Diversions 1.23.14

Diversions YourObserver.com

A&E

Backstage Pass: Winter opera season PAGE 8

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

HOME

Three Things: Beach living on Siesta Key PAGE 12

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT | ONE OF THREE

BLACK TIE Town Hall Platinum Dinner PAGE 15

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Photo by Mallory Gnaegy

Peggy Roeder (Sonia), Anne-Marie Cusson (Masha) and Andrew Sellon (Vanya)

ALL IN THE

FAMILY The three actors who play siblings in ‘Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’ have dealt with their own sibling rivalries.

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

2

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: ONE OF THREE

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor (continued from page 1)

ALL IN THE FAMILY The three actors who play siblings in ‘Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’ have dealt with their own sibling rivalries.

M

Photo by Frank Atura

Peggy Roeder is in her fourth season at Asolo Rep; Anne-Marie Cusson is in her first season; and Andrew Sellon is in his first season.

uch like the middleaged siblings the three actors portray in Asolo Repertory Theatre’s upcoming performance, these actors just so happen to come from large families.

Andrew Sellon (playing Vanya) is the youngest of four; Peggy Roeder (playing Sonia) has three brothers and three sisters; and Anne-Marie Cusson (playing Masha) is one of five siblings.

They can relate to both the competitive and loving relationships presented in “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” the play by comedic absurdist playwright Christopher Durang, who won his first Tony award for the clever comedy.

The quick synopsis: Unemployed, middle-aged siblings

Anniversary Celebration…

Discover What Makes Sarasota Bay Club So Different!

SAve then SoAr!

Sarasota Bay Club offers outstanding services and amenities that are personalized to fit your lifestyle. From complimentary valet parking to fine dining on chef prepared meals, the freedom to design the ideal retirement lifestyle is all yours.

Sarasota Bay Club ownership is carefree, with all maintenance included, and complete health care & rehabilitation services conveniently located on-site.

z

“I moved to Sarasota Bay Club to take advantage of the many personalized services, and my concerns are now few because the staff takes care of everything extremely well. Living here has freed me up to enjoy life more!”

-year !

1 r u o enjoy ary special rs annive

Bob Wagner

Sarasota Bay Club Resident

20% OFF* with coupon

z

code TREANV1 on adventures booked for January 12th – 31st! > Fun for Everyone Age 7 to 87 > Hanging nets ~ wobbly bridges ~ tarzan ropes > 650-Foot-Long ZIP Line > 5 Courses, Beginner to Extreme

Full-Service Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay

Ask about gift certificates and annual passes.

Call To Attend Our Luncheon & Tour February 6th!

11:30 am – 1:00 pm. RSVP (941) 552-3284. Space Is Limited.

Reservations recommended.

Visit TreeUmph.com or call 941-322-2130 to book your adventure today.

Join us for lunch and discover the value Sarasota Bay Club has to offer.

Please Call To Attend Our Luncheon Event Or Schedule Your Personal Tour Today!

Linda Ware or Dana Moe (941) 552-3284

TreeUmph! Adventure Course > The Ground Is Overrated 21805 S.R. 70 East > Just 10 minutes east of I-75 in Bradenton 941-322-2130 > Toll-free 855-322-2130

131287

or military discounted tickets. Reservations MUST be booked for January 12 to 31, 2014.

131393

1301 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236 (941) 366-7667 • www.SarasotaBayClub.com

*Discount only valid on regular-priced tickets. Not applicable with early bird, gift certificates

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

3

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Inside the actors’ studio Where is home originally, and where are you based?

architecture … ” Roeder: “I play 16-inch softball and Frisbee. I love to read, do yoga and quilt.”

Anne-Marie Cusson: Originally New Hampshire. Currently based in New York.

Peggy Roeder: Originally from and currently based in Chicago.

d Peggy Roe

e Cusson

Andrew Sellon: Originally from Belmont, Mass. Currently based in Yonkers, N.Y.

Sellon: “I’m very much into photography and gardening. I love taking photographs of plants, and I also like Celtic music.”

What are your interests and hobbies outside of acting?

What is the strangest thing on your résumé?

Cusson: “I love dipping into whatever New York City has to offer. I walk. I love to read. I love to wander around and look at

Cusson: “I actually used to have wild-turkey call on my resume … Years later at an outdoor wedding beyond the fence there

Vanya and Sonia live in their deceased parents’ home where they grew up in Bucks County, Penn. The dependent duo’s only source of income is from their movie-star sister, Masha, who returns home with her younger, self-absorbed, good-looking, half-naked boyfriend, Spike (played by Jefferson McDonald).

Sonia is adopted. Vanya is gay and also the peacemaker between his sisters. Masha is the caretaker who owns the family home. Also thrown into the mix is the pretty young neighbor’s niece and the cleaning lady/ prophet, Cassandra. Talk about a rich breeding ground for drama.

All three of the actors can relate. They discuss their own family histories between rehearsals in the lobby of FSU Center for

the Performing Arts.

“Every day is a rivalry,” Cusson says of being in a family with lots of children.

The trio laughs and reminisces about how they are all guilty of building alliances among siblings, and how quick and easy it is to change sides. They talk about how two siblings might ban together and take their grievances of another sibling to the judge — mom. They share stories. Roeder once tried to cheat her sister out of an allowance because Roeder did all the cleaning and felt entitled to both allowances. Sellon talks about how he always fought the most with the sister with whom he’s closest.

But, more relevant to the plot of the play is how these sibling

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

er

Anne -Mari

Andrew Sellon

about yourself?

was a pack of turkeys. I made the sound, and they all came running toward me. It was very dramatic.”

Cusson: “I can be shy.”

Roeder: “I wanted to be a nun in grade school.”

Roeder: “I’ve taken pole-dancing classes. I can pole dance.”

Sellon: “When I was a freshman in high school, I was cast as a bully in a skinny-dipping scene with a young actress named Brooke Shields, who was about 8 years old at the time. The film was never made, but that would have been my movie debut.”

Sellon: “I’ve flown in a singlepoint harness — the same thing Peter Pan uses … I can fly.”

What is a lesser-known fact relationships change into adulthood.

The idea that these are three middle-aged orphans particularly resonates with Sellon, who thinks relationships among siblings change when the people at the top of the family tree are no longer there to hold them together. Discovering these new relationships is something he’s dealt with personally.

But, all three actors agree that even adults without siblings will find their own connection to the play because of the common themes. The play is about connections not just among siblings, but also relationships across generations. There are themes of communication and technology’s effect on how people connect or fail to connect; of

aging and aging relationships; of finding purpose; of facing fears.

Sellon’s synopsis is poignant.

“This play is about human connections and how hard they can be sometimes,” he says.

IF YOU GO ‘Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike’ When: Opens 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24. Runs through April 14.

Where: Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Cost: Tickets are $21 to $76 Info: Call 351-8000 or visit asolorep.org

Photo by Frank Atura

Leaving little to the imagination Jefferson McDonald, who plays Spike, was featured in a New York Times article Jan. 9, “Vanya and Sonia and Abs and Pecs.” The writer talks to the actors who play Spike around the country, particularly focusing on the shirtless nature of the role.

So, how are McDonald’s abs?

“I guess they look great,” says Peggy Roeder, who sees McDonald as more of a son after spending three seasons acting with him.

Andrew Sellon is sure they are great. As does Anne-Marie Cusson, who says: “If you’re going to ask me about his abs, you’re going to have to ask me about the top to toe of our Spike — they’re great!,” she says with a laugh. “It’s a pleasure to be in his proximity.”

When you want a fresh and natural look with Botox® or cosmetic fillers, think about the person holding the syringe.

Consider her training, experience, skills and creativity.

The least expensive price is not always the best deal.

Elizabeth F. Callahan, MD is: • Cleveland and Mayo Clinics Trained • Board Certified Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon • Platinum Botox® Injector • Injector Trainer for Botox®, Dysport®, Restylane® and Juvederm®

3979 SOUTH TAMIAMI TRAIL

| (941) DIAMOND | DIAMONDVAULTJEWELERS.COM

GIA Cer tified Diamonds | Engagement Rings | Fine Swiss Watches | Custom Design Private Estate Purchasing | Full-Service Repair

941.308.7546

127084

SkinSmartDermatology.com

129121

5911 N. Honore Ave. Suite 210 Sarasota, Florida 34243

4

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR

A&E EDITOR WEEKEND PICKS THURSDAY, JAN. 23

Musical Morning Sarasota Orchestra Association 10 a.m. at Venice Yacht Club Tickets $25. Visit SOAssociation.org.

Music by the Parisian Masters 6 p.m. at The Church of the Redeemer Free. Call 955-4263.

Patricia Averbach, author of ‘Painting Bridges’ 6 p.m. at Bookstore1Sarasota Free. Call 365-7900.

New Stages: Meklit Hadero 7:30 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater Runs through Saturday.

Tickets $30. Call 359-5700.

FRIDAY, JAN. 24

Pops Series: ‘Broadway Bound’ Sarasota Orchestra ft.

Gloria Musicae.

ART

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

BOOKS

MUSIC

FOOD/DRINK

FRAMES

THEATER

8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Runs through Sunday.

Tickets $32 to $69. Call 953-3434.

SATURDAY, JAN. 25

“FLIGHT OF ICARUS”

BY DAVID STEINER MEDIUM

‘You Oughta Be in Pictures’ 8 p.m. at The Glenridge Performing Arts Center Tickets $22.50. Call 552-5325.

ON DISPLAY ...

Forks and Corks: The Grand Tasting The Sarasota-Manatee Originals.

Noon at The Ringling Museum Courtyard. Visit dineoriginal.com.

Dave Bennett Quartet Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota 2 and 7:30 p.m. at Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center.

Tickets $35 to $45. Call 3061202.

‘Circus Time’ Suncoast Concert Band 3 p.m. at Church of the Palms.

Tickets $5. Call 907-4123.

Orchestra’s Pop Series concert “Broadway Bound”

HOMETOWN: St. Petersburg Courtesy photos

IF YOU COULD BE ANYTHING OTHER THAN A MUSICIAN: I would

‘Superior Donuts’ runs through Jan. 26, at Manatee Performing Arts Center.

Mixed media — copper, muslin, wood and wax (8-foot-by-8-foot)

‘Murder at the Crosley’ runs through Jan. 31, at the Powel Crosley Theatre.

Through March 1, at State of the Arts Gallery, 1525 State St. “Several years ago I came across those wings at Sarasota Architectural Salvage. I thought they were so cool-looking, and I put them in my studio for a year or more and I was trying to figure out what to do with them…

I came across the Greek mythol-

‘Cannolis, Latkis and Guilt’ 7 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Call 953-3368.

The Capitol Steps 8 p.m. at Venice Theatre Tickets $47. Call 488-1115.

PERFORMER SPOTLIGHT: BRAD WILLIAMS, PRINCIPAL TROMBONE PERFORMANCE: Sarasota

‘The Mystery of Edwin Drood’ runs through Jan. 26, at Manatee Performing Arts Center.

P

11th annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival 10 a.m. at St. Armands Circle Park Free. Visit artfestival.com

SUNDAY, JAN. 26

STLAIYLINLG

AROUND TOWN

ogy of Icarus. All the things in that particular piece relate to that story to some degree … He was told by his father, (who) built him the wings out of wax, not to fly to close to the sun, and of course, he flew too high. The wings began to melt. When I was doing the piece, I wanted to have the idea that he was at the apex of his flight and falling.”

WHAT’S YOUR LEAST FAVORITE SOUND: My neighbor’s birds. They

constantly imitate everything I play on the trombone. But I suppose my neighbor’s least favorite sound might be the trombone.

‘Pageant’ runs through Feb. 2, at The Players Theatre.

‘The Whipping Man’ runs through Feb. 2, at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe.

Sarasota Museum of Art/SMOA ‘ARTmuse Program: Lisa Hoke’ runs through Feb. 4, at Historic Sarasota High School.

‘The Prima Donettes’ runs through Feb. 7, at Florida Studio Theatre.

CORRECTION: The 10 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 30 and 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 concert previews, hosted by Sarasota Orchestra Association, are $10.

‘Delval Divas’ runs through Feb. 9 at Island Players.

‘Thurgood’ runs through Feb. 22, at Florida Studio Theatre.

‘Other Desert Cities’ runs through Feb. 26, at Asolo Repertory Theatre.

WHAT SONG ALWAYS GETS STUCK IN YOUR HEAD: “Penny Lane” by

‘Philadelphia, Here I Come!’ runs through Feb. 27, at Asolo Repertory Theatre.

IF YOU COULD PLAY A CONCERT ANYWHERE: I’d like to play in the

‘Poems, Prayers and Promises’ runs through April 20, at Florida Studio Theatre.

The Beatles

be a landscape architect.

‘Boeing, Boeing’ runs through Feb. 2, at Venice Theatre.

Philharmonie, the concert hall of the Berlin Philharmonic. My brother plays trombone there often and he says it’s better than Carnegie Hall.

Sarasota Season of Sculpture’s Season VII: ‘Shared Ground’ runs through May 30, at Sarasota bayfront.

CIRCUS SARASOTA

WONDERSTRUCK PRESENTS

Designing Women Ambassadors’ Guild - A FUNDRAISING EVENT -

Friday, Feb 7 – Sunday, Feb 23, 2014

Featuring the former Commander of Airforce One

CIRCUS AMAZING ITH FILL YOU W A C T S T H AT AW E !

W O N D E R AND

UNDER THE BIG TOP (Tuttle Ave. & 12th St.) Discount Tickets!

Mary Ann Robinson

CIRCUSARTS.ORG 941.355.9805 The Circus Arts Conservatory is a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts educational organization

126869

131426

Jean Weidner Goldstein & Alfred Goldstein

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPOTLIGHT

5

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Artist Lisa Hoke transforms future SMOA classroom ARTmuse artist Lisa Hoke jokes that she’s worried the portion of wall she’s building her installation on is too alcoholic-looking. She’s creating a large-scale installation from colorful recycled cardboard in one of the classrooms at historic Sarasota High School, the future home of Sarasota Museum of Art (SMOA).

It’s Friday, Jan. 17, and she’s about a day into the two-week building process. The wall is covered in yellow and orange recycled boxes from pumpkin beer, Patron and champagne.

She’ll have to mix in a few more Cheerios boxes to even things out.

Two volunteers in the adjacent classroom sort cardboard cups, drinking straws and boxes according to their colors. There are two classrooms completely littered with cardboard stacked on tables and the floor — it was all donated from the community and community businesses.

Down the hallway equally covered in recycled paper products, three volunteers cut stars and circular graphic details from individual packaging. Hoke instructs the volunteers daily as to which details she’d like them to cut out.

In just a day, she has a 10-foot tall corner of the classroom covered from floor to ceiling.

The ARTmuse program brings renowned artists yearly to portray the kind of programming that will come once the doors to SMOA open.

The first floor of historic Sarasota High School looks like a recycling sorting facility.

IF YOU GO Docent-led tours of ARTmuse When: 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 3 p.m. through Feb. 4; 1:30 to 3 p.m. weekends from Feb. 8 through April 19

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Volunteers Darlene Abney, Mary Weill and Sue Denison cut portions of cardboard.

Lisa Hoke creates the large-scale installation. It’s her first full day of work.

Where: Historic Sarasota High School, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Cost: Free Info: Call 309-7662

Volunteer Lisa Greenberg sorts stacks of cardboard cups.

YOUROBSERVER.COM // See a video of Lisa Hoke speak about her process and building the installation.

Made in the USA Sale Up To 50% OFF

Decorate your home with well made, American craftsman furnishings. With the aid of our professional design staff, we will help you create the home look that you dream about.

Locally Owned Store Supporting US Made Companies

— AND MORE

941.923.2251 8383 S Tamiami Trail | Sarasota www.nstylefurniture.com

126576

— DINING ROOM — HOME OFFICE

131487

— UPHOLSTERY — BEDROOM

6

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: HIGHLIGHTS

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Art Center Sarasota weaves together January exhibit

Artist Regina Bensen poses with her fabric sculptural work.

Carolyn Devick and Patricia Turner in front of Turner’s piece “Drippin’ on Down the Drain”

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Janet Miles and Roberta Stacey

“Marble Player” by Salvatore Fazio

Mary Catello and her daughter Teri Salomoni came from the east coast of Florida specifically for “Tradition Gone Wild.”

Changing the World One Smile at a Time 941-927-5411 • Cosmetic and Esthetic • General Dentistry • Emergency Dentistry

Jenifer Back DMD

Cosmetic & Esthetic General Dentistry

Jacques L. Esclangon DDS Complete General Dentistry & Emergency Dentistry

3800 Clark Rd., Sarasota

www.sarasotadentist.net

129318

Artist Susan von Gries and David Rubinfield stand in front of von Gries’ piece “Found Inside.”

123975

Four new exhibitions opened Thursday, Jan. 16 and will run through Feb. 28, at Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail. In Gallery 1, “Nature’s Voice” features the intricate and earthy work of quilt artist Regina Benson. Benson, who’s Colorado-based, was present at the opening. In Gallery 2, the Venetian Society of Basket Weavers featured a juried exhibition of avant-garde woven art. It featured everything from clothing to detailed sculptural baskets. In Gallery 3, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History featured an exhibit of Sarasota’s member artists in all mediums and forms. In Gallery 4, gallery owner Pat Dabbert and art professor Jeff Schwartz juried an all open, all media, exhibition called “Breaking Tradition.”

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: HIGHLIGHTS

7

Selling Sarasota Successfully Representing The Finest Properties In Sarasota Single Family Homes and Condos Beachfront • Bayfront • Mainland • & Golf Course

Isn’t it time for you to buy your piece of Paradise?

Bergny Hannah and Robert Doyon

“Hawser Rope” by Huguette Despault May

// Glass and Charcoal: The Art of Kathleen Elliot and Huguette Despault May Friday, Jan. 17, at Selby Gallery

ONE IN FROM BAY

*SPECTACULAR* views. Master suite with HUGE walk-in closet & luxurious master bath + 3 more bedrooms . 4 ½ baths. Living room w/gas fireplace. Formal dining room. gourmet eat-in kitchen with Viking appliances. Family room, office & media room. Elevator. The heated pool & spa, 2 boat lifts, 2 jet ski lifts and outdoor kitchen make entertaining even more enjoyable. www.610YardarmLane.com $2,589,000

BROADWAY PROMENADE

Offers the prestige and convenience of a central downtown location. Located in the Cultural Arts District, theaters and concert venues are nearby as well as restaurants and art galleries, shopping and Sarasota’s finest beaches. The complex offers fitness center, library/billards room, pool & patio with outdoor bar & grill, business center and much more. This 1 Bedroom/ 1.5 Baths home is privately tucked away in the 4 story building and with charming courtyard. www.1268broadway.com $189,500

Photos by Heather Merriman

“I Wonder Where Casteneda Landed” by Kathleen Elliot

Pat and Rezsa Kempl with Jan and Jim Baker

SIESTA KEY

conveniently located on the GRAND CANAL the most desirable boatable canal on the key. Only minutes to the world famous white powder sands of the nation’s No. 1 Siesta beach as well as the quaint shops and restaurants of the Village. Perfect for a remodel or to build your dream home in Paradise. $649,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

“Gesticulating” curator Dan Cameron

// ‘Gesticulating’ — an exhibition of recent works from Ringling Fine Arts students

WEST OF THE TRAIL

This 3 Bedroom, 4 Bath home known as Casa de Naranja was designed by Thorning Little and built by the area’s leading builder, Bruce Saba. This finely-crafted home boasts a very unique design and is warmed with natural light and inviting spaces, rich woods and natural travertine floors, antique lighting fixtures and state of the art kitchen. Many room lead to the inviting loggia, outdoor BBQ area and caged heated pool and spa. www.1131orange.com $1,550,000

124422

Friday, Jan. 17, at Two Columns Gallery

Sitting on a deep water canal with it own dock and caged pool and the very sought after Southern exposure. The lovely updated home offers 3 bedrooms and 3 baths and is in mint condition. This home also enjoys beach access to the beaches of Longboat Key and is only minutes to the fabulous shopping and dining of St. Armands Circle. www.580bowsprit.com $874,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES 2nd home from the Bay. New dock w/lifts for boat and jet ski on deep water canal. Fabulous views.

3 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths. Kitchen with granite and new appliances. Very open floor plan with large rooms. New carpet, just painted. Very lush landscaping. Enjoy beach access to the beautiful beaches of Longboat Key. Unfurnished. $4,000/month

“She’s the One” by Zachary See

“Asleep on the job” Not the Hanlys.

We are available 24/7

Marilyn and Mark Anderson

Two Columns Gallery Faculty Director Michael Whyshock and Student Director Zachary See

Hanly & Associates St. Armands Circle, Sarasota ( 941 ) 388-2331 email pahanly@gmail.com | HanlyHomes.com

8

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: BACKSTAGE PASS

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Opera house excites with more than just singing

Louise Mazius sews dress shields into a costume.

The polar vortex delayed the winter opera season. Blizzards around the country postponed more than a few of the 52 singers the Sarasota Opera employs. So, they started preparing one day later than planned, beginning Jan. 10.

Winter opera season is exciting. It means four operas (“Il Trovatore,” “The Barber of Seville,” “The Flying Dutchman” and “Jérusalem”) will take place simultaneously in March. Which also means the work that goes into preparing for the four productions happens simultaneously.

A group of men haul in set pieces for “Jérusalem” — they’re recycling a few pieces from past productions of “Lombardi” and

Jill Unger problem solves a wheel situation on a prop wagon in the prop shop.

“Giovanna d’Arco.” It takes eight of them to hoist up one wall and get it in place on stage. They’ll lug sets from the loading dock in through the hall all day.

Nearby, situated down a hallway off one wing of the stage, a handful of people prepare the props. One man creates an animal-skin canteen while another works on a larger wagon prop.

Upstairs in the adjacent building, every rehearsal room and studio is full. Singers find whatever quiet space they can to study music between rehearsals. One sits at the top of the stairs closest to the box office, another holds court in the middle of a hallway, and one perches against a back wall of a studio while a meeting takes place.

Singing drones through the corridor and down to the offices where the stage manager and assistant stage manager plan the technical details of the production.

Down another set of stairs, racks of costumes act as breadcrumbs to the costume shop.

Each one is labeled with an actor’s name, the production name and the scene. It’s a little quieter in that office, while the costume makers cut forms, sew breeches and fit the singers.

But the professionals at the opera house are not the only ones excited for the next two months.

Just outside the double doors where all the action takes place, there is a line of locals at the box office waiting to buy their tickets.

Tenor Jon Jurgens and soprano Alexandra Batsios rehearse a duet.

“PURE JOY FROM START TO FINISH” –ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

by Christopher Durang directed by Peter Amster

Tarpon Shores

125081

131375

D E N TA L

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

9

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

A cautionary sign on Director of Productions Chris Van Alystne’s office door.

IF YOU GO Head dresser Ruthie Clark fits singer Ivan Conrad in one of his costumes.

The crew hauls sets on stage. It takes eight men to place one wall.

‘Il Travotore’ runs from Feb. 8 through March 22.

‘The Barber of Seville’ runs from Feb. 15 through March 21.

‘The Flying Dutchman’ runs from March 1 through March 23.

‘Jérusalem’ runs from March 8 through March 22.

Assistant Stage Manager Audrey Chait and Production Stage Manager Francesca MacBeth

Beverly Fleck displays the trim used on one costume.

Catheryne Shuman studies “Tacea la Notte Placida” from “Il Trovatore.”

Sarah Pipho sews a nightgown costume.

Nick Sheldon makes wineskin bottles in the prop shop.

Winter Home Sale

Baritone Kenneth Stavert

FABULOUS

INTERIOR

DESIGN

Interior Design Window Treatments Outdoor Furniture Custom Kitchens Accessories 7522 S. Tamiami Trail - Sarasota

941.924.7886

This casual and comfortable chair is great for indoor and outdoor entertaining.

STEEL END TABLE

Handmade of brushed steel, solid wood and leather accents.

A collector’s item.

Exclusively at Bacon’s.

HOLDEN SWIVEL CHAIR

Extreme comfort and a great style for any room. Available in many fabrics.

EVE OTTOMAN

A convenient addition to any room, this darling ottoman is available in many fabrics and colors.

www.baconsfurniture.com Hours | Mon.-Sat.10AM - 6PM Closed Sunday for Worship & Rest

131602

REDINGTON DINING ARM CHAIR

10

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPECIAL EVENT

MUSIC // The Song Continues: Marilyn Horne Song Celebration My husband, Ed, and I were in New York City for four days last week, and we were honored to celebrate an important milestone: Marilyn Horne’s 80th birthday. “How did I get to 80?” asked the greatest mezzo-soprano of the 20th century. “I almost didn’t make it. You know I had pancreatic cancer almost 10 years ago.” But she’s fine now. Cured.

“Courage is better than fear, and faith is better than doubt.” She taught me that.

Music is up there with courage and faith.

And Horne was blessed with a birthday celebration, thrown for her by Carnegie Hall no less, with so many friends, family and fans, it’s almost impossible to count them.

As tenor Robert White said, “The love for Marilyn was bouncing off the walls.” So was the sound of music bouncing off the walls of the beautiful and intimate Zankel Hall, the subterranean Carnegie concert space where the star-studded performances honoring “Jackie,” as she’s known to all, took place.

Hosts Frederica von Stade and Samuel Ramey, Met Opera stalwarts and friends of Jackie’s, took us on a memory-filled musical narration, introducing singer after singer, each with an important, life-changing connection with the honoree.

Lester Lynch, who was one of the young baritones on “The Song Continues,” a series I had the honor of co-hosting for many years with Jackie on WQXR, returned, fully blossomed into a mature artist with international credits from Berlin to Washington, to sing two of Copland’s “Old American Songs,” pieces dear to Jackie’s voice and heart.

Later in the evening, he performed “Eri Tu,” from Verdi’s “Un Ballo in maschera,” with great depth and a spinning legato.

Met Opera star Piotr Beczala offered a

riveting rendition of Beethoven’s “Adelaide” and returned in the second half with Renee Fleming for a lovely, romance-filled performance of “Lippen schweigen” from “The Merry Widow.” (Fleming had already appeared as a soloist on the first half, singing “Träume,” one of the “Wesendonck” songs by Wagner.)

Countertenor David Daniels took “O del mio dolce ardor,” a Gluck song that’s wellknown to voice students from the Schirmer edition of “24 Italian Songs and Arias,” and added ornaments in places, removed them from others and sang it with the simplicity and understanding of the great artist he is. Later, his performance of Wilder’s “Blackberry Winter” brought tears to our already misty eyes and proved that, once again, Jackie was right in saying David must always sing this.

The superstar lineup continued, as did the song.

Brenda Rae, a stunning soprano whom we’d heard last summer in Santa Fe, N.M., used her wondrous way with words in Schubert’s “Lied der Delphine” in the first half, and then proceeded to sound like a bubble fountain as she overflowed with beautiful sounds and deep compassion in “O beau pays de la Touraine,” from Meyerbeer’s “Les Huguenots.”

Mezzo soprano Jamie Barton, who knocked us out when we recently heard her on television, wowed us when she joined her molten lava-like voice with the caresses of Daniels’ sweetness in a duet from Handel’s “Giulio Cesare.” That was after she sang the reflective “Urlicht,” not as a section of Mahler’s second symphony, but in the setting from “Des Knaben Wunderhorn.”

Mezzo Isabel Leonard offered, first, the exquisite lullaby from Montsalvatge’s song cycle, “Canciones negras,” with phrasing so tender, the little “coconut baby” would have cooed with pleasure. Later in the program, she knocked our collective socks off with an astonishing performance of “Non piu mesta” from Rossini’s “La Cenerentola.”

Photo by Meche Kroop

Warren Jones, Lester Lynch, Brenda Rae, Piotr Beczala, Jamie Barton, Samuel Ramey, Renee Fleming, Martin Katz, Barbara Cook, Marilyn Horne, Frederica von Stade, Lee Musiker, Isabel Leonard and David Daniels

YOUROBSERVER.COM // Read Marty Fugate’s review of “Philadelphia, Here I Come!” and Popcorn Bob’s Movie Magic reviews.

This lineup of singers with their songs and arias brought back memories of the parade of seemingly super-human unknowns Jackie introduced to the music world through her Marilyn Horne Foundation in the 1990s. (It’s now the Marilyn Horne Legacy at Carnegie Hall.) I was bowled over being part of it back then and privileged and grateful to be part of it last week.

But there was more. There were two collaborative pianists who should be in the pianistic Hall of Fame: the unique Martin Katz and the inimitable Warren Jones, two of the world’s greatest keyboard colleagues,

SYMPLI TRUNK SHOW

adding the support of an orchestra and the exceptional understanding even the greatest singers cannot do without.

There was also a delightful and poignant duet, “I Remember it Well,” from “Gigi,” sung by our hosts, “Flicka” von Stade and Sam Ramey, that added even more nostalgia to the evening. And, most wondrous of all, the 86-year-old Barbara Cook (“The Eighth Wonder of the World,” as Jackie called her) singing Arthur Butler’s “Here’s to Life,” a fitting tribute to the life-force known as Marilyn Horne.

— June LeBell

Forks and Corks Presented by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals

JAN 23RD - 25TH 10 AM - 6 PM

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24 to Monday, Jan. 27 WHERE: Various locations COST: Varies

KATHY, FROM THEIR DESIGN STUDIO IN VANCOUVER, WILL BE DEMONSTRATING “HOW TO TRAVEL SYMPLI” TWO SEATINGS JAN. 23RD 11 AM AND 3 PM CALL 941.388.1974 FOR RESERVATIONS

Although this popular wine and food event sold out the Grand Tasting in 8 minutes, tickets are still available for the University Sessions as well as the winemaker dinners and events Friday and Saturday at participating restaurants.

For a list of local ev ents, or to submit your own, visit ThisWeekI nS

arasota.com/calen da

r

HORS D’OEUVRES & WINE WILL BE SERVED

FRIDAY, JA

N, 24

131598

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

129173

like us on facebook

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

11

TM

Colors Love

of

a masterworks concert

jan 30, 31, Feb 1, 2 at neel & van wezel F eaturing guest

conductor

tito muÑoz with

violin

soloist

giora schmidt Performing:

rachmaninoFF symphony

no

2

And piazzolla’s Four seasons oF

Buenos aires

5

th

AnniversAry

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

131560

1949 - 2014

3 12

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// HOME&GARDEN

THINGS

by Robert Plunket | Contributing Writer

BEACH LIVING ON SIESTA KEY

A place at the beach is everybody’s favorite real estate fantasy. And endless sunny days with family and friends — preferably while everyone else is freezing up north — are a Sarasota specialty. Now that Siesta Beach has been officially enshrined as one of the best in the country, visitors from all over the world are daydreaming about a place of their own on the powdery white sand. Here’s a small selection of what they might find — three beach homes currently on the market that promise the fun informality and good times of a classic winter getaway.

1. TOP OF THE LINE

104 BEACH ROAD

This art deco-inspired townhouse has an incredible location — at the very north end of Crescent Beach, just as the Key turns eastward toward Big Pass. The views of the Gulf and the graceful curve of white sand are jaw dropping, even from the master bath. You’ll find four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths on three living levels. Each level has a 35-foot balcony overlooking the water and sand. There’s a large storage area on the lower level for Jet Skis and other toys. And you’re just a block or so from Siesta Village, with its restaurants and nightlife. This is a unique beach house with a price tag to match.

Priced at $5,795,000. For more information, call Dan Miller of ReMax Tropical Sands at 3767442.

Photos courtesy of ReMax Tropical Sands

Grant’s Gardens

We’re Celebrating Our 25th Anniversary!

First Place Reader’s Choice 20 Years in a Row!

Photo Courtesy of Cliff Roles

Specializing in Fine Landscaping and Maintenance Certified Horticulturists on Staff • Sustainable Landscape Solutions Native & Exotic Plant Integration

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....Since 1989

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

941.925.7800

Across from The Landings

mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

Call today for a free consultation

941-343-9396

www.grantsgardens.com

127359

131554

Come in and browse our showroom and Hunter Douglas Gallery for a huge selection of blinds, fabrics, draperies, wallcoverings and shutters.

• Sarasota Bay‘s leading home & condo remodeling craftsman since 1997.

• Renovations professionally designed to fit your style and budget.

• Complete turn-key project management & on time, on budget, guaranteed.

• Sarasota Bay‘sleading leading home home &&condo remodeling craftsman since 1997.

• Sarasota Bay’s condo remodeling craftsman • since Sarasota Bay‘s leading home & condo remodeling craftsman since 1997.

• Renovations professionally designed to fit your style and budget.

1997.

• Completeprofessionally turn-key project management time,style on budget, guaranteed.

• Renovations designed to&fitonyour and budget.

• Renovations professionally designed fit • Complete turn-key project management & on time, on budget,to guaranteed. your style and budget.

• Complete turn-key project management & on time, on budget, guaranteed.

CallBob BobElmes Elmes today consultation: Call today for afor freea free consultation: www.creativekitchenandbaths.com

State Certified General Contractor Lic#CG-C060087

www.creativekitchenandbaths.com

128761

941.925.3723 941-925-3723

State Certified General Contractor Lic#CG-C060087

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

13

// HOME&GARDEN

2. FAMILY FUN

5411 AVENIDA DEL MARE

This Key West-style home, built in 2003, is a block and a half from all the action on Siesta Beach, but tucked away on a quiet residential street. It has a touch of whimsy — it befits a house at the beach.

You’ll find an over-the-top master bath, a home theater, and lively kitchen, a four-car garage — even a glass-enclosed

elevator. Oddly enough, it doesn’t have a pool, although there is plenty of room to install one in the large backyard. And, with four bedrooms and four baths, the home will hold a lot of guests.

Priced at $1,039,000. For more information, call Judie Berger of Premier Sotheby’s at 928-3424.

Photos courtesy of Michael Saunders and Co.

3. BEACHFRONT BARGAIN 6208 MIDNIGHT PASS ROAD, UNIT 300

The condo complexes that line the mid-Key provide a great resort feeling at affordable prices. This unit at Siesta Dunes has most of the things you’ll be looking for: two bedrooms and two baths in 1,150 square feet, and, though it is set back from the water, you still have the all-important view. (It has not been updated recently, and the price reflects

Photos courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s

that.) Amenities include a heated saltwater pool, tennis court and lots of lounging areas on the beach. Owners can join the rental program to receive income when they’re not using the unit themselves.

Priced at $695,000. For more information, call Tara Lamb at 266-4873 or Judy Greene at 350-0451, both of Michael Saunders & Co.

Cradle for Bowl Your Baby.

AN A ENTERTAINMENT SALE Super ON THE 50 YARD LINE! Entertainment Sale

ARE YOU A WEEKEND WARRIOR? W E A R E YO U R B AC K U P T E A M !

CO N S U LTA N TS FO R • PREMIER SPORTS CAMPUS AT LAKEWOOD RANCH • THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY • SARASOTA ORCHESTRA • IMG ACADEMIES

NOW thru February 3

CHRISTOPHER R. SFORZO, M.D. CHRISTOPHER L. DILLINGHAM, M.D.

inspired design | endless possibilities

123243

941.378.5100 • fossm.com 5831 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 200 Sarasota, FL 34233

25% copenhagen imports SAVE

Monday-Saturday 10:00-6:00 • Sunday Noon-5:00 www.copenhagen-imports.com 941-923-2569 • 7211 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL

131558

When you need an Orthopedic or Sports Medicine Specialist who will listen to your concerns and discuss your treatment options, BOARD CERTIFIED physicians, Christopher Sforzo, M.D. and Christopher Dillingham, M.D. have the expertise and commitment to help you return to feeling your best.

Perfect for creating a room that’s also warm and inviting, our sophisticated JesperŽ entertainment collection features modular and free standing component options for a beautiful and functional PHGLD URRP &KRRVH IURP HVSUHVVR WHDN RU PDSOH ZRRG ¿QLVKHV

14

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

// FOOD&COOKING:

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

COLUMN

TIDBITES

by June LeBell Contributing Columnist june@junelebell.com

SAVOR YOUR TIME AT MOZAIC

F

ive years ago, when MoZaic, the excellent continental-with-a-Moroccan-flair restaurant on Main Street opened, we were doubly thrilled because, not only were we getting a new upscale restaurant on a par with Daniel’s in New York City, we were also celebrating a new enterprise by master chef Dylan Elhajoui, the sonin-law of my dear friends, Lynne and John Meskey.

I met Lynne when I first came to Sarasota in 2002 because she was the person to speak with about auditioning for Gloria Musicae and Key Chorale. She sang with both groups and, just speaking with her on the phone — a first conversation that lasted about an hour — made me realize I had a new best friend in my new hometown. She turned out to be not just a best friend, but also a terrific singer whom I brag about to singer friends from New York. She also loves to cook and eat. So that sealed the deal.

Dylan and his family — talented, artistic wife, Anne, and four exceptional kids — had moved here from Colorado where Dylan had cooked for thousands in one of the state’s biggest resort hotels. MoZaic opened with Dylan ruling in the kitchen just before Christmas 2008. I know because the first real date I had with Ed was Christmas Eve of that year. I sang at the candlelight service across the street at First United Methodist, and then Ed and I walked over to MoZaic, where we were seated in the windowside table for a candlelit dinner that we’ll never forget. Ed and I were married about five months later, my first

LIBBY’S DOES BRUNCH Libby’s Café + Bar, on Osprey, has always been a great place to meet for lunch and treat for Sunday brunch. Now the restaurant has added a Saturday brunch, which includes its famous, award-winning 60-plus ingredient bloody Mary and mimosa bar.

ROMANCING THE SCONE Courtesy photo

Chef Dylan Elhajui marriage, and the romance of MoZaic didn’t hurt our cause.

Ever since then, when we’ve spent the holidays in Sarasota — we’ve made a practice of going on Christmas/New Year’s cruises every other year — we’ve made reservations at MoZaic for Christmas Eve and requested that very same table. This year we were here, and our celebration was a delicious treat of Dylan’s finest fare, along with a couple of special delicacies he brought just for us to taste: a cold fruit-and-herb soup and a small bite of a bastilla — a Moroccan specialty that uses succulent squab in a sort of minced pie that’s both savory and sweet.

MoZaic is that special treat place where we dine — and it is dine, not eat — when we make an evening of dinner. It must be savored, never rushed and, although we have, occasionally, gone there before an opera, we like it best when we can make an evening of it, luxuriating in every bite and taste.

S

imply Gourmet, a local catering firm, is inviting us to, um, “Get Sconed.” Taking afternoon tea to a whole new level, it’s doing a traditional royal English tea service at 2 p.m. Tuesdays in February and March in the exclusive upstairs living room of the Powel Crosley Estate, 8374 N. Tamiami Trail.

A traditional afternoon tea is unlike your grandma’s cup of tea or anything you’ve experienced before. According to Chef Larry Barrett, “Every year, the royal family hosts an afternoon tea for about 8,000 guests at Buckingham Palace.” This tradition started in 1860 with Queen Victoria.

“It’s a grand and colorful affair.

Men wear suits or military uniforms, and women wear dresses with hats and gloves. The 500-foot buffet table is set with a feast, and there’s tea, of course.”

Sometimes I’ve wondered about that because, although tea is the focus of these affairs, it can get lost amid the scones, tartlets, Devonshire cream and royal tea sandwiches. I did a so-called traditional tea at my home some years ago,

Photos by Rod Millington

Jamie and Chef Larry Barrett and it lasted almost eight hours.

Teas were poured at first but, a bit later, we switched to Veuve Cliquot and, well, I don’t remember much about who was there or when they left. (Maybe they’re still there.)

Simply Gourmet’s royal English tea has not included champagne in the past. But the teas are terrific, as are the parfaits and turkey/tomato pinwheels. So, take a Tuesday and get sconed right here in Sarasota. And remember to look around the estate while you’re there. It’s almost as spectacular as Buckingham Palace.

Kitchen

In The

Taste Of& FASHION TheSHOW Keys Presented By The Longboat Key Garden Club - Not Your Mother’s Garden Club: An Eco-Friendly Philanthropic Organization -

™

with Chef Laszlo

What: Restaurants From The Keys Present Tastings,

& Owner Marco Guadagnini

2 Glasses Of Complimentary Wine Or Soft Drinks;

of The Sarasota-Manatee Originals

Fashions Modeled From Main Street Traders

Visit YourObserver.com/InTheKitchen For The Recipe And Video

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS: Blue Dolphin Café Bridge Street Bistro Café L’Europe Chart House Crab And Fin Dry Dock Restaurant Waterfront Grill Harry’s Continental Kitchen Lido Beach Grille

Libby’s has always reminded me a little of a west side bistro in Manhattan, N.Y. If it weren’t across from Morton’s on Osprey, I’d think I was someplace on Broadway, sharing a meal with friends before a Lincoln Center performance. It just has that west side ambience. If you’re from NYC, you know what I mean. You can sit inside, at a table or in a plush booth, or outside, watching the parade of Morton’s (like Zabar’s) buyers and cars on their way to and from Siesta.

Oh — Libby’s also has music.

Now, DJ Russ Deep is there to spin funk and Motown and take you deep into a food/music experience on weekends. It’s a great way to lay back and enjoy Sarasota.

Lido Beach Holiday Inn Longboat Key Club And Resort Longboat Hilton Beachfront Resort Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub Old Salty Dog Sarasota Yogurt Company The Feast Tommy Bahama Restaurant

RISTORANTE

ENOTECA

23 North Lemon Avenue Sarasota, FL 34 236 941-365-1020 salutesarasota .com

Models: Phyllis Black, Felipe Cava, Clyde Chapelle, Edith Barr Dunn, Juan Florensa, Victoria Jacobson, Andy Lappin, Jeff Mayers, Ben Moussa, Kip O’Neil, Richard Perlman, Fanny Younger Emcee: Matt Walsh Where: Longboat Key Club And Resort, Harbourside When: 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 5 Why: Proceeds Support Environmental Scholarships To College Students, Grants, Educational Programs And Camp Scholarships Awarded By THE LBKGC FOR INFO PLEASE CONTACT SUSAN LANDAU AT:

ketle) c i T b Pexr Deducti ( Ta

Scan Here To Watch The Video

PURCHASE TICKETS AT: Design 2000, Whitney Beach Plaza Exit Art, Chart House And Centre Shoppes Locations LBK Chamber Of Commerce, Centre Shoppes Main Street Traders, 1468 Main St., Sarasota

Night Of Event: LBK Club And Resort, Harbourside Foyer

DineOriginal.com

130872

$ 50

128463

00

941.383.8030

Black Tie

INSIDE: Red Hot! PAGE 19

YourObserver.com

Co-Chairs Stephanie Grosskreutz and Holly Logan

Ringling student Brenna Thummler meets featured speaker Jenna Bush Hager at the Town Hall Series Platinum Dinner.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

Jay Logan and Dr. Larry Thompson

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor

Janet Ginn with Michael and Stacey Corley

Kaye McHan and Barbara Campo  Drs. Hardy and Allison Schwartz

The Ringling College Library Association kicked off its 2014 Town Hall Lecture Series with a celebratory platinum dinner featuring guest speaker Jenna Bush Hager.

The event was held Monday, Jan. 13, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.

The evening began with a cocktail reception, and prior to being seated in the ballroom, sponsors and Ringling College Library Association board members enjoyed a private reception with Hager.

Guests took photos with and had the chance to talk one-on-one with the speaker and author. Many guests commented about how pleasant and conversational she was. The universal comment heard throughout the evening: “She is so nice.”

During the private reception, Ringling College student Brenna Thummler presented Hager with an illustration portrait.

“I’ve never done anything for someone so influential before,” Thummler said prior to unveiling the portrait to Hager and the audience. She was one of six Ringling

students to win the Town Hall Lecture Series portrait competition, receiving the honor to create portraits for the six speakers featured in the 2014 Town Hall Lecture Series. Ringling College of Art and Design President Dr. Larry Thompson sponsored the competition.

Following the reception, more than 550 guests gathered in the ballroom and were welcomed by event Co-Chairs Stephanie Grosskreaut and Holly Logan and Town Hall 2014 Chair Jay Logan. Gulf Coast Community Foundation President and CEO Teri Hansen introduced Hager, who spoke about her work with charities and the woman Ana, in her book “Ana’s Story: A Journey of Hope.” She also recounted stories about being in the public eye and her life as a new mother.

Surprise guest former First Lady Laura Bush was in the audience supporting her daughter at the dinner. Hager’s father, former President George W. Bush, was the second speaker of this year’s Town Hall Lecture Series, and gave two lectures Jan. 14.

Ellen and Dan Laubush

Kathy Levine and Flori Roberts with B.J. and David Bavar

Karen Eastmoore and Kristine Nickel

Jill Levine and Scott Anderson show off the copies of Jenna Bush Hager’s book “Ana’s Story: A Journey of Hope” that they received at the event.

Photos by Heather Merriman

Deanne and Tom Spoor with Wendy and Chad Weiss

Marge Barpar, Eli Karter and Stephanie Williams

Hope Goldberg, Jodi Torres and Sandra Rios

BLACK TIE COVER PHOTOS CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

16

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// BLACK TIE: COLUMN

BLACKTIE&TALES

by Black Tie Staff

Party planner Mackenzie Grace and Alan Corey

Murray Bring and his wife, Kay Delaney

THIRTY DOWN AND THREE TO GO

O

pera-goers know that Maestro Victor DeRenzi and the Sarasota Opera have embarked

on the ambitious venture of being the only opera company to perform every note of music that Giuseppe Verdi ever wrote — the incidental pieces as well as the 33 operas. This “Verdi Cycle” began in 1989; it even has a group of dedicated supporters known as the Verdi 33 Society, with each member assigned to a specific opera. (Two operas are still available for adoption.)

Members gathered for their annual dinner Jan. 15 at Ruth’s Chris, an event sponsored by Fifth Third Bank and the Williams, Parker, et al law firm.

There are two Verdi operas set for this season, “Il Trovatore” and “Jérusalem,” leaving only three to go: “Don Carlos” in the original

Paris version, “La Battaglia di Legnano” and “Aida.” A “Tribute to Verdi Exhibit” of treasures from the Rome Opera is visiting only four cities in this country: New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles and Sarasota. Has a nice ring to it, don’t you agree?

It opens here March 7, simultaneously to a Music Critics Association convention. Watch for details to be announced soon.

Among those attending the recent dinner: Eric and Sandra Lindqvist, David and Jacqueline Morton (she sporting an amazing new sparkler around her neck), Joe and Nora Stephan, Hank and Suzanne Foster, Bud Borax and Elissa Soyka and Larry and Carol English.

Photo by Sephanie Hannum

and Terri Saba … Imbibing birthday ... S’macks Managing Partner Alex Floethe rang in his 30s with a birthday party Jan. 19 at Perq Coffee Bar. Floethe treated friends to a special wine, champagne and bourbon tasting from his collections over the years. Seen among those mingling were Evan Gratzick, Tim Mitten and Merly Mae, Miranda Robinson, Joel Parisi and Arthur Lopez Jr. … Don’t mess with her … Laura Jessen was spotted out Laura Jessen’s last week knucklebox with this clutch fabulous Alexander McQueen knucklebox clutch, a gift from her husband, Chris.

S TIDBIT

Photos by Molly Schechter

SARASOTA’S FIRST EVER ‘PASTAFARIAN’ BIRTHDAY PARTY

N

grammed by Michael Ringlever.

Every last detail was pastafarian, right down to the birthday cake made by kissing kin Kiri Ambler.

Among the guests were Ed and June Alley, Alan Corey (who made a smashing pirate), Brian Lipton and Joseph Gianguzzo, Brian and Sherry Gregory, Christine Oliver, Marc and Susan Gregory, Bob and Amy Iverson, Barry and Kitty Leven, Chris and Rebecca Jaensch, Jeaneen Wirries and Genevieve Ambler.

ot a pasta party … a Pastafarian party, at which the Flying Spaghetti Monster and his noodly appendage celebrated the first three-quarter century of one Greg Gregory. The wardrobe call was pirate gear, and laddies and wenches caroused Jan. 18 at the Beau Ciel party room. Gregory’s protégé, Maria Wirries, and her friend, Mackenzie Grace, did the planning and entertaining with some help from his wife, Ilene Friedman, and a fun video pro-

Photo by Randi Donahue

Fondren Watts and Vaughn Dorrian

Birthday boy Alex Floethe with Perq’s Erin and Keith Zolner

Watts of love … Mommy-to-be Fondren Watts was showered with love Jan. 18 at The RitzCarlton, Sarasota. Guests were greeted with champagne and custom cookies printed with baby pictures of Fondren and husband, Danny, at the shower, which Fondren’s friends Cheryl Ann Babcock and Vaughn Dorrian,

mother-in-law Sherry Watts and sisters Keily and Taryn Griffin hosted. They were also asked to fill out “words of wisdom” for the first-time parents-to-be, who will welcome baby girl Watts in March.

Guests included Molly Klauber, Eileen Curd, Kathy Demler, Kay Mathers, Tatyana Sharoubim, Bridget McGrath Ziegler and Bri

Unique, live musical events that entertain, engage and inspire.

OF SARASOTA SARASOTA

Sunday, January 26 – 2:00 &7:30 p.m.

Holley Hall at the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center

Dave Bennett Quar tet

Dave Bennett - clarinet Tad Weed - piano Don Mopsick - bass Dick Maley - drums

3/31/14

Dave Bennett is an international clarinet phenomenon - enjoy popular favorites including “Moonglow” - Stompin’ at the Savoy” - “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” and many more favorites.

Saturday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.

In the Historic Asolo Theater at The Ringling Museum of Art

R I T Z C H A M B E R P L AY E R S

3/31/14

Kelly Hall-Tompkins Violin Tahirah Whittington Cello Terrance Patterson Clarinet Ann Hobson Pilot Harp

HAILSTORK American Landscape No. 2 for Violin and Cello PIAZZOLLA Histoire du Tango for Harp and Violin WILLIAMS "Quartet La Jolla" for Harp, Violin, Cello and Clarinet

Tickets and details online at www.artistseriesconcerts.org or C A L L 9 4 1 . 3 6 0 . 7 3 9 9 ( D a i l y 1 0 - 4 )

131628

With additional support from Herald-Tribune Media Group, Iberia Bank, WUSF Public Media, and Spotlight Graphics 129947

MEDIA SPONSOR

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// BLACK TIE COVER PHOTOS

Mary Lou and Jim Thomas with Alice Rau

17

(continued from page 15)

Kristin and Todd Morton, Amy and Ken Sussman and Crystal and Dr. Bill Lahners

Dan Hoffe and Cindy Noble with Rosemary and Lou Oberndorf

Nancy Rome, Barbara Brown and Paul Reamer

Photos by Heather Merriman

Kathy Stern, Linda Whitacre and Merry Williams

A Wish Fulfilled. The Ones You Love.

The Luxury of Time.

Waterfront Resort Living on Florida’s Last Private Island.

Start with maintenance-included, energy-efficient homes, designed for care-free coastal living. Combine with resort-style amenities like a planned private clubhouse, pool, cabanas, kayak launch and proposed marina. Top off with the pleasures of Anna Maria Island and the conveniences of Sarasota/Bradenton. It all adds up to the Florida resort lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. A place to gather family and friends today and celebrate all the tomorrows to come.

No CDD Fees at Harbour Isle!

Unlike many of our competitors, Harbour Isle has been developed without utilizing Community Development District (CDD) Funding. This means you won’t see annual CDD assessments on your tax bill, which saves you thousands of dollars over the life of your home! Once you compare, the choice is clearly Minto.

Award-Winning Designs | Enduring Quality | Incomparable Value

Exquisite Island Coach Homes from the $400s.

LEED Certified | Move-in Ready | Models Open Daily

minto creates better places to inspire life

(888) 358-8565

For more information about our award-winning homes and communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com

130592

12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 • On SR 64. On Anna Maria Sound, just east of the Anna Maria Bridge.

Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the purchase agreement and homeowner documents, including the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee in condominium communities. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. © Minto Communities, LLC 2014. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 1/2014

18

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY 19TH ANNUAL JEWELS ON THE BAY DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE PREVIEW PARTY Benefiting Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County Saturday, Jan. 18, at private home

Photos by Heather Merriman

Karen Gallagher, Alice Sample, Patti Lowe, Barbara Gardner, Lynn Smith and Lynne Koy Designer Showhouse homeowners Allison and Peter Scanlan

Dave and Jackelyn Rogerson with Tom Stanley

Chelsea Lyman and Reggie Robinson

House captain Terrance Leaser with Chairman Chuck Bolton

Valerie Thomson and Linda Daniel

DigitalObserver Media web

promo

mobile

local

search

social

BY EMILY WALSH

Newspapers: Helping you survive the digital world How newspaper and media companies can help businesses survive in the digital world.

News media organizations have spent more than 15 years developing digital skills. And we’re not finished yet. We can’t see the future, because it’s changing every minute. However, we can help businesses navigate this digital world from our own experience.

Shame on us for not letting you know that we can help your business navigate this fast-changing digital world. We’re not just about ink on print. We’re multimedia [...]

941.366.3468 DigitalObserverMedia.com

contact

Read More DigitalObserverMedia.com

131629

video

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

19

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY RED HOT! Benefiting Suncoast Communities Blood Bank Saturday, Jan. 18, at Michael’s On East

Robert Cohnen, Dr. Sheri Weinstein and Val Kozlova

Dr. Jameel Audeh and Ali Downey

Photos by Heather Merriman

Co-Chairs Heather Zangara and Kelly Marsh

Donna Jungman and Daryl Shepherd

Scott Randell and Dawn Martin

Our whimsical, happy art will make you smile!

Art and Gift Gallery

129198

941.388.3700

Historic Downtown Village 1861 Fruitville Road • Sarasota Visit us on Facebook for special offers and schedule of upcoming art classes!

Sarasota Concert Association’s Great Performers Series presents

wusf PublicaMedia

Observer Lonboat. East County. Sarasota. Pelican Press.

YourObserver.com

Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio with Nokuthula Ngwenyama, violist Monday, January 27 • 8 p.m. at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

www.scasarasota.org • 941-955-0040

129694

Tickets: $40-$70 • Available online 129140

The

Kennedy and Mary Ann Legler

Rob Brameister and Krista Bloomberg

20

DANCE INTO THE NEW YEAR Social Dance Club | Competitive | Ballroom | Latin

Private & Group Lessons • Social Dancing Parties • Meet New People • Learn New Steps • Great Exercise

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

NO PARTNER NECESSARY

131433

Complimentary Dance Lesson with this ad 2272 Main Street, Sarasota 34237

| dynastydanceclubs.com

941-955-8558 Daniel Volz, Lynn Barrie, Silke Weiss, Zara Barrie and Sara Sardelli

ON POINTE LUNCHEON

Verdi’s American Home

Benefiting Sarasota Ballet Monday, Jan. 13, at Michael’s On East

Winter Opera Festival February 8–March 23, 2014 International Soloists | Historic Opera House | Tickets start at $19

Photos by Heather Merriman

 David Eichlin, Dex Honea and Bob Griffiths

Il trovatore

The Barber of Seville

VERDI part of the verdi cycle

Feb. 8–Mar. 22

ROSSINI

Feb. 15–Mar. 21

The Flying Dutchman WAGNER Mar. 1–23

Jérusalem VERDI part of the verdi cycle

Mar. 8–22

(941) 328-1300 | SARASOTAOPERA.org SEASON SPONSOR

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.

128676

Sarasota Opera House 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236

Kyla Weiner, Liebe Gamble, Terri Klauber and Alene Fowler

Come Solve The Crime.

Murder Mystery Theater at the Powel Crosley Estate

Janice Kunkel and Christine Peixoto

on beautiful Sarasota Bay

Stephanie Kempton and Monica Barth

Performances January 21-24, 26, 28-31 Live interactive performances – Tickets $15-$25

PowelCrosleyEstate.com

Murder_Crosley_5x6.indd 1

130842

Available at Ticketmaster.com and the Bradenton Area Convention Center box office (941) 722-3244, Ext. 0 Group pricing available - contact the box office

1/10/14 2:43 PM

Lydia Landa, Sheila Vincent, Hillary Steele and Kay Aidlin

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

21

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Booker High School VPA presents

32ND ANNUAL WOMEN IN POWER LUNCHEON

Friday, February 7th 7:00pm Saturday, February 8th 7:00pm

Benefiting National Council of Jewish Women SarasotaManatee Section Wednesday, Jan. 15, at Michael’s On East  Bonnie Sussman, Co-Chair Nicci Kobritz and Debbie Engleson

129112

Tickets: $10.00 Purchase by calling Judy Piercy at 941.355.2967 or by going online to www.vpabooker.com JOTB color ad 5x6.pdf 1 1/16/2014 5:07:36 PM

Music

19TH ANNUAL

Women in Power honorees Roxie Jerde, Gwen MacKenzie, Kim Sheintal and Judy Weinstein

2145 Alameda Avenue Sarasota, FL 34234

JAN 19

Showhouse Tours Mon-Sat 10-4 PM Sunday 12-4 PM

thru

FEB 16 941.780.1790

www.DesignerShowhouseSarasota.com 131591

Felice Schulaner, Marilyn Harwell, Sue Jacobson, Marie Monsky and Susan Newmark

STOP IN AND ENTER TO WIN ONE OF THREE AMAZING PRIZES!

50

$ Betty Schoenbaum and Carol Green

Barbara Berliner and Ann Baum

Gift Certificate to be used for any in store purchase

Authentic Diamond 1622 (Atocha) Solitaire Pendant 0.5 carat set in 14K white gold

350

$

retail value

150

retail value

$

(actual Atocha not pictured)

Hurry and Enter BEFORE Feb 12th!

We will announce the winners on February 12, 2014

Gold Gallery Auctions LOCATED IN CREEKWOOD SHOPPING CENTER

Gloria Zwelling, Kay Press, Joan Goldberg and Sandra Krawetz

941.251.5900 www.ggacash.com

Photos by Heather Merriman

131141

Between Fifi’s Consignment & Bangkok Tokyo | 7333 52nd Place East | Bradenton 34203

22

YourObserver.com

DIVERSIONS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

// BLACK TIE: SOPHISTICATED LOUNGING

HOTFLASH

Light In The Forest

Easy Care Easy EasyCare Care Easy Care

Light In The Forest Light LightIn In The Forest InThe TheForest Forest

Black Tie Assistant Editor

131476

Easy Care

by Heather Merriman

Light In The Forest

Easy Care

of glamour. mfort with a touch co ic ss cla t en es ng line repr tney Adams’ clothi The pieces in Cour

Driftwood Table Lamp

Faux Florals

LOCAL DESIGNER LAUNCHES FASHIONABLY COMFORTABLE LINE

Relax Al Fresco

Driftwood DriftwoodTable TableLamp Lamp Driftwood Table Lamp Driftwood Table Lamp Driftwood Table Lamp

Faux Florals Faux Florals Faux Florals Faux Florals Faux Florals

Our Black Tie assistant editor sits down with local designer Courtney Adams to discuss her newly launched loungewear fashion line.

Relax RelaxAl AlFresco Fresco

Relax Al Fresco Relax AlAl Fresco Relax Fresco

I Patio Selections

Genie In A Bottle

Patio Selections

Laptop Ready Patio Selections Patio Selections Patio Selections Laptop Ready Laptop Ready

Patio Selections

Genie Bottle Genie InIn AA Bottle

Genie GenieInInAABottle Bottle Genie In A Bottle

Laptop LaptopReady Ready Laptop Ready

Hand Blown Glass Vessels Hand Blown Glass Vessels Hand Blown Glass Vessels

Rattan Writing Rattan Writing Table Table Rattan Writing Table

Hand Blown Glass Vessels Hand Blown Glass Vessels

Rattan Writing Table Rattan Writing Table

129251

WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Rattan Writing Table WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Hand Blown Glass Vessels HOME WEST INDIES COLLECTION 1312 Tamiami Trail N., N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail Sarasota, 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail N., HOME Sarasota, FLFLCOLLECTION 34236 941-951-9222 WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sunday 11:00—4:00 WEST INDIES Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sunday 11:00—4:00 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sunday 11:00—4:00 WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sunday 11:00—4:00 1312 Tamiami Trail10:00-5:00 N., Sarasota,Sunday FL 34236 941-951-9222 Mon—Sat 11:00—4:00

CABARET SUBSCRIBE NOW ER Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sunday 11:00—4:00

Featuring songs: “Take Me Home Country Roads,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and “You’ve Got A Friend”

“Engaging”

- Sarasota Herald-Tribune

“Colorful” - Total Theater

the

Liz Power and Susan Haefner. Photo by Maria Lyle.

-Total Theater.com

Dominick Cicco and Sarah Hund. Photo by Brian Braun.

“Musicianship of the highest order”

OV D L E H

Prima Donnettes

n August 2012, Courtney Adams began designing clothing that she wanted to wear: clothing that is effortless, glamorous and, most importantly, comfortable. After months of searching for the perfect fabric and creating the right look, Adams launched her debut collection in August. The brand, called Tocco Lusso, is her first fashion line.

Adams never believed she would be in the fashion industry, much less designing clothes.

“I can’t draw, I can’t sketch, but I wanted to create something and I had a vision of what that was,” says Adams.

Each piece is made by her first — she drapes, cuts, and sews and then those sample garments are broken down into patterns.

The concept for the line came while Adams was training for her first marathon. She would finish training at 8 a.m. and have to be at work at 9 a.m.

“If you tried to get me into jeans, I’d probably scream. If you tried to get me into a dress, I’d probably cry,” said Adams. “I needed something to get into that was comfortable enough to be in after a 14-mile run, but nice enough to wear to work.”

The clothing line is geared toward the “active woman.”

The fabric and the design of the pieces provide that perfect transition. When designing the collection, Adams’ intent was to create those “go-to” pieces in everyone’s closet — pieces that can be worn all the time, that look good and feel good while still looking fashionable.

“It’s super soft and with drape, which really accentuates curves,” says Adams of the line’s viscose fabric. All of the pieces in the line feature classic, neutral colors. “Those pieces that you don’t want to take off, those were my Most popular piece: “The Convertible” dress

Photo by Heather Merriman

Local designer Courtney Adams launched her loungewear line, Tocco Lusso, in August.

THE MEANING BEHIND THE NAME: tocco — Italian for touch lusso — Italian for luxury inspiration.”

The drape design also provides the option for the pieces to be buildable. By adding accessories, layering or putting on a pair of wedges, the outfit can be taken to a dressier level.

Pieces in the collection range from $40 to $200. It is available online at ToccoLusso. com or by scheduling a private showing.

Courtney’s favorite piece: “The Racer” dress

by Richard Hopkins and Jim Prosser

“Delivered... with great spirit” - Sarasota Herald-Tribune

TOO DARN HOT

366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

s

131533

Richard Hopkins, 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.

Courtesy photo

 “The Convertible” dress has a drape design around the top, which can also be worn as a hood.

 The lines of “The Racer” dress are what make it Adams’ favorite piece in her collection.

“It’s a super easy day dress,” says the designer.

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

23

TELL US YOUR...

WE u fall in love? o T y id d N n e A h the one?

W d n u W fo u o y know How did you ve last? lo r u o y e d a TO What has m y unique? r to s e v lo r u hat makes yo W admire? u o y R o d A y r E to s H Whose love IT

y and e juicy, mush th ll a r a e h e Story We want to ll us the Lov Te e s. il ta e d c for a chanc r te romanti n e d n a s or less ut! in 200 word ate Night O D t c e rf e p e to win th tory r.com/LoveS e rv se b rO u ! Yo

ENTER NOW

, des: ckage inclu A ITALIAN RESTAURANT a P e z ri P e h T t CASANTIC SOTA ENCY SARA antic dinner a

CHES. A rom TT REG LRY & WAT A E Y W H E JE H E T t IN a F ay CARATS a one-night st f earrings from o ir a p g in n n and a stu

1213

4 .18 6 6 3

.

941 • a m t N. Palm Ave. • Saraso t.co n a r au www.casanticarest

CCEPTED ENTRIES- JaA nuary 30 January 16

E R FAVORIT U O Y R O F VOTE ruary 5 January 31 -

Feb

Love Express your

MASTER JEWELER ON SITE

MONDAY – SATURDAY 10 – 5:30PM

1922 BAY ROAD, SARASOTA 34239 | 941.926.3335

131478

CARATSFINEJEWELRYANDWATCHES.COM

1000 Blvd of the Arts Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 953 -1234

0

24

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

GRAND At

L a k e wo o d

Ranch

Art. Music. Dance.

Saturday

February 1, 2014 Noon to 4 p.m.

Main Street

at Lakewood Ranch Presented by:

Come spend the day enjoying the sights and sounds of some of the area’s top performance groups. The 7th annual Grand Ovation makes its return to Lakewood Ranch Main Street with three stages and an amazing line-up of talent.

A delightful mix of street festival and concert hall, this celebration of the arts is not to be missed!

Explore the shops and boutiques of Main Street.

Dine at cozy restaurants and cafés. Discover street vendors and local non-profit groups. Includes free children’s crafts and the Mote Marine touch tank.

Seating is provided. No coolers please.

Free admission. Free parking.

128274

For more information, visit www.LWRevents.com