Black tie a e 1 26 17

ON THE FLIP SIDE: BLACK

TIE

< A JAPANESE AFFAIR: Sarasota Opera kicks off winter festival.

DRINK THIS: Enjoy a tropical cocktail with a whiskey kick. 10

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

All That Glass

YOUROBSERVER.COM

SEE THIS

Billy Crystal

The comedy star hosts an evening of humor and conversation. PAGE 4

HEAR THIS

The third annual Sarasota Contemporary Glass Weekend highlights an art unlike any other.

NICK FRIEDMAN A+E MANAGING EDITOR

I

t’s no secret that Sarasota is home to a wealth of arts and culture. Visitors are often surprised to find world-class performing arts, including ballet, opera and theater companies — not to mention a long history of top-tier visual artists in our sleepy little beach town.

Over the past few years, Sarasota has begun to carve out another niche for itself in the visual art world — as a destination for contemporary studio glass.

‘Violins of Hope’ Amnon Weinstein restores violins with an emotional history. PAGE 8

WATCH THIS

SEE PAGE 2

‘Sweet Charity’ Courtesy photo

Chinese artist Loretta H. Yang represents Contemporary Glass Weekend’s global scope.

Optimism lives onstage in the Players’ latest production. PAGE 12

2

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

All That Glass

IF YOU GO: CONTEMPORARY GLASS WEEKEND When: Thursday, Jan. 26 through Sunday, Jan. 29 Where: Various locations Tickets: $200 for weekend pass; individual tickets available Info: Call 383-2345.

Visit Habatat.com for a full schedule.

FROM PAGE 1

This weekend, the third annual Contemporary Glass Weekend, a collaboration between the Longboat Key Center for the Arts and Michigan-based Habatat Galleries, will draw hundreds of enthusiasts, collectors and artists from around the world to celebrate the art form with exhibits, lectures, tours and demonstrations.

For the uninitiated, studio glass can be a foreign world. Beginning in the 1950s and ’60s, glass artists began to earn recognition beyond just craftsmen. Their work was no longer limited to only functional bowls and vessels, as they moved out of factories and into studios, taking advantage of innovative techniques to create true art, including sculpture and figurative pieces.

And the art world took notice.

At first glance, of course, the art is visually stunning. But dive below the aesthetics, and the medium boasts a vibrant scene all its own, with a tight-knit group of collectors and artists, each with their own set of ever-evolving, intricate techniques.

As its enthusiasts will tell you, there’s nothing quite like it. And once it piques your interest — it’s addictive.

Jane Buckman, director of the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, spent 14 years of her career working in Seattle — a hotbed of studio glass artists and collectors.

Surrounded by the art form, she

Courtesy photos

Left: This year’s weekend includes an exhibit by Czech artists, like this piece by Martin Janecky.

Above: Dale Chihuly popularized intricate, large-scale blown glass.

says she was aware of it, but it was never something she got involved in.

She jokes it took moving across the country to Sarasota before she became immersed in the unique

art form.

It started three years ago. Buckman says she wanted to host an exhibit at Longboat Key Center for the Arts to complement the renowned Basch collection at

Ringling College. She reached out to well-known Clearwaterbased glass artist Marlene Rose and hosted an exhibit featuring her works.

“That was big for us,” says

Buckman. “It brought in people from around the country who follow her work. She was represented by Habatat Galleries, so their founder, Ferdinand Hampson, came to the show. When he saw the space, he immediately wanted to collaborate. We came up with the idea of the glass weekend.”

The goal was to highlight artists and collections in Sarasota and Southwest Florida, as well as expose guests to artists from around the world. Buckman says she found herself becoming more and more enamored with the art.

“People in the glass world, they’re just full of that light,” she says. “They’re all so happy. It’s not like anything I’ve seen before.

The collectors are such a tightknit group — they travel together; they really know their history.

The more you learn about it, it’s so engrossing.”

This year’s Contemporary Glass Weekend kicks off Thursday, Jan. 26, with a reception at Alfstad& Contemporary, featuring the works of Kathleen Mulcahy and her late husband, Ron Desmett.

Mulcahy is known for her meditations on cool water, imagery she evokes in her luminous

January 27-28, 2017

PRESENTS

Sarasota Fairgrounds Camping Available

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Produced by GPS Festival Productions

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 Gates Open 5:00 p.m. • Live Music from 6:00-10:00 p.m. JAM TO FOLLOW Chris Duarte

Balkun Brothers

Kat Riggins

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 Gates Open 11:00 a.m. • Live Music from 12:00-9:00 p.m. JAM TO FOLLOW Selwyn Birchwood

225726

Charles Wilson Benefiting Family Promise Sarasota Rain or Shine • Free Parking • Dog Friendly Reserved Seating Available • No Coolers, Food or Beverage • Bring Chairs/Blankets All Sales Final • Food, Beverage and Merchandise Vendors on Site

Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers

Tommy Z

Annika Chambers

Studebaker John Thank You to All Our Sponsors

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

3

small pieces. Harvey Littleton, who is known as the Father of Studio Glass, had the idea that it should just be one person in a studio. As time went on, pieces became much larger, and you would have two or three people working at a time.

Courtesy photos

Ferdinand Hampson, founder of Habitat Galleries

GLASS GLASS EVOLUTION Marlene Rose, a Clearwater based glass artist, was one of the first artist to be featured in the weekend-long event, now in its third year.

glass. Desmett brought a modern approach to the centuries-old practice of casting glass in wood by blowing glass into hollow trunks of rotting walnut trees to create intentionally crude, irregular black vessels. The exhibition, which runs through Feb. 24, will include his final works.

Friday includes a bus tour to St. Petersburg for a hot-shop demonstration and to view the Chihuly Collection — works of glassart icon Dale Chihuly, known for helping push the blown-glass medium into larger scale. Other weekend highlights include an auction, preceded by a short history of the pieces by Ferdinand Hampson; a tour of the Basch Gallery and hardhat tour of The Ringling’s forthcoming Kotler/

Coville Glass Pavillion, as well as exhibits featuring works by artists from the Czech Republic and 10 other countries from around the world.

Buckman says the weekend is a unique opportunity, both for longtime collectors and newcomers eager to learn about glass art.

“First of all, it’s just beautiful,” she says. “The work will blow you away. It’s hard not to be attracted to it. But once you learn more about it, and you know the history and how much work goes into the different techniques, your appreciation grows that much richer and deeper. I’m still learning, myself. I’ll find myself seeing something new and thinking, ‘How did they do that?’ It’s just an incredible art form.”

Glass art has come a long way in a relatively short amount of time, and artists are constantly innovating new techniques.

We spoke with Ferd Hampson, founder of Habatat Galleries in Michigan, about the history of the art form.

“WHEN PEOPLE first picked up glass, generally, they came from ceramic backgrounds, and functionality was a natural part of what was happening. They were creating vessels and goblets. But people got their skills down to the point where they could go beyond that and into creating art. That’s when things really started flourishing.

“IF YOU walked into a glass exhibit in the 1970s, every single piece would’ve been blown glass.

Now, you see cast glass, made with a mold; fused glass, using lower temperatures; or lamp work, which is done over a torch; and of course, some blown glass.

Even the surface treatments have become much more elaborate.

“IT’S AN art form where you look and wonder, ‘How did they make that?’ And the answer, usually, is that it’s even more difficult than you imagined.

“AT THIS event, you can see some of the greatest artists from 12 different countries. The Czech exhibit is fantastic. It’s an opportunity to see what the whole world is doing, which is wonderful. For me, as art becomes more homogeneous, and ideas are shared over the world, you can lose the cultural and social aspects that are an important part of art.”

LOOKING WITH PURPOSE Everyone has to start somewhere — even Barbara Basch. She and her husband, Richard, have one of the most extensive, celebrated collections of studio glass in Sarasota, which is displayed annually at Ringling College. We spoke with Barbara for a few tips for beginners.

“WE STARTED by collecting ceramics. Someone suggested we go see this museum show in Tampa. It was Dale Chihuly, and at the time, we didn’t even know who he was. We were just blown away. After that, we were off and running.

“WHAT WE’RE trying to do in Sarasota is make it a glass Mecca — and we’re on our way to doing that. We’re personally so happy to be a part of it and share it with people. Glass brings people together.”

“THINGS EVOLVED in so many different ways. Take scale; it used to be that people made very

Pre-Spring

JANUARY 26-27

ESSENTIALS

ALEMBIKA TRUNK SHOW

NEW STYLES ARRIVING DAILY

NEW STYLE

X

HIN

Save 42%

34

$

MARK GARLAND Will be showcasing the newest prints and fabrics in Alembika’s signature architectural designs.

Sophisticated, yet funky, taking you easily from dayEto evening D R A M

Barbara Basch

95

$60 Value

NEW STYLE

BOTH STYLES AVAILABLE IN • BLACK MICRON • MUSHROOM MICRON

HEL

ENA

H U G E S E L EC T I O N O F STY L E S O N S A L E Save 64%

39

$

95

NEW STYLE

Save 33%

3995

$

$60 Value

$110 Values KARLIE

TAN BURNISH, CAMEL BURNISH, GREY BURNISH, GOLD METALLIC, BLACK

GENUINE LEATHER

CO L LD’OEUVRES ECTI& OWINE N HORS WILL BE SERVED

JACKPOT

NAVY, GRAY, STONE, BLACK

NEW STYLE

D R E A M

REWARD

TAN, STONE, BLACK

COLLECTION

Save 50%

2995

$

$60 Value

CONCHLUSION TAN COMBO, BLACK SNAKE, WHITE SNAKE

American Original Art Couture

SHOP ONLINE ANYTIME AT PELTZSHOES.COM

364 St. Armands Circle Sarasota (941) 388 - 1974 dreamweavercollection.com

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

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

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

Advertised prices valid through 1/29/17. Items are subject to availability and may not be available in all Peltz Shoes stores or at Peltzshoes.com. %/$ savings are off MSRP. Not all sizes in all widths/styles/colors & vary by store. Store hours may vary by location.

221471

229094

Plus, sign up for our email list to receive weekly promotions and offers!

4

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

THURSDAY LUNCH, LOOK AND LISTEN: ‘KITTENS ON THE KEYS’ 11 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 S. East Ave. $45 Call 306-1202.

Artist Series Concerts presents this performance, featuring classics by piano duo Lee Dougherty Ross and Joseph Holt.

MISSY RAINES AND THE NEW HIP 7 p.m. at Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court $10 to $12 Call 545-5635.

IF YOU GO OPENING RECEPTION: GLASS ARTIST KATHLEEN MULCAHY AND RON DESMETT When: 5:30 p.m., Thursday Where: Alfstad& Contemporary, 1419 Fifth St. Tickets: Free Info: Call 366-6400.

Robert Kelly, a fixture on Comedy Central, as well on television series including “Louie” and “Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll.” Performs through Sunday.

Sir Frederick Ashton’s series of waltzes was created in 1947 — and lost until its revival in 1986.

See the Sarasota Ballet perform it onstage, with resident choreographer Ricardo Graziano’s 2014 “Before Night Falls,” and Will Tuckett’s “Changing Light.”

Tony and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, producer, writer and director Billy Crystal offers an intimate evening featuring conversation, film clips and his observations on life.

CELEBRATING

20 Years

‘IDEATION’ 8 p.m. at Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St. $28; $20 for younger than 40 and $5 for students Call 321-1397.

Aaron Loeb’s darkly comic “Ideation” imagines the unthinkable: A fatal, highly contagious virus infects millions of people, who are quarantined and killed to keep the virus from spreading. These scenarios emerge from a group of sunny brainstormers around a conference table. Urbanite likes to take it to the edge. Black comedy takes it up a notch — and this is as dark as it gets. Runs through March 12.

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

SATURDAY, JAN 28TH TWINKLE PERFORMS AT 6PM

SUNDAY, JAN 29TH

XNLV13649

STRANGE WAYS 3PM BIRD TRIBE 6:30PM

941.349.9822 | theblasecafe.com |

Brooklyn-based Americana / alt-country band Yarn borrows equally from Gram Parsons, Jerry Garcia and the Rolling Stones.

Hyper-local news and information.

Everywhere you are.

ON SIESTA!

& Martini Bar

ROBERT KELLY 7 and 9:30 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $23 Call 925-3869.

‘ASHTON, GRAZIANO AND TUCKETT’ 7:30 p.m. at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail $35 to $110 Call 359-0099.

BILLY CRYSTAL 8 p.m. at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail $156 to $166 Call 953-3368.

Blasé Café

Enjoy two days of blues music at this annual festival.

YARN 8 p.m. at Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Court $10 Call 894-6469.

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

You. Your Neighbors.

Your Neighborhood.

XNLV13754

This party, which benefits the Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota, features live music by Passerine, food from local restaurants, beer, wine and a signature cocktail, a raffle and more. Afterparty takes place at 9:30 p.m. at The Starlite Room.

CONTEMPORARY GLASS WEEKEND Sarasota Contemporary Glass Weekend kicks off with this reception featuring works by Kathleen Mulcahy, whose glass art explores themes of cold, sparkling water, and the final works of her late husband, Ron Desmett, who pioneered techniques, like blowing glass into the hollowed trunks of rotting

walnut trees. The weekend features tours, lectures and trips, running through Sunday.

227749

AN EVENING FOR HEALTHY START 7 p.m. at Sarasota Architectural Salvage, 1093 Central Ave. $30 in advance; $40 at the door Call 373-7070.

DON’T MISS

SUNCOAST BLUES FESTIVAL 6 p.m. at Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. $15 to $60 Call 758-7585.

XNLV13269

Bluegrass artist Missy Raines is known for her smokey alto voice and rich, layered bass grooves.

She performs accompanied by guitar, mandolin and percussion.

FRIDAY

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

SUNDAY BRUNCH, BREWS BREAKFAST COW BOTTLE RELEASE 10:30 a.m. at JDub’s Brewing Co., 1215 Mango Ave. $35 Call 955-2739.

Chow down on brunch and get a 750ml bottle of Breakfast Cow imperial milk chocolate porter, with coffee added. Food includes chicken and waffles, crepes, pub cheese and more.

SATURDAY

MARDI GRAS MASQUERADE 9 p.m. at Growler’s Pub, 2831 N. Tamiami Trail Free Call 487-7373.

ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE ART FESTIVAL 10 a.m. at St. Armands Circle Free Visit Artfestival.com

Get in the Mardi Gras spirit with Chapter:Soul, a four-piece modern funk and soul band.

This annual festival features two days of jewelry, pottery, paintings and more from local, regional and national artists.

ANNIVERSARY FOOD TRUCK RALLY Noon at Mr. Beery’s, 2645 Mall Drive Free Call 343-2854.

Celebrate seven years of Mr. Beery’s with food, live music, a cornhole tournament and of course, beer.

It’s time again for one of the most popular events of the year. Regularly selling out in record time, Forks and Corks’ Grand Tasting is the ultimate destination for foodies and wine-lovers. More than 50 of the area’s top restaurants and 80 international wineries will set up in the courtyard of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. CHAMBER SOIRÉE 6: ‘THE SINKING OF THE TITANIC’ 4 and 7:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail $35 Call 953-3434.

The Sarasota Orchestra presents this tribute to the music played by musicians aboard the Titanic as the ship tragically went down.

PALEFACE Prolific cult- hero Paleface, who came up playing with Daniel Johnston and was discovered by Danny Fields, who signed the Stooges, the Ramones and MC5, performs high-energy indie folk with his girlfriend and drummer, Monica “Mo” Samalot.

Celebrate the art of the solo performer at this festival, which features performances in a variety of styles. Runs through Feb. 5.

BABYL 7 p.m. at Calusa Brewing, 5701 Derek Ave. Free Call 922-8150.

Babyl will perform its high-energy, melodic infectious music in the Calusa Brewing tasting room, and Hot Box’d Steamed Cheeseburgers will be on site selling burgers.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

5

MONDAY

FORKS AND CORKS GRAND TASTING Noon at The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road Call 365-2800.

NICK’S PICK

SARASOLO FESTIVAL 1 p.m. at Crocker Memorial Church, 1260 12th St. $15 Call 400-2036.

|

GLASS: A CONTEMPORARY MUSICAL PERFORMANCE 7 p.m. at Alfstad& Contemporary, 1419 Fifth St. $40 Call 366-6400.

Contemporary music collective, ensemblenewSRQ, performs musical works inspired by the glass art on display throughout the Contemporary Art Glass Weekend.

TUESDAY CONVERSATION WITH ANNE PATTERSON 10:30 a.m. at The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road $5; free for members Call 359-5700.

Artist Anne Patterson talks about the inspiration for her interactive installation, “Pathless Woods.” On display at The Ringling, the immersive work evokes the feeling of swimming through color and is inspired by Patterson’s experience with synesthesia, a condition that blends the senses.

WEDNESDAY ‘NEXT FALL’ 8 p.m. at The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail $18 Call 365-2494.

“Next Fall” portrays the ups and downs of an unlikely couple’s five-year modern romance with humor and honesty, asking tough questions about commitment, love and faith. Runs through Feb. 12.

IF YOU GO When: 6 p.m., Sunday Where: The Blue Rooster, 1525 Fourth St. Tickets: $5 Info: Call 388-7539.

ONLINE Find more information on these events and more at

– NICK FRIEDMAN

YourObserver.com.

�orida studio theatre

"surefire comedy" - sarasota magazine

Lies

"humor and heart" - sarasota herald-tribune

Clever

FEBRUARY 11 – MARCH 25

Little

“POWERHOUSE PERFORMERS” - The Venice Gondolier

FINA

“TRIO OF TALENT” - The Observer

“HIGH ENERGY”

by Rebecca Hopkins and RICHARD HOPKINS WITH Arrangements by Jim Prosser

228920

- Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director

Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.

Jannie Jones, Meredith Jones, Juliana Davis Ditmyer. Photo by Matthew Holler.

EKS! E W L2

A COMEDY OF SEX, LOVE, AND SECRETS

A comic turn of events helps an Italian girl save her lost fiancé.

The French Revolution threatens all that is sacred to a group of nuns.

Two lovers meet in secret as the king grows suspicious.

941-366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues.

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

228996

by Joe DiPietro

6

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

REVIEWS

LOOKING

AHEAD There’s no shortage of things to look forward to in Sarasota’s music world. Here are a few favorites.

JUNE LEBELL MUSIC CRITIC

Courtesy photo

Sarasota Orchestra Music Director Anu Tali will bring the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir to town.

A friend on Florida’s East Coast sent me an email the other day telling me how excited he was about a concert by the illustrious New World Symphony Orchestra. I, braggart that I am, wrote him a long note about just some of the upcoming musical events we’re looking forward to in Sarasota. (I haven’t heard from him since.) Here’s some of what I wrote him: The Sarasota Orchestra has, like Sarasota Ballet, become so popular, it’s not only selling out its performances, it’s also had to add extra dates so people won’t be left out. Most cities our size don’t have a 36-week orchestra of paid, professional musicians but we have, and it shows in the popularity and variety of its programs, from the more traditional Masterworks series (I’m looking forward to hearing the upcoming Mozart “Requiem,” paired with the “Credo” by the

extremely popular Arvo Pärt featuring the Orchestra with the double-Grammy Award winning Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. Music Director Anu Tali is bringing her part of the world to ours.)

Most cities our size certainly don’t have an orchestra that has, not only a Masterworks series of great depth, but also chamber music (including immensely popular contemporary explorations like the “Sinking of the Titanic,” which promises to be both dramatic and historic). There are also the Pops concerts, which have grown over the years and the Great Escapes series, which ranges from Romantic Nights and Sounds of America to The People’s Choice, which will feature pieces performed over the past five years and voted for a reprise by orchestra subscribers.

The Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota has a massive season, including a Festival of French Music featuring favorite soloists from the Sarasota

SALE

A N N UA L LAST CHANCE

for iate ssoc A s e Sal See

FEBRUARY 12 - JULY 31 JEAN AND ALFRED GOLDSTEIN EXHIBITION SERIES PRESENTED BY

ils Deta

As the first botanical garden to exhibit Chagall’s work, The Color of Dreams marks the first time nature’s profound influence had on the artist is examined in-depth. Visit daily, and join us for thse special events.

Chagall Family

Saturdays

6-9PM

Experience the exhibition after dark with monthly evening performances by Sarasota’s world-class cultural organizations FEB. 18, MARCH 18, APRIL 22, MAY 20, JUNE 17

copenhagen imports

10AM-NOON

Spend Saturday mornings enjoying fun art and nature activities inspired by the exhibition. Included with admission.

DISCOVER MORE AT SELBY.ORG 900 SOUTH PALM AVENUE • SARASOTA, FL 34236

HOME INTERIORS 7211 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Mon-Sat: 10:00-6:00 Sun: 12:00-5:00 • 941-923-2569 copenhagen-imports.com See sales associate for details

229100

N I G H T S

223496

CHAGALL

FEB. 15, MARCH 9, APRIL 5, MAY 17, JUNE 14

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

area (Orchestra Principal Flutist Betsy Traba, for starters, to international superstars like baritone John Brancy). Best of all, to get these great performers, they’ve collaborated with other groups — here in Sarasota and in New York — including SILL’s Music Mondays and the illustrious Young Concert Artists, the organization that introduced us to the likes of Ruth Laredo and the Tokyo String Quartet. When you hear YCA is involved, you know you’re hearing tomorrow’s superstars today.

Oh, and the Artist Series is also bringing the world-famous Callaway Sisters (Ann Hampton Callaway, who’s considered one of the greatest jazz pianists and singers in the world, and Tony nominated singer Liz Callaway, who starred in “Cats” for five years on Broadway, along with “Merrily We Roll Along” and the original cast of “Miss Saigon.”

They’re here in their classic, “Sibling Revelry.” This is a Sarasota coup.

Sarasota Opera’s Winter Festival opens with everyone’s favorite tragic love story, “Madama Butterfly,” and continues with the rollicking “The Italian Girl in Algiers,” the spine chilling

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

7

“When you hear Young Concert Artists is involved, you know you’re hearing tomorrow’s superstars today.”

— June LeBell

“Dialogues of the Carmelites,” and “The Love for Three Kings.”

A word about Poulenc’s “Dialogues.” I’m not giving anything away when I tell you that the last scene, based on the true story of the Carmelite nuns in France during the French Revolution, has each nun mounting the scaffold to the guillotine, singing a “Salve Regina.” As each head falls, one voice drops out and there’s a thud that you’ll remember for weeks. It’s all in the music.

The Gloria Musicae Singers are teaming up with the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay for a performance of the Verdi “Requiem” at the Sarasota Opera House. And the Singers’ season also includes the stunning Duraflé “Requiem” and the gorgeous Poulenc “Gloria,” along

Courtesy photo

with the rousing July 4 spectacular, “Voices of Freedom.”

The Sarasota Concerts Association’s Great Performers Series is planning A Night at Bach’s Coffee House with the very great ensemble, “Apollo’s Fire,” and conductor Peter Oundjian will

be here with the Royal Scottish Orchestra. And, just when you think the season is coming to an end, La Musica and the Sarasota Music Festival pop up with enough great chamber music to fill your soul through the summer.

Artist Series concerts will bring in the internationally renowned Liz Callaway and Ann Hampton Callaway.

Let us help create your personal escape.

Practical.

Functional.

Tranquil and luxurious.

The ultimate me-time in an attractive space.

228148

www.manasotaonline.com

225932

223396

4551 N. Washington Blvd. 9328 Florida Palm Drive 1734 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234 Tampa, FL 33619 Venice, FL 34293 (941) 355 - 8437 (813) 241- 6400 (941) 493 -7441

8

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

A VOICE FOR THE

VOICELESS Amnon Weinstein and the ‘Violins of Hope’ break the silence of the Holocaust.

MARTY FUGATE

IF YOU GO

CONTRIBUTOR

Amnon Weinstein is one of the world’s most respected violinmakers. His talented, weathered hands give new voice to silenced instruments. They fight a greater silence in the process. That struggle is his life’s work. It’s a great work. But it had a small beginning.

In 1996, a man asked Weinstein to restore a violin played by a Jewish concentration camp inmate during World War II. Weinstein was deeply moved. His parents had fled the Nazi genocide in 1938. They escaped to Palestine.

But most of his other relatives didn’t make it out alive.

Weinstein lovingly restored that first violin. From that day on, he had a new mission in life. He tracked down and restored scores of other violins played by Jews in ghettos, forest hideouts and concentration camp orchestras in the time of Nazi horror. For years, he worked alone in a cramped basement workshop in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Then his son, Avshalom, added two more helping hands. Working together, they’ve now restored

‘VIOLINS OF HOPE’ See Amnon Weinstein and his restored violins in a series of concerts, conversations and celebrations.

When: Feb. 1 through 16 Where: Various venues.

Info: Call 1-866-465-3995, or visit jfedsrq.org/violinsof-hope for more information.

more than 60 string instruments that escaped the fires of the Holocaust. Weinstein calls them the “Violins of Hope.” Why? “Because where there’s music, there’s hope,” he says.

Living music is what matters to Weinstein. When he looks for hope, he finds it there. Preserving a collection of silent artifacts in sterile glass cases has never been his goal. Violins are meant to be played. And the Holocaust violins he’s restored to life have been played around the world.

This month, they’re playing

Courtesy photo

In his Tel Aviv workshop, Amnon Weinstein restores violins with an emotional history.

close to home.

Weinstein is touring our area with 16 restored violins in a series of concerts and events sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and the Mazur Family Fund. You can see these precious instruments on display.

And also hear their songs.

For Weinstein, those haunting notes are always a victory. In an act of unfathomable evil, the Nazis tried to erase and silence the Jewish people. The “Violins of Hope” prove they failed.

Against all odds, these violins still make music. Transient notes

that hang in air. Ephemeral, but defiantly indestructible.

As Weinstein observes, the violin has been vital to Jewish life for centuries. A classical instrument for such virtuoso violinists as Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman and Shlomo Mintz, true. But also an instrument for the common man. As Chagall so joyfully celebrated in his paintings.

But why the violin? Why not the grand piano?

The reasons were partly spiritual, partly practical. Orthodox Jews faced religious prohibitions in the arts of painting, sculpture

and dance. Music was one of their few available artistic outlets. Violins were also cheap, light, and easy to carry. When persecution forced Jews to flee, they could quickly grab their violins and run.

But the Holocaust eclipsed any pogrom of the past. Millions of Jews — and untold thousands of Jewish musicians — had nowhere to run. But their music didn’t stop.

Many Jewish refugees and partisans defiantly held onto their violins. And played them in forests and secret places. Yes, the Nazis confiscated musical

Goodwill Mardi Gras Gala Fat Tuesday, February 28, 2017 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Michael’s On East, 1212 S. East Ave

Co-Chairs: Lisa & Stanley Eding The fabulous Phil Mancini will transform Michael’s On East into Bourbon Street a’ la Michael’s serving authen�c New Orleans food, guaranteeing a delicious meal and beau�ful ambiance.

229142

To purchase �ckets, visit experiencegoodwill.org/mardigras or call 941.355.2721 ext. 104

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

9

‘VIOLINS OF HOPE’ THE FRIEDMANN VIOLIN This tells the tale of a single violin that helped feed 17 starving people in Romania.

For Weinstein, restoration goes beyond just preservation. Violins are meant to be played.

instruments belonging to Jewish people. Verboten, of course. But they made one cruel exception.

Inmate orchestras were common in concentration camps. The Nazis had twisted reasons for this.

Sometimes crowd control — a way to distract and pacify Jewish inmates. At other times, a cynical public relations stunt to distract the rest of the world — like the showpiece classical orchestra of the phony “Jewish village” of Theresienstadt.

But Jewish musicians had their own reasons to keep playing.

Weinstein said almost all of the surviving concentration camp musicians owed their lives to their instruments. The music they played lifted them above their cruel, day-to-day reality. It gave the musicians hope. And did the same for their fellow Jewish inmates.

Hope is a stubborn thing.

The legacy of Jewish hope

drives Weinstein to restore every Holocaust violin he can get his hands on. And make them speak again.

And that’s a deliberate choice of words.

Out of all the musical instruments, the violin comes closest to the sound of the human voice.

Listen closely to these Violins of Hope. You’ll hear the human stories behind each one.

“That story could be the story of a man, woman or child,” Weinstein says. “Each story starts with one violin — but it involves the pain and horrors of a person, a family, a people, and the entire history of World War II. Each instrument helped save the lives of one person or a family. Each signifies a person, a tradition, and a lost soul. Each has its own story, its own voice. Join them together, and it is like the voices of a forest.

Those voices of hope deserve to be heard.”

THE BIELSKI VIOLIN A klezmer violin, proudly emblazoned with the Star of David. It belonged to a Jewish musician in Belarus — a bloody battleground in Nazi-occupied Poland, where Jewish insurgents fought for every centimeter and rescued scores of Jews from slaughter. They were called “the Bielski partisans.”

(As celebrated in the movie “Defiance.”) This instrument is named in their honor.

The Bielski Violin, circa 1870, is a restored klezmer violin.

THE LYON VIOLIN The beloved possession of a Jewish violinist in Nazi-occupied France.

He held it close on a train bound for a death camp. When the train stopped, he leaned out the narrow window and shouted: “I won’t need this where I’m going! Take my violin so it may live!” Then he threw the instrument out the window — and it hit the rails and shattered. After the train puffed away, a French worker picked up the pieces and kept them. In the 21st century, Weinstein put the pieces back together.

The Bielski violin features an inlaid Star of David.

Custom Jewelry • Certified Gemologist on Staff Certified Swiss Watchmaker on Premises • Appraisals

482 John Ringling Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 Call: (941) 388-1331 Email: info@mccarvermoser.com

1301 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 Call: (941) 388-1331 Email: info@mccarvermoser.com

229139

Coming Soon

Est. 1979

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Drink This:

FOOD + DRINK

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

SKINNY TWISTER T

228167

he Skinny Twister combines tropical flavors we love with a kick of heat from whiskey. Plus, this drink is light on the liquor, making it a friendlier choice for your New Year’s resolution.

Matthew Serrano, general manager and bar chef at The Table Creekside and Philippi Creek Oyster Bar, shows you how to make one of your own.

Luxury From the FLoor up!

FlooRiNg • CAbiNEts • stoRAgE RACks

Beautiful Floor Coatings That Last A Lifetime!

Give your garage the space-saving organization and the durable floor coating it deserves.

• Hot tire and chemical stain resistant • Elegant and easy-to-clean advanced epoxy coating • No-slip, high-quality textures • Full range of color and design options • Heavy-duty storage units, cabinets and racks • Residential and Commercial

RIVER CRUISING & LAND TOURS EVENT Thursday, February 2nd | 2 pm Join us for a fun and informative afternoon all about 2017 sailings and land tours!

We will be joined by Globus who will share all the details and great offers for upcoming destinations and itineraries.

Enjoy big savings on all Avalon sailings, plus pre-paid gratuities and single supplements waived on select sailings.*

VIP SeaSon SPeCIaL! *

Plus, book by February 16th for a $200 booking credit per couple!*

Purchase a floor coating and a cabinet package and we will: • Clear out your garage • Coat floor and install cabinets • Neatly return your things! A value over $200.

SPACE IS LIMITED - RSVP TODAY

*Min. $1,200 cabinet package required for special. Expires Dec. 31, 2017. Not redeemable for cash.

(941) 254 6484

5215 University Parkway, Sarasota

Serving Sarasota, Manatee & Charlotte Counties Since 2006 Ask About our referrAl proGrAm!

941.223.2084 • www.GarageKingInc.com

*Offers are per stateroom based on double occupancy, for 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom and excludes 3rd/4th guests, except as provided herein.

Offers are applicable on select 2017 departures. Other restrictions apply. Contact us for full terms and conditions. Fl.Seller of Travel Reg No.ST39379

225330

cruiseshipcenters.com/Sarasota 221956

10

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

YourObserver.com

|

11

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Your Home Deserves Hunter Douglas Thank you Sarasota for 23 Consecutive wins!

INGREDIENTS n 1 oz. Bonnie Rose orange peel whiskey n ½ oz. vanilla vodka n ½ oz. pineapple juice n ½ oz. orange juice n 1 squeezed fresh lime n 1 vanilla bean, seeds removed n Dash of club soda

® ® Window ® Duette Honeycomb Shades PowerView®PowerView® Motorization Duette Honeycomb Shades PowerView™Motorization Motorization ® Duette Honeycomb Shades with Silhouette Window Shadings PowerView™ Motorization $100 rebate Janet & Curt Mattson, Owners

Gallery

$100 rebate

With qualifying®purchase

With qualifying purchase

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Across from the Landings

941-925-7800

INSTRUCTIONS

www.mmwallcoveringsblinds.com MATTSON & MATTSON ® In Lakewood Ranch Call 941-925-9802 MATTSON & MATTSON MATTSON & MATTSON Janet and Curt Mattson Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc.... since 1989 Duette Honeycomb Shades PowerView® Motorization

MATTSON &Inc....

MATTSON Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....&since 1989 Owners Wallcoverings Blinds, since&1989 Janet Curt Mattson, Owners in-home appointment.

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....Since 1989

Visit our beautiful showroom or call for an

SF-1749668

229099

SF-1738904

ingredients except the club soda and shake well with ice n Strain into a glass over fresh ice and finish with a spritz of club soda. n Garnish with pineapple, cherry and an orange wedge

Janet and Curt Mattson 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Across from The Landings • Sarasota& Area: 925-7800 Ranch: 925-9802 Janet andOwners Curt Mattson Wallcoverings Inc....• Lakewood since 1989 mmwallcoveringsblinds.com Sarasota Area: 925-7800 Lakewood Ranch: 925-9802 Owners Blinds • Shutters • Draperies • Blinds, Wallcoverings

$100 rebate

With qualifying purchase *Manufacturer's mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/17/17 - 4/10/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. For certain rebate eligible products, S.units Tamiami Landings • the Sarasota Area: 925-7800 • Lakewood Ranch: 925-9802 the purchase4801 of multiple of such productTrail, is requiredAcross to receive a from rebate. If The you purchase fewer units than required multiple of the specific model and operating system, if any, described above, you will not be entitled to rebate; partial rebates will not be awarded.

Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks mmwallcoveringsblinds.com *Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/14/17 - 4/17/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. For certain rebate eligible products, the purchase of multiple units ofofsuch product is required to receive a rebate.

If you purchase unitsFunds than the required multiple of the specific model operating system, any,bedescribed youcard will not be entitled to rebate, rebate willand not be rewarded.

Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid card and rebate claimfewer receipt. do not expire.

Subject to applicable law,and a $2.00 monthly feeifwill assessedabove, against balance 6 months afterpartial card issuance each month thereafter. mailed within *Manufacturer's 6limitations weeks of rebate claim receipt. do offer not expire. applicable a $2.00 monthly fee 1/17/17 willare be assessed against card 6 months card issuance each only. month thereafter.

Additional limitations may products, apply. Ask mail-in rebate valid for toqualifying purchases made - 4/10/17 frombalance participating dealers in theandU.S. For certain rebate eligible Additional may apply. ©2017Funds Hunter Douglas AllSubject rights reserved.

Alllaw, trademarks used herein the property of Hunter Douglas or theirafter respective owners.

Participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2016 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

SF-1757799

4801 S. Tamiami Trail,Across from Across The Landings x (941) 925-7800 x mmwallcoveringsblinds.com 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, from The Landings • mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

the purchase of multiple units of such product is required to receive a rebate. If you purchase fewer units than the required multiple of the specific model and operating system, if any, described above, you will not be entitled to rebate; partial rebates will not be awarded. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter.

Additional limitations may apply. ©2017 Hunter Douglas All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

MATTSON & MATTSON

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc.... since 1989

SF-1757799

n In a shaker, combine all

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

*Manufacturer's mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/17/17 - 4/10/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. For certain rebate eligible products, the purchase of multiple unitsSF-1749668 of such product is required to(100%) receive a rebate. If you purchase fewer units than the required multiple of the specific model and operating system, if any, described above, you will not be entitled to rebate;WALLCOVERINGS partial rebates will not & be BLIN awarded. PROOF Rebate willCREATED be issued inAT: the 10/19/2016 form of a prepaid 11:15:58 reward card AM and mailed within 6 weeks of ADVERTISER: M&M rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months after card issuance and each month thereafter.

SALES PERSON: SFSR01 NEXT RUN DATE: 10/20/16 Additional limitations may apply. ©2017 Hunter Douglas All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

SIZE: 3X5.25

SF-1757799

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:______________________ 4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Across from The Landings • Sarasota Area: 925-7800 • Lakewood Ranch: 925-9802 PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • mmwallcoveringsblinds.com SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

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

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________ PUBLICATION: SF-HERALD TRIBUNE PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:________________________

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

SF-1738904 (100%) SF-1757799 (100%)

ADVERTISER: M&M WALLCOVERINGS & BLIN PROOF CREATED AT: 7/20/2016 2:53:19 PM PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH ADVERTISER: M&M WALLCOVERINGS & BLIN PROOF CREATED AT: 1/19/2017 1:43:35 PM SALES PERSON: SFSR01 NEXT RUN DATE: 08/07/16 SALES PERSON: SFSR01 NEXT RUN DATE: 01/22/17 PLEASE ONLINE 15:59:55 SIZE: 2X5 READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS PROOF DUE: 07/20/16 SIZE: 3X5.25 PROOF DUE: 01/20/17 11:59:55 PUBLICATION: SF-STYLE MAG PUBLICATION: SF-HERALD TRIBUNE

CORRECTIONS BY:_____________

SF-1757799 (100%)

ADVERTISER: M&M WALLCOVERINGS & BLIN

PROOF CREATED AT: 1/19/2017 1:43:35 PM

SALES PERSON: SFSR01

NEXT RUN DATE: 01/22/17

DISCOVER

PROOF O.K. BY:___________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:_____________ SIZE: 3X5.25 PROOF DUE: 01/20/17 11:59:55 PUBLICATION: SF-HERALD TRIBUNECORRECTIONS ONLINE PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT

SF-1757799 (100%) ADVERTISER: & BLIN PROOF CREATED AT: 1/19/2017 1:43:35 PM Open Ever y Day – M&M 11AM WALLCOVERINGS WHAT’S ON RINGLING Happy 2-6PM SALESHour PERSON: SFSR01 NEXT RUN DATE: 01/22/17 UNDERGROUND (Monday-Friday) ASIA 11:59:55 UNDER THE BIG TOP SIZE: 3X5.25 PROOF DUE: 01/20/17 FEB 2, 8:00 – 11:00 PM MotorworksBrewing.com ON VIEW THROUGH FEB 13 PUBLICATION: SF-HERALD TRIBUNE College students Free with ID $15 / Free for Members Enjoy live music and check out up-and-coming artists displaying their artwork in the Museum of Art Courtyard.

Award-Winning Beers Live music Wine and cocktails Delicious food trucks Cornhole, bocce, putting green Massive projector screens

Featuring music by: • Hank & Cupcakes • The Jackettes • Spark Notes

DISCOVER MORE

ringling.org

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE: 1/29 - no music on sunDay 1 /31 - Ryan carney (rEggae) 2/1 - FrankiE Lombardi (BLueS)

941.358.3180 229143

1/26 - scoTT curTs (AcouSTIc/LoopER) 1/27 - GALBraiTH Group (prog/blues) 1 /28 - IpA Band (Rock/pop)

362 DAYS A YEAR!

Join us as we celebrate 80 years of service to our community as the premier visual arts center in Manatee County. Las Vegas-style fun under the Big Top including Black Jack, Craps, Slots, silent and live auctions, an open bar, gourmet cuisine by Pier 22, a DJ and dance floor. Don't gamble? Come for the fun while you support the education programs of ArtCenter Manatee. Complimentary valet parking.

\ \. � !

Special thanks to our sponsors: Hamilton Group, lsermann Family Foundation,• Herald Tribune Media Group, Johnson Photolmaging, Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, Raymond James, NOC Construction, Ted Camp, Margaret Kronus, CMS, Publix Charities, and Merrill Lynch.

229135

NEW STAGES: SEESAW FEB 17 & 18, 7:30 & 9:00 PM Stage-side Seating $30 / Courtyard $20 / Student $10 A spectacular one-of-a-kind performance event you won’t want to miss. Acrobatic theater artists in the air and on stilts inhabit an ever-changing environment of kinetic sculpture.

OPEN DAILY at 10 AM

Celebrating 80 years in the Visual Arts Feb 18, 2017 • 6:00-11:OOpm

Explore how stereotypes and fantasies of Asia played to American audiences under the Big Top through lithographs printed to advertise American circuses.

FOR TICKETS: 941.746.2862 or artcentermanatee.org I 209 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

S TAT E A R T M U S E U M O F F L O R I D A

| F L O R I D A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

223431

1014 9th St. W Bradenton, FL

12

REVIEWS

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

‘Sweet Charity’ lives hopefully ever after MARTY FUGATE

IF YOU GO

THEATER CRITIC

“Sweet Charity” celebrates the life of a relentlessly optimistic innocent at the Players Centre for Performing Arts.

The Tony Award-winning musical boasts a script by Neil Simon, music by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Dorothy Fields and original choreography by Bob Fosse. It’s an Americanized remake of Fellini’s “Nights of Cabiria”—substituting a taxi dancer with a heart of gold for a streetwalker with the same cardiac anomaly.

Charity Hope Valentine is the heroine’s improbable name. She’s poor, uneducated and living in the maledominated New York City of the “Mad Men” era. Her job description is basically: “Dance for money while being groped.” Charity doesn’t let it get her down—Hope is her middle name, after all. This hope fiend is still looking for love in all the wrong places.

Plot-wise, the musical is built like a picaresque novel — substituting a clueless innocent for a lovable rogue—a female Candide. Charity goes on a journey, bounces from situation to situation, and never changes. At the musical’s start, her freeloading boyfriend pushes her in a lake in Central Park and steals her life savings.

From there, the fickle finger of fate sends her to the Fandango

‘SWEET CHARITY’ When: Runs through Jan. 29 Where: The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $25 Info: Call 365-2494 or visit theplayers.org.

Cliff Roles

The Players’ production celebrates the relentlessly optimistic life of Charity Hope Valentine.

dance hall, an Italian movie star’s hotel room, a broken elevator, a hippy-dippy lifeforce cult, Coney Island, Times Square and right back into the lake — this time pushed by a nice-guy fiancé who doesn’t take her money but doesn’t want to marry her, either.

Charity emerges, dripping wet, and lives hopefully ever after.

The play hums along like a well-oiled machine under Helen Holliday’s direction. Its many moving parts all click — and never stop moving.

It’s a dance-heavy musical with a fun, Austin Powers vibe.

Choreographer Kelly Burnette adds her own spin to Fosse’s original choreography — snippets of 1960s dances like the frug, the swim and the watusi.

Jared E. Walker’s mod costume designs fit perfectly. Jeff Weber’s sets are creative and minimal. The songs, including “Big Spender,” “If My Friends Could See Me Now” and “There’s Gotta Be Something,” are burned on America’s playlist. The hard-charging,

backstage band does a great job blasting them out. As to the singing/dancing actors ...

Tahlia Byers, as Charity Hope, is a high-voltage, highkicking dancer and a fine physical comedian. (She’s excellent in the silent scene where she’s hiding out in the film director’s closet drinking a beer.) Byers wins the audience over with her 200-watt positive energy.

Dylan Jones follows in Peter Sellars’ chameleon footsteps in dual roles as Vittorio Vidal (the puffed-up Italian film star)

and Oscar (the claustrophobic nebbish who gets trapped with Charity on a lift). Jones gives each character a completely different body language, posture and vocal characterization. (If not for the program, I’d think they were two different actors.) Amanda Heisey and Jessie Tasetano are winning as Charity’s exploited co-workers. Great performances from the rest of the ensemble.

The musical’s a lot of fun, though it clashes with contemporary sensibilities. Charity’s many things, but feminist role model isn’t one of them. Men kick her when she’s down; she keeps smiling and hoping. But take heart …

I have it on good authority Charity got her act together after attending a consciousness-raising session in 1969.

She went on to launch her own series of pricey, self-help seminars in 1971, making her a rich woman. She retired to Longboat Key in 1987.

N O W P L AY I N G

Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Pain and Depression.

“Fast moving…

FASCINATING ”

— Jay Handelman, Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Pain and Depression.

NOW – APR 2

By ROBERT SCHENKKAN Directed By NICOLE A. WATSON Based on the original production

by BILL RAUCH

Enjoy LifE oncE AgAin.

CONTAINS STRONG LANGUAGE INCLUDING HISTORICAL David Breitbarth as George Wallace, and RACIAL EPITHETS, AS WELL AS MATURE THEMES. Matt DeCaro as Lyndon Johnson. Photo by Cliff Roles.

If you suffer from debilitating depression or other mood disorders and nothing seems to help…

it’s time to start feeling better.

Founded by Dr. Steven Reichbach, Gulf Coast Ketamine Center is the area’s only ketamine infusion center offering rapid relief and alleviation of: • Chronic pain • Severe depression • PTSD and other mood disorders • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) • Bipolar • Fibromyalgia • OCD

“A timely, almost

REVOLUTIONARY work ” — The Economist

Get relief in as little as one treatment. Call today to schedule a FRee consultation. noW oPEn!

NOW – MAR 7

By JOHN STRAND Directed By MOLLY SMITH

Ask about our discount for Veterans and their immediate family members.

CONTAINS MATURE LANGUAGE AND THEMES.

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE The Great Society Sponsors:

218785

FindPainRelief.com

asolorep.org 941.351.8000

Season Sponsors:

The Originalist Sponsors:

219663

941.213.4444 2415 University Parkway • University Health Park Medical Campus Building #3, Suite 215 • Sarasota, FL 34243

Edward Gero as Justice Antonin Scalia.

Photo by Cliff Roles.

ON THE FLIP SIDE: A+E All That Glass: Sarasota carves its niche in the world of studio glass.

Forks & Corks: Insider’s tips to wining and dining at this foodie favorite. 8

BLACK

YOUROBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

TIE

Sarasota Opera Gala:

‘A Japanese Affair’ Saturday, Jan. 21, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | Benefiting Sarasota Opera NIKI KOTTMANN BLACK TIE REPORTER

A

walk through The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota ballroom Jan. 21 was like a stroll through a blossoming Japanese garden. Paper lanterns in various shades of pink hung from the ceilings, and blush-colored flowers — none of which were actually cherry blossoms, however, because none could be found this time of year — adorned every table at the 2017 Opera Gala: “A Japanese Affair.” The event was themed after the opera’s upcoming production, “Madama Butterfly.”

Guests sipped on their Cherry Blossom Saketini signature cocktails while bidding on silent auction items and rubbing elbows with other opera-lovers during cocktail hour. Afterwards, they adjourned to the ballroom for performances by Sarasota Opera principal artists Joanna Parisi and Antonio Coriano.

A four-course dinner and dancing followed as guests enjoyed the sounds of Scott Blum Band. SEE PAGE 2

PITCH PERFECT

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Left: Co-Chairwomen Edie Chaifetz and Sandra Lindqvist Below: Pat Maggier, Jonathan Coleman and Dorothy Lawrence

Mike and Lynda Matash Joe and Jean Volpe

Joanna Parisi, an internationally renowed operatic spinto soprano, performed multiple works as her current role of Madama Butterfly in the Sarasota Opera’s production of the same name. Tenor Antonio Coriano also performed.

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

FROM PAGE 1

DANCE ’TIL YOU DROP

Alice Nelson and Susan Lawrence

Dr. Ed Williams and Nancy Hewett were just a few of many pairs who took to the dance floor seemingly moments after the ballroom doors opened. Scott Blum Band was jamming before programming started, so attendees took the opportunity before the opera performances began.

‘CHERRY BLOSSOM’ LANE

The centerpieces, by Becky Creighton of Flowers by Fudgie, were so tall they had to be assembled on-site.

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Above: Adam and Jamie Still with Dawn Jacobson and Jason Voss Left: Inna Snyder and Maria Agostino

WHERE WILL YOU

TAKE US THIS YEAR?

Pack a copy of your Observer on your travels this year and take fun shots to share with us!

Submit your photos online YourObserver.com/ItsReadEverywhere

ALT

or via Instagram with #itsreadeverywhere

EZ VACATIONS

for a chance to win a 1 week stay in a boutique Altez Vacations home plus a $1000 travel voucher!

D I A M O N D S TA N DA R D Q UA L I T Y

ENHANCING YOUR VACATION EXPERIENCE

Altez Vacations specializes in the promotion & operation of vacation homes for vacation home owners, and the creation of personalized vacation experiences for our guests. Altez Vacations applies luxury hotel operational principles & practices to the dynamic world of vacation home rentals. Call or send us inquiry today!

BE A GUEST

BE AN OWNER

AltezVacations.com | Reservations@altezvacations.com | 941-349-9580 |

BRING YOUR OBSERVER

/altezvacations

228496

2

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

BLACK TIE STAFF

The spirit of giving

TIE

Representatives from 46 philanthropic organizations gathered Jan. 19 at the new Michael Saunders & Co. building on Main Street to receive a major gift from the Michael Saunders & Co. Foundation. Michael Saunders, Drayton Saunders and several other staff members and associates gave out $46,200 to the nearly four dozen organizations in attendance, ranging from the Easter Seals of Southwest Florida Inc. to Florida Veterans for Common Sense Fund Inc. The MSC Foundation has donated $401,380 to 135 local nonprofits and other charitable organizations since April 2011.

Photo by The Fancy Booth

Monica Kelly, Kelsey Alholm and Felicia McDermott.

Tidbits Photo by Cliff Roles

Forty-six philanthropic organizations gathered with various Michael Saunders & Co. employees at the new Michael Saunders & Co. building Jan. 19.

Into the limelight

Photo by Niki Kottmann

Terry Stottlemyer, Allison Stottlemyer, speaker Seth Stottlemyer and John Laskey

226890

3

BLACK

BLACK TIE & TALES

|

You’d think he was born with a microphone in his hand. But exactly the opposite was true of Seth Stottlemyer, the speaker featured at Lunch in the Gardens: “Vertically Inclined” on Jan. 20. Stottlemyer made his debut as a public speaker last week at the second installment of the lunch and lecture series at Michael’s on the Bay at Selby Gardens. He delighted and charmed his audience of about 150 garden lovers with tales of his youth, his career path and his passion for all things horticultural, all while teaching attendees how to grow vertical gardens to make the best of minimal green space. The next luncheon will be held April 19.

Who tells your story We’ve had an impressive array of speakers at the various luncheons we’ve covered this month, ranging from Bella Meyer (Marc Chagall’s granddaughter) at the Lions of Judah and Pomegranate Luncheon to Israel Museum Director James Snyder at the Selby Chairman’s Circle Dinner, and the trend continued this week at the Muse Luncheon on Jan. 17. Artistic Director of New York’s Public Theatre Oskar Eustis spoke about his time helping develop the musical “Hamilton.”

Ritzy and glitzy … Employees of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota recently got a break from working the various galas that are held at their workplace during season to celebrate themselves and all that they do for one of Sarasota’s most cherished event venues.

The Ritz Employee Gala was held on Jan. 22, and Felicia McDermott, Kelsey Alholm and Monica Kelly were spotted enjoying the photo booth ... An artful evening … The committee behind the 2017 Unconditional Love Gala announced the event’s theme at the Animal Rescue Coalition Patron Reception on Jan. 19 at Michael’s Wine Cellar. This year’s gala will be on Feb. 18, and the theme is Andy Warhol. It will feature plenty of “twists and turns,” organizers say, and we’re guessing some avant-garde gowns as well.

4

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Women in Power Luncheon Wednesday, Jan. 18, at Michael’s On East Benefiting the National Council of Jewish Women Sarasota-Manatee

Chairwoman Geri Serot, Dee Newberry and Nicci Kobritz

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Honorees KT Curran, Bunny Skirboll, Dr. Lisa Merritt and Sue Jacobson Left: Sandra Rifkin, Mort Skirboll and Judy Gelman

Gerri Aaron and Brian Lipton

THE CUTEST COUPLE WINS! Do you know the cutest couple?

Submit your photo of your favorite cuddly couple. Young, Old, Furry, Funny or Fabulous, we want to see them all. Be creative. We want to see what makes this couple cute.

Enter for your chance to win (2) 6 month memberships to Massage Envy.

GO TO yourobserver.com/cutestcouple

PERFECT GIFTS. NO STRESS. Jan. 23 - Feb. 14

-FREE-

25

$

PROMO CARD*

228497

WHEN YOU BUY $100 IN GIFT CARDS

-FREE-

50

$

PROMO CARD*

WHEN YOU BUY $150 IN GIFT CARDS

SARASOTA SOUTH | 4055 Clark Rd. | 941.927.6200 MIDTOWN | 1279 S. Tamiami Trail | 941.308.7600 SARASOTA NORTH | 2855 University Pkwy. | 941.556.6400 M-F 8a-10p | S 9a-8p | Su 9a-8p

*Offer ends 02/14/2017. Gift cards must be purchased a a Massage Envy franchised location. Offer is not valid online, from a third-party retailer, or for previous purchases. Minimum $100 transaction for a $25 Promotional Card or $150 per transaction for a $50 Promotional Card. Gift cards are not redeemable or refundable for cash or credit except where required by law. Promotional Cards expire on 05/31/2017, and are subject to restrictions on use (See Promotional Card for details.) Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. For a specific list of services, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2016 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC. MM#34107

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

BLACK

he l f t hel orld o e s w On gest the r la s in ow sh

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

5

2017 shell show

Sarasota Shell Club presents

Fri. Feb 3, 12:30 - 5 | Sat. Feb 4, 10 - 5 | Sun. Feb 5, 10 - 4

228788

BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION CENTER

FREE shells with $5 admission Kids under 12 FREE Students ages 12-18 $2.50

Scientific & Artistic Exhibits, Exotic & Rare Shells, Shell Crafts, Programs for Kids & Much More!

sarasotashellclub.com

TIE Try our NEW Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

213347

Fresh, Flavorful and Fast!

Paul Tarantino and Steve Martin

5405 University Parkway - Bradenton, FL 34201 | 941.351.1210 | newks.com

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

Be The One

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

Call us today, (941) 955-3000.

227620

229104

cfsarasota.org

6

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Opening night of ‘The Originalist’ Friday, Jan. 20, at FSU Center for the Performing Arts | Benefiting The Asolo Repertory Theatre

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Maurice Richards, Jack Kesler and Asolo Board President Larry Haspel

Julie Gerety and Marc Karn

Left: Scott Guinn and Susan Dweck Above: Special Events Manager Laura Stuart Wood picked court-themed décor for “The Originalist” opening night dinner Jan. 20.

of

Asolo Artistic Director Michael Edwards, Molly Smith and laywright John Strand

highlights from the collec tion

THE VIOLINS

These are two of the 16 violins that will be featured in Sarasota-Manatee

HOPE MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2017 AT 7:00pm

A Conversation with Amnon Weinstein and James Grymes

Sponsor – Jewish National Fund Amnon Weinstein and James A. Grymes, author of “Violins of Hope,” will explore the complex role that the Violins of Hope played during the Holocaust. Audiences will have an opportunity to hear a violin played by alumni from the Perlman Music Program/Suncoast.

Riverview Performing Arts Center 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL $12.50 in advance or $15.00 day of event THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017 AT 7:30pm

Celebration of Jewish Broadway The Feivel Wininger violin The morpurgo violin A few years ago, a lovely 90-something year old lady and her three daughters came to Amnon’s workshop in Tel Aviv.

Signora Morpurgo and her daughters brought in the muchtreasured violin of Gualtiero Morpurgo, the head of the family from Milan, Italy, an ancient and respected Jewish family. When still a young child, Gualtiero’s mother handed him a violin and said: “You may not become a famous violinist, but the music will help you in desperate moments of life, and will widen your horizons. Do not give up; sooner or later it will prove me right.” That moment arrived without warning. Gualtiero’s mother was forced to board the first train headed to Auschwitz. Her son, Gualtiero, was sent to a forced labor camp and, loyal to his mother, he took the violin along and often found hope and strength while playing. He finally stopped playing at the age of 92.

Feivel Wininger lived in Romania when his village was deported to Transistria. Feivel was offered an Amati violin by a former judge, who offered food to Feivel in exchange for a performance. One day an officer seized Feivel’s violin, forcing him to choose between the violin and his family. After giving up the violin, he could no longer play for the festivities of the peasants in the village.

With the help of a peasant, he was able to purchase another violin. By playing, Feivel managed to save his family and others. Many years after coming to Israel, Feivel asked his daughter to have his violin repaired so he could play it again. After hearing the story, Amnon Weinstein repaired the violin so Feivel could once again play. The violin has been part of the collection for the past few years, being played in concerts all around the world, telling the story of Feivel and his family.

227725

Violins of Hope Sponsor: The Mazur Family Fund; Music Sponsor: Betty Schoenbaum; Lead Corporate Sponsor: ; Federation Torch Sponsors: David and Edie Chaifetz, Leon R. and Margaret M. Ellin Foundation, Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative, Lois Stulberg; Gold Sponsors: Kates Foundation, Joan and Bartram Levenson, Susi and Jack Steenbarger, Nancy and Ray Swart; Silver Sponsors: Anonymous, Gerry Daniel, Len and Helen Glaser, Ilene and Michael Fox, Pria E. Harmon, Susi and Jack Steenbarger, Bryna and Howard Tevlowitz; Bronze Sponsors: The Ackerman Group, Aviva: A Campus for Senior Life, Jewish National Fund, Bradenton Herald, Udell Associates, WUSF Public Media; Hospitality Sponsor: Hyatt Regency Sarasota; Media Partners: The Observer Media Group, SCENE Magazine.

Sponsored by JCC Association’s Making Music Happen Centennial Grant Initiative, funded by a grant from Marvin J. Pertzik and the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation.

Sponsor – Bradenton Herald The Presidential String Quartet of State College of Florida with featured soloist Neyce Pierre of the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe will perform selections from Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, Harold Arlen and others.

The Neel Performing Arts Center at State College of Florida 5840 26th St. West, Bradenton, FL $10.00 in advance or $15.00 day of event MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2017 AT 7:00pm

Music and the Eternal Spirit

Sponsor – Robert and Esther Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative Audiences will have the opportunity to hear the Violins of Hope

featuring the music of Beethoven, Shostakovich and others.

Performed by Perlman Music Program/Suncoast Alumni.

First United Methodist Church

104 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL $12.50 in advance or $15.00 day of event

For a complete list of Violins of Hope events, or to purchase tickets, visit JFEDSRQ.ORG/violins-of-hope or call 1.866.465.3995

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

7

Lunch in the Gardens: Vertically Inclined Friday, Jan. 20, at Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the Bay at Selby Gardens Benefiting Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Co-Chairwomen Emily Walsh and Molly Schechter

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Julie Smith, Umbreen Khalidi-Majeed and Monique Paterson

Clare Segall and Margie Barancik Lera Juno and Phyllis Kirtley

224113

Jaya Velliky, Anna Foster and Teri Hansen

8

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

TOAST TO THE MOST Uncork a few insider tips to get the most out of the Forks & Corks Grand Tasting experience.

NIKI KOTTMANN

BEST IN SHOW Klauber’s No. 1 piece of advice is to do your homework — and don’t overlook the medal winners.

Every December, the Originals hosts a panel of 16 professional wine judges who review all the wines that will be featured at the upcoming festival and then give out Best in Show, bronze, silver and gold medals. Klauber notes that it’s impossible to taste every wine at the event, so one plan of attack is to seek out the medal winners. However, there are 98 of them, so maybe stick to “Best in Show” and “Gold.”

BLACK TIE REPORTER

I

227791

t’s the perfect storm for any food-and-wine aficionado: 1,500 attendees, 85 wineries and 46 restaurants all at one event.

The Forks & Corks Grand Tasting takes place Jan. 29, and it’s time for anyone lucky enough to snag a ticket to start preparing. The Sarasota-Manatee Originals event sold out in just two minutes this year, and organizers have been working for nearly nine months to ensure the 10th anniversary of this highly anticipated food and wine festival lives up to the hype.

Michael Klauber, event founder and cochairman, took some time to share his advice for first-timers and veterans alike. From where to start, to how to pair your drink with your dish, here are a few tips to help you Fork and Cork like a pro.

STOP AND SMELL THE ROSÉ Klauber says the biggest aspect of wine tasting that attendees miss out on is the bouquet — or the smell of the chemical reaction that results from fermentation of grapes in the winemaking process.

He says it’s not possible to fully smell the wine unless the bridge of your nose is touching the top of the glass, so go ahead, it’s socially acceptable to stick your face in there.

He encourages attendees to smell their wine and pay attention to how long the taste lingers to get the full tasting experience.

“You’re going to taste sweet-

MARK YOUR TERRITORY

If you’re not as interested in award winners, Klauber suggests sampling by region. With winemakers attending from California, Oregon, Washington, Argentina, Italy, South Africa, Hungary and France, there’s no shortage of variety, so decide which area of the world you want to teleport your tastebuds and get moving.

Klauber notes that because there is limited seating in the courtyard of the museum, guests who want a table should get there early to stake their claim. He also recommends stocking up with multiple plates to bring back to your coveted spot so you don’t have to go back and forth.

If you’re OK standing and want to miss the rush, Klauber says that about 45 minutes after the event starts, the entrance is less crowded, so plan to get there either before noon or around 12:45 p.m.

ness on the tip of your tongue and acidity on the sides, and really what you do is think about how long the flavor lasts,” he says. “The better the wine, the longer the finish is going to be.”

USE YOUR RESOURCES This is a tasting and a retail event, so the setup is meant for both. Therefore, Klauber says to remember that when tasting, the spit bucket on every table is your friend, and there’s always a pitcher of water to rinse your glass before you move on to your next winemaker booth.

If you like what you taste, he reminds attendees that they can go to the retail tent, buy some of their favorite bottles, and valet attendants will then load their purchases into their car. Don’t put wine in the trunk, however, because Klauber says the heat can hurt the taste. Opt for the back seat.

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

9

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

File Photos

Selling out in minutes each year, the Grand Tasting fills the Ringling Museum courtyard.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is one of the most beloved symbols of Sarasota — and you get to drink in it. Bring the party inside (but not your glass) and enjoy the museum for free with your Grand Tasting ticket. You’ll feel cultured and less guilty for those last few glasses.

COLOR COORDINATION RED WINES

WHITE WINES The Grand Tasting comprises about 2/3 red and 1/3 white wines, Klauber says, and he recommends sticking to whites first.

His reasoning is that white wines are lighter, therefore best paired with light foods that won’t fill you up early on. His go-to food pairing for whites are any sort of seafood dish, so grab your glass and head to Mar Vista, Ophelia's on the Bay, Sandbar Restaurant, Siesta Key Oyster Bar, Lobster Pot or any other food station with fresh catches.

Looking for a white to start with? The 2014 Rombauer Vineyards Chardonnay from the Napa Valley area of California won best in show for the white wine group this year, so you can’t go wrong.

228852

Klauber notes there is a strong group of red wines offered this year, especially from France and Italy. If you bleed red, white and blue and want to stick to domestics, grab a glass of Best in Show red winner 2012 Alexander Valley Vineyards Bordeaux blend Cyrus from the Alexander Valley in California. Glass in hand, head to Primo!

Ristorante, Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse, Amore Restaurant, Miguel’s Restaurant or any other steakhouse or Italian food station to get a hearty bite to perfectly complement the red.

Klauber says that even within the red wine category there is a large variety of wines that will pair best with very different types of food.

SPARCC’s Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon Thursday, February 16, 2017 The Ritz Carlton Sarasota | 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive

$25 Per Person

Tickets at DesignerShowhouseSarasota.com Group Tours Available 941-780-1790 22nd ANNUAL

BAY 15A698

Fashion Is Architecture Honoring Multi-Award Winning Architect Guy Peterson

Jan. 22-Feb. 19 Mon. - Sat. 10 to 4 Sun. 12 to 4 8834 Fishermen’s Bay Dr. Sarasota, FL

9:30 AM | Check In and Fashion Boutique Shopping 11:30 AM | Luncheon & Fashion Show

Special Thanks to our 2017 Sponsors

$125 per person RSVP by February 10, 2017 www.sparcc.net

Raymond Williams, TheRayWilliamsGroup.com • International Design Source Observer Media Group • N2 Publishing • Spotlight Graphics

SPARCC’s mission is to stop domestic and sexual violence in our communities.

Benefitting

www.DesignerShowhouseSarasota.com

226709

OF SARASOTA COUNTY

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL FREE WITHIN FLORIDA 1-800-435-7352 OR WWW.FRESHFROMFLORIDA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION NUMBER CH580 226085 226085

10

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

The Muse Luncheon Tuesday, Jan. 17, at Michael’s On East Benefiting the Hermitage Artist Retreat

Tom Koski, Beverly Koski and Patricia Caswell

Photos by Niki Kottmann

Hermitage Artist Retreat Executive Director Bruce Rodgers and Chairwoman Debbi Benedict

Nicole Mei and Denise Mei

Jenni and Mario Messina Charlie Huisking with Myrna and John Welch

MASTERWORKS:

TCHAIKOVSKY TO TÜÜR FEBRUARY 2 - Neel Performing Arts Center FEBRUARY 3-5 - Van Wezel

Anu Tali, Music Director | Simon Trpčeski, piano TCHAIKOVSKY - Mélodie from Souvenir d’un lieu cher ERKKI-SVEN TÜÜR - Symphony No. 6 (Strata) TCHAIKOVSKY - Piano Concerto No. 1 The first grand notes of Tchaikovsky’s herculean piano concerto signals this work is a stirring tour de force, performed by renowned pianist Simon Trpčeski. Also hear American premiere of Tüür’s Symphony, composed for Anu Tali.

“LOVELY

[TRPCESKI] OFFERED A SERIES OF

MODULATIONS DROPPED LIKE ROSEBUDS BLOOMING INTO FLOWERS… TECHNICALLY BUT ALSO

IMMACULATE

SENSITIVELY VEILED.” - EVENING STANDARD OF LONDON

Tickets from $33

SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434 229218

TM

The Observer

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

|

11

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

BLACK

ARC Patrons Reception Thursday, Jan. 19, at Michael’s Wine Cellar Animal Rescue Coalition

TIE

Above: Lauren Hughey and Chris Lail Right: Larry and Carol English

Phtoos by Niki Kottmann

Elisabeth Waters with Co-Chairwomen Tatyana Stewart and Shelley Sarbey

Donna Koffman, Graci McGillicuddy and Tammy Karp

TightSculpting

®

for Neck and Body 4DLaser Facelift®

The Top International Fotona Laser & Aesthetic Award Winner of 2016 Botox / Dysport / Xeomin • Radiesse+ • Restylane Lyft / Silk Juvederm+ / Voluma • Kybella • Human Growth Factor • Latisse

Rita Altman, PA, MPAS Aesthetic Medicine

216919

Emory University Trained • 30 Years Experience • National Trainer • Top Injector U.S.

219173

CALL NOW for a FREE consultation

2161 Siesta Dr., Sarasota (across from Southgate Mall) 941.951.2161 www.ritamedicalelite.com

CUSTOM DESIGN & REUPHOLSTERY

B2End 2015 Gray Bkg.:Layout 1 11/9/15 8:18 PM Page 1

Sarasota Concert Association • 2017

“Our dedication to design leaves our customers knowing us by name”

Bringing You World Renowned Musicians

Concept to Creation Call us today for an in-home consultation or visit our showroom.

National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine Monday, January 30 • 7:30 p.m.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Gallery Dealer

Theodore Kuchar, conductor • Alexei Grynyuk, piano Dvořák, Carnival Overture

Schumann, Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 54

Shostakovich, Symphony No. 5 in D Minor, Op. 47

wusf Public Media

941-225-6500 www.scasarasota.org

Beginning to End Interiors & Blinds 229147

217914

Single Tickets & Subscriptions

941.924.4481 www.B2END.com 4453 Ashton Unitw C / Sarasota, FLm/ 34233 9 4 1 . 9 2Road 4 . 4 4 8/ 1 w w.

B 2 E N D. co 4453 Ashton Road / Unit C / Sarasota, FL / 34233 WCAA & IDS MEMBERS

Stan Writesel

Alan Gravley

12

BLACK TIE

|

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

JUST MARRIED

NIKI KOTTMANN BLACK TIE REPORTER

The story begins with a familiar plot. It’s the 1980s, and a teenage girl growing up in a Virginia suburb has her eyes set on the captain of the high school football team, but the crush never amounts to anything. He continues walking the halls with his cheerleader girlfriend, while our main character admired from afar.

Fast forward two decades, and thus begins the first chapter of Kiki Steinberg and Trent Bowers’ love story.

She was living on Siesta Key in 2013 and planning to run the Gulf Coast Triathlon in Panama City, when a high school friend told her Trent was also competing. The two reconnected and won the relay division together.

Their romance quickly progressed and the two started a long-distance relationship while Trent was living in Cumming, Ga., where they live now with his son, Tristan.

THE PROPOSAL

On Jan. 1, 2016, after two years of dating long distance, Trent proposed. He had the ring for three months, but wanted to wait to be on Siesta Key Beach, where they fell in love.

After a filling meal at Café Gabbiano, Trent made Kiki walk the beach — much to her dismay, because all she wanted to do was “get in yoga pants and watch TV.” He told her she was the best woman he’d ever met, then asked her to marry him.

THE WEDDING

Kiki says she wanted a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

“With a lot of weddings, people are so worried about what color napkin it is,” she says. “We both like to party and have fun, and we wanted a huge celebration with all the friends and family who we love to death.”

This is evident when recounting their favorite moments from their Dec. 3 wedding at the Bay Preserve at Osprey. For Trent, turning around after the first kiss to see all their guests for the first time as a married couple was unforgettable.

For Kiki, the most special moment was when her father got out of his wheelchair and walked her down the aisle.

The night ended with a cigar and bourbon bar and late night after-party at Evie’s at Spanish Point Restaurant & Tiki Bar. The couple called it an unforgettable end to the day, and an appropriate location because of the lack of noise ordinance.

KIKI AND

TRENT

Photos by Joe Lutz

THE DETAILS Parents: Joe and Harriot Lutz and Col. William Steinberg and Marie-Claire Steinberg Rehearsal location: The same patio at Cafe Gabbiano where they had dinner the night of the engagement Wedding location: Bay Preserve at Osprey After party location: Evie’s at Spanish Point Restaurant and Tiki Bar Honeymoon location: St. Regis, Puerto Rico First dance song: “I love you” by Climax Blues Band DJ: Fitz Otis (Jay Goodley entertainment) Photography: Joe Lutz, father of the groom Floral design: Diane at Elegant Designs Floral Art Studio — orchids, wild flowers, succulents, and a wedding arch Cake: Naked Giraffe Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne Hair: Marmalade Salon Dress: BHLDN by Anthropologie Fondest Memory: “Celebrating and partying with all our friends and loved ones from Wednesday to Monday. That’s a long five-night party at our age,” Kiki says.

219719

3979 SOUTH TAMIAMI TRAIL | (941) DIAMOND | DIAMONDVAULTJEWELERS.COM

Where Sarasota Gets Engaged™