEY AND BETH MCKEE Admittedly, this pick is a hunch, but something in these singer/songwriters’ bios gives the impression they put on a great show. Beth McKee moved around the Deep South as a kid, picking up on various musical styles while learning several instruments. Rebekah Pulley grew up in rural Alaska, where she developed a sultry singing style that can “break your heart and shake your soul.” See? That just sounds good.

You can move across the country, and you can “forget” to let them know you’ve changed your phone number, your email and all your social media accounts. But you never really can get away from your family. Steve Solomon can’t complain, or maybe it’s better he does — it has given him one of the longest-running one-person shows in Broadway history.

TUESDAY ‘BANDSTAND’ 7:30 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $42-$97 Call 953-3368.

IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court Tickets: $15; members $12 Info: Call 894-6469.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

this Tony Award-winning musical about a bunch of GI buddies who come home after World War II to find the country they fought for is changing all around them. They decide why fight it and form a singing group to win a talent contest.

WEDNESDAY ‘VETERANS OF COLOR’ FILM SCREENING 6 p.m. at USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail Free Visit EventBrite.com. USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Office of Diversity screens the 2012 documentary “Veterans of Color,” in which black veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam share their experiences of military racism and how it continued after returning home from war. A talkback with film producer Bernard Watson and local veterans featured in the film will follow. ‘LIGHT MY FIRE’ 7:30 p.m. at Court Cabaret, Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. From $36 Call 366-9000. Even if you’re too young to remember the 1960s, we all know the music of that decade like it was yesterday. It was a decade of massive cultural changes. You can hear the transitioning musical imprint left behind by those turbulent times in this revue that goes from the upbeat exuberance of the early Beatles to the gut-wrenching yearning of Janice Joplin, with a lot of ground in between. Runs through June 14.

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A musical hero’s journey

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Sarasota Orchestra’s ‘Beethoven’s Eroica’ examines one the composer’s most important works. KLINT LOWRY A+E EDITOR

here’s a running celebration in 2020 around the classical music world commemorating the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth. The Sarasota Orchestra is paying its respects with a two-part series called “Discover Beethoven.” The first installment, Feb. 6, is titled, quite simply, “Beethoven’s Eroica.” Beethoven’s Third Symphony, which he dubbed “Eroica,” is seen as a revolutionary composition that had a lasting impact on symphonic music. Sarasota Orchestra Artistic Advisor Jeffrey Kahane will lead this concert in an unusual format designed to allow the audience to fully appreciate the significance of “Eroica,” a topic for which Kahane has strong conviction.

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How will this concert be set up? This is something that, as far as I know, is going to be new to Sarasota Orchestra. The evening

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is devoted to one piece, basically. It’s an evening dedicated to exploring the significance of Beethoven’s “Eroica” symphony. The entire first half of the program, I will be on stage with the orchestra playing examples and conducting the orchestra in various excerpts and giving a talk about the piece. It will be an exploration of the piece, of its historical significance, its sig-

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Jeffrey Kahane has been a lifelong Beethoven fan. One of the things that he admires most about the German composer is the element of humanity in his work.

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nificance in Beethoven’s life and also its greater significance in the history of music. Then we’ll play the entire piece. I heard you were looking forward to doing this concert. Are you a big Beethoven fan? Oh, I certainly am. Beethoven’s been at the heart of my musical life as long as I’ve been making music. He is one of the towering figures in Western music. He’s also personally very important to me because of the depth of his humanity. It’s hard to say who’s the most popular composer in history, but certainly, Beethoven is among the most popular composers who has ever lived. Even a person with no interest in classical music knows the name Beethoven. Why do you think that is? I think his music has such extraordinarily direct emotional appeal. One of the things that I’m going to talk about, that a big part of who Beethoven was, was his concern for the common man. He was capable of writing music of incredible sophistication and complexity. But he also wrote music very clearly intended to speak to a very broad range of humanity.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

COMING TO THE VAN WEZEL!

IF YOU GO ‘BEETHOVEN’S EROICA’ When: 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $25-$75 Info: Call 953-3434.

giving away anything because it’s in the title itself. The word “eroica’”means “heroic,” I’m just going to let that be the teaser.

