ON THE FLIP SIDE: A+E ART BATTLE: On your mark, get set, paint! ASOLO REP: Directors share insights at luncheon. 4
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
FARM
TO FILLET More than 100 supporters took a trip to the aquaculture research park.
Sunday, Jan. 19, at Mote Aquaculture Research Park | Benefiting Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium HARRY SAYER BLACK TIE REPORTER
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Photos by Harry Sayer
Mote Aquaculture Research Park Director Kevan Main and Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium President and CEO Michael P. Crosby
ote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium gave its Aquaculture Research Park a focus with the first Farm to Fillet luncheon Jan. 19. The new event had more than 100 Mote Marine supporters visiting the research park for a luncheon with food by Chef Paul Mattison. The guests were given a unique behind-the-scenes tour of the research park, which typically isn’t available for people to see. The 200-acre research park is devoted to developing new water filtration and animal husbandry techniques to replenish marine population numbers and combat overfishing. Guests sat down for a three-course meal and heard from the research park’s director, Kevan Main.
The program’s lunch was created by Chef Paul Mattison.
Roy and Tracy Kretzler
Mark and Anne-Marie Micalizzi with Kim Adams Kristin Morgan, Mary Pat Radford, Heidi Anderson and Stephanie Kempton
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
HARRY SAYER
Tidbits
A birthday full of surprises The Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Director’s Take Luncheon is always a good opportunity for arts enthusiasts to gain insight into the creative decisions and influences of the theater company’s many directors and playwrights. It was a special day for board member Eva Slane in particular — it was the longtime Asolo Rep supporter’s 91st birthday. Company staff surprised Slane with a birthday cake and singing after the program’s lunch. Darlene Hope, a former conservatory student whom Slane had sponsored, made a surprise
Freedom Event Selah Freedom President and CEO Elizabeth Melendez Fisher Good has been on a national tour for the launch of her new book, “Groomed,” which tackles topics of sex trafficking and abuse. But that tour made a stop home with a book signing event Jan. 19 at a private residence in Sarasota. The event, hosted by Julie Prewitt and Barb Tye, had more than 60 supporters in attendance, including Selah Freedom co-founder Laurie Swink and board Chair Art Wood. Melendez Fisher Good will be headed to Illinois next before returning to Florida for an event on Bird Key.
Although it might not be a secret in the local scene, Krystel and Matt Beall are excited to welcome their latest child to the family. The due date is still a little bit away, but Krystel says it’s going to be a boy.
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Darlene Hope and Eva Slane
appearance visiting from Orlando. Slane is also a member of Asolo’s Crystal Society, a group of top donors who each have given more than $1 million to the organization’s annual fund or many capital projects throughout the years. She was born in Germany and in 1939 moved to America, where she met North Shore Music Theatre Founder Stephen Slane. She has sponsored 17 FSU/Asolo Conservatory students since 1998, and she joined the Crystal Society in 2018.
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Family gathering Terri Klauber celebrated the nuptials of her daughter Ceara Crews at an intimate wedding ceremony Jan. 12 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The event had a boho modern theme and was planned by Ceara and Terri themselves. It was a small affair, with about 13 family members in attendance. But if you ask Terri Klauber, they weren’t the only family members at the ceremony that day. She’s always felt that, even though he has passed, her father sometimes visits in the shape of a red cardinal. It was her hope that she would see one on her daughter’s special day. “I prayed for him to show up at the ceremony, and he did, in all his glory,” Terri Klauber said in a text message. Klauber’s mother, who died more than 28 years ago, had a dream catcher that was part of the wedding arch, as well. It made the event something even more magic and spiritual, Klauber says.
Courtesy photo
Supporters line up to have their books signed by Elizabeth Melendez Fisher Good.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
Director’s Take Luncheon Wednesday, Jan 15, at Asolo Repertory Theatre Benefiting Asolo Repertory Theatre
Photos by Harry Sayer
Above: Cornelia Matson and Carole Crosby Left: Elizabeth Moore
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Moderator James Monaghan, playwright George Brant, directors Laura Kepley and Peter Amster and Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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TATIANA PALNITSKA ANNEMIEKE BROENINK JANUARY 23-24 • 10AM - 7PM
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Tidewell Hospice is proud to present Mitch Albom as part of its yearlong 40th anniversary celebration.
An Afternoon with Author Mitch Albom Tidewell Hospice welcomes best-selling author and journalist Mitch Albom for an inspirational presentation about his new book “Finding Chika: A Little Girl, an Earthquake and the Making of a Family.” Mitch will read an excerpt of “Finding Chika” and share his thoughts about the dying process, loss and grieving. Tickets are $125. The cost includes a copy of “Finding Chika,” and Mitch will sign copies of that book only after the presentation. Tidewell donors who gave during 2019 receive a $25 discount.
3-5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29 Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection 1255 N. Palm Ave. Sarasota 326560-1
If any questions, call (941) 552-7546. For tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mitch-albom-tea-and-book-signing-tickets-84603518401.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
Cat PeoPle & Dog PeoPle Have SometHing in Common. Unconditional Love.
Angie Stringer, Yolanda Mancha, Megan Wenger and Alyssa Simons
2020 Grant Ceremony Wednesday, Jan 15, at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing Benefiting Designing Daughters Help us save the lives of shelter animals. February 22, 2020 6:30 - 10:00 pm Michael’s On East Ballroom, Sarasota, FL Join us for live and silent auction, live music, dinner, drinks and dancing. For ticket information email : Gala@arcsrq.org or call us: 941-957-1955 x 206 Come support ARC’s work to end shelter overcrowding and senseless euthanasia. Spay & Neuter Saves Lives.
