ON THE FLIP SIDE: A+E Lasting Legacy: Opera employees celebrate 20 years. Forks & Corks: Uncork the foodie festivities at The Ringling.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
2017 Circus Arts Gala
Birthday
Bash!
Saturday, Jan. 28, under the Ulla Searing Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park | Benefiting Circus Arts Conservatory NIKI KOTTMANN | BLACK TIE REPORTER
T
here’s something inexplicably magical about a performance that begins with the words “ladies and gentlemen.” The moment that phrase thundered through the speakers at the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park, the announcer had the entire crowd’s attention. Everyone knew they were in for a spectacle that would transport them to an older time, with a show that has the power to uplift and inspire. What followed was a series of performances that reminded audience members that, despite the recent end to The Greatest Show on Earth, the circus is alive and well in Sarasota, and it’s here to stay. PAGE 2
Photod by Niki Kottmann
Members of Sailor Circus perform an adagio routine.
Circus Arts Conservatory held its annual gala Jan. 28, to celebrate its 20th anniversary.
Julie Donnelly and Soumya Kona
CLOWNING AROUND Circus Arts Conservatory Co-Founders Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacobs-Reis
Guests were told to wear polka dots or stripes, but many attendees, such as Peggy and Ken Abt, took their ensembles to the next level, putting on their own show.