MON, FEB 3 • 8PM

I read that as highly regarded as this symphony is today, when it came out, it actually got mixed reviews. That was true very often for Beethoven because he was constantly pushing the envelope. The paradox about Beethoven is he never abandoned tradition even as he did things that were incredibly revolutionary. I think that’s what makes Beethoven wonderful and thrilling to listen to. It’s absolutely true that some of the first people that heard the “Eroica” thought it was the greatest thing they’d ever heard, and others were completely baffled.

THUR, FEB 13 • 7:30PM

Is there anything you want to say to people who might be on the fence about whether they want to come to this concert? I can almost guarantee that even those that know the piece very well will learn things that they did not know before. And if you’ve never heard the “Eroica” symphony before, it would be a thrilling way to experience it for the first time.

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Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

The orchestra website describes “Eroica” as “the symphony that changed the course of music.” Can you explain that? This piece shatters many conventions, both in the sense of how it is constructed, how it is built, but also in terms of what it is Beethoven’s trying to convey. That also has to do with why he wrote the piece, what it is that inspired him, and that is not

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Oscar Picks The 92nd Academy Awards airs Feb. 9. We offer our choices for all the major categories. BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR n Tom Hanks “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” n Anthony Hopkins “The Two Popes” n Al Pacino “The Irishman” n Joe Pesci “The Irishman” n Brad Pitt “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”

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Our Pick: Brad Pitt is one cucumber-cool dude as an aging stuntman who wreaks some serious havoc on Manson family members. His performance is so authentic that we’re not quite sure he’s acting. Most Likely: Pitt has already received numerous awards, but watch out for Joe Pesci, coaxed out of retirement, as a ruthless crime boss. It’s familiar territory.

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Laura Dern portrays a high-powered divorce lawyer in “Marriage Story.”

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BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS n Kathy Bates “Richard Jewell” n Laura Dern “Marriage Story” n Scarlett Johansson “Jojo Rabbit” n Florence Pugh “Little Women” n Margot Robbie “Bombshell”

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Our Pick: As a young, naive, wide-eyed, wannabe anchor for Fox News, Margot Robbie steals the film in what little time she appears on screen. When her character falls prey to sexual advances by Roger Ailes, her entire demeanor is visibly altered. The overwhelming shame is so palpable that it breaks your heart. Most Likely: Laura Dern, as a feisty, high-powered divorce lawyer who goes for the jugular. And it stings.

BEST ACTRESS n Cynthia Erivo “Harriet” n Scarlett Johansson “Marriage Story” n Saoirse Ronan “Little Women” n Charlize Theron “Bombshell” n Renee Zellweger “Judy” Our Pick: Renee Zellweger is back with a vengeance in a good way. Her portrayal of the late Judy Garland is physically and introspectively astounding. Most Likely: Zellweger looks like a shoo-in, but dark horse Charlize Theron has a chance from her spot-on portrayal of Fox News’ Megyn Kelly. BEST ACTOR n Antonio Banderas “Pain and Glory” n Leonardo DiCaprio “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” n Adam Driver “Marriage Story” n Joaquin Phoenix “Joker” n Jonathan Pryce “The Two Popes”

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Monday, February 10, 7:30pm Neel Performing Arts Center

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Music you love –Musicians you know

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Go online to see the entire 2020 Winter Opera Festival schedule!

Saturday, February 8, 3:00 pm

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

Left: Sam Mendes is a frontrunner in the Best Director category for “1917.” Below: Joaquin Phoenix is the odds-on favorite for Best Actor in “Joker.”

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

CHRISTOPHER CONFESSORE guest conductor

Renee Zellweger might have the edge for her portrayal of Judy Garland.

Our Pick: Joaquin Phoenix, as an evolving nihilist seeking recognition, is one of the best performances in movie history. As his character becomes more despicable at every dark turn, we can’t help feeling compassion for such a damaged soul. Phoenix is an actor unlike any other and deserves to be recognized. Most Likely: Joaquin Phoenix, hands down. BEST DIRECTOR n Bong Joon-ho “Parasite” n Sam Mendes “1917” n Todd Phillips “Joker” n Martin Scorsese “The Irishman” n Quentin Tarantino “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” Our Pick: Quentin Tarantino’s love letter to Hollywood is perfection on every level. But best of all, Tarantino never fails to shock his audience when they least expect it. He just gets it. Most Likely: Sam Mendes’ war film is unique. It’s intimate, visually astonishing and frightening.

BEST PICTURE n “1917” n “Ford v Ferrari” n “The Irishman” n “Jojo Rabbit” n “Joker” n “Little Women” n “Marriage Story” n “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” n “Parasite”

GREAT ESCAPES 5

heart and soul

Get ready to swoon and sway with your heart and soul at our coveted Valentine’s themed concert. From Gershwin’s Crazy for You to Williams’ Far and Away to the ever-popular music from Titanic, Carousel and Saturday Night Fever, each romantic melody will provide a special spark for a memorable week of love.

Our Pick: “Joker” presses buttons in us that we didn’t know existed. Joaquin Phoenix compares watching it to taking a Rorschach test. Societal issues are examined, and an overwhelming feeling of powerlessness permeates the psyche of a man descending into madness. We don’t necessarily want to take the journey with him, but it’s not an option. Most Likely: “1917” because it’s a jaw-dropping cinematic masterpiece destined to become a classic.

February 12-16

Holley Hall

The Academy Awards will air at 8 p.m. Feb. 9 on ABC.

Celebrating 31 years in Sarasota... Thanks to all of our loyal customers

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The love triangle between Robert and Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms has fascinated historians for more than a century. Surviving letters reveal that Brahms fell deeply in love with Clara after Robert was institutionalized. Although historians disagree on whether Brahms and Clara ever acted on their feelings, we can hear the depth of emotion in their music. Explore love in Clara’s Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Robert’s Three Romances for Oboe and Piano, and Brahms’ Sextet, written in 1864 while visiting his beloved Clara. Tickets from $42 for Heart and Soul From $30 for Love Triangle

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On ta’s Sarasost Be a row!

February 9

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

MOTHERS AND INFANTS PROGRAM

Join us for our Caring Hearts Luncheon

MARTY FUGATE

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2020

The Mothers and Infants Program at First Step provides comprehensive substance abuse treatment for pregnant and postpartum women and their babies.

For more information about the event contact Caroline Beall at 941-552-2046 or cbeall@fsos.org. For tickets: www.fsos.org

DIAMOND SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

RUBY SPONSORS

Anne-Marie Tardif & Wellesley Club of Sarasota Members

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Elizabeth LaBoone SPONSORS AS OF 12.12.19

IF YOU GO

THEATER CRITIC

Michael’s on East 1212 East Avenue S., Sarasota Starting at 11:00 AM

PRESENTING SPONSOR

‘The Nether’ is an awfully good play about an awfully bad place

GAIN INSIGHTS MEE T ARTISTS

BE INSPIRED Murder on the Orient Express and The Lifespan of a Fact Tuesday | February 4, 2020 | 11 AM

hat is identity? What is reality? Does the mind exist separately from the body? That’s the starting point of Jennifer Haley’s “The Nether,” the latest Stage III production at Florida Studio Theatre. Haley’s play unfolds in the not-too-distant future. A lousy future. Education, employment and recreation have mostly shifted to the Nether — the offspring of the internet — a totally immersive virtual reality space. The Nether is dotted with illicit realms catering to unholy desires. The Hideaway is one of them; its customers are pedophiles and child murderers. That’s still highly illegal, but the Hideaway is hidden, until an undercover agent infiltrates and files a disturbing report. The Hideaway is a Victorian manse. “Papa” (William Thomas Evans) is the realm’s ruler. Iris (Leah Greene) is his favorite girl, the latest in a long line of identical virtual victims. Papa is a megacreep with a God complex who insists his guests ax a child sooner or later. Papa’s real-world name? Sims. Detective Morris (Anique Clements) hauls Sims in and grills him. She’s determined to find the Hideaway’s covert server and pull the plug. Sims scoffs at her moral outrage: The rapes aren’t real rapes; the murders aren’t real murders. It’s all just makebelieve, so what’s the problem? Morris’ next interrogation is Doyle (Sam Mossler), a middle school science teacher who’s either a Hideaway worker or a client. Doyle has some weird connection to Sims and to a timidly polite guest named Woodnut (Eric Gilde). The play messes

‘THE NETHER’ When: Through Feb. 7 Where: FST Bowne’s Lab Theatre, 1265 First St. Tickets: $36-$39 Info: Call 366-9000.

with your mind, and Jason Cannon’s direction slowly ratchets up the tension. Evans’ Sims is appropriately odious. In his view, he feels he’s performing a needful social service. Greene’s Iris is creepysweet. Apart from the twisted subtext, she could be a child actor in some Merchant-Ivory period drama. Clement’s Morris is a bit of a Javert — in merciless pursuit of a merciless criminal. Mossler’s Doyle is a nice man who would rather be dead. Gilde’s Woodnut is a nice man taking his first steps to hell. Or so it seems. Bruce Price’s minimalist set — a screen scrolling digital hash, a few cubes and an old record player — evokes a place that’s no place. Lea Umberger’s costumes capture the stiff Victorian garb of the virtual realm and the stark efficiency of denatured reality. Dark territory, but nothing sordid happens on stage, and the virtual child character is played by a young adult. The playwright leaves the nasty bits to your imagination. The reality-bending concepts Haley explores are cyberpunk staples. Sooner or later, these fictional fears might be reality. We’ll have to face them in the not-too-distant future. It’s a gutsy decision for FST to face them now.

It’s Greek Time!

You’re invited to a special behind-the-scenes look at Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Murder on the Orient Express and The Lifespan of a Fact. Become a true insider and participate in this lively conversation with artists from the current production. Join us for coffee and light bites provided by the Muse, and visit the Designing Women Boutique Pop-up Shop before the panel. Learn more at asolorep.org.

36th Annual “Glendi”

FEBRUARY 6-9 Peter Amster Director, Murder on the Orient Express

James DeVita Hercule Poirot, Murder on the Orient Express

Celine Rosenthal Director, The Lifespan of a Fact

Authentic Greek food & wines, live music & dancing, marketplace, kid’s adventure zone, crafts, church tours & more!

Tracy Michelle Arnold Emily, The Lifespan of a Fact

Thursday 4 PM–9 PM, Friday & Saturday 11 AM–9 PM Sunday Noon–6 PM

FREE Admission Thursday Free will donation to benefit Night of the Stars $4.00 entitles to admission as many times as you like

TICKETS: Box Office 941-351-8000 Reservations strongly recommended. Doors Open at 10 AM $5 for General Public | FREE for Asolo Rep Guild members and donors. Cook Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243 321871-1

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Model Open House

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

‘Fire and Light’ burns bright with innovative sounds Guest violist Jessica Meyer contributes a fascinating trio of compositions. EDWARD ALLEY MUSIC CRITIC

ow in its fourth season, EnsembleNewSRQ, under the artistic direction of George Nickson and Samantha Bennett, continues to thrill, entertain and sometimes puzzle its audiences with a broad range of new and newer music. Such was the case with its recent concert, “Fire and Light” on Jan. 20 at the First Congregational Church, featuring violist-composer Jessica Meyer. Meyer is an excellent violist who started her composing career only five years ago, but she has already performed and had her compositions performed in many outstanding venues. Her composing commissions include the Historical Performance Program of the Juilliard School, for which she contributed to a multicomposer project. This concert featured three of Meyer’s compositions, the first a work for solo viola, “Delta Sunrise,” inspired by an in-flight sunrise. She used a sound-looping pedal, which recorded and played back

Co-founders Samantha Bennett and George Nickson continue to carve their unique niche with their artistically sincere, playfully creative style.

Jessica Meyer’s three songs demonstrated a wide range of skill and creativity.

sounds while she continued to play and add more sounds to the loop to create several layers of themes, accompaniments and motions. A short but a most effective work. “Tapped into the Same Vein” is for string quintet: Samantha Bennett and Jennifer Best Takeda, violins; Meyer and Rachel Halvorsen, violas; and Natalie Helm, cello. In her introduction, Meyer explained that she feels that baroque and rock music are somewhat “tapped into the same vein,” with their driving rhythms and harmonies. “Tapped” is vaguely dissonant and at times reminded me slightly of the very late Beethoven quartets, when he seemed to be forc-

façades showing both solid and candle-like melting of the spires, with excellent musical imagery of the bass clarinet. This contrasted with the flowing and melding of musical sounds, evoking the images of moving light through the stained-glass windows in the third movement. The finale brought us back to the hustle and bustle of the traffic outside, with jazzy fugal motives shooting back and forth among the instruments to bring the work to a rousing conclusion. The audience loved it. Earlier in the evening was “Ins Licht,” by Georg Friedrich Haas, for piano trio, performed by Bennett, Helm and Hanick.

Courtesy photos by Matthew Holler

ing the limits of tonality and harmony. Melodic phrases in violins and violas were contrasted at times with an ostinato of rhythm that seemed ever-present. Meyer’s final work was “Sagrada Familia,” composed for an unlikely combination of instruments: Laura Petty, clarinet and bass clarinet; Conor Hanick, piano; Bennett, violin; Meyer, viola; and Helm, cello. In this work, Meyer relays her impressions of Gaudi’s “Sagrada Familia” basilica in Barcelona. Each movement highlights one aspect of the structure, beginning with the almost tonal reflections of the Nativity, led by clarinet and piano. Next were the contrasting

The piano was “prepared” with coins or objects to alter the sound, and the work to me consisted as a parade of effects: scraping sounds from the strings and fragmented passages on the piano, amplified for the occasion. The centerpiece of the concert was Eric Wubbels’ “The Children of Fire Come Looking for Fire,” for amplified violin and prepared piano, valiantly performed by violinist Bennett and pianist Hanick. I sometimes feel that contemporary music is like contemporary art: You either like it, or you don’t. And you can’t really say why. Although many in the audience gave every impression that they were thrilled by the somewhat organized cacophony — that was my impression of the work — I have to say it completely passed me by. I’m sure it’s worthy because the composer is well known in his field, but for me this envelope was pushed over the edge. However, I applaud both performers for the tenacity, time and, yes, courage to take on a work that must have been a steep mountain to climb. But climb it they did. I can’t help but admire everyone associated with EnsembleNewSRQ for bringing this new repertoire and artistic performance into the musical life of Sarasota. Here’s hoping it stays around for many more seasons.

& TM

Present the 2 ND ANNUAL

MARCH 6, 2020

Celebrity Emcee Meredith Michaels Jones & Company Co-Host, WSRZ 107.9

Many Thanks To Our Sponsors

Enjoy champagne, seated luncheon and cash bar. Featuring runway show, jewelry and other fashion trends from the casual to classic. Silent Auction.

Friday, March 6, 2020 • 11: 00am to 2: 30pm Horizon Insurance

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SISTERHOOD FOR GOOD, INC. IS AN ALL-VOLUNTEER REGISTERED 501(C)(3) NON-PROFIT CORPORATION. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 (or 1-800-352-9832 en Español) OR GOING ON THE DEPARTMENT’S WEBSITE WWW.800HELPFLA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. ONE HUNDRED PERCENT (100%) OF THE DONATION IS RECEIVED BY SISTERHOOD FOR GOOD, INC. REGISTRATION #CH57279

Hyatt Regency Sarasota • 1000 Boulevard of the Arts Co-Chairs: Peggy Kronus & Lori Ruth

$85.00 each when purchased before February 15, 2020 $100.00 each when purchased from February 16 - March 6, 2020 Purchase tickets online at SisterhoodForGood.org/register Sponsorship Opportunities, email info@SisterhoodForGood.org or call 941.730.7900

Dress to impress in your best black & white attire.

ON THE FLIP SIDE: A+E WIDE IMAGE: Embracing Our Differences focuses on education. DIAMOND: Sarasota Concert Association celebrates 75 years. 12

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Photos by Harry Sayer

Michael Pleas, Zach Dauth, Jenna DiLorenzo, Vice President Nikki Logan-Curran, Sharon Carole, David Warren Curran, George Bikos and Coral Pleas

Forks & Corks

Grand Tasting Sunday, Jan. 26, at The Ringling | Benefiting The Ringling and All Faiths Food Bank HARRY SAYER BLACK TIE REPORTER

Above: Cheryl and Bill Herlihy Left: Executive Director Sarah Firstenberger

arasota’s fine food and wine enthusiasts made a day of it at the annual Forks & Corks Grand Tasting event Jan. 26. As opposed to last year’s event — which had to be rescheduled due to heavy rain and still couldn’t escape intermittent showers throughout the afternoon — the 2020 festival had clear skies and enjoyable weather. More than 1,800 guests took advantage of the situation and tried out bite-sized dishes and various wines at more than 100 food and drink stations. The Grand Tasting is the signature event of a multiday program put on by SarasotaManatee Originals. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Patra Rueangaram, Rochelle Nigri, Kara Saunders and David Slomak

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Period appropriate

Michael’s On East co-Proprietor Phil Mancini said. “I watch the food on the trays during the show. … I said: ‘I can do this. I’m watching the food anyways!’” The fan of the show, which concerns early 20th century English aristocrats, came up with a menu that included deviled eggs, sausage pinwheels, potato dishes and more.

TIE

When the New College Foundation was hosting Andrew Prince, a jewelry designer for the TV show “Downton Abbey,” staff hoped Michael’s On East could provide food that matched the theme. They were in luck. “I’ve seen all of ‘Downton Abbey’ except the last season,”

HARRY SAYER

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Big Cats and charity

Photos by Harry Sayer

Michelle Farinacci, Patty Jorgensen, Vera Seidensticker and Erin McManus

Courtesy Photo

Greyson McSwain eyeballs a lion.

By the numbers

Toffer Jacob, Jessica Ruekberg and Horacio Egan

There were more than 100 food and drink stations.

It was a good year for Forks & Corks food and wine festival. Forty-six restaurants served up 90,000 food portions by the end of the Grand Tasting, and it raised more than $25,000 from the event’s silent auction.

Most of us like big animals, but kids are especially impressed. So it’s a smart thing that the Junior League of Sarasota hosted its Jamboree 2020 fundraiser Jan. 25 at the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, which has a menagerie of great felines and other wildlife. The family event, which benefits the group’s hunger outreach and nonprofit grants, had parents and children playing games and marveling at the sanctuary’s lions.

Tidbits For her b-day, Clara Reynardus de Villanueva decided to take a timeout with her husband, Robert, including enjoying his famous beef stew. “I have everything (ironically, not ‘things’) I’ve ever dreamt of, so for my birthday I am simply grateful,” she shared on her Facebook.

FAMILY RD YA FRIENDLYES! GAM

LIVE MUS IC FRO INDEPENM DEN JONES T

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Join Us for Sunday Polo! Every Sunday through Sunday, April 12th

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Gates open at 10 am / Match begins at 1 pm $15 admission, Kids 12 & under FREE Don’t forget your chairs!

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

TENT SALE Shoes • Apparel Accessories

Photos by Harry Sayer

New College Foundation Board of Directors Chair Sue Jacobson, Elvira Freyer, Andrew Prince, New College Board of Trustees Chair Felice Schulaner and New College Foundation Executive Director and CEO MaryAnne Young

20%-70% OFF

‘From Downton to Gatsby’ Thursday, Jan. 23, at Holley Hall | Benefiting New College scholarships

Above: Barbara and Steve Crane with Susan Chitwood Left: Marilyn Petrillo and Hillary Steele

Friday, Jan. 31 10am - 8pm Saturday, Feb. 1 10am - 4pm Sunday, Feb. 2 12 - 4pm

THE LARGEST OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION IN NORTH AMERICA AT NATHAN BENDERSON PARK

THROUGH FEB. 8 AT NATHAN BENDERSON PARK FREE ADMISSION

Only at NEW BALANCE SARASOTA 1872 Stickney Point Location 941.921.3696

DIVERSE, COMPELLING IMAGES NATHAN BENDERSON PARK 5851 NATHAN BENDERSON CIRCLE ADJACENT TO FINISH TOWER ON REGATTA ISLAND DAILY 6 a.m.–6 p.m.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2020

Observerâ€™s

2020 YOUR CHANCE to WIN (2) $250 Travel Vouchers for Allegiant Air is as easy as 1

Take your favorite Observer Newspaper with you on your next adventure.

2 Snap a photo of you and your Observer Newspaper. 3 Submit your photo to yourobserver.com /itsreadeverywhere

Vince took the Longboat Observer

Kathie and Laurie took the

Michelle took the East County

to the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Sarasota Observer to Croatia.

Observer to the island of Malta.

Where will you take us this year?

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