Photos by Harry Sayer
Above: Savannah Holds and Madeline Brogan Left: Christy Chilton, Shannon Weedman and Carrie Dennison 325393-1
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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Spring is in the wear
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See the entire collection including new colors and exclusive styles only at Evelyn & Arthur.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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Lion of Judah and Pomegranate Luncheon
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Thursday, Jan. 16, at Sarasota Yacht Club | Benefiting Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee
One unFOREgettable Experience FEBRUARY 10-16, 2020
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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An Independent Book Publishing Company
1269 First Street, Suite 7, Sarasota, FL 34236
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ILLUMINATION SERIES
Theatre that promotes impactful conversation and builds our community.
JOIN US
Tuesday, January 28
THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT 6:30 PM Pre-show reception Free for IllumiNation package holders, $10 for patrons with tickets. 7:30 PM Performance Discussion following the performance, free and open to all. Helen Glaser, Executive Director Howard Tevlowitz and Esther Heller
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Derek Penn Speedy, Tracy Michelle Arnold and Gene Weygandt. Photo by John Revisky.
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IllumiNation is made possible, in part, with support from: The Koski Family Foundation
Celebrating 31 years in Sarasota... Thanks to all of our loyal customers
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* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/11/2020 –4/6/2020 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 4 weeks of rebate claim approval. 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. See complete terms distributed with reward card. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2020 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
HILLSTROM WRIGHT PLASTIC SURGERY
Welcomes Andrea J. Spellman, D.O.
It is with great pleasure that we announce the association of Dr. Andrea Spellman,D.O. with Hillstrom Wright Plastic Surgery. Board-Certified surgeon, Dr. Andrea Spellman has specialized training in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery after completing an additional Fellowship through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) under the tutelage of Ross Clevens, M.D., FACS. She is also Board Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Otolaryngology/ Facial Plastic Surgery. Her advanced training includes surgical internship and residency in Otolaryngology/Facial Plastic Surgery at Beaumont Hospital in Farmington Hills; a Michigan State University affiliated system, where she served as Chief resident for one year.
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Facial Rejuvenation Rhinoplasty Surgery Cheek and Lip Augmentation Lip Lifts Browlifts Facelifts Scar Revision
Photos by Harry Sayer
Thomas and Deborah Ann Trimble with Harry Leopold and Audrey Robbins
Masterworks 3 Dinner
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Wednesday, Jan. 15, at Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center Benefiting Sarasota Orchestra
LOOK AND FEEL YOUR VERY BEST
Schedule a Consultation Appointment today (941) 355-3223 Above: Susan Giles Wantuck and guest conductor Steven Sloane Right: Harriet and Hank Bernbaum 327999-1
Integra Click Professional Park 5911 North Honore Ave., Suite 120 Sarasota, Florida 34243 HillstromPlasticSurgery.com
14TH ANNUAL
PAWS ON THE
CATWALK Friday, february 28, 2020 doors open at 10:30am Art ovation hotel
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT
TICKETS: $200 PER PERSON
thank you to our 2020 sponsors cat’s meow
puppy love
ARTHUR S. KARP FAMILY FOUNDATION AND DONNA & DAVID KOFFMAN
FURiendly paws dog grooming
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smitten kitten media SARASOTA FORD
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ADD YOUR NAME TO THE SPONSORSHIP LIST! CONTACT AUTUMN STEINER AT ASTEINER@HSSC.ORG OR 941.955.4131 X121 TODAY.
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Of all the exotic places you’ve dreamt of visiting, an out-of-town cancer center probably isn’t one of them. A diagnosis of cancer is bad enough. Spending hours on a plane to get care makes it worse. No one should have to leave home for cancer treatment— and soon you won’t have to. Comprehensive cancer care is coming to Sarasota. So you can stop fighting your way through strange airports, and start fighting your cancer here at home. Please support our Leading with Care campaign. Through your generosity, we can help Sarasota Memorial transform cancer care in our community.
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 WITHIN THE STATE OR BY VISITING www.freshfromflorida.com/divisions-offices /consumer-services. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. (REGISTRATION #CH103) THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION WILL USE THE FUNDS FOR THE STATED PURPOSE BUT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO USE THE GIFT IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH ITS CHARITABLE PURPOSE IF THE STATED PURPOSE IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL TO ACHIEVE.
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Hope comes home. Give today. 941.917.1286 | smhf.org
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
WE DONATE 25 CENTS PER POUND TO THE ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK
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Hershorin Schiff Community Day School Head of School Dan Ceaser, Wendy Katz, honoree Sue Rosin, Rabbi Michael Werbow and Stacey Edelman
Goldie Feldman Award Brunch Sunday, Jan. 19, at Michael’s On East Benefiting Hershorin Schiff Community Day School
Up to 50% Off
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with our Winter Closeout Sale! Unbelievable Prices on Amish Furniture
Don’t miss out! Store sale hours: 10:30 AM-5:00 PM January 25, 27, and 28
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Heirloom-quality furniture by Amish woodworkers.
Ed and Betty Rosenthal with Myrna and David Band
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ON THE FLIP SIDE: BLACK
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< MOTE: Research park captures spotlight at luncheon. ‘SISTER ACT’: The Players are in high spirits. 10>
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
YOUROBSERVER.COM
PIGMENTS FLY
STREAM THIS
WHEN
Art Battle will be waged once more around Sarasota — actually, make that three times more. PAGE 2
Binge Blog
Two different yet equally effective approaches to cinematic violence are on display in this week’s picks. YOUROBSERVER.COM
EAT THIS
Veg out
Herbivores and carnivores can dine together, and no one will feel slighted at these eateries. PAGE 6
SEE THIS
Courtesy photo
The rotunda at Selby Public Library proved to be such a great venue for Art Battle last year that organizers decided to hold the state championship there this year as well.
‘Les Rendezvous’
Sarasota Ballet’s rendition in “Redefined Movement” takes its cues from original 1933 production. PAGE 8
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
Art Battle goes for fun over fine art KLINT LOWRY
IF YOU GO
A+E EDITOR
L
Courtesy photos
Judy Robertson, speaking with Art Battle Creator Simon Plashkes, took home the top prize at Art Battle Sarasota 2019.
ast year, a dozen contestants met on the field of honor — aka the Selby Public Library rotunda — to do battle. With its weapon of choice, brushes at close range, the speedpainting competition that has been gaining a worldwide following made its debut in Sarasota. “We’d been trying to get one in Sarasota for a couple of years,” says Jim Shirley, the executive director of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. When they finally did, the inaugural Art Battle Sarasota was everything it was hoped to be. “People really loved it,” Shirley says. Organizers for Art Battle were just as impressed with Sarasota. So once the smoke cleared, or rather, when the paint dried, “we told them we want to do it again, but we wanted to expand the ability for people in the community to participate,” Shirley says. Art Battle was all in on the idea, so this year, Sarasota County will be hosting two regional Art Battles on consecutive nights: Friday, Jan. 24 at the Venice Art Center and Saturday, Jan. 25 at Art Center Sarasota. Then for the coup de grâce, the Florida Art Battle state final will be held March 14 at Selby Library.
Cirque Ma’Ceo Presents:
A Rarity of Breeds! Music by ALAN MENKEN Lyrics by GLENN SLATER
SARASOTA COUNTY REGIONAL ART BATTLE COMPETITIONS When: 7 p.m. Jan. 24, Venice; 7 p.m. Jan. 25, Sarasota Where: Venice Art Center, 390 Nokomis Ave. S.; Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $25 for each event FLORIDA STATE ART BATTLE When: 7 p.m. March 14 Where: Selby Public Library, 1331 First St. Price: $40 Info: ArtBattle.com/events
For those who laid low last year and might not be familiar with Art Battle, it is a competition in which painters start with a blank canvas and, using identical materials — their personal brushes being the one exception — have 20 minutes to create a picture. If it sounds like art with an “X Games” attitude, it sort of is. Art Battle was created in 2001 by New York City artists as a rejection of the city’s elitist art scene. They literally took art to the streets, with the first battles being single-
round, outdoor events. The fine-art-meets-streetperformance concept proved popular, and it became organized. In 2009, Art Battle took on the tournament form it has today. Each event features 12 artists who are split into two groups that compete in successive 20-minute rounds. When time is up, the winners are chosen by audience vote. The top two from each round move onto a final round, where they have to complete another painting in 20 minutes. The audience then votes for the winner of the tournament. There are more than 250 Art Battle competitions scheduled worldwide in 2020, all leading to the Art Battle World Championship in Tokyo in October. Here in Sarasota last year, the focus was on Art Battle simply as a night of entertainment. The scene in and around the Selby Library rotunda was hardly library-like. With a bar, a concession stand, music, dramatic lighting and the crowd gathered around, it was more like a cross between a performance and a sporting event. Because of its two viewing levels, the rotunda makes for the perfect Art Battle arena, Shirley says, which is why Art Battle organizers were so keen on holding the state finals here this year. “It’s meant to be an engaging situation,” Shirley says. “It’s high
R E T S SI CT A
Book by CHERI STEINKELLNER & BILL STEINKELLNER Additional Book Material DOUGLAS CARTER BEANE
$29 Regular/ $34 Premium/ $14 Student
Jan. 15 - Feb. 2, 2020 7:30pm & 2pm
Ed Smith Stadium Complex * North Lot FEB 2 JAN 23 JAN 24 JAN 25 JAN 26 JAN 30 JAN 31 FEB 1 7:00 7:00 4:00 & 7:00 4:00 7:00 7:00 4:00 & 7:00 4:00
Tickets: CirqueMaceo.com or On Location 2 hours before Show Time FREE PARKING
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Under the Big Top at the Ed Smith Stadium Complex * North Lot 2700 12th St., Sarasota, FL 34237
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energy.” And, he adds, it’s a different way of looking at art. “What I like most about [it] is the people that attend are getting a chance to see art being created, as opposed to going into the museum and viewing it on the wall,” he says. And an event like this is a way of engaging the folks who don’t often frequent galleries or museums. The alliance’s mission is to serve the entire community. By comparison, Shirley says, think about music. Some people like opera, while others prefer country. Art Battle is the painting equivalent of a hoedown. And the established art community gets that, Shirley says. Last year, several accomplished local artists came to him and said, “‘Gosh, I’d like to do that, but I don’t think I could,’” he says. But they couldn’t wait to watch. It does take a certain skill set to be able to knock out a painting in 20 minutes surrounded by a cheering crowd. “And I have to tell you,” Shirley says, “some of the art that came out of it was really nothing short of spectacular. I was amazed at what ended up on those canvases.” After the event, the paintings are sold by silent auction, and the money goes to the artists, which just adds to the event being a win for everyone. Speaking of winning, the two winners at the Venice and Sarasota regional battles will be among the state finalists in March, along with the 2019 Sarasota Art Battle winner, Judy Robertson, so spectators can root for the hometown heroes. But if you want to wear the home colors, sorry, they’re kind of a spur-of-the-moment thing.
S
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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Above: When the battle is over, a silent auction is held for the paintings, with the money going to the artists. Left: The intense, fast-paced competition allows art lovers to follow the talents of local artists. Art Battle made its debut in Sarasota in 2019. This year, battles will be held back-toback in Venice and Sarasota.
ARASOTA CONCERT ASSOCIATION
2020 Great Performers Series
Orpheus Chamber Orchestra Vadim Gluzman, violin
Jan 29 | Van Wezel
Tchaikovsky • The Seasons, Op. 37a Arrangement by Jessie Montgomery Vivaldi • The Four Seasons
Vadim Gluzman
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
THURSDAY
be happier that this is her perch this time of year. She’ll be joined onstage by the Eddie Tobin Trio.
CHANGING CLIMATE: CHANGING … WELL … EVERYTHING 10:30 a.m. at First Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave. $10 Call 365-6404.
SARASOTA NATIVE AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL 6:30 p.m. at New College of Florida, Mildred Sainer Pavilion, 5313 Bay Shore Road Free; reservations recommended Visit SarasotaNativeFF.com.
Everybody talks about the weather, but Terry Root really knows something about it and the relationship between weather and climate. In this installment of the SILL 2020 Global Issues series, she will discuss the science behind climate change and its effects on plants, animals and us. Root will speak again Thursday at Cornerstone Church in Lakewood Ranch, Friday at the Venice Community Center in Venice and Jan. 30 at Temple Beth Israel in Longboat Key.
The Sarasota Film Festival and the Boxser Diversity Initiative will present four films over two days: “Buffalo Hunt,” “Moses on the Mesa,” “Music on the Road” and “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World.” The festival also includes Native American food, music and dance. Runs through Saturday. JIMMY MAZZ: ‘SONGS ACROSS AMERICA’ 7:30 p.m. The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail $20-$25 Call 365-2494.
‘STYLE WARS’ 1 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road $15; members $13.50; students $10 Call 360-7399.
THIS WEEK
This 1983 documentary film chronicles the cultural battle waged in New York subways in the early 1980s. Members of the establishment were in an uproar when graffiti artists emerged as the visual component of the thennascent hip-hop culture while using subway walls as their platform. ‘NEW THEATRES FOR OLD’ 5:30 p.m. at Center for Architecture Sarasota, 265 S. Orange Ave. $25; members $20; young moderns $10 Call 350-5430. Join U.K. architect Tim Foster, who has 40 years’ experience working with theater buildings, as he discusses six projects involving historic buildings, either as inspirations, renovations or repurposed spaces.
CIRQUE MA’CEO 7 p.m. at Ed Smith Stadium complex, 2700 12th St. $35; ringside $50; children $20; under 2 free Visit CirqueMaceoTickets.com. Family-owned Cavallo Equestrian Arts brings nine generations of precision and acrobatic riding experience to its European-style bigtop cirque experience. The show features nine breeds of horses, including the rare Boulonnais draft horse. Runs through Feb. 2.
OUR PICK SINBAD The funniest of the onename celebrities, Sinbad is among Comedy Central’s top 100 stand-up comedians of all time. And why not? He’s been making audiences laugh since he broke through on “Star Search” in the 1980s. Since then, he’s had TV series, movies and a half-dozen cable specials. His latest, in 2010, was called “Where U Been?” Come see where he’s at today. Runs through Sunday.
FRIDAY
‘MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL’ 7:30 p.m. at Venice Theatre Main Stage, 140 Tampa Ave., Venice $15-$38 Call 488-1115.
JAZZ AT TWO: MARY RADEMACHER WITH EDDIE TOBIN 2 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church, 3975 Fruitville Road $10-$20 Call 366-1552.
Hormonal imbalance was never so entertaining, at least not until this 2001 musical about four women at a lingerie sale singing about hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss and more. The tunes are parodies of hits from the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. Runs through Feb. 2.
IF YOU GO When: 6:30 p.m. and 8:50 p.m. Friday Where: McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. Tickets: $44 Info: Call 925-3869.
Mary Rademacher was the Michigan Jazz Society 2006 Musician of the Year, and she performs all over the country. But this songbird is also a snowbird, and Jazz Club of Sarasota couldn’t
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Johnny Cash sang “I’ve Been Everywhere” — Jimmy Mazz has lived it, and he’s back in town with his musical travelogue, “Songs Across America.” His style is as all over the map as the places he sings about while performing tunes from Broadway, Motown, movies, jazz and more.
Brad Williams has been Sarasota Orchestra’s principal trombone since 2009, but he and his horn have been around. He has played with Yo-Yo Ma, Renee Fleming and Charles Dutoit. Williams will talk about his career at this weekly musical chat presented by SILL. OPERA PROLOGUE: ‘LA WALLY’ 7:15 p.m. at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave. $20 Call 966-6351.
SATURDAY TOMÁS AND THE LIBRARY LADY 11 a.m. at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab Theatre, 1265 First St. $10 Call 366-9000. A children’s picture book comes to life in FST’s latest production. Based on a true story from the 1940s, a boy, Tomás, who works in the fields with his migrant parents, one day meets a librarian. He uses books as an escape from the heat and ends up discovering a world of imagination and possibilities. Performed in Spanish and English, it runs through Feb. 22 on Saturdays and select Sundays.
SUNDAY SARASOTA JEWISH FOOD FESTIVAL 10 a.m. at Temple Sinai of Sarasota, 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road Free Call 924-1802. The Carnegie Deli corned beef and pastrami should be enough to get you to this indoor festival, but don’t pile it too high because there will be plenty of other Jewish delicacies at this 12th annual fest, including kugel, blintzes and stuffed cabbage.
DON’T MISS 17TH ANNUAL ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE ART FESTIVAL Once a year, the Boulevard of the Presidents and St. Armands Circle become a two-day, first-class bazaar with more than 200 artists from 30 states, selected by a panel of judges. The original, hand-
THE BRASS ROOTS TRIO 5 p.m. at Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, 6135 Beechwood Ave. Free; canned soup donations requested Call 922-1597, ext. 104. This trio takes chamber music into new realms, including Oxford University and The White House. Travis Heath, Rosetta Senkus Ba-
made work is a wide variety of arts and crafts, such as jewelry purses, painting, sculpture and glass. Runs through Sunday. IF YOU GO When: 10 a.m. Saturday Where: 411 St. Armands Circle Tickets: Free Info: Visit ArtFestival.com.
con and Douglas Lundeen create a unique sound that they apply to an eclectic mix of styles.
MONDAY MUSIC MONDAYS: BRAD WILLIAMS 10:30 a.m. Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road $10 Call 365-6404.
Sarasota Opera Guild presents Opera Prologues to provide insights about upcoming performances. This one would definitely be worth the time. You can count on one hand the number of times “La Wally” has been staged in its entirety in the U.S., but this will be the second time the Sarasota Opera has taken it on. RENANA GUTMAN: CHASING CHOPIN 7:30 p.m. at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave. $35 Call 800-838-3006. World-renowned pianist Renana Gutman has played on four continents and left a trail of awards and accolades. In this concert, in connection with The Chopin Project, she will perform pieces by Bach, Chopin, Debussy, Faure and Scriabin.
TUESDAY LOUIE ANDERSON AND RITA RUDNER 8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $27-$67 Call 953-3368.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
Like you need an introduction? They have both been comedy headliners for more than 30 years. Anderson has won three Emmys; Rudner holds the record for the longest-running solo comedy act in the history of Las Vegas.
WEDNESDAY ‘EINSTEIN’S CIRCLE’ 3 p.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum campus, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail $15; members $12 Call 309-5111. Operating on the premise that thinking can be fun, The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College presents this six-session series moderated by experts on a variety of timely topics. This year’s series opens with Gerald Zaltman and Robert Gary, who will discuss “The Trapped Mind in Today’s Society and What It Takes to Change Your Mind.” THE ORPHEUS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA 7:30 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $30-$90 Call 225-6500. The Sarasota Concert Association welcomes the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra for a season-themed evening — a treat for us Floridians who only get one. The program will open with the world premiere of an arrangement by Jessie Montgomery and Jannina Norpoth of Tchaikovsky’s “The Seasons,” Op. 37a, followed by Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons,” performed by violinist Vadim Gluzman.
THE ART OF
THE PERFORMANCE AT RINGLING
by ALINE KUPPENHEIM / TEATRO Y SU DOBLE
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Monday, January 27 - Saturday, February 1 10am - 6pm
Photos by Elio Frugone Piña
INFORMATION + TICKETS
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The Art of Performance is supported in part by the Shank Family Curator of
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4420 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.260.8905 www.shellysgiftandchristmasboutique.com
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Performance Endowment, and Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.
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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
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YourObserver.com
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
MEATLESS
IN SARASOTA
The roasted cauliflower steak has a satisfying bite.
SU BYRON | CONTRIBUTOR
I
LEMON TREE KITCHEN
f you’re a vegan or vegetarian, dining out can ruin your appetite. It doesn’t have
Where: 1289 N. Palm Ave. Phone: 552-9688 Info: Tableseide.com
to be that way. Let’s say you love the restaurant experience but crave more options than a generic salad and microwaved potato. The good news? Many area
Who says vegetarians can’t enjoy a steak? Lemon Tree’s signature wood-grilled cauliflower steak is so meaty in texture that you might forget no cows were harmed to make it. While you’re at it, forget your traumatic childhood memories of overcooked cauliflower. This paleo-friendly steak substitute is drizzled with a zingy chimichurri sauce and served atop a sweet butternut squash puree with honey-roasted carrots and broccoli rabe served alongside.
restaurants have boosted their vegan and vegetarian options, thanks to customer demand. We selected five area eateries that aren’t limited to vegan and vegetarian fare but don’t slack on that portion of the menu.
NANCY’S BAR-B-Q
Where: 301 S. Pineapple Ave. Phone: 366-2271 Info: NancysBarBQ.com
LOLITA TARTINE Where: 1419 5th St. Phone: 952-3172 Info: LolitaTartine.com
NANCY’S BAR-B-Q ON LORRAINE CORNERS
Where: 14475 E. State Road 70, Bradenton Phone: 999-2390
NANCY’S PANTRY COLD GRAB & GO MARKET
Where: 8141 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch Phone: 362-2833 Although pork, chicken and beef rule here, Owner Nancy Krohngold says she strives “to please our non-meat-eating friends with a variety of vegetarian offerings — and not just side dishes.” Krohngold describes her smoked portobello mushroom sandwich as her “vegetarian secret weapon.” The mushrooms are served on a Martin’s potato sandwich roll, topped with her cider vinegar and honey-based sesame crunch slaw. Add a side of her signature edamame succotash — and that’s a wrap.
These open-faced sandwiches, named after French painters, feature smoked salmon or duck, so vegetarians will have to skip the tartine portion of their edible artistry. However, a goat cheese and spinach feuillete still awaits you in all its flaky puff pastry glory. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a glass of Rosé de Provence. Save room for the pistachio creme brulee or the lemon tart.
Courtesy photos
The hand-rolled vegetarian lasagna at Seasons 52 is one example of its menu’s catering to all types of diets and tastes.
SEASONS 52
PHO CALI VIETNAMESE NOODLE HOUSE
Where: The Mall at University Town Center Phone: 702-9652 Info: Seasons52.com
Where: 1578 Main St. Phone: 955-2683 Info: PhoCaliSarasota.com
Seasons 52 offers separate menus for gluten-sensitive, dairysensitive, vegetarian and vegan diners. Take its hand-rolled vegetarian lasagna, created with creamy ricotta and pureed butternut squash and loaded with healthy veggies, including kale and mushrooms. The slightly sweet tomato-basil sauce pairs perfectly with the ricotta for a light and luscious meal that tastes just like your vegetarian Italian grandmother spent all day making it. And if you enjoy the pleasures of vino, choose from among the restaurant’s 52 vintages, such as the Antinori Santa Cristina Rosso from Tuscany.
Finding the vegetarian variation of Vietnamese cuisine can be tricky because so much of the diet is built around meat and seafood. At Pho Cali’s, however, vegetarians can still fill up on the vegetarian fried pancakes, a crispy appetizer stuffed with tofu, vegetables and bean sprouts. Then move on to the vegetarian egg roll vermicelli bowl, a heavenly mix of rice noodles, crispy veggie egg rolls, crunchy fried onion, peanuts and fresh broth. Still hungry? The tofu and eggplant is worth a taste — but make sure to ask for the fried tofu (instead of steamed) to give it more oomph.
Celeb Valenti rate ne with the ’s Day Po Orchest ps ra
Featuring tribute artist Carla Del Vilaggio
t Best “...The Nex eing Thing to Se Herself.” Streisand Post -New York
ops Your Community’s Orchestra
Neel Performing Arts Center
Sunday, February 9, 3:00 pm Riverview Performing Arts Center
Monday, February 10, 7:30pm Neel Performing Arts Center
Get your tickets today! www.thepopsorchestra.org 941-926-POPS (7677)
Music you love –Musicians you know
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Saturday, February 8, 3:00 pm
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JOIN US for a thrilling season of classical and popular live music.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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SARAH CHANG MASTERWORKS 4:
Chang Plays Dvořák Jan 30 - Feb 2
GREAT SEATS STILL AVAILABLE!
Celebrating 250 years
BEETHOVEN CONCERTS
“The best violinist I have heard in years, surely one of the foremost virtuosi of her time.” –Toronto Globe and Mail
February 6 DISCOVER BEETHOVEN:
Beethoven ‘s Eroica March 12-15 MASTERWORKS:
Beethoven and Bartók May 2-3 DISCOVER BEETHOVEN:
Beethoven’s Seventh
Get your tickets today!
941-953-3434 SarasotaOrchestra.org JOSHUA ROMAN cello
MASTERWORKS 7:
American Impressions April 3-5
TEDDY ABRAMS guest conductor
STORM LARGE vocalist
March 6-7
MASTERWORKS 5:
Sounds of Nobility Feb 21-23
BRANFORD MARSALIS saxophone
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MARIA WIRRIES vocalist POPS2
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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
COMING TO THE VAN WEZEL! BEGINS TOMORROW! SARASOTA PREMIERE!
JAN 24-26
TUES, JAN 28 • 8PM
Above: Margret Barbieri performs Sir Frederick Ashton’s “Les Rendezvous” in the early 1970s. Right: Nearly 40 years after Barbieri, Sarasota Ballet’s Kate Honea dances the lead in “Les Rendezvous.” Courtesy photo by Frank Atura
asolorep world class theatre • made in sarasota
The Lifespan of a
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“Terrifically
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By JEREMY KAREKEN & DAVID MURRELL and GORDON FARRELL Directed by CELINE ROSENTHAL
JAN 24 – MAR 19 FINAL PREVIEW JAN 23
SPONSORS: Wilde Lexus Sarasota, ABC7 and Herald-Tribune Media Group Comedy Series
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Box Office: M-F 10-6, Sat 10-4, Open Later on Show Days Prices, dates and times subject to change without notice.
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Derek Penn Speedy, Tracy Michelle Arnold and Gene Weygandt. Photo by John Revisky.
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Murder on the Orient Express
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FRIDAY 1/24
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TUESDAY 1/28
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THE DEFINITION OF
KLINT LOWRY A+E EDITOR
A
t first interpretation, Sarasota Ballet’s opening program for 2020, titled “Redefined Movement,” might be construed to be meant as a primer on the evolution of ballet. After all, it will open with Sir Frederick Ashton’s 1933 “Les Rendezvous,” an example of classical ballet, followed by the company premier of Paul Taylor’s “Brandenburgs,” from 1988, which is considered to typify Taylor’s approach to modern dance. The program then finishes with Domenic Walsh’s “I Napoletani,” from 2007, which takes a neoclassical approach in its depiction of life in Italy. But it would be a mistake to interpret the program as a timeline of ballet’s evolution. That’s simply not the case, says Sarasota Ballet Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, who this year is marking the 50th anniversary of becoming a principal dancer at London’s Royal Ballet.
“I don’t know if you could go, ‘Oh, Brandenburgs,’” Barbieri says, “if you can watch it and say, ‘Well, that was done in 19… whatever.” Styles don’t necessarily indicate era, she says. New styles might emerge, but there are still brand new pieces being choreographed in the classical style too. The way Barbieri describes ballet’s growth makes it sound like winemaking. Every so often, a new style becomes all the rage, but the classic varietals remain, and serious winemakers make sure they retain their distinctive qualities. Serious ballet companies treat the pieces they perform the same way. Everyone has their own flair, but as Barbieri says, “nobody tries to change the choreography.” With “Les Rendezvous,” Sarasota Ballet is presenting the ballet with guaranteed authenticity. Principle dancers Kate Honea and Katelyn May will alternate in the lead role during the run of the program. They have a rare luxury in having Barbieri as their repetiteur because Barbieri not only danced this role back in the early 1970s, but she also got coaching from both Sir Frederick Ashton himself and from Dame Alicia Markova, who danced the lead in the original 1933 production. They were both quite helpful, Barbieri says, but she recalls how
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
9
IF YOU GO
CLASSICAL Sarasota Ballet’s interpretation of Ashton’s ‘Les Rendezvous’ comes straight from the source.
|
‘REDEFINED MOVEMENT’ When: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1-3 Where: FSU Centre for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $35-$115 Info: Call 359-0099.
Courtesy photos
Dame Alicia Markova, who danced the lead in the original 1933 production of “Les Rendezvous,” adjusts Margaret Barbieri’s arm as she prepares for the role in the 1970s.
intimidated she felt, especially in the face of Markova’s supreme self-confidence. Markova didn’t even rehearse, Barbieri says. “She’d come in and, still wearing her mink coat and high heels, walk around the stage, just to get a sense of the lights,” and that was it. Markova didn’t think she needed to rehearse, Barbieri says, and the amazing thing was that she was right. “She had a phenomenal technique, and she just made everything look so easy,” Barbieri says. “Just the way she used her head and her neck and her body — it just told us how this ballet came to be.”
It isn’t surprising that Barbieri is especially fond and protective of Ashton’s work, as is Honea. “It’s so hard to say, but I think this is my favorite Ashton ballet,” Honea says. This is the fourth time she has performed it, and every time she picks it up, she says, she works to make it that much truer to the original vision. “Just getting that coaching from Maggie, I mean, it’s so special to the dancers that she can describe and tell us and show us exactly how to do it,” Honea says. “I think Kate’s found a very special way with it,” Barbieri says. “And she is joyous in it. She has
a wonderful ease in it.” And now she sees May finding something similar. May doesn’t have a long history with “Les Rendezvous,” but she appreciates being able to work with two people who do. “It’s an amazing opportunity to have this sort of coaching,” May says. “I feel like you draw on your past opportunities to guide you.” In the future she might be faced with a choice, “and you remember, ‘Maggie told me to do something like this to make it work.’” May says. “‘OK, well, I’m going to try that again here.’ That’s how you grow as a dancer.” Even though there are many styles to ballet, May says, the moves are basically the same. Doing a piece that is so committed to classical style helps develop the skills and the confidence — which is a skill of sorts — to take on any style. “And in our company, we do,” Honea adds. “Like in this program, we do classical, contemporary, neoclassical modern.” Barbieri agrees. “The amazing thing, for me, to see is how our dancers are able to do all these different styles,” she says. In the end, making sure some things don’t change is what always keeps ballet fresh, for the dancers and for the audience.
retrospective
Gallery Receptions Saturday, Jan 25 • 6–8pm Sunday, Jan 26 • 1–3pm 1830 S. Osprey Ave, Sarasota, FL
RSVP required: 866-900-6699 or sarasota@roadshowcompany.com
2020
Art works available for acquisition.
Fri Feb 7 – Sun Mar 1 Tickets: $15 - $55 | 20% Off Opening Weekend Under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park behind the Mall at UTC Now Air Conditioned!
Collectors who purchase over $8990. in Max studio art during this show will receive a complimentary trip to the Peter Max Studio in New York City with round trip airfare for two, one night stay at an elegant NYC hotel and a delicious NYC dinner.
© ALP, Inc
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
‘Sister Act’ stays faithful to the original Strong vocals anchor a joyous production played for mass appeal.
IF YOU GO ‘SISTER ACT’ When: Through Feb. 2 Where: The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $29-$34 Info: Call 365-2494.
MARTY FUGATE THEATER CRITIC
“S
ister Act” is now on stage at The Players Centre for Performing Arts. This 2006 musical is based on the 1992 Whoopie Goldberg movie. A convent comedy but not unconventional; you pretty much know what you’re in for. Based on their appearances in movies and TV, nuns come in three varieties: some fly; some whack your knuckles with rulers; others teach people to sing. The heroine of “Sister Act” is a nun of the third variety. (She’s technically not a real nun, but let’s not argue theology.) The nun’s story? OK. You’d need a heroic suspension of disbelief to take it seriously. A papal dispensation wouldn’t hurt. But here goes … The movie transpired in Reno and San Francisco. The musical shifts the scene to disco-era Philadelphia. Multitalented Deloris Van Cartier (Javisha Strong) is the next Donna Summer. But her gangster boyfriend, Curtis Jackson (Eldred Brown), won’t give her a break in showbiz. He’s too busy killing people, dig? Deloris witnesses him doing
Courtesy photo by Don Daly
There’s obviously going to need to be an adjustment period for Deloris (Javisha Strong) and Mother Superior (Meg Newsome) when Deloris goes into hiding in the Queen of Angels convent.
just that. Curtis is particularly fond of killing witnesses, so Deloris runs to the police. They put her in witness protection until she can testify. But Philadelphia’s courts are backed up, so she’ll have to hide out for a year. Where? A convent, where else? The one inside Philadelphia’s Queen of Angels Church. Mother Superior (Meg Newsome) reluctantly agrees, and they doll up Deloris in nun garb. Officially, she’s now Sis-
ter Mary Clarence. Deloris chafes at the convent’s rules. But in true Julie Andrews-esque style, she teaches the choir of tone-deaf nuns to sing — hand-clapping hallelujah harmonies with a disco/gospel/soul groove. Mother Superior thinks disco is the devil’s music. But the convent choir is now a righteous hit. Their joyful noise packs the pews and puts the church in the black. It’s a lead
story on Philly TV stations. That gets the Pope’s attention. Now his holiness is flying in to hear the next “nuncert.” But TV coverage of the singing nuns (and of Deloris’ smiling face) gets Curtis’ attention too. He shows up to stop the music — and gets what’s coming to him before you can say, “Deus ex machina.” “Scooby Doo” is more believable. My advice? Leave verisimilitude on the sidewalk, and check logic at the door. Don’t take it seriously, and you’ll be OK. Director Sunny Smith and the cast and crew jump into this silly story with both feet. They splash around in it. They sell it. They have a real good time, and the audience does too. Strong steals the show. Her diva-ish Deloris is truly lovable and bursting with the life force, a heavenly ambassador of joy to uptight nuns. And she can sing like hell too. Randy Knee’s Monsignor O’Hara does a funny turn to a smarmy showbiz groove.
Brenna Griffith is sweet as Sister Mary Robert, a repressed postulant who can really belt it out when she cuts loose. Rodney Piatt is a hoot as “Sweaty Eddie,” a cop still carrying a torch for Deloris since high school. Peg Harvey is a spitfire as Sister Mary Lazarus, the choir leader. Brown’s Curtis is sufficiently menacing. His incompetent minions are not. A live orchestra makes all the difference. Musical Director Alan Corey leads a bodacious band somewhere out of sight. Once Kelly Burnette adds her kicky choreography, the joint is definitely jumping. Georgina Wilmott has fun with the flashy, disco-era costumes. Gabriela Freeman evokes church and convent with a minimal set. It turns into a rainbow cathedral, thanks to Michael Pasquini’s lighting. No musical is without sin. “Sister Act” is no exception. Credit or blame goes to composer Alan Menken, lyricist Glenn Slater and no fewer than three writers, Cheri Steinkellner, Bill Steinkellner and Douglas Cater Beane. Forgive their sins against logic, and you’ll have fun. This production’s a bouncy celebration of a pop gospel of love, love, love. If disco’s your thing, you’ll be in dancing on cloud nine. If your deepest circle of hell is “Disco Inferno,” you won’t.
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Sir Frederick Ashton’s Les Rendezvous | Photography Frank Atura
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
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Dogs making a difference! I E N D LY R I E N D LY R F Y L I M FA D O G- F F E S T I VA L ring your family, bring your friends, bring your dogs, and bring your friends’ dogs to our 2020 Walkathon. This free, family-friendly event includes a 3K walk and a Waggin’ Tails Festival with live music, a beer garden, food trucks, vendor fair, and an exciting raffle drawing. And of course, lots of dogs! While we walk together we’ll make a big impact for people with vision loss and veterans with disabilities. Whether you raise funds for our mission or simply bring your dog to the Waggin’ Tails Festival, we’ll see you at Walkathon!
Exciting Raffle Prizes! GR AND PRIZE $10,000 Cash Drawing May 11, 2020
E VENT PRIZE $1,000 Cash at each event Winner will be drawn at noon
$5 per raffle ticket or 5 for $20 Visit GuideDogsWalkathon.org/raffle for official rules and regulations.
Selling Raffle Tickets is a great way to fundraise and reach new incentive levels!
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Schedule subject to change. Visit GuideDogsWalkathon.org prior to event for current schedule.
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Sign up online at GuideDogsWalkathon.org All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. 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 within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. Registration number CH0475. 327579-1
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2020
Orchestra’s Masterworks 3 remarkable in its precision Guests conductor Steven Sloane and pianist Shai Wosner demonstrate skill guided by instinct. EDWARD ALLEY MUSIC CRITIC
T
he Sarasota Orchestra continued its high standard of excellence in the Masterworks 3 series with guest conductor Steven Sloane. I heard Sunday’s concert, the finale of the series. The orchestra again showed that it is one of the finest regional orchestras in this country. These fine musicians were aided and led by Sloane and pianist Shai Wosner. The program was anchored by Mahler’s First Symphony, in its third outing by the orchestra in the past eight years: Carl St. Clair, 2011-12; Anu Tali, 2017-18; and now Sloane. Odd how the same piece with different conductors can seem so different. St. Clair gave warmth and klezmerlike sounds, and Tali gave it a Baltic-Nordic steely quality, so I was waiting to hear Sloane’s interpretation. Sloane is obviously a nononsense conductor, with a clear and evocative beat and a good set of ears, who knows what he wants from an orchestra and a musical composition. Beginning with the barely
a
Guest conductor Steven Sloane’s handling of Mahler’s First Symphony was dynamic yet precise.
Courtesy photos
Pianist Shai Wosner demonstrated his world-renowned ability to combine technical ability with an innate affinity to the music as he played Mozart’s “Elvira Madigan.”
perceptible unison notes, the symphony seemed to be emerging from nowhere, with each added sound creating an atmosphere of pastoral peacefulness. Sloane elongated the introduction, which
brought us slowly but gently into the world he and Mahler were creating. He had the orchestra play in a dynamic range from almost inaudible to almost unbearable but always within his controlled creative
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arch. The Mahler First is an old friend, but I had the feeling that it was actually being created as it progressed in performance. Now that doesn’t happen very often, if ever, but that’s the way it felt. Rarely has the Sarasota Orchestra played with such transparency, clarity and control. Inner voices and themes emerged as never before heard, whether it was in the drawnout romantic passages, which were simply gorgeous, or the Sturm und Drang of the louder more combative passages. Yet Sloan kept everything in musical perspective and within the grand arch of his interpretation. An interesting change was to have all the string basses play the minor version of “Brother
John,” in the third movement funeral march. Eight muted string basses playing that solo in unison in triple piano softness created a wonderful yet spine-tingling mood. It was that way throughout the entire symphony, and the audience and orchestra alike were completely immersed in what seemed a transcendental interpretation and performance. All players on the stage contributed their musical all, and each one would deserve individual recognition. Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, the “Elvira Madigan,” opened the concert in a glorious and elegant performance by pianist Shai Wosner. Wosner possesses more than ample technical skill, yet his phrasing is both tasteful and very musical. I have a feeling that he had some hand in composing the cadenzas in both the first and third movements because each one ended with a nottoo-subtle quote from “The Marriage of Figaro” and “The Magic Flute,” which added a note of humor. Sloane and the orchestra provided a wonderful accompaniment, again with utmost clarity and musicality. We are indeed fortunate in having this great orchestra in Sarasota and should do all we can to keep it as one of the jewels in Sarasota’s cultural crown.
The 2020 Opera Gala Saturday, February 1, 2020, 6:30 pm The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
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