Diversions 4.17.14

Diversions YourObserver.com

A&E

Trio’s recital hails women composers.

PAGE 5

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

HOME

The Masters inspires outdoor viewing ideas.

PAGE 8

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT | VOCAL POWER

BLACK TIE

Orchid Ball PAGE 11

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Mallory Gnaegy

“I think the audience is going to be touched and moved,” Elizabeth Weil Bergmann, choreographer of “Voices of the Holocaust,” says of the cantata and dance. “Personally, I think it’ll be unforgettable.”

UNITED IN

SONG

Joseph Holt and Gloria Musicae hope to make the audience reflect on modern discrimination through ‘Voices of the Holocaust’ performance.

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

2

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: VOCAL POWER

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

UNITED IN SONG Joseph Holt and Gloria Musicae hope to make the audience reflect on modern discrimination through ‘Voices of the Holocaust’ performance.

S

Dancer Lynn Hocker reaches over fellow dancers, who restrict her as if they are the Berlin wall.

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

ongs in minor keys trail through the halls of First United Methodist Church.

A choir of 120 voices from six local choral groups sings a Yiddish song. The singers begin in unison.

Then, each vocal part launches into a round: “Ani-ma’amin, Ani-ma’amin / I believe with reassuring faith / He will come,” they sing.

Joseph Holt, the artistic director of Gloria Musicae, halts the singing to perfect the choir’s pronunciation. He worked with a native Yiddish speaker on the lyrics, and a few choir members also help with the partially Yiddish text.

Once the group can properly sing the words, a member of the Sarasota Jewish Chorale shares the context. The choir learns Jewish prisoners chanted “Anima’amin” — which means “I believe” in Yiddish — as they were forced into Nazi gas chambers.

The next time the choir sings the Yiddish melody the song is more powerful; the words have new meaning. This is a por-

WE’RE BACK ON THE COURT AND BACK ON THE COURSE.

ART GALLERY | ARTISAN JEWELRY | SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE

ART AND FASHION FUSION

Florida Orthopedic Specialists provides expertise in a broad range of orthopedic treatments and dedication to the best patient experience. With a state-of-the-art facility featuring the latest in technology and a highly skilled team, you can expect unparalleled patient care.

Exciting Spring Styles have Arrived From ultra-feminine lace & chiffon ..to casual bling with Miss Me ..to the swish of Fringe on Everything Only at Michael’s on Main... an Avant Gardé experience!

OUR PATIENTS - FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Mike Wilton, Bud Polley and Arnie Vance

“As avid golfers and tennis enthusiasts, our rotator cuff injuries left us in pain, and unable to enjoy our sport. In researching for the most qualified surgeons, we found that the Florida Orthopedic Specialists not only had the highest level of training and experience, but they were also highly recommended by friends and associates who had excellent results. We, too, had outstanding outcomes and are back on the court and course...pain free and better than ever.” Mike Wilton, Bud Polley and Arnie Vance

CONSULTANTS FOR • PREMIER SPORTS CAMPUS AT LAKEWOOD RANCH • THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY • SARASOTA ORCHESTRA • IMG ACADEMIES CHRISTOPHER R. SFORZO, M.D. CHRISTOPHER L. DILLINGHAM, M.D. BOARD-CERTIFIED. FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS.

1484 Main Street • Sarasota, FL 34236 • 941.955.5900

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

123253

138987

on Main

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

3

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

IF YOU GO

Don’t just stand there looking on, Your hands folded, palms upturned, Don’t just stand, put out the fire, Our poor shtetl burns, brothers, it burns!

– From “Our Town Burns” by Mordecai Gebirtig (1877 to 1942). This song was written pre-war.

Germans shot and killed the composer in 1942. tion of one of the 22 songs in the 80-minute cantata, “Voices of the Holocaust,” which the group will perform April 28, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

The group consists of voices from Gloria Musicae, Sarasota Jewish Chorale, Church of the Palms choir, the Sarasota Choral Society, Sarasota Young Voices and the Booker High School choir.

The instrumentation for the performance comes from The Chroma Quartet, in addition to four musicians from Sarasota Orchestra. It’s a diverse group of ages, races, religions and backgrounds.

Concentration camp prisoners either sang or composed every piece featured in the cantata just before or during the Holocaust.

The cantata will make its Florida debut April 28 and will be performed as a dance, vocal, instrumental and multimedia collaboration.

Holt is the visionary behind this concert. He met the arranger of the cantata, Sheridan Seyfried, in 2004, when Seyfried, then in his early 20s, premiered the work.

Since then, Holt has looked for

the right group, time and place to perform this piece — and not just because it’s a unique cantata that brings together various groups.

Holt thinks it carries a powerful message that’s more than a reminder of the devastating mass genocide of 6 million Jews. To him, it’s about learning from the hatred, racial discrimination, intolerance and racial profiling that happened then and still occurs today.

Holt has a story of his own from when he was 7 years old growing up in the ’60s in Atlanta. His Presbyterian-minister father organized a group of foreign-exchange students to come together to share their cultures through food, photos and discussion. The idea was that everyone is alike. The local KKK chapter was livid with his father’s non-embracement of white supremacy, and KKK members burned a cross in the Holts’ yard as a warning.

“It struck me how people can hate each other so much,” Holt says. “I still struggle with it to this day.”

He points to the ’90s when the

Hutu majority performed horrific acts on genocide on 800,000 mostly Tutsi minorities in Rwanda. He also mentions how in the next decade, the Janjaweed murdered more than 480,000 Darfuri in Western Sudan.

He finds many people don’t want to remember. “It’s a little bit of a hard sell,” Holt says of the dramatic and sometimes dark composition.

Holt explains that this music is made for every demographic to reflect on issues of discrimination. Contemporary hatred and discrimination are not always on a large scale.

“There are some exalted and triumphant moments, but, by and large, it makes you think,” he says.

With the 65th birthday of Israel and the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act this year and Holocaust Remembrance Day being April 28 — the timing of this performance is perfect.

“These elements that led to the Holocaust are still found today,” Holt says. “We need to have a bet-

ter way as human beings to address these issues and rid them from society.”

Holt planned a dance and multimedia element for the performance that helps address this message. Two of the 22 songs will have multimedia slideshows that tie the events of the Holocaust to modern events to broaden the message’s scope.

The biggest addition to the performance comes from choreographer Elizabeth Weil Bergmann, who choreographed a dance to accompany the music in its entirety. Although each dance expresses a separate idea, there’s a line that runs throughout the piece that allows the audience to connect to it from start to finish.

“What she’s created enhances the music so much and elevates the work on a whole new level,” Holt says.

Sarasota-based Weil Bergmann spent many years as a choreographer, teacher and professional performer everywhere from New York City, California, and Hawaii to Michigan.

The dance group in “Voices of

“Voices of the Holocaust” When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 28 Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Cost: Tickets $25 to $70 Info: Call 953-3368 or visit vanwezel.org *Free composer talk at 4 p.m. April 25, at the Sarasota Herald-Tribune building, 1741 Main St. Call 953-7755 or visit gloriamusicae.org for more information.

Holocaust,” hosted by SarasotaManatee Dance Alliance, includes 20 dancers. They’ve been working on her modern and moving choreography since November. The dancers consist of groups such as Fuzión Dance Artists, Moving Ethos and Sarasota Cuban Ballet School.

She says the performance is not depressing, but beautiful, and she hopes to elevate the audience’s mood.

“They aren’t just going out there and doing steps,” Weil Bergmann says. “I worked really hard for them to understand and give all of their movements meaning of what the piece is about.”

She thinks it’s one of those rare works that will stick with the audience members.

“You’re going to go on a journey with these people and songs, and you’ll come out of it in a different and better place,” she says. “I think it will fill you up as a human being.”

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 • Cleveland and Mayo Clinics board-certified dermatologist and dermatological surgeon • Platinum Botox Injector-trainer and nationwide instructor for cosmetic dermatology fillers and cutting edge procedures • Skincare advisor to Martha Stewart Living, Good Housekeeping, Fitness, New Beauty and Redbook magazines.

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

132753

SkinSmartDermatology.com

137651

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

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

CALENDAR A&E EDITOR’S PICKS

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

S CHEECF’IAL SP

FRIDAY, APRIL 18

Intermediate and Advanced Allegro Music Academy student recital Noon at Allegro Music Academy Free. Call 358-8511.

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

‘Lunch, Look and Listen’ featuring Deborah Berioli Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota 11 a.m. at Michael’s On East Tickets $45. Call 306-1202.

Chroma Quartet 8 p.m. at Glenridge Performing Arts Center. Tickets $15. Call 552-5325.

Ringling by the Bay — Vertigo 5 p.m. at The Ringling Tickets $10. Call 359-5700.

SATURDAY, APRIL 19

‘Urinetown’ 7:30 p.m. at The Players Theatre Runs through April 27.

Tickets $25 to $30. Call 365-2494.

SCF Studio 84 Productions: ‘The Grove’ 8 p.m. at David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre Runs through Saturday.

Tickets $12, students/employees $10. Call 752-5252.

New Music New College: Miranda Cuckson and Christopher Burns 8 p.m. at Mildred Sainer Pavilion Tickets $15. Call 487-4888.

SUNDAY, APRIL 20

Soiree Series: ‘Leading Men and Their Music’ Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota 2 p.m. at Weisenborne/Fischer Residence Tickets $45. Call 914-306-1202.

MONDAY, APRIL 21

Monday Night Movie: ‘The Babe Ruth Story’ 7 p.m. at Historic Asolo Theater Tickets $7. Call 359-5700.

E IN TH T BENJAMIN WILLIAMSON S

CA

ROLE: Playing Leo in “4000

Miles,” which runs through April 27, at Asolo Repertory Theatre.

WHERE WERE YOU BEFORE COMING TO SARASOTA? Vestal, N.Y. Photo by Slaven Vlasik

Lois Markle and Benjamin Williamson in “4000 miles.”

DESCRIBE “4000 MILES” IN A FEW SENTENCES: A widowed grand-

mother is awoken by the unexpect-

DESCRIPTION: This vegan dish features truffle red chief lentils, roasted Brussels sprouts, parsnip puree and caramelized celery root ($14).

STLAIYLINLG

WHY IT’S SPECIAL: Executive

VEGAN SHEPHERD’S PIE

Chef James “Jimmy” Baselici takes a popular comfort food and modernizes it with a new combination of flavors and textures.

WHAT TO PAIR WITH IT: Either a

AVAILABLE: at Louie’s Modern, 1289 N. Palm Ave.

Witterkere Belgium Wit beer, $4; or a cucumber mint refresher, $4.

Faculty Recital: Felicia Brunelle, violin; Alfred Gratta, cello with guest Cheryl Tschanz, piano SCF Music 8 p.m. at Neel Performing Arts Center Tickets $8, students/employees $4.

Call 752-5252.

7:30 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Call 953-3368.

TUESDAY, APRIL 22

Sensational social and singing and snacks Sarasota Opera Guild 9:45 a.m. at Sarasota Opera House Free. Call 549-1068.

Shen Yun Show

ed arrival of her grandson. The two spirited souls clash and connect while finding a sense of discovery within each other’s lives.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

Chamber music concert with Paul Wolfe and Friends The Sarasota Music Archive/ Friends of Selby Public Library 10:30 a.m. at Selby Public Library Free. Call 861-1168.

Great Escapes Series: ‘A Wink and a Smile’ Sarasota Orchestra 7:30 p.m. at Holley Hall Tickets $29 to $49. Call 953-3434.

munication, so as far as the most important, that is hard to say. I hope that there are many that the generations of past, present, and future can relate to and learn about.

DESCRIBE YOUR CHARACTER: A valiant devoted free spirit finding the way.

TELL US ABOUT THE BEST TRIP YOU’VE EVER BEEN ON: I’m still on it.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE OF THE SHOW? A message is any verbal,

WHAT’S A FAVORITE MEMORY YOU SHARE WITH ONE OF YOUR GRANDPARENTS? Watching “The Tonight

written, or recorded piece of com-

Show” with Johnny Carson in my

P

“Five Guys Named Moe” runs through April 19, at Venice Theatre “The Grapes of Wrath” runs through April 19, at Asolo Repertory Theatre FSU/Asolo Conservatory’s “Antigone” runs through April 27, at Asolo Repertory Theatre “Greater Tuna” Runs through April 27, at Manatee Performing Arts Center “Parallel Lives” runs through April 27, at Venice Theatre “Poems, Prayers and Promises” runs through April 27, at Florida Studio Theatre “Bubbling Brown Sugar” runs through May 11, at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Season VII: “Shared Ground” Runs through May 30, at Sarasota bayfront Embracing Our Differences runs through June 1, at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park “Tom Jones” runs through June 1, at Florida Studio Theatre “Too Darn Hot” Runs through June 7, at Florida Studio Theatre

grandparents’ bed.

WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU APPRECIATE ABOUT THE “GREATEST GENERATION?” I know the “greatest generation” survived the Great Depression and then went to war.

Those men and women are dignified, strong and brave.

WHY SHOULD PEOPLE COME SEE THIS PRODUCTION? They haven’t seen it yet.

ST. ARMANDS FINE ART FESTIVAL FINE ART FESTIVAL

ORIGINAL PAINTINGS • SCULPTURE • JEWELRY • POTTERY GLASS • TEXTILES • WOOD • PHOTOGRAPHY AND MORE

SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 10-AM - 5 PM SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 10-AM - 5 PM ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE PARK FREE ADMISSION

941.487.8061 www.paragonartevents.com

137017

4

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: BACKSTAGE PASS

5

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

SCF faculty trio honors female composers

Mallory Gnaegy

“Throughout baroque, classical and romantic periods there were women writing,” Felicia Brunelle says. “There were women prodigies.” child prodigies. Even Gwyneth Walker knew she wanted to compose at a young age.

Each woman has an interesting story that the trio will share at the concert. Walker will be there in person.

“It’s not because women were born talented all the sudden by some genetic weirdness,” Brunelle says. “They were always talented and it’s just being acknowledged.

Who knows what we lost by not acknowledging this?”

IF YOU GO Brunelle and Gratta faculty recital When: 8 p.m. Monday, April 21 Where: Neel Performing Arts Center, building 11 East, 5840 26th St. W. Cost: Tickets $8 | Info: Call 752-5252

MASTER JEWELER ON SITE MON.-SAT. 10-5:30, THURS. 10-7 | 1922 BAY ROAD, SARASOTA 34239 | 941.926.3335 CARATSFINEJEWELRYANDWATCHES.COM

137618

For instance, she had never heard of Ana Bon, the earliest of the female composers.

She’s a baroque composer who composed pieces as young as age 16, but then wasn’t written about again after she married. Historians don’t even know the date she died.

Or Amy Beach, who was self-taught and was composing waltzes at age 5. Beach gave up composing when she married, but when her husband died she returned to music.

Most of the women in the concert were

137645

It didn’t matter if the trio paired the piece with Beethoven, Brahms or Mendelssohn — people complimented composer Gwyneth Walker’s piece “A Vision of Hills” the most.

Violinist Felicia Brunelle, cellist Alfred Gratta and guest pianist Cheryl Tschanz have been playing together as a trio for four years, and they’ve played that song a lot. But, Brunelle thought enough time had passed that it was time to pull it back out for the April 21 State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota faculty recital, which will highlight the work of women composers.

Brunelle is the link that brought the concert together. She’s been a violin teacher at the college for more than a decade. Plus, she’s also a member of Sarasota Orchestra and concertmaster for Sarasota Pops Orchestra. Interestingly enough, she’s also a licensed acupuncturist.

She and Gratta have known each other since before they became faculty members at SCF. They met in the Missouri Symphony (a six-week summer festival orchestra) where Brunelle is still the concertmaster.

Brunelle met guest pianist Tschanz when they both studied music at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. Tschanz was always Brunelle’s favorite person to accompany. When Tschanz moved to Orlando, Brunelle decided they needed to work together.

A poster on Tschanz’s office wall helped inspire the concert. It names women composers through the centuries. In the 1600s, there are only a few names. Each century, the number of names grows by paragraphs.

Brunelle calls it a picture of women’s rights — they didn’t start being recognized for their talents until much later than male composers.

This concert will honor and celebrate female composers from as early as 1756.

Brunelle learned a lot of interesting facts while putting the concert’s repertoire together.

6

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPOTLIGHT

by Mallory Gnaegy | A&E Editor

Jason Ellis and Sarah Cassidy take a trip to ‘Urinetown’ Jason Ellis and Sarah Cassidy are familiar faces on the community theater stages in Sarasota.

Most recently, they’ve been cast as leading lovers in The Players’ “Urinetown.” They sat down with us to discuss the satirical musical.

The following are edited excerpts of the conversation.

IF YOU GO ‘Urinetown’ When: Opens 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 17 and runs through April 27 (with a possible extension).

Where: The Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail

Give us the plot of “Urinetown.”

Cassidy: The musical takes place in a fictitious town where there is a water shortage that has lasted 20 years. It has come to the point where everyone has to pay to pee. A huge corporation that owns the toilets sets the fee for peeing, so the poor people have to use the bad amenities.

Ellis: I play Bobby Strong, and his father, Old Man Strong, is poor and can’t afford to pee. He decides to stand up to society and pees out in the middle of the street. So, he gets sent off to Urinetown. It’s “Les Miserables” with pee, basically — a lot of pee.

So what is Urinetown?

Ellis: Different people have different opinions.

Cassidy: It’s a mystery, sort of.

Most people believe it’s a bad place, but it’s not really confirmed. We just know you don’t see them when they go to Urinetown.

And it’s a satire?

Ellis: I think this is part of the humor of this show. Most Broadway musicals have a liberal message, but if you see this show to the end, it’s actually kind of a conservative message, and that’s the

Cost: Tickets $12 children, $25 to $30 for adults Info: Call 365-2494 or visit theplayers.org. way.

Ellis: As hysterical as the show is and makes it seem like things are very big and on grander scales, it’s not just this big joke. Under the surface, there’s meat to it.

Mallory Gnaegy

Jason Ellis describes his character Bobby Strong as earnest, a leader and sexy. Sarah Cassidy describes her character Hope Cladwell as hopeful, kindhearted and an idealist. joke.

Cassidy: It actually makes fun of both the sides … the joke is really on the joke.

Ellis: It’s the classic struggle of the rich vs. poor and the rich having too much and getting the only benefits and the poor barely able to live their lives.

What’s your favorite line or lyric in the production?

Ellis: There are some gems in

this one. It’s a very quotable show … “Freedom is scary. It’s a blast of cool wind that burns your face to wake you up.”

Cassidy: “But Daddy, bunnies don’t drive cars.” In context, it’s funny. I also like Jason’s line, “A day, this day — where the people pee for free because the people are free.”

You were also the leading lovers in “How To Succeed in Business

Without Even Trying” at Venice Theatre last season — what has round two been like?

Ellis: It’s comfortable. I don’t feel like we have to build anything since we’ve already done it before … Before we played (generic musical theater) love interests, and "Urinetown” pokes fun at that. We get to make fun of ourselves.

Cassidy: It pokes fun at musical theater, but it’s edgier — we get to know each other in a different

So what’s your favorite part about working with each other?

Ellis: Sarah is a professional.

Everything about the way she works is professional. You’re only as good as your scene partner.

She is always at an extremely high level and does everything with such ease that it makes it more comfortable.

Cassidy: I was really excited he got the role of Bobby. That’s the first thing I asked when I got called … I think Jason commits 100%, so even sometimes when he says he doesn’t know what he’s doing or doesn’t know the ins and outs of a moment or scene, he’ll jump in with two feet and give it all the energy he has — I admire that passion.

CELEBRATE THE TRIUMPH OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT

Voices

APRIL 30TH - MAY 3RD 7PM & MAY 3RD 2PM VPA THEATRE 3201 N. ORANGE AVE, SARASOTA, FL

Florida premiere of Voices of the Holocaust by Sheridan Seyfried

TICKETS: $15 ADULTS $10 SENIORS $5 STUDENTS

Dramatic cantata featuring music sung or composed in the ghettoes and concentration camps of World War II

Monday, April 28, 7:30 pm Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

ONLINE: vpabooker.com PHONE: 941-355-2967 ext. 65215

This multimedia event features original choreography by Elizabeth Weil Bergmann

VPA THEATRE

Charlayne Hunter-Gault, civil rights activist and award-winning author and journalist, will offer opening remarks for the program

138969

Joseph Holt, conductor

Body FX The future is here!

FEATURING Stella Zambalis, soprano; Carol Sparrow, mezzo-soprano; Jason Collins, tenor; Jason Stearns, baritone; Gloria Musicae Singers, Sarasota-Manatee Dance Alliance, Chroma Quartet, Sarasota Young Voices, Sarasota Choral Society, Sarasota Jewish Chorale and Booker High School Choir.

Tickets: $25, $40 and $70

Non-surgical alternative to Liposuction

941-953-3368 • vanwezel.org

This event is sponsored by

Mr. Clair E. Johnson

before

DON’T MISS! Musical Conversation

Amazing!

Friday, April 25, 4-6 p.m.

Sarasota Herald-Tribune 1741 Main Street, Sarasota Limited seating. Reception to follow.

Information: GloriaMusicae.org

137703

Sheridan Seyfried, composer Elizabeth Weil Bergmann, choreographer James Grant, composer Dr. Joseph Holt, artistic director

Radiofrequency technology provides precise and optimal heating of the skin for tightening and contraction. Subcutaneous deep heating of the fat and high voltage energy blast causes fat cell destruction for body contouring.

Call for Free Consultation

138517

A panel discussion with:

after

Non-invasive liposuction-like results are now available!

New Era Medical Ali Shaygan, MD

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

941-552-6616

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

MUSIC // La Musica La Musica, one of Sarasota’s international chamber music festivals, returned for performances at the Opera House this past week with programs that looked much better on paper than they turned out to be in reality.

One of the several problems with this festival in recent years has been its stagnant programming. In an attempt to update its concerts, this year’s offerings included slightly more modern composers such as Walton, Bridge, Popper and Bartok. But this modest attempt at revitalizing the repertoire made barely a dent in the overall atmosphere of La Musica, with one exception: a world premiere of a commissioned piece by Vijay Iyer called “Bruits.” Well known for his work in jazz and electronic music, Iyer is both a McArthur Genius Fellowship winner, and recipient of the Greenfield Prize from the Hermitage Artist Retreat and Philadelphia’s Greenfield Foundation.

According to the dictionary, “A bruit is an audible vascular sound associated with turbulent blood flow.” There was much more than blood flowing in Iyer’s work. Played the evening of April 10 by the eminent Imani Winds with pianist Cory Smythe, it seemed Francis Poulenc had run headlong into John Adams.

Filled with interesting sounds that, at times, turned the winds into a percussion section, Iyer had the musicians beating, thrashing, fluttering, thumping, palpating, pulsating, drumming, pounding and thudding their instruments while the piano hammered scales and undulated intervals.

But “Bruits” isn’t just about noises and sounds. It’s also about the controversial

“Stand your ground” and “Shoot first” laws in Florida and, to make his point, Iyer had the members of the Imani chant the text of the laws as part of the music. It wasn’t exactly Sprechstimme because the musicians didn’t speak on any discernable pitches. And, because their voices weren’t amplified, it was often difficult to understand what they were saying. But they got their point across, making this a sometimes powerful piece.

That’s not to say “Bruits” is particularly new in its concept. Somewhat reminiscent of the experimental music that was being composed in the 1970s, “Bruits” is more interesting in theory than emotional impact. One of the problems with this type of writing is that you need to read the program notes before you can fully understand what the composer is trying to say, and that bothers me. I want music to speak to me, move me and be accessible to my gut without an explanation. Still, it was refreshing to hear something different at La Musica.

The program opened with a clean, nicely shaped performance of Boccherini’s well-known E Major Quintet with violinists Federico Agostini and Laura Zarina, violist Rebecca Albers and cellists Julie Albers and Dmitri Atapine. This is pure parlor music and its famous Minuet, which has been heard in everything from TV commercials and movies to radio “bumpers,” separating the news from the weather forecast, is charming but blithely predictable.

The evening concluded with Schubert’s beloved “Trout” Quintet in a perfunctory reading by pianist Derek Han, violinist Massimo Quarta, violist Bruno Giuranna, cellist Antonio Meneses, and bassist Scott Faulkner that was fraught with a seeming lack of consensus among the players about pitch and overall concept. This was not a “Trout” we’d want to catch.

— June LeBell

7

Selling Sarasota Successfully Representing The Finest Properties In Sarasota Isn’t it time for you to buy your piece of Paradise?

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES The perfect tropical retreat. Over 5000’ of living space, 4 BR - 4/12 baths, great open kit and family room, library, dining room, 4 person elevator. heated pool.

Verandas on 2 levels. 173’ of seawall with dock for large boat offering protected dockage. Fabulous bay views. The ultimate in Florida living. www.529putter.com $3,495,000

THEATER // ‘Antigone’

Courtesy photo

“Antigone” runs through April 27, at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Call 351-8000 or visit asolorep.org/conservatory for more information. straight out of Kafka. Working-class stiffs, not figures of terror. Like the king, they’re just doing a job and not putting their hearts in it. Antigone’s nurse (Allie Henkel) does get involved — and gets her heart broken.

The one-woman Chorus (Olivia Williamson) offers running commentary. Her news is consistently bad. Melodrama offers happy endings (or teases you with the possibility). Tragedy is scrubbed clean of hope.

Visionary director Andrei Malaev-Babel is perfect for this visionary material. Without a vision, the actors perish. He has it — as the strong performances from the conservatory student actors prove. The director sees into the play’s heart, gets the actors to see, and gets it all on stage.

At its heart, this play is poetry.

On the surface, it’s an argument play.

Rational, old Creon speaks for the social order — a fluffy omelet requiring occasional broken eggs. Passionate, young Antigone speaks for justice, though the heavens fall. It’s all stoutly reasoned and nicely said. But analyzing their arguments is like exploring the legal theory of the trial in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”

Poetry is the stuff of dreams. Or nightmare.

Here, it’s the nightmarish, eternal dance of holy heretic and earthly lawgiver (which Anouilh returned to in “Becket”). Antigone insists on being a sacrifice. Creon obliges her.

The dance ends as it must. Why? Don’t ask me. Or Jean Anouilh, for that matter.

Sophocles gave you catharsis. Big answers to life’s hard questions.

Anouilh leaves you with questions.

Poets are like that.

— Marty Fugate

YOUROBSERVER.COM // Read Pam

Nadon’s review of “The Lunchbox.”

CASA DE NARANJA “West of the Trail” Finely crafted and attention to detail shows throughout this unique one of a kind home. 3 BR, 4 BA, Den, Gourmet Kitchen with top of the line appliances. Beautiful antique light fixtures throughout. The Loggia is accessible from the Living Room, Baths & Master. Relax around the heated pool and spa and enjoy the outdoor kitchen. A great place to call home www.1131orange.com $1,445,000

COUNTRY CLUB SHORES Updated 3 bedroom/3 bath home on sailboat water. Open floor plan. Updated kitchen w/new appliances. Heated pool - Dock w/lift - New A/C in 2010. Updated bathrooms w/granite vanity tops and glass shower doors. Restored Terrazzo floor.

Access to the beautiful beaches of Longboat Key just a short walk away. www.580bowsprit.com $849,000

137152

Jean Anouilh’s “Antigone” is a visionary play about power and freedom. That nice phrase probably conjures up a mental image. Forget it. Like any truly visionary play, it overturns conventional notions. You can see what I’m talking about at the FSU/Asolo Conservatory’s current production.

Anouilh’s source material is, of course, the Greek tragedy. Sophocles’ original is as free of ambiguity as a cloudless, noon-day Greek sky. After a civil war, King Creon refuses to bury Antigone’s brother, Polynices—and threatens death to anyone who tries. Without proper burial, Polynices’ soul will not find rest.

Antigone (Creon’s niece) rights this violation of divine law by breaking human law. She buries her brother’s body and pays with her life. It’s just that simple. But Anouilh’s 1944 update is anything but. The playwright keeps the plot, but gives the characters inner lives. That changes everything.

Antigone (Andrea Adnoff) is, by turns, a mad prophetess, wounded animal and punk princess. She gets all the best speeches.

Antigone’s words of fire dazzle — in a fiery performance by Adnoff. The play loads the dice and gets you on her side. Then you slowly question Antigone’s righteous road to doom.

Subversively, Anouilh makes you doubt her blind faith. And yours.

To King Creon (Brian Owen), being a king isn’t an adventure, it’s a job. He takes the wheel of the ship of state after a bloody civil war. Like a good tradesman, he gets the job done. If that means letting vultures and dogs feed on Polynices’ body, that’s all in a day’s work. The bloody-minded Thebans need a cautionary example. Creon’s set up to be the bad guy. In a nuanced performance, Owen makes you like him, whether you like it or not.

Inevitably, Antigone flouts her uncle’s law.

The rest of the family becomes collateral damage. Creon’s son, Haemon (Paul Herbig), is also Antigone’s true love, though it doesn’t stop her defiant act. Antigone’s sister, Ismene (Gracie Lee Brown), agrees with Antigone on principle, but agrees with survival more.

Through it all, Creon’s wife, Eurydice (Ally Farzetta) weaves a scarf, as silent and inexorable as fate. Everyone in this family is fated to die. Or wish they had.

The palace guards (Michael Frishman, Jory Murphy and Matthew R. Olsen) are

Hanly & Associates

St. Armands Circle, Sarasota ( 941 ) 388-2331 email pahanly@gmail.com HanlyHomes.com “Do you really think I look like the Easter Bunny?”

8

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// HOME&GARDEN: BACKYARD BASH

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING: THE MASTERS These Sarasota backyards bring the green to you with party spots on par with the Masters.

The Masters is known as one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. The flowers, the trees, the perfectly manicured grass, the pimento-cheese sandwiches, the absence of posts on social networks for four days (no cell phones or cameras allowed), the exclusivity … it’s an event in its own league.

As the event passed us by last weekend, it provided ample inspiration for elegant viewing parties.

When it comes to throwing the perfect party for viewing an event such as the Masters, outdoors is the way to go (as long as there’s a TV or projection screen for viewing). If you can’t be on the grounds of Augusta National, you might

as well be outside watching, right?

From large yards and patios on the golf course, to a side yard large enough for a catering crew, to a tropical oasis designed for entertaining, we present some of the most party-appropriate backyards in Sarasota to accommodate the perfect outdoor viewing party for whatever sport you support.

Hit the links

If golf is your sport of choice to watch, a backyard with a view of a course is the best backdrop. This London Bay Homes model home in The Founders Club with views of the 13th hole is the ideal party place for such an event.

With pillar-less, pocket, sliding-glass doors, the entire back of the home opens up to the patio — providing full views of the course and full views of the TVs inside. The outdoor kitchen offers a great place for grilling, while also offering a large area of space for a food buffet.

Photos by Heather Merriman

In The

Kitchen

Silhouette®

with Chef Nils Tarantik and Operating Partner Josh Halbrucker

Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

Pirouette®

Rebates of $25 to $100 on Selected Styles Come in and browse our showroom and Hunter Douglas Gallery for a huge selection of blinds, fabrics, draperies, wallcoverings and shutters.

of The Sarasota-Manatee Originals

Wallcoverings & Blinds, Inc....Since 1989

First Place Reader’s Choice 21 Years in a Row!

4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Across from The Landings

941.925.7800

mmwallcoveringsblinds.com

138929

* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for purchases made 4/14-6/13/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt.

Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form.©2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

1435 Main St.

Sarasota, FL 34 236 941.312.4001 DuvalsNewWor ldCafe.com

WATCH THE COOKING VIDEO and GET THE RECIPE Duval’s New World Cafe’s Spiced Rubbed Goldentile 137113

DineOriginal.com

138085

/InTheKitchen

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

9

// HOME&GARDEN The Meshad home

The backyard of Gavin and Jenny Meshad’s home was made for entertaining. After grabbing a drink from the bar in the basement, guests can head out to the patio where there are many areas to socialize. With two grilling areas (one can be used as a buffet), a sandy beach area complete with a boat bar, multiple areas with seating and lounging and a gazebo with hammock chairs and TV, guests can enjoy listening to and viewing their sport in a relaxed beach setting.

The Webb home

Dick and Lee Ann Webb’s property in Gator Creek is the ideal spot for a social gathering — large enough for catering crews, multiple tables, seating areas and a fire pit. All that’s needed for the perfect watch party is a projection screen for viewing the event.

Although they’re an Augusta tradition, pimento-cheese sandwiches can bring a refined treat of the South to your next outdoor gathering. A light and savory party bite, they’re perfect for watch-party munching.

Providing unique plants & garden accessories since 1953

3 Acres • SW FL Pottery Center • Nursery

Your

FARM & GARDEN

Trees are a beautiful addition to any home.

• Apples • Avacados • Bananas • Blueberries • Blackpepper Vine • Carambola • Cinnamon • Lychee • Longan • Mango • Peach • Nectarine • Rasberry • Sapodilla • Sapote • Tea • Tropical Cherry ...and much more.

20

ALL TR off EXOTOI PICAL, FRUIT C & T Sale e nds A REES pril 23

Quality plants at a great price.

735 South Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34232

•

%

941 366 4954

•

Your largest source for: Butterfly Plants Stop in and see our new Butterfly Demonstration Garden.

25 gal. Flowering Trees Enjoy their flowering beauty and shade … without having to wait for years.

Shade Plants Total or partial shade, native or exotic.

Make all of your yard lush and green.

Palm Trees Turn your home into a tropical oasis with our many varieties of palm trees.

138914

Choose from the largest selection of tropical, exotic and fruit trees in the region and save 20%.

www.YourFarmandGarden.com

• 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

137691

941.925.3723 941-925-3723

State Certified General Contractor Lic#CG-C060087

10

Casual Waterfront Dining

DUELING PIANOS 8:00PM-12:00AM SATURDAY APRIL 19TH

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// FOOD&COOKING:

COLUMN

TIDBITES

SMOKEY’S SESSION BAND 7:30PM - 10:30PM. SATURDAY APRIL 26TH

by June LeBell Contributing Columnist june@junelebell.com

This fun for all, tropical-themed oasis features more than just beautiful Sunsets.

THE RESTAURANTS BEST FEATURES:

JOIN US FOR

EASTER BRUNCH

APRIL 20TH 11 AM - 3 PM

Custom Omelet station with many other Breakfast items, Fresh Fish, Roast Pork, Prime Rib,delicious vegetables, mashed potatoes and gravy.

Amazing Dessert station with assorted pies, cakes and chocolate covered strawberries.

7150 N. Tamiami Trail | 941.355.2600 | www.thebeardedclamsarasota.com

138961

CALL FOR DETAILS

Gulf Gate’s

Newest and Most Exciting Restaurant!

CASUAL DINING

CAFÉ AMERICANO OFFERS LA PRIMA COLAZIONE (AKA BREAKFAST)

C

afé Americano, located at 1409 Main St., has long been a great place for lunch and dinner — inside for quiet and good food and outside for good food and people watching. Recently, owner Ambrish Piare added some new items to his extremely successful breakfasts.

According to Piare, “Too much of a good thing is the right approach to take when creating the ideal breakfast menu.”

So, in addition to all the great frittatas he’s been serving, he’s added a “Meat Lovers” frittata with sausage, prosciutto, mushrooms, roasted red peppers and provolone cheese.

Not satisfied with simple pancakes, Ameri-

LOCAL SEAFOOD

cano has four varieties of them, three kinds of Belgian waffles, French toast and at least five different omelets a day. Sound like too much for your diet? Americano is now offering a Paleo-power breakfast with grilled sirloin steak, tomato, avocado and two egg whites. There’s even a way to dream up your own custom breakfast with a choice of 11 different sides and lots and lots of lattes.

Inside or out, diet or too much, prima colazione, colazione or pranzo, Americano has it all in a fun, cosmopolitan atmosphere within walking distance of just about everything downtown Sarasota has to offer.

PRE-THEATER DINING

OPEN TUES THRU SUN 5PM 6630 Gateway Ave Sarasota FL Corner of Gulf Gate Dr and Gateway Ave

137697

941 - 923 - 5570

www.facebook.com/offthehookseafoodco.

Easter Brunch at Libby’s

Courtesy photos

THE EASTER BUNNY IS CONFUSED

BY TOO MANY CHOICES

Join us for our 41st Annual Easter Brunch!

E

Easter Bunny · Spring Flowers · Live Bunnies

Buffet Brunch: 10:30 am to 3 pm

Omelet and Waffle Stations, Chefs’ Carving Station, Oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp Cocktail, Salads, Classic Breakfast Dishes, Pastries, Desserts, and a Chocolate Fountain! $39.99 -adults | $16.95 12 and under

Reservations are recommended: please call 941-388-4415

Easter Dinner: 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm Rosemary and Garlic Infused Roasted Leg of Lamb

431 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-4415 | cafeleurope.net

138549

ala carte menu available

aster brunch has become so popular, it has expanded to an Easter weekend brunch at several restaurants. Want to celebrate Sunday at home? Great. Go to either Libby’s or Louies Modern for an a la carte brunch on Easter Saturday. Or, take advantage of dining out on the holiday with Libby’s special holiday buffet. You could never have a groaning board like its at home. Prime rib, omelets, yogurts, boatloads of fruit, bacon, sausage, gravy, pancakes, waffles, fried chicken, hash browns, salads, pastas, deviled eggs, quiche … I’m getting too full to type and I haven’t even mentioned the desserts.

Meanwhile, The Francis is going to be open to the public for a special Easter Brunch with seatings available by reservation. As you know, The Francis is adjacent to Louies Modern but is usually open only for special events: parties, receptions, weddings, meetings and other affairs for large groups. This is a great chance to see and sample The Francis and make Easter your special occasion. It’s going to present a variety of stations featuring salads (from artichokes and couscous to pasta and sweet potatoes), seafood (oysters, shrimp, ceviche, crab and salmon), carved meats (rib roast, baked ham, leg of lamb), pancakes and waffles (fruit pancakes and pecan wild rice waffles), eggs (benedicts, omelets, scrambled) and desserts (OMG!).

The Table Creekside combines one of the best brunch opportunities in town with a view you won’t want to leave.

Sit inside and be surrounded by glass walls looking over the water. Outside, you’re on a dock hanging over the creek with envious pelicans and duck families celebrating their own harvest from the water.

From delicate trios of seafood to caviar amuse bouche, The Table always manages to come up with something different, delicate and delicious. I’m particularly fond of the swoop of the bar as you walk in. Love the colors and the lightness of it all.

Mattison’s on the Bay is the restaurant in the Van Wezel. Offering spectacular views, sunsets to write home about and a buffet you can always count on to get you through the performance, this is the most logical, most convenient and best deal you can find for a pre-concert dinner. (You can even get a parking space up close and within steps of the front doors.)

We enjoy a drink before dinner and the wait staff is always eager to accommodate our orders. For an 8 p.m. curtain, we usually make a 6 p.m. dinner reservation so we may have a drink and sample the great variety of cheeses, veggies and salads before we start our dinner.

The buffet’s main table always includes one of the most tender cuts of beef we’ve had.

We like ours rare, but the ends are seared medium-well for all tastes. There’s also always a chicken, fish and pasta dish with lots of vegetables and sides.

Going downtown to FST or the Gompertz for an evening of theater? Make a reservation for dinner in The Green Room.

The simple pub setting offers great drinks and a menu of well-prepared salads, sandwiches and heartier dishes in a calm, unrushed atmosphere that reminds me a little of a quiet version of Sardi’s in New York. Photos and posters set the scene for the scenes you’ll see inside the theaters. Woodpaneled windows look out onto a porch that’s straight out of the Berkshires. It’s a simple, straightforward, fun way to go to theater downtown without the hassle of parking twice and rushing to your seat.

Black Tie

INSIDE: Starry Night Dinner 4: Highlighting the Production of ‘Hero’ PAGE 20

YourObserver.com

Roxie Jerde, Violeta Huesman, Wendy Steele, Anne Chauvet and Charlie Ann Syprett

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

Margie Cooper, Bob and Brenda Biallas, Cathy Layton and Pete Russell

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Assistant Editor

Photos by Heather Merriman

 Kat Ricker and Brian Boyd

Dressed in “feathered finery,” guests gathered Saturday, April 5 for the 33rd annual Orchid Ball, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

The theme, “Birds in Paradise,” reflected the scenery of the Children’s Rainforest Garden, the banyan tree and waterfall, providing a serene atmosphere for the event.

Didgeridoo artists played music throughout the reception, pulling in the theme.

“We were so thrilled to be the chairs of Orchid Ball again this year,” says Mindy Rollins, who chaired the event with her hus-

band, Wayne. “We were not sure we could top the camels from last year, but the beauty of Selby Gardens stands alone to entice people.”

Following the cocktail reception, guests made their way into the tent, which was lusciously decorated with tropical plants, trees and birds, for the dinner and live auction. Guests then danced the night away to the sounds of “A Private Affair.”

More than 250 guests attended the event, which benefited Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Bob and Carol Borkowski with Paul and Jenni Hudson

Jennifer Le Patourel, Hannah Goldsmith and Nikki Wiecek

Dylonn Cole and Colette Olson

Co-Chairs Mindy and Wayne Rollins

Beverly and Dr. James Marsh with Margarete Van Antwerpen

Karen Misantone, Elena Reuter and Dr. Megan Bogart

Irene and Mason Brooks

12

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: COLUMN

BLACKTIE&TALES

by Black Tie Staff

S TIDBIT

NIGHT OF HOPE KICKOFF PARTY

B

ecause most of its sponsors are snowbirds, Center for Building Hope threw its Night of Hope VIP party a little early. The April 7 kickoff event was held at Sarasota Yacht Club and featured comedian Alex Reymundo and singer/songwriter Michelle Wright. It turned out to be a success — it raised $102,000 in sponsorships for the big gala.

Among those in attendance were Alfred Rose, Susie Klingeman, Dave and Kate Shaver, Gerry and Sondra Biller and Doug and Sally Wright.

The Center for Building Hope’s mission is to offer free information, programs and services to cancer patients, caregivers and family members, while connecting them with others who are undergoing a similar experience. The

Courtesy of Lori Sax

Alex Reymundo, Sandy Gurley, Carl Ritter and Michelle Wright gala’s goal is to fund 4,500 hours of free support.

The Nov. 7 Night of Hope, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, will be chaired by Sandy Gurley, and the evening promises to be a spectacular event. It will feature entertainment from Margo Rey, Ron White, John McDermott and Reymundo. For more information, call 921-5539.

GIVING CHILDREN A VOICE Photo by Cliff Roles

Ed Machado and Ron Pantello at the Men Who Cook kickoff party.

COUNTDOWN TO MEN WHO COOK

T

his Asolo Rep benefit is one of the truly fun events of the season.

This is the fourth year of the event, set for May 4, and it has a new location, the Van Wezel foyer, a new sponsor, Mattison’s, and a new chili competition. The quartet of Beverly Bartner, Judi Gallagher, Molly Schechter and Margaret Wise has chaired this event since its inception.

Their philosophy is, “If it ain’t broke, improve it,” and they are promising lots of new excitement for 2014.

Twenty-seven brave male souls will prepare their specialties. Many of them gathered March 27 at

Mattison’s 41 for a kickoff party, including new chefs J. Scott Atkins, Dean Eisner, Ed Machado, Paul Mattison, Ron Pantello, Brian Ries, Tom Stanley and Dr. Richard Van Buskirk, along with returning participants Jerry Feinstein, Paul Gallagher, Scott George, Darrel Huntley, Terry McKee, Michael Pleas, Gary Sweetman and Jon Thaxton.

Tickets to the fabulous feast are $150; “Master Chef” tables of 10, closest to the food, are $2,000. For more information, contact Laura Wood 351-9010, Ext. 4702.

A

lthough dealing with a tough subject matter, the Child Protection Center’s “Blue Ties and Butterflies” April 9 event was an uplifting evening to help fight and prevent child abuse. Starting with the Southside Elementary band rocking at the entrance to the beautiful hues of blue and butterfly prints — Graci McGillicuddy showed off a butterfly purse and Aimee Cogan donned a butterfly print skirt — the evening was an all around success.

While displaying the John Hardy ring, up for live auction, Saks Fifth Avenue’s Sally Schule also threw in her own dragonfly brooch to be included after so many compliments. And, Michael Klauber auctioneered so energetically that

AG JEANS JBRAND

DAFTBIRD WON HUNDRED SPLENDID KATIN

Photo by Heather Merriman

Sally Schule, pictured with Joel Ellzey, shows off the dragonfly brooch she added to the auction. he sold a private dinner for 10 for $10,000 … three times!

In just its second year, Child Protection Center’s “Blue Ties and Butterflies” event was once again its most lucrative fundraising event.

Romance is in the air … Gal-about-town Mollie Nelson just changed her Facebook status to “in a relationship.”

Presumably with handsome Bradentonian Mack Harper, who made the same change on his page. And the grapevine is buzzing that long-time loving couple Deb Knowles and Larry Kabinoff will tie the knot in June … His-and-hers rehab …

World War II veteran and retired DuPont executive Bill Hirons who celebrated his 92nd birthday March 28 is fresh out of the hospital and heading to a rehab facility for a fractured hip. He can count on sympathy from his wife, Marjorie North, who continues her outpatient physical therapy following shoulder surgery … So who’s counting? … Certainly not the friends of Nancy Blackburn, though they will gather this week to celebrate an unspecified “big birthday” at a luncheon hosted

by BJ Creighton, Mollie Nelson and Margaret Wise.

Ditto for the friends of Jytte Mandle, who has already started multiple celebrations for her April 15th biggie with hosts including buddies Vivian Kouvant, George Allison and Allan Watkins and hubby Mort Mandle … Resquiescat in pace … Sarasota has lost two, longtime grandes dames of the Sarasota Opera with the recent deaths of Deane Allyn and Helen Rogers. Their contributions as fundraiser and fund donor, respectively, have mightily enriched our community.

Presents

JOHAN KOBBORG, ALINA COJOCARU & FRIENDS 25 - 26 April 2014

Sarasota Opera House

JACK SPADE

SLVDR ANALOG WELLEN

COMUNE V I N C E ALL

COMING SOON ALL AT TO

Your Only Chance in Florida to See Alina Cojocaru, One Of Today’s Greatest Ballerinas, Joined By A Host Of International Stars

Johan Kobborg Former Principal of The Royal Ballet Director of National Romanian Ballet Alina Cojocaru Principal of English National Ballet One of the greatest Ballerina’s of our time

130517

Shelby Elsbree Boston Ballet

478 John Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34236 Tel 941.343.2315 941.706.2653 www.influencestyle.com

Herman Cornejo Principal of American Ballet Theatre Daniel Ulbricht Principal of New York City Ballet Daniil Simkin Principal American Ballet Theatre 123986

PAPERBACK

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

13

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY FLORIDA WINEFEST & AUCTION: GRAND TASTING AND CHARITY AUCTION Benefiting Florida Winefest & Auction and children’s charities | Saturday, April 12, at bayfront grounds of Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

 Margaret Tusing, Suzanne Maloney and Alison Thomas

 Jim and Sandy Dixon

 Peter and Bernadette Calamaras  Marty Friedman, Dave Katz and Martin Phillips

Roger and Kaley Miller with Jill and Chad McCrory

Lisa and Ron West

Photos by Heather Merriman

Brena Stowe and Steven Bauer with Mariam and Bob Smith

LONGBOAT KEY

FINE ART FESTIVAL

ORIGINAL PAINTINGS • SCULPTURE • JEWELRY • POTTERY GLASS • TEXTILES • WOOD • PHOTOGRAPHY AND MORE

SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 10-AM - 5 PM SUNDAY, APRIL 20, 10-AM - 5 PM LONGBOAT KEY CLUB & RESORT TENNIS GARDENS 941.487.8061 www.paragonartevents.com

137081

FREE ADMISSION

SELBY GARDENS

14

SpringMusicSeries SUNDAYS, APRIL 6 – MAY AY 11

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

1 1-3 3 PM

1642231

138297

sic & deliciou s foo s! at mu e r G d under the banyan

FREE to Selby Garden’s members and children 11 & under.

It’s a great time to be a Selby Garden’s member! Annual memberships begin at just $60.

Go to selby.org/membership NOW!

www.selby.org

PAID FOR BY SARASOTA COUNTY

900 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota 34236 | 941.366.5731

Edward James Fagan, Brook O’Malley, Richard and Betty Greenspan, and Shaun Greenspan, representing TriForce Pictures

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX REVENUES

SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL CLOSING NIGHT AWARDS AND FILM Benefiting Sarasota Film Festival Saturday, April 12 at Sarasota Opera House

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

 Sarah Stern, Jere Stern and Sarah Kendall  Sondra and Gerald Biller

Pillow Talk 137937

Tisket or Tasket?

Tisket or Tasket?

Tisket orTasket?

Tasket?

Tisket or or TisketTisket or Tasket?

Tasket?

Pillow Talk

Pillow Talk Pillow Talk PillowPillow Talk Talk

Embroidered Thai Pillows

Sturdy Rattan Storage Baskets

Mod Squad

SturdyRattan Rattan Storage Baskets Sturdy Storage Sturdy RattanBaskets Storage Baskets SturdyStorage Rattan Storage Sturdy Rattan Baskets Baskets

Embroidered ThaiThai Pillows Embroidered Thai Pillows Embroidered Pillows Embroidered Thai Pillows Embroidered Thai Pillows

Squad Mod Squad Mod Squad Mod Squad Mod Squad Mod

Mary Ann Swinson and Bonni Billingham

Michelle Valenti and Steven Bailey

Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Exclamation Point Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Copper Prisma Media Cabinet Party On

Exclamation Point Point Exclamation Exclamation Exclamation Point Point

Exclamation Point

Carved Wood Art Carved Wood ArtWood Carved Carved Wood Art WoodArt Carved Art Carved Wood Art

Party On On Party On Party Party On

Party On

Painted Ceremonial Carving Painted Ceremonial Carving Carving Painted Ceremonial Painted Ceremonial Carving Painted Ceremonial Carving Painted Ceremonial Carving

1312 Tamiami Trail N.,Trail Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami N., Sarasota, 34236 941-951-9222 1312Tamiami Tamiami Trail N.,HOME Sarasota, FLFL 941-951-9222 WEST INDIES COLLECTION 1312 Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL34236 34236 941-951-9222 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00

Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00 1312 Tamiami Trail N., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-951-9222

Mon—Sat 10:00-5:00 Sun 11:00-5:00

133981

WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION WEST INDIES HOME COLLECTION Diane and Dean Fried, Alina Cemitier, Tom Beames and Kathy and Gary Roberts

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

15

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY CINEMA TROPICALE

N O W !

Benefiting Sarasota Film Festival Friday, April 11, at Sarasota Yacht Club

 Marji and Stewie Bitterman with Jude Weisser

 Milly King, Jennifer Holman and Joann Panizzo

G oi ng

on

 Michael Calamars and Kelly Martella

Special Savings Throughout the Store!

Sarasota

1480 Main Street

Models walk the runway after the fashion show at Sarasota Film Festival’s Cinema Tropicale.

941.365.2210 Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 6:00 Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 Palm Beach • Manalapan Palm Beach Gardens • Boca Raton Stuart • Bonita Springs

Photos by Heather Merriman

Scott, Diane, Norman and Greg Foxman

Monica Barth and Karen Barone

Elizabeth Moore and Lisa Brandy

evelynandarthur.com No adjustments to prior purchases.

138983

Jerry and Lisa Wells

16

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY FLORIDA WINEFEST & AUCTION: BANQUET ON THE BLOCK Benefiting Florida Winefest & Auction and children’s charities Friday, April 11 on Lemon Avenue

 Melissa and Zac Mendiola

Barbara Staton and Bob Cutler

Jim and Harriet Torpie, Diann and Chuck Flanders, Mike and Sherry Edwards

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

 The fourth course was a malbec-braised short rib prepared

by Chef Darwin Santa Maria from Darwin’s on 4th.  The table décor featured rustic candelabras atop a burlap runner adorned with vines, grapes and wildflowers.

Kim Romanski, Raul Molina, Sheryl Henken, Monee Arpin and Ron Giarrusso

 Paul Kauffman

Michelle Pennie, MD • Fellowship Trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon • Board Certified Dermatologist

WE BELIEVE

there should be no barriers to education.

Rosemary Oberndorf’s father, an Italian immigrant, spent years putting himself through school at night. “It’s a real

general dermatology • full body skin checks mohs skin cancer surgery • cosmetic treatments

American story,” Rosemary says. Lou and Rosemary, both first-generation college graduates, share a

20% OFF

passion for opening doors for others through

*

initiatives like the Ringling Town Hall Scholars program. As Lou

ANY LASER SERVICE

adds, “Supporting

*Offer expires April 30, 2014.

education forms the essence of who we are.”

Jennifer L. Norman, PA-C (left) Michelle Pennie, MD (center) Megan B. Reisman, PA-C (right)

Lou and Rosemary Oberndorf

Sarasota 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, #105 941.921.4131

To learn more, call 941.955.3000.

Let us show you how easy it is to give through a donor advised fund.

www.penniedermatology.com

2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota

Now accepting new patients of all ages & most insurances

137291

Englewood 900 Pine Street, #123 941.474.8811

www.CFSarasota.org

127162

Whether your passion is education, the arts or social causes, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County is committed to helping donors maximize the benefits of giving – for themselves and their families, for the causes they love, forever.

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

17

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY SFF TRIBUTE LUNCHEON Benefiting Sarasota Film Festival Friday, April 11, at Sarasota Yacht Club Photos by Heather Merriman

 Shirleyann Haveson, Gail Kaplan and Marsha Albert

Mary Dailey, Reggie Whitten, Jana Martin and Terry Brackett

Carol Buchanan and honoree Sister Rosemary Nyirumbe

Sandy Chororos and Michele Schlossberg

Fabiola Beckmann, Terry Damm, Daina Strong and Karin Leereveld

FLORIDA WINEFEST AND AUCTION: BAYFRONT SHOWCASE LUNCH TASTING Benefiting Florida Winefest & Auction and children’s charities | Friday, April 11, at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall bayfront grounds Photos by Heather Merriman

137884

 Lynette, Reva and Mike Revill

Marty and Bridget Friedman

Guests spent the afternoon sampling wines at Florida Winefest & Auction on the grounds of Van Wezel.

18

YourObserver.com

DIVERSIONS

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Founders Garden Club of Sarasota Presents

Under the Big Top A GCA Flower Show

That will capture the color and excitement of the circus in Flowers, Plants and Photography

FtRo EthEe c!

Publi

FREE to t Publihe c!

April 23rd 12:30 - 4pm

2 L A N FI

138786

Phillippi Estate Park • 500 South Tamiami Trail

Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy with Priscilla and Connie Mack

!

S K E CABARET WE

“Beautifully...performed” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

BLUE TIES AND BUTTERFLIES Benefiting Child Protection Center Wednesday, April 9, at Michael’s On East Photos by Heather Merriman

“Musicianship of the highest order” -Total Theater

“Perfect blend” -Venice Gondolier

138777

 Margaret Barnes, David Steiner and Tre Michel

Ben Mackel and Sarah Hund. Photo by Brian Braun.

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.

366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

Rebecca Bergman, Katie Moulton, Rich Bergman and Scott Anderson

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

Broadway Legend To Kick Off Oceania Cruises’

Life in the Theater Series STARRING

ANDREA McARDLE

Sail Athens to Monte Carlo on the Riviera October 29, 2014 Visit the Greek Isles, Italy and France Enjoy exclusive events & performances with featured artist Andrea McArdle

Melissa Kelley, Melinda Lloyd and Rosemarie McKee

Receive $150 bonus credit, plus FREE pre-paid gratuities when you book with Admiral Travel International

941.951.1801 • AdmiralTravel.com • Downtown Sarasota: 1284 North Palm Avenue

138621

Earn rewards for fine dining, wines and future travel when you book with Admiral Travel.

Charis Rosenblum with Kathy and Eric Cobren

Chairwoman Alisa and Roger Pettingell

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

19

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Sheryl Bartusek, Kathy O’Connor, Brian and Janet Boyle

FLORIDA WINEFEST POPS! Benefiting Florida Winefest & Auction and children’s charities Thursday, April 10, at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall bayfront grounds

Ancient mariners used star-filled skies to cross vast oceans and navigate rough seas.

Icard Merrill will help you steer through the legal complexities of modern life. From business matters to civil disputes to family concerns, our lawyers have experience in a wide range of legal fields. We provide a comprehensive approach to the practice of law, with your goals and well-being always our top concern. No matter the distance or storms

Photos by Mallory Gnaegy

 Chef Paul Mattison and Chef Chris Covelli

of your particular journey, Icard Merrill will guide you to smooth sailing along the way.

941.366.8100 • icardmerrill.com

130307

Mana tee, Sarasota & Charlotte Counties

Debbie Gould, Linda and David Menicheschi, Dave and Diane Minton and Darlene Abney

ARTISTIC PERFECTION Dennis Maley, Bradenton Times

NOW–APR 19

Larry and Marie Bowman

Dr. Marvin and Marsha Frank

valerie oechslin Design Consultant

NOW–APR 27 IN THE HISTORIC ASOLO THEATER

FINELY

OBSERVED

COMEDY

Building, Renovating or Just Want a Fresh Look? valoechslin.com valerie.oechslin@gmail.com

138262

941-724 -2704 137715

Simple, Practical Design Guidance

Marty Fugate, The Observer

20

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY LA MUSICA WINE TASTING AND SUPPER BY THE BITE Benefiting La Musica Wednesday, April 9, at Michael’s Wine Cellar  Chari Isaacs with Frederick and Terri Derr

 Hosts Debbie and Larry Haspel

STARRY NIGHT DINNER 4: HIGHLIGHTING THE PRODUCTION OF ‘HERO’ Linda DiGabriele and Michael Donald Edwards

Benefiting Asolo Repertory Theatre Monday, April 7, at a private home David Silverberg and Gary Heard

David Lambert and Mickey Fine

Photos by Heather Merriman

Elenor and John Maxheim

Rod and Deborah Vaughan

Dr. Jack and Isabelle Wright with David Hess

CO

Summer Publication Date: May 2014

Photos by Heather Merriman

MIN

GS

OO

N!

Advertising Reservation Deadline: April 24

LWR Life is an upscale, glossy magazine reaching over 45,000 affluent readers. Featuring stories and images of East County life including: Local businesses, events, news, fashion, shopping, real estate, culture, philanthropy and more.

Additional Upcoming Issues:

Fall - August 2014

|

Winter - December 2014

|

Spring - February 2015

To reserve your advertising in upcoming issues of LWR Life, or to learn more, please contact your Observer Media Group sales representative, call 941.366.3468 or email LWRLife@yourobserver.com LWR Life is a publication of Observer Media Group Inc. in partnership with SMR and Lakewood Ranch.

138589

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

21

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY SAILORS & SANDALS II Benefiting Take Stock in Children Saturday, April 5, at Sarasota Yacht Club Photos by Heather Merriman

 Gina Corbridge, Karen Corbridge and Michelle Oliva

Linda Bengston and Susan Brennan with Bev and Dale Fischer

SUNSET IN A GARDEN PARADISE Benefiting Sarasota Orchestra Association Monday, April 7, at a private home Photos by Heather Merriman

 Ann Proctor, Eve Watson and Lenora Jost

 Lynn Kuiken, Manda Jordan and Co-Chair Cathy Neubauer

 Crystal Clarke and Ashley Gruters  Tracy Linehan, Nikki Kochis and Brenda Firley

Jay and Carolyn Leshyn

George Turnbull and host Anne Folsom Smith

Vaudeville SRQ WHEN: Friday, April 18 and Saturday, April 19 WHERE: Sarasota Opera House

Changing the World One Smile at a Time

COST: $35 to $50 Turn back the clock to the entertainment of yesteryear with Vaudeville SRQ, featuring various musical and acrobatic performances.

941-927-5411

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

arasota.com/calen da

r

• Cosmetic and Esthetic • General Dentistry • Emergency Dentistry

Jenifer Back DMD

Cosmetic & Esthetic General Dentistry

Jacques L. Esclangon DDS Complete General Dentistry & Emergency Dentistry

www.sarasotadentist.net

137706

129195

3800 Clark Rd., Sarasota

22

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY ABWA SPRING BLING RUNWAY PARTY Benefiting ABWA Sunrise Chapter Saturