Diversions 2.20.14

Diversions YourObserver.com

A&E

A little theater snags a big production.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Mallory Gnaegy

“You never know what might happen tomorrow or if there’s even a tomorrow, so do it now — if you want to tell someone you love them, just do it,” Ricardo Graziano says, explaining the concept of his ballet. Graziano, right, choreographs a lift with Juan Gil and Kristianne Kleine.

CHOREOGRAPHING

Ricardo Graziano prepares to debut a world premiere, his fourth piece for Sarasota Ballet.

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: THE RIGHT STEPS

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

CHOREOGRAPHING WITH Ricardo Graziano prepares to debut a world premiere, his fourth piece for Sarasota Ballet.

D

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Ricardo Graziano choreographs a lift in the moment in an early rehearsal for “After Night Falls” with Kristianne Kleine, Juan Gil, Ellen Overstreet and Ian Tanzer.

!

T D S A L EKEN WE

ancer Kristianne Kleine walks backward gracefully toward the front of the studio as her dance partner, Juan Gil, watches from a distance. The accompanying piano music is simple, like a slow heartbeat. She pirouettes to a forward-facing position as Gil gently lifts her and affectionately carries her to the front of the studio. Faint orchestral music joins the piano.

The rhythm and movements swell, and the heartbeat gains intensity. It’s as if the dancers are demonstrating the act of falling in love.

Love is precisely the message Ricardo Graziano intends to send with his abstract ballet, “After Night Falls.” It’s the second week of February, and the first full week of rehearsal for the world premiere by the 27-yearold choreographer, whom most would know as a principal dancer of Sarasota Ballet. The dance will make its debut in the fifth program of Sarasota Ballet’s season, Feb. 28 through March 3 at FSU Center for the Performing

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Graziano choreographs a lift with Kleine.

Arts. This particular pas de deux, or partner dance, they’re working on today is the second of four pas de deux and three partner dances in the 30-minute ballet that incorporates seven couples.

After nearly two minutes, Graziano stops the music; the dancers have not learned the choreography past this point. He demonstrates the next section counting an eight count as the dancers follow behind him. Once they get the move down, they perfect it — trying different hand positions for the lift or separating the legs at the perfect angle.

He puts himself in the place of Gil to work with Kleine on how to best achieve his vision, then he even puts himself in place of Kleine and works with Gil. Along the way, he makes sure nothing feels strange and that everything looks and feels right. If something does not work, they change it.

This portion of the slightly more than two-week process of staging his ballet is like watching the inner workings of Graziano’s brain. He explains his process following the rehearsal. For the most part, he does a lot of the choreographing before he gets to

Photo by Frank Atura

Graziano’s “Shostakovich Suite” (2011) the studio. He only adapts moves when they might not work as planned.

“Things might be one way in my head and then when they try it, it’s like, ‘Oh, I forgot I don’t have a third arm or that I’m not The Hulk,’” Graziano says with a laugh.

But, for the most part, the music (which he has listened to hundreds of times) gives him the cues. It always starts with the music.

For this piece, he’s using various contemporary instrumental compositions by the Icelandic composer Ólafur Arnalds. After selecting the music, he played it for his friend, fellow principal dancer, Ricardo Rhodes. Rhodes said the music made him feel like living life to the fullest. Graziano liked that concept; that’s what “After Night Falls” is about.

“You have to live 100%, love 100% and dance 100%,” Graziano says. “You never know what might happen tomorrow or even if there is a tomorrow.”

Photo by Frank Atura

Graziano’s “Pomp and Circumstances” (2013)

But, as of today, he has his choreographing process down.

This will be his fourth choreographed piece for Sarasota Ballet. It started in October 2011, when he made his debut with “Shostakovich Suite.” Graziano intended to create something for the dancer-choreographed program at the end of the 2011/12 season, when Iain Webb, director of Sarasota Ballet, asked him if he’d like to open the 2011/12 season instead. Webb was taking a risk. Graziano had never choreographed before, and all Webb had to go on was the idea for the concept (a neoclassical piece with tutus, no plot and movements with long lines) and the music. It was spring 2011, so Graziano had the summer to prepare.

“I spent all summer on it in my bedroom in Brazil,” he says. “My parents saw me jumping around the house, and I said, ‘Don’t bother me I have to create something!’”

He wanted it to be good.

And it was good. One woman told him after the performance that his piece taught her how to love ballet again. And it wasn’t only good according to the audience, the process worked well for him — he enjoyed creating it.

He choreographed his next piece, the contemporary, abstract “Symphony of Sorrows,” in May 2012. It portrayed the stages of grief. Webb was so smitten with the piece, he told Graziano it was a treasure. This gave Graziano the idea that it would resurface another season. And it will — April 4 and April 5 in Program 6.

So, what’s next for Graziano?

For the immediate future, there are no set plans for his choreography. But, if he’s asked, he hopes to do something classical again.

It’s likely that this is not the last Sarasota will see of Graziano’s work.

“If the opportunity is there and if the inspiration is there, then I think I’d love to choreograph in the future,” he says.

Kristianne Kleine and Juan Gil in an early rehearsal for “After Night Falls”

IF YOU GO Program 5: Graziano, Ashton and DeMille Featuring Ricardo Graziano’s “After Night Falls,” Sir Frederick Ashton’s “Monotones I & II” and Agnes DeMille’s “Rodeo” When: 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 1; 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, March 2; and 7 p.m. Monday, March 3.

Where: FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Cost: Tickets are $28.50 to $100.

Info: Call 359-0099 or visit sarasotaballet.com

YOUROBSERVER.COM // See video clips from an early rehearsal of Ricardo Graziano’s “After Night Falls.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR A&E EDITOR’S PICKS

THURSDAY, FEB. 20

‘Man of La Mancha’ 2 and 8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Tickets $35 to $70. Call 953-3368.

‘Ringling by the Bay: soulRCoaster’ 5 p.m. at Bayfront Gardens Tickets $10. Call 359-5700.

ART

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

BOOKS

MUSIC

FOOD/DRINK

ART

THEATER

SCENE

Jazz at Two: Skip Conkling The Jazz Club of Sarasota. 2 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist. Call 366-1152.

Tom Ellison with June Garber and the Hip Pocket Quartet 7 p.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church. Tickets $10. Call 923-1691.

SATURDAY, FEB. 22:

Shake, Rattle and Roll with the Chorus of the Keys 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Riverview Performing Arts Center Tickets $20 to $35. Call 993-8768.

‘New Stages: ETHEL & Robert Mirabal’ 7:30 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater Runs through Friday.

Tickets $30. Call 359-5700.

SUNDAY, FEB. 23:

Masterworks Series: ‘Homage’ Sarasota Orchestra 8 p.m. at Neel Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Tickets $20 to $84. Call 953-3434.

‘Americana’ Suncoast Concert Band 3 p.m. at Church of the Palms Tickets $5. Call 907-4123.

34th annual Jazz Festival Jazz Club of Sarasota Runs through March 1. Various times and various locations. Call 366-1552.

34th annual Jazz Festival: Jazz in the Park Jazz Club of Sarasota Noon at Philippi Park. Call 343-7773.

MONDAY, FEB. 24:

‘Memphis’ 8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Call 953-3368.

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ON DISPLAY: Through April 5 in

“Revelations On The World As It Is: Adriane Colburn and Christina Seely” at Selby Gallery, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail

INSPIRATION: (This photo is one

in Seely’s project “Lux” here’s her inspiration for the series): “ I was captivated by the beauty of the light on the NASA map of the world at night and also the complexity of what this light represents about us ... Three regions on the map are noticeably brighter than the rest ... and they use around two-thirds of the world’s resources and create about 45% Dutchman’ Sarasota Opera 5 p.m. at Sarasota Opera House Tickets $5. Call 328-1300.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26:

Inside Asolo Rep Panel Discussion: ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ 11 a.m. at Asolo Repertory Theatre Tickets $5. Call 351-8000.

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Azucena in Verdi’s “Il trovatore” at Sarasota Opera. The

of the world’s CO2. Though these statistics lead to the conclusion that this light obviously equals an intensely negative impact on the planet; since its inception, manmade light has also represented ingenuity and progress, innovation, growth, prosperity, amusement, romance, optimism and promise — basically fundamentally positive and hopeful things. My real interest lies in this complexity and what it reflects about our current relationship with the planet.”

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The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast 7 p.m. at USF Sarasota-Manatee Tickets $20. Call 350-2338.

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Lang Lang 8 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Tickets $70 to $105. Call 953-3368.

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WHAT SONG ALWAYS GETS STUCK IN YOUR HEAD: “Moon River” IF YOU COULD SING ANY ROLE WHAT WOULD IT BE? Delilah in the opera “Samson et Delilah” by Camille Saint-Saëns

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPOTLIGHT

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by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Sarasota Cuban Ballet students prepare for exciting summer It’s a week before the 2014 Youth America Grand Prix semifinals in Atlanta, the world’s largest pre-professional dance competition. That means Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernandez, former professional dancers and husband-and-wife co-owners of Sarasota Cuban Ballet, are feeling the pressure.

Last year, they sent three of their pre-professional students to the competition: their son Francisco Serrano, Allie Burman and Adriana Baez. All three made it to the finals in New York City. This year, they are taking six students to the Feb. 21-22 competition.

Serrrano and Baez will return, with newcomers Lenin Valladares, Emma Town, Gabriella Stilo and Cecilia Hitchcock. Plus, they’ve got a lot of other news.

“That’s why I’m a little …” Serrano says, making a crazed facial expression and moving his hands frantically above his head in a nervous-but-proud parent type of way. “But, they’re ready.”

Each student will dance two classical and one contemporary variation. They’ve been practicing them five hours daily since the beginning of January. That’s dedication for the 14- to 17-yearold students.

Each student goes through his or her variation for the Sarasota Cuban Ballet school faculty, who then give the student a few notes.

A week before competition, the dancers’ routines are polished.

Town, 17, finishes her variation.

“How do you feel?” Serrano asks her.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Top: Francisco Serrano, 17; Emma Town, 17; Adriana Baez, 17; Cecilia Hitchcock, 14; Gabriella Stilo, 14; and Lenin Valladares, 17. Right, top: Adiana Baez. Middle: Lenin Valladares. Bottom: Gabriella Stilo. See more photos online at YourObserver.com.

“Good,” Town says.

“You should feel like a million bucks,” Serrano says. He’s impressed with her control; he tells her to be proud of her accomplishment.

Baez, 17, finishes her variation.

She looks a little frustrated and explains that she didn’t perform as perfectly as she wanted. But Serrano is still proud.

“These kids are a little too hard on themselves sometimes,” he says. He reassures the whole

group following the rehearsal.

You can see them shake off the tension. He tells them to smile more — he’s already proud of their accomplishments.

The finals are in April in New York City. But YAPG isn’t the only thing making this year exciting.

From April 20 through April 27, the faculty is taking the students on a trip to Cuba. It’s a nice reward for all their hard work.

The students will take classes with the National Ballet School

of Cuba as part of a cultural exchange program. And then in June for the school’s Summer Intensive, Cuba will come to them.

Ramona de Saa, director of the National Ballet School of Cuba, and three of her students will come for the Summer Intensive.

Saa taught Serrano to dance, and she’s never traveled to the United States.

“It’s big news!” he says. And it’s surely not the only big news to come.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: BACKSTAGE PASS

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Low-budget theater performs big-name production The Comic Shack is the last place you’d expect to see theater. Nestled in a strip plaza between Joyland (a country dance hall), and a nearby adult store is a small comic book store. One has to traverse rows of comic books, a table of guys playing computer games and shelves of collectors’ paraphernalia to the very back; it’s very much a “Am-Iin-the-right-place?” experience.

But, low and behold, through a makeshift curtain of tattered fabric is a black box theater, or The Courtyard Blackbox, which seats 50. Currently, the theater group composed of 18- to 43-year-olds (or Avant Guard, as they call themselves) is presenting “Rent,” for which they are proud of obtaining rights. This popular show is their first big-name production.

The rest have been cabaret shows, improv by in-house troupe Shack of Fools and original works, such as “Dusk of the Dead,” a zombie parody musical. The group is as unassuming as the location.

Co-owner of The Comic Shack Mark Wolfking explains that it all started in 2011 because they kept getting calls to the business from confused people asking them who their opening comedy act was — they had no clue it was a comic book store.

“It made me think, ‘You know what? We should do a comedy show!’” Wolfking says. He’s the token oldest member of the nearly 15-member cast, at a mere 43 years. It started with monthly improv shows. But, when The Comic Shack moved to a new location in January 2012, he realized the back room of the comic shack perfectly

IF YOU GO ‘Rent’ When: 9:30 p.m. Saturdays and 7:30 p.m. Sundays through March 2.

Where: The Comic Shack, 5602 14th St. W., Bradenton Cost: Tickets $15.

Info: Call 751-4845

Mallory Gnaegy

Co-owner Mark Wolfking plays Collins and Artistic Director Alex Beach plays Angel. See more photos online at YourObserver.com. lent itself to black box theater. It’s small, with cement walls, and it already had a quasi, built-in proscenium made of lattice. He decided to go for it and build a stage, calling it a roll-the-dice-situation: “It was kind of like, ‘We’re going to do this, so don’t make fun of us,’” he says “And now, 40 people show up on a regular basis.”

Wolfking is in the improv troupe, was the co-writer of the zombie musical and plays Collins in “Rent.”

He grew up in Temple Terrace doing community theater. The rest of the gamers, comic-book lovers and employees who work at his establishment (it has the tagline “Bradenton’s Sanctuary for Geeks”) are also community-theater buffs.

They are mostly involved at Manatee Players. It all made sense, and Wolfking realized he had a market for theater, so he agreed to let Alex Beach, a 24-year-old State Farm agent, be the artistic director.

Beach (who is also playing the role of Angel in “Rent”) will direct three musicals a year, but wanted to start with a big-name production to get The Courtyard Blackbox on the map. Plus, it’s “Rent.”

“We all love ‘Rent,’” he says. “A lot.”

The love is apparent. You can see it on their faces when they sing.

They might be low-budget, using flashlights as spotlights, stapling bed sheets together instead of

S A R A S OTA

sewing them for a prop and singing to recorded music — but their passion is their best attribute, and they lack pretention.

They wear smiles on their faces and interact with each other.

There’s no apparent diva. Everyone helps out where he or she is needed. And when it’s time to perform, it’s all business.

Beach acts as a professional artistic director would. He held auditions to fill the roles. He has an experienced stage manager calling minutes until curtain. He has someone doing the group’s marketing. And it works — they sell out productions.

It’s no wonder they all love “Rent.” They’re similar to the cast of misfits from the rock-opera they’re singing. It’s about a group of impoverished bohemian artists trying to survive and create beautiful work — flashlight spotlights and all. One song gives the perfect juxtaposition between the art and the artists’ motive: “There’s only us / There’s only this / Forget regret / Or life is yours to miss,” they sing passionately.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

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// ‘Sordid Lives’ For a glimpse at “Sordid Lives,” check out The Players. With a title like “Sordid Lives,” you know you’re not in for a comedy of manners — a comedy of bad manners is more like it.

Del Shores’ cult play (which was also a cult film TV show) unfolds in a one Kwik-EMart town in Texas in 1998. Judging by the play’s evidence, the small-town Texas of that era was a well-armed (if not well-regulated) realm of big hair, sexual shenanigans, beer, iced tea, churches and bars. All that, and attitudes toward gay people straight out of 1958.

The action revolves around the Ingram family. The catalyst that sets it all in motion?

Grandma Peggy Ingram has a tryst with an adulterous Vietnam War vet named G.W. (Greg Ellis) at a cheap motel — and conks her head and dies after tripping over his wooden legs. Then the multigenerational dominoes fall. The ensuing funeral ruins her sister Sissy’s (Kristi Hibschman) plans to quit smoking; provokes her daughter LaVonda (Nancy Denton) and G.W.’s wife, Noleta (Tammy Halsted), into Thelma and Louise-style, male-bashing vigilante justice; upsets Dr. Eve’s (Ruth Shaulis) plans to “dehomosexualize” Grandma’s transvestite son, Brother Boy (Eric Berkel), at a state mental institution; prompts her grandson, Ty (Camila Bustos), to come out of the closet and risk his national soap opera success; and ultimately induces Latrelle (Lynne Doyle), Grandma’s straight-laced daughter, to finally start cussing. Along the way, brawls, hold-ups, break-outs and true confessions ensue.

Shores’ dialogue is packed with quotable, over-the-top one-liners. (“Good Lord, Latrelle.

Don’t you know better than to sneak up on someone when they’re talking to a corpse?”)

The comedy is a mite broad, but so be it.

Director Peter Ivanov delivers the play’s belly laughs with flawless comic timing. The cast jumps into the fray with fairly authentic Texas accents and seem to be having a great time. (Audience, too.) Kudos to all previously mentioned actors. Kudos also to Lynne Doyle as Latrelle, the ultimate bar girl, and Paul Hutchison and Adam Garrison as Wardell and Odell Owen — a bartender and his boozer brother, respectively. The play serves the Brothers Owen a heaping helping of instant karma (or delayed reaction karma)

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“Sordid Lives” runs through Feb. 23, at Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

For more information, call 365-2494 or visit theplayers.org. for their gay-bashing sins in the 1970s. But nothing really bad happens to anybody. This isn’t a Jacobean revenge play. Shores keeps pushing the action toward redemption and wraps it all up in a Baptist Church to the tune of “Just as I am.”

Final analysis? “Sordid Lives” is a goof.

Its title promises an encounter with human specimens ripped from the pages of The National Enquirer. The play delivers.

Southerners might object to the white trash stereotypes, while secretly thinking, “Wow, that’s pretty accurate. The playwright most likely grew up in Texas.” (The playwright did.)

Shores hits his trashy targets with a sharpshooter’s accuracy because he knows where to aim. And, despite their bad behavior, you can tell he loves his characters — even the bigots. You laugh with them and at them, but your laughter is warm.

To be fair, that laughter is a spoonful of sugar to help Shores’ message of tolerance go down.

But you’ll be laughing too hard to notice.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

OPERA // Sarasota Opera’s ‘The Barber of Seville’

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The roar of laughter and joy from the crowd at Saturday’s opening of Sarasota Opera’s production of Rossini’s “Il Barbiere di Siviglia” sounded more like a deliriously happy Broadway audience than a staid assemblage of operagoers. That was as it should have been and a fine tribute to one of the best showings of this well-loved staple we’ve seen in years.

William Gustafson’s staging was energetic, smart, sassy and stylistically spot-on with just enough shtick to keep smiles on our faces and guffaws gushing out, but never overshadowing the music or the composer’s intent. He had his cast on the move, doing those little things that make them individuals and characters, rather than cardboard singing sticks. This was his third, and finest, “Barber” with Sarasota Opera, and he seems to have grown into the work. He gives Rossini’s musical cues every bit of theatricality for which the composer intended.

His superb cast helped, starting with a Rosina, played by Chrystal E. Williams, who was so strong and so assured — vocally and dramatically — she pretty much stole the show.

Williams, a fourth-year resident artist at The Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia, is a mezzo-soprano who seems destined for great things. Although the bottom of her range is still a little raw, the timbre of her voice has an energy and brightness that carried her easily through the coloratura fanfare of “Una voce poco fa,” and everything else Rossini tossed in her path. That made her a spitfire Rosina with a twinkle in her eyes and the kind of sparkle her suitor, Count Almaviva (in multiple disguises), would pur-

sue to the ends of Andalusia.

Hak Soo Kim, the Rosina-doting Count, is a glistening tenor who sings, delightfully, on the top of the pitch, with just enough “squillo” (penetrating resonance) to make every Rossini-style turn and trill sound just that much more exciting. His last-act aria, a piece that is usually cut because it is not only impossibly difficult to sing but also adds little to the storyline of the piece, was both a pleasure to hear and an amazing feat of vocal calisthenics worthy of the operatic Olympics.

Rossini, who was a little like the Stuart Woods of the 19th century opera world, not only turned out three or four massive operas a year, he also stole from himself and, in Almaviva’s final aria, we heard huge swaths of Cinderella’s “Non piu mesta,” which actually was written in 1817, the year after “The Barber of Seville.” (He also recycled Rosina’s famous “Una voce” from “Elisabetta, regina d’Inghilterra” an opera seria he’d written the year before. And even the famous overture to the “Barber” had been heard, not once, but twice, in varying forms as an overture, first in “Aureliano in Palmira” and then in “Elisabetta.” So, self-plagiarism was nothing new to Rossini.)

Back to the cast, Steven Condy’s Dr. Bartolo, Rosina’s guardian and suitor, made a believable person of this sometimes doddering but wily old man, singing with humor, warmth and style. Matthew Burns was a brilliantly duplicitous Basilio whose “La Calunnia” was biting and colorful. Berta, the old housekeeper, was portrayed by the lustrously voiced Studio Artist Alexandra Batsios, who may have sung like an angel but epitomized a tired old woman, world and bone weary.

Marco Nistico took on the galvanizing role of Figaro, the barber who orchestrates all the shenanigans that unfold in the course of the opera. While singing well — his famous “Largo” was fine but not mesmerizing — he was more careful with his music

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT P R O U D LY P R E S E N T

People of the booK Monday March 10, 2014 at 7:00 pm

Riverview High School Auditorium 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL FEATURING

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and acting, making his Figaro less than the superhuman, ingenious young man he’s meant to be. It may have been that his colleagues were stronger than he, but Nistico, who certainly did no wrong, was in a role that bears the title of the opera for good reason. Perhaps he’ll become the electrifying character called for, as the season continues.

Marcello Cormio, who led the splendid orchestra and vocal forces, was an assistant conductor with Sarasota Opera about four years ago. He had a lovely, light touch with the music, never overpowering the singers

but always keeping the tempos brisk and stylistic. In fact, he brought out the ever-present Champagne bubbles that make Rossini the sparkler of a composer he was. He and Gustafson seem to make an excellent pair, adding all the little details that make an opera come alive. This “Barber” was very much an ensemble piece with every note and character taking on an individuality that breathed freshness into an old friend. If you’ve seen this Rossini icon before, you’ll adore this one. If this is your first “Barber,” it will turn you into a full-fledged operavore.

— June LeBell

As a thank you to our donors, your ticket is FREE with a minimum gift of $36 (individual) or $72 (family) to the development efforts of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

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Mezzo-soprano Chrystal E. Williams, tenor Hak Soo Kim and baritone Steven Condy in Sarasota Opera’s “The Barber of Seville,” which runs through March 21.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// HOME&GARDEN: TREND ALERT

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor

FASHION TRENDS: HOME EDITION Fashion at home is just as flux as fashion in a closet — trends come and go and some turn into long-standing staples. We stopped in a few local interior shops to see what’s trending in the home décor world, and we found great tips and items to keep your home in style.

Soft skins and furs Nothing says wow in a more glamorous, yet subtle way than a little fur. Soft skins (short and long) and more furry pieces are seen in many stores, in a variety of ways.

Rugs, throws, chairs, slip covers, wall art — you name it, you can find it in fur.

Switch out an accent chair with a printed cowhide piece like this one found at Current.

this ns such as Easy additio be added to n fur throw ca uch or chair. o c g in st an exi

Photos by Heather Merriman

Changing out pillows and pillow covers transform a room without completely redecorating a space.

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fter walking into multiple home interior stores, it’s easy to get an idea of what styles and items are consistent through each. The noticeable trends: soft skins and furs, geometric blacks and whites and metallics, to name a few.

As with fashion, there are sea-

sonal trends with interior “fashions,” and in conjunction, ways to incorporate the old with the new.

The trick: buying accessories and adding a few decorative furniture pieces of the current trends, while still reflecting and blending well with the style of the home.

Example: pillows. “With pillows, you can change a room,” says Sandy Trout at Current.

It’s difficult to change years of décor already implemented in one’s home, but adapting to trends of interest can be done a number of ways, without having to change the overall style of the décor.

Add a leather slipcover, like this one found at Pecky Interiors, to an existing chair to bring the soft skin trend into a space.

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// HOME&GARDEN Industrial Chic Think simple and clean lines, mixed with trending metallics and glamorous bold statement pieces.

Geometric black and white

 This removable tray table with a brass base, found at Current, is a great piece for adding a touch of “industrial chic” to a room.  Add some chic accessories to this burnt teak wood table, or use it as a stool.

Geometric black and white patterns are popping up everywhere. Black and white checkered tile flooring is a huge trend in homes, but if changing the tile in your foyer or kitchen seems a little drastic, buy a rug, switch out the chair in the living room or add a few black  Place settings found and white décor items to your favorite at Pecky Interiors coffee table.

 Add an accent chair like this modern upholstered chair found at Mission Avenue Studio to bring some geometric black and whites to a room.

These light fixture s Pecky Interiors ar found at e a great industrial addition to any home.

This couch found at Mission Avenue Studio could be used to add a pop of pink to a room.

 The bold colors in this pillow found at Current add bold brightness to any space.

Bold colors and pops of pink Neutral walls and furniture are popular in homes as of late — as well as more simple, clean lines, much like a contemporary or Nordic-style home design. Adding bold colors, specifically pops of pink, is a great way to add more “bold brightness” to a room. Popular items to add to a room for a bold statement are couches, wall art, rugs, pillows and flower arrangements.

 “Throw pillows are always a good way to add accents,” says Ashley Farlow at Pecky Interiors. This pillow is has a metallic look with a feminine design.

 Copper is the metal of choice this season — these copper candlesticks are a great addition to any coffee table.

 Decorative boxes are always popular — buy some in a metallic finish to add some chic glam to any room.

 Add a bold color furniture piece like this aqua chest at Current.

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// FOOD&COOKING:

TIDBITES

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

COLUMN

by June LeBell Contributing Columnist june@junelebell.com

CARAGIULO’S IS ANOTHER FAMILY AFFAIR

G

o to Caragiulo’s website and you’ll not only see family photos, you’ll hear a transcription of the Bach-Gounod “Ave Maria” for piano and violin. Over the music, the text tells us that everything is made fresh, even the mozzarella, and “the biscotti is still baked by Mrs. Caragiulo, herself.”

Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, Caragiulo’s is a familiar hangout for singers on their way to or from a chorus rehearsal, families who want a good, home-cooked Italian meal, and singles who are looking for a fun place, indoors and out, where they can catch up on some reading, people watch and have something cooked specially for them.

Last week, when the internationally renowned Curtis Institute of Music — the most selective conservatory in the country — brought a quartet of singers from its opera division for a concert at First United Methodist Church, there was a dinner and post-concert reception at Caragiulo’s for donors and Sarasota Friends of Curtis.

There’s something fun and relaxing about Caragiulo’s. The artful decorations are fun and the drinks are good. They have some interesting infusions like espresso and citrus bourbon, and caballero (Spanish orange liqueur) and

JALEA SENT OUT A VALENTINE

F

Photo by June LeBell

rum. But it’s their pastas and sauces that really turn one’s head. Garganelli and lobster carbonara is tempting. So is the variety of linguine, penne, tortelloni and capellini. Every shape and size of pasta, but the texture is always al dente and the sauces are inspired. A good way to start, and end, a performance.

THE SERVING SPOON SERVES UP MORE THAN BRUNCH

I

’ve been going to the Serving Spoon almost since I moved to Sarasota, first to the branch on Clark and, after that restaurant closed, I followed it to its mainstay on Osprey, near Hillview.

My husband and I love it, not just for the food — to which we’ve become addicted — but also for the friendship of the wait staff and the owners.

Natasha and Craig, who shepherd the place in the kitchen, out front, at the tables and, well, just about everywhere you look, are our friends away from home. When I was diagnosed with

ovarian cancer two years ago, Craig was right there, sharing his experiences with cancer and, you should excuse the pun, egging me on with his wonderful courage and wisdom. And Tasha always has a smile and open arms for hugs, sitting with us when she has a few moments, and sharing stories, asking questions and telling us what’s new.

We’ve followed at least two of their kids as they’ve entered college and come home for holidays to work in the restaurant. And we’ve been

or reasons we’ve not yet understood, Sarasota seems to be a magnet for great Peruvian restaurants. Darwin’s on Fourth, Selva Grill, and now Jalea, at 1532 Main St., are serving up some incredibly inventive dishes that taste like a wonderful mix of Spanish and South American recipes with splashes of Asian je ne c’est quoi.

Last week, Jalea went all out in its celebration of Valentine’s Day with a prix-fixe dinner that was filled with love bites. From its creative salad that combined spinach, berries, garbanzo beans and pine nuts with a passion fruit dressing, to the pan-fried grateful to them when they’ve posted flyers of our upcoming performances on their bulletin board and in the windows.

The Serving Spoon has been our favorite breakfast-lunch place because it feeds us — body and soul. When we’re not dieting, we go for its soft scrambled eggs with bacon, tomato and swiss rolled into a toasty tortilla. The menu calls it the B.E.S.T sandwich, and it is. We drool as pancakes float to other tables and are awestruck as others down those carbs and stay slim. (Someday …) We’re addicted to Craig’s New Favorite: soft scrambled eggs with feta and scallions, but

Courtesy photos

white fish with a seafood and aji Amarillo sauce served over white rice, and the luscious dulce de leche with whipped cream and strawberries, Jalea was one of the best bets for a heart-felt and loving celebration.

Fortunately, Jalea is always celebrating something in its intimate downtown space.

There are hot and cold tapas running all day. Ceviche, paella, empanadas, slowbraised lamb and a great assortment of seafood are beautifully served with a great collection of wines. And happy hour starts at 3 p.m. and lasts until 6 p.m. Very happy hours. we ask them to add bacon to the mix and revel in the textures and tastes.

The chicken club salad is also a favorite, but we ask for it chopped and tossed with toasted pita on the side. In fact, this is one of the best salads we know and, when we want something a little lighter, we get just a half and that does the trick.

The Serving Spoon is open only until 2:30 p.m. (1:30 p.m. on Sundays) and sometimes we wish, for a light dinner before a concert, it was open for dinner. But we’ll take what we can get: great mid-day meals served by dear friends.

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INSIDE: ‘Cure on the Runway’ PAGE 17

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

The Bermuda Mavericks Ken Sons and Les McCurdy emceed the fashion show.

Beverly Tschuor, Gretchen Mannion and Joan Fox

 Jane Krombeen models on the runway.

Co-Chair Nancy Wingerter, Fashion Chair Dori Zingmond and Co-Chair Diane Muldoon

Denise Barker, Jean Wheeler and Lois Kiehl

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota was packed with more than 700 guests Thursday, Feb. 13 for Safe Place and Rape Crisis Centers’ 28th annual fashion show and luncheon “SPARCCLE on the Runway.”

Guests, the majority of whom were women, enjoyed shopping designer labels from the Treasure Chest prior to gathering in the ballroom for the luncheon and fashion show. The checkout line seemed to never end as women shopped before and after the luncheon, raising more than $27,000 in sales alone for SPARCC programs and services.

Fuzión Dance Artists performed contemporary dance (covered in white lights) while the guests took their seats. Co-Chairwoman Diane Muldoon and SPARCC President and CEO Olivia Thomas

welcomed the crowd and made announcements.

“It’s always gratifying to see so many people turn out to show their support of SPARCC and the services we provide,” says Thomas. “It’s a great time to share updates on our services, like building a kennel at our shelter and a forensic facility at our outreach center.”

Co-Chairwoman Nancy Wingerter introduced fashion coordinator Dori Zingmond to the stage prior to the fashion show. Zingmond gave an overview and explained the 1960s inspiration of the show came from five vintage dresses she found at the Treasure Chest.

“If you like one of these dresses, and it doesn’t fit, buy it anyways and hang it on your wall — they are that beautiful,” says Zingmond.

Debbie Hanerty, Diane Eckhold and Pat Buckley

Barb Topel and Linda Chambers

Colleen Dauls, Phil Peck, Melissa Pecorella and Dr. Deena Hackett

Fashions inspired by the 1960s were modeled at the event.

Gail Hruby, Sandy Strom, Pat Nielsen and Deborah Bill

Photos by Heather Merriman

Pat Knasiak and Jean Paulus

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// BLACK TIE: COLUMN

CHEERING FOR THE TROOPS

F

or the past few years, Sarasota interior designer Carrie Riley has had the unique opportunity to work with ProTour Productions, a Tampa-based company owned by Sandy Charboneau. ProTours brings a little piece of home to U.S. troops all over the world with various entertainers, NFL players, cheerleaders and mascots. Riley, a former Tampa Bay Buccaneers cheerleader, recently traveled with a group to Camp Zama, in Japan.

“It was my first time in Japan and one of the NFL cheerleaders’ first time ever leaving the US,” says Riley. “What an honor for us to em-

bark on such a journey and show our support for our military. Year after year the pure joy from the troops and their families amazes me.”

Riley was also enthralled with the cultural experience in Japan.

“One of my favorite parts was the amazing vending machines they have throughout the country of Japan,” she says. “It has hot canned or bottled lattes, hot teas, hot coco, etc. in their vending machines — such a brilliant idea we should incorporate here in the states. I was like a little kid trying all the different varieties they had to offer.”

BLACK TIE R AFFAI

A NIGHT AT THE RAINBOW ROOM

Photos by Stephanie Hannum

Top: Hostesses Montana Taplinger and Nikki Sedacca Left: Jan Gaudreau’s standout shoes $300,000 to kick off construction of the hospital ARC plans to build … Are we getting cures as fast as we could? That is the provocative title of the third annual Women & Medicine Luncheon. It is a big issue: If you have been following the news, you know that the FDA just denied a drug to treat MS that has been approved by 30 other countries. Dr. James Schumacher, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System neurosurgeon and Parkinson’s researcher; Dr. Kirk Voelker, the system’s director of clinical research; and special guest Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach, chairman of the Manhattan Institute’s Project FDA, will headline this interactive luncheon benefiting the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Feb. 28.

For more information, call 9171286.

Remember the Rainbow Room? You have the opportunity to relive it or experience it for the first time at the Asolo Rep’s 2014 annual gala on March 1. Co-Chairs Nikki Sedacca, Nikki Taylor, Carol Phillips and Chris Cogan are transforming the The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota ballroom into “A Night at the Rainbow Room” with help from Bay Stage Live out of Tampa. This will be the first Asolo gala in memory without a live auction, set aside in favor of a paddle raise, for which Carole Crosby and Larry Wickless have pledged to match the first $15,000 raised.

And there will be a silent auction; online bidding is going on now at asolorep. org/annualgala. Sarasota loved Marissa McGowan as Magnolia in the Asolo production of “Show Boat,” and it was recently announced that she’s coming back to perform two songs at the gala — one from “Show Boat” and the other a surprise. For tickets or more information, call 3519010, Ext. 4712.

J. Kenneth Campbell & Lucy Lavely; photo by Cliff Roles

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Courtesy photo

Jena (Tennessee Titans), Missy (Minnesota Vikings), Carrie Riley, Alice (Atlanta Falcons), Kristen (Phoenix Cardinals), Krystal (Kansas City Chiefs) and Susan (Washington Redskins)

Scenes from SPARCS Cle … Some women TIDBIT were in quite the tizzy when the Ritz-Carlton ran out of white wine at the Feb. 13 SPARCC luncheon, after going through 185 bottles. Luckily it soon came to the rescue after switching brands. Susan Lanier was the lucky winner of the Just Gents gift basket, which she laughed about after announcing to emcees Ken Sons and Les McCurdy that her husband is bald.

Prior to attending the luncheon together, Kyla Weiner treated her mom, Judith Yaeger, to a spa day for her birthday …

Celebrating friendship … The theme was love and friendship at Nikki Sedacca and Montana Taplinger’s annual Spirit of Friendship luncheon Feb. 11, at 530 Burns Gallery. Standing out among the crowd was Jan Gaudreau’s beautiful high heels.

She reports they actually belong to daughter Lauren, but she currently lives in cold weather, so Jan decided they now belong on her feet … When Irish toes are tapping … at the Irish Rovers concert last week at Van Wezel, 10 of them belonged to Feng Shui expert and Asolo Rep board member Diana Armbrust, who owned up to being 100% Irish and the survivor of many years of Irish dancing instruction … Unconditional love … Joanna Pace-Brackett is the new chair of the Animal Rescue Coalition board. At the Feb. 15 “Unconditional Gala,” she and her husband, David, donated

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BLACKTIE&TALES

by Black Tie Staff

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// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Ed and Shelley Sarbey David Brackett, Joanna Pace-Brackett and Tom Hudson

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

Vincent and Kathryn Catena

ARC BEST IN SHOW GALA ‘UNCONDITIONAL LOVE’ Benefiting Animal Rescue Coalition | Saturday, Feb. 15, at Michael’s On East

Amy Grewal, Kimberly Manooshian and Shana Zamikoff

Ron and Arlene Klein, Lori Bassano and Ray Monserrat

Elisabeth Waters

YOUROBSERVER.COM // See more Black Tie photos online

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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Amazing!

Photos by Heather Merriman

 Holly Wright, Jonathan Fleece and Mary Monzingo

Call for Free Consultation

134204

New Era Medical Ali Shaygan, MD

1960 Stickney Point Rd. Suite 207, Sarasota SW Corner of Stickney Point and 41

941-552-6616

Verdi’s American Home

WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL

 Co-Chairs Cindy Stuhley, Lory Weisensee, Julie Delaney, Margarete Van Antwerpen, Chris Currie and Judy Rush

February 8–March 23, 2014 | Tickets start at $19 | Simultaneous English Translations Above the Stage

The Flying Dutchman an opera by RICHARD WAGNER

Media Sponsor

March 1–23 Legends of the sea come to life in a tale of love & redemption.

dara hobbs

kevin short

harold wilson

Senta

The Dutchman

Daland

michael robert hendrick

Erik

Conducted by david neely

also

Il trovatore

The Barber of Seville

Jérusalem

VERDI Feb. 8–Mar. 22

ROSSINI Feb. 15–Mar. 21

VERDI Mar. 8–22

 Featured speaker J.R. Martinez and Joe Barbetta  Marina Slavina and David Puyanic

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

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.

129350

(941) 328-1300 | SARASOTAOPERA.org

You’re Invited to a Special Night of Beauty

Wednesday, February 26 • 5:30-7pm Join Dr. Holly Barbour and her cosmetically trained staff for an educational and fun evening.

Light bites, mini cosmetic consultations and information on the NEW FDA approved, long-lasting (up to 2 years!) volumizing filler - Juvederm Voluma XC

Charles and Susan Hines with Caitlin Moore and Kim French

60% OFF

Up To All Merchandise

RSVP 941.951.2220 Space is limited

Amazing giveaways and discounts for attendees! Bring a friend!

This special is for a limited time.

by Reza

LLC

Buy • Sell • Trade • Appraise • Repair • Clean

HOLLY L. BARBOUR, M.D.

Come in to see our wide variety of rugs from around the world.

Pratt Institute, Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Case Western Reserve University, MD and Residency in Ophthalmology Duke University Medical Center, Fellowship in Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Skill of a Surgeon The Eye of an Artist and The Understanding of a Woman

625 S. Washington Blvd. (across from Sarasota Ford) Hours: 10-5 Monday - Saturday • 12-4 Sunday

Parking is available in the back of the store.

Follow us on Facebook

rugsbyreza.com 941.388.2049 941.953.2734

134131

Formerly located on St. Armands Key 133667

1250 South Tamiami Trail | Sarasota 941.951.2220 | www.hollybarbourmd.com

Rugs



The Winter Sale

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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valerie oechslin

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Xiomara Velez, Mimoza Nicaj, Hope Russo, Tara Thomas, Nadia Morgan and Alvana Nicaj

15TH ANNUAL SARASOTA WOMEN’S CANCER AWARENESS LUNCHEON ‘CURE ON THE RUNWAY’

Building, Renovating or Just Want a Fresh Look?

Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland Simple, Practical Winter Winter Wonderland Wonderland Design Guidance Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland Winter Wonderland

Benefiting Moffitt Cancer Center | Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Rectrix Aerodrome Center

Never Needs Watering 941-724 -2704 Never Needs Watering valoechslin.com Never Never Needs Needs Watering Watering valerie.oechslin@gmail.com Never Needs Watering

134200

Design Consultant

Never Needs Watering Never Needs Watering Never Needs Watering Never Needs Watering Never Needs Never Needs Watering Watering Silk Orchids Silk Orchids

Driftwood Table Lamp Driftwood Table Lamp

Mod, Man SilkSilk Orchids Orchids Mod, Man SilkOrchids Orchids Driftwood Table Lamp Driftwood Table Lamp Silk Driftwood Table Lamp Man ManSilkSilkOrchids Mod, Mod, Driftwood Table Lamp Orchids Driftwood Table Lamp Silk Orchids Orchids Driftwood Table Lamp SilkSilk Orchids Driftwood Table Lamp Man Man Mod, Man Mod, Silk Orchids Orchids Driftwood Driftwood Table Table Lamp Lamp Mod, Man Mod, Man Mod, Man Silk Mod, Driftwood Driftwood Table Table Lamp Lamp

 Spring 2014 fashions from Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota were shown on the runway at the 15th annual Sarasota Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon.

Mod, Man Java Loft Media Console Java Loft Media Console

Dine in Style JavaJava Throne of Pillows Java Loft Loft Media Media Console Console Java Loft Media Console Media Java LoftConsole Media Console Java Loft Media Console Java Loft Media Console Dine in Style JavaLoft Throne of Pillows Loft Media Console Java Loft Media ConsoleThrone of Pillows Dine in Style Dine Dine in in Style Style Throne Throne of Pillows of Pillows Pillows Dine Style Throne of Pillows Dine in Style Throne of Pillows Dine in Style Throne of Dinein in Style Throne of Pillows Java Loft Loft Media Media Console Console Throne of Pillows Dine in Style Java

Java Loft Dining Chairs Java Loft Dining Chairs

Java LoftDining Dining Chairs Java Loft Dining Chairs Java Dining Chairs Java Loft Loft Chairs Java Loft Dining Chairs Java Loft Dining Chairs

 Cindy Wamberg and Christi Petzoldt

Lauren and Jeanne Graham with Lois Muse

Throne of Pillows Thai SilkPillows Pillows on Bench Thai Silk onTeak Teak Bench

Silk Pillows onof Teak Bench Thai Pillows Teak Bench Thai Silk Pillows on Teak Bench Thai SilkThai Pillows on Teak Bench Thai SilkSilk Pillows on Teak Bench Thai Silk Pillows on Teak Bench

Bring in this ad and get$10 $10 off off $50 Bring in this JavaJava LoftLoft Dining Dining Chairs Chairsad and get ThaiThai SilkSilk Pillows on $50 Teak Bench Pillows on Teak Bench Bring inad this ad and get $10 off $50 Bring in this and get $10 off $50 Bring in this ad and get $10 off $50 $20 off $100 and $100 off $500 purchase Bring in this ad and get $10 off $50 Bring in this ad and get $10 off $50 Java Loft$100 Dining Chairs $20 off and $100 off Thai$500 Silk Pillowspurchase on Teak Bench $20 $100 and $100 off $500 purchase Bring inoff in this this ad ad and and get get $10 $10 off off $50 $50 $20Bring off $100 and $100 off $500 purchase $20 off $100 and $100 off $500 purchase $20 off $100 and $100 off $500 purchase $20 offWEST $100 and $100 off $500 purchase INDIES HOME COLLECTION Bring in this adN.,and get $10 off $50 Java Java Loft Loft Dining Dining Chairs Chairs Thai Thai Silk Silk Pillows Pillows on on Teak Teak Bench Bench $20 $20 off off $100 $100 and and $100 off off $500 $500 purchase purchase 1312 Tamiami Trail$100 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00COLLECTION Sun 11:00-5:00 WEST INDIES HOME WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION $20 off $100 $100 $500 purchase 1312 Tamiami Trail N., FL Sarasota, FL 34236off 941-951-9222 WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION 1312 Tamiami Trail N.,and Sarasota, 34236 941-951-9222 Bring in this ad get $10 $50 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FLoff 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail N.,and Sarasota, FL 34236 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 WEST WEST INDIES INDIES COLLECTION Open Mon—HOME SatHOME 10:00-5:00COLLECTION Sun 11:00-5:00 Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun Sun 11:00-5:00 $20 off $100 and $100 off $500 purchase Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 11:00-5:00 1312 1312 Tamiami Tamiami Trail Trail N., N., Sarasota, Sarasota, FL FL34236 34236 941-951-9222 941-951-9222 WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Open Open Mon— Mon— Sat Sat 10:00-5:00 10:00-5:00 Sun Sun 11:00-5:00 11:00-5:00 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 2/20/14 WESTOpen INDIES HOME Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00COLLECTION Sun 11:00-5:00

2/20/14 2/20/142/20/14 2/20/14 2/20/14

1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236

133260

Dine in Style

Honorary Chairwoman Eileen Curd, Sally Schule and Chairwoman Christine Sandrib

941-951-9222

Open Mon— Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00

2/20/14

2/20/14 2/20/14 2/20/14 Susan Kelley, Kim Standish, Amy Esper and Nigel Ruth

2/20/14 2/20/14

Photos by Heather Merriman

The FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training presents

Paula Vogel’s

FEB..18-MARCH 9 FSU Center for the PerformingnArts

A young woman’s road to freedom enters dangerous territory in this Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

126888

PublicaMedia

Evening: $29 • Matinees: $28 • Students: $1450

Observer Longboat. East County. Sarasota. Pelican Press.

ASOLOREP.ORG/CONSERVATORY • 941-351-8000 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

YourObserver.com

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wusf

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Shannon and Ron Ciaravella

Daniel Lee and Nina Pilon

2014 LINCOLN DAY DINNER FEATURING LT. COL. ALLEN WEST Benefiting The Republican Party of Sarasota County Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Tarpon Shores

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D E N TA L

Photos by Heather Merriman

Blaise Ingoglia and Julie Farrar

Tickets on sale now!

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Concours WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22

Saturday, March 8, 2014

WHERE: Downtown Sarasota

Sarasota Polo Club, Lakewood Ranch

3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:30pm

Lt. Col. Allen West and Joe Gruters

COST: Free

Gates Open Polo Match Begins Cocktails & Hors d’Oeuvres Dinner & Dancing

Enjoy a weekend of fun and excitement, old sport. This Great Gatsby themed car show includes events throughout the weekend, including this free show, boasting brands such as Rolls Royce, Lotus, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Bentley. Event benefits United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest Florida, Inc.

Join us for a great event and a great cause.

Everyone is welcome! Please join us for an afternoon of polo and fun as we raise money for advances in research, education and the treatment of cancer.

For sponsorships call 941.928.9296.

Purchase your tickets online today.

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

arasota.com/calen da

2014 BENEFICIARIES:

2014 PRESENTING SPONSOR

r

2014 MEDIA SPONSORS:

polounderthepalms.com

Win a 2014

SATURDAY, FE

B, 22

Toyota Tacoma $100

donation

(only 1000 tickets available)

7 other LUCKY prizes

Proceeds to Benefit Center for Building Hope and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Presented By Toyota of Lakewood

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PLUS

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Buy your Lucky Draw ticket at: www.polounderthepalms.com

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

// BLACK TIE: STYLE

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor

GUEST FASHION EDITOR

Crawford describes her style as being “Soho, West Village mixed with laid back California.”

“Going to school in Alabama (the fashion-savvy tech graduated from Auburn University), you’d notice that if there is a trend, everyone is just killing it,” she says. “I try to steer away from trends — I have more of a city style.” — sticking to basics and clean staple pieces, while adding a few accessories here and there.

Crawford’s everyday style is typically a pair of J. Brand skinny jeans paired with a casual, no-frills top and either a pair of flats (probably tieks) or wedge sandals. Her style is versatile and can be changed and altered for each occasion.

“I typically wear jeans,” she says. “I never know if I’ll be meeting with a client or having to crawl under the desk to fix something.”

CRAWFORD’S TYPICAL OUTFIT

TIEKS FLATS

Photos by Heather Merriman

CRAWFORD’S PICKS — PRODUCTS

 Dior Airflash spray foundation

TORY BURCH BAG

Crawford’s style is versatile — by switching up her shoes or adding a less casual layering jacket, her everyday look can be transformed into something a little more dressy.

HENRI BENDEL BAG 

 CELINE HEELS

 Dior Foundation Brush

 Gucci Guilty perfume

WORKOUT STYLE Crawford, who has always been into sports —she started playing tennis at age 4 — has been a Mantra instructor for a year. She typically works out five days a week. So how does this fashionable working woman transition from everyday work attire to workout wear?

“A lot of times I’m not going to straight to the studio or heading home right after. I throw on scarves, stacked bracelets and always have a variety of shoes to throw on if I’m going to grab food or run errands in between. Sometimes I’ll even wear a beanie,” she says.

GODDIS STRIPED CARDIGAN

 ZARA JACKET

Crawford had this gold necklace, which is the duplication of her boyfriend’s signature, made on Etsy.

J. Brand skinny jeans, a classic top, a good jacket for layering, a watch, diamond studs (or occasionally gold hoop earrings) and a pair of flats

SPLENDID LAYERING TANK

DRESS IT UP

HER FAVORITES

 These J. Brand “Love Story” flare jeans are her go-to jeans.

Molly Crawford is co-owner of an IT consulting company, a Humane Society of Sarasota County board member, a Mantra fitness instructor — and she has fashion sense.

JBRAND SKINNY JEANS

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LINE&DOT SEQUIN JACKET

COATED, FAUX-LEATHER LEGGINGS FROM TOP SHOP

 Ash wedge sneakers Crawford says that the majority of her workout clothes are lululemon. “The Wonder Unders are my favorite workout pants, they hug in all the right places and they are really good quality,” she says.

ENERGY SMART STYLE

 Crawford loves the look of stacked bracelets. She collects bracelets when she travels to other countries, using them as travel keepsakes as well as fashion statements.

OF SARASOTA SARASOTA

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

Saturday & Sunday – March 1 & 2 – 7:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 1-MARCH 31,2014

In the Historic Asolo Theater at The Ringling

Rebates of $ 25 to $ 50 on Selected Styles

TEMPEST TRIO Violin, Cello, Piano

“Trios Anyone?”

BEETHOVEN | Trio, Op. 11 Come in and browse our showroom and Hunter Douglas Gallery for a huge selection of blinds, fabrics, draperies, wallcoverings and shutters.

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Across from The Landings

941.925.7800

mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

TICKETS BY PHONE – M-F 10A-4P – $45 941.360.7399 Tickets/details 24/7 at www.artistseriesconcerts.org

134243

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....Since 1989

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

DVORAK | Trio, Op. 90 “Dumky”

134193

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

BERNSTEIN | Trio

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DIVERSIONS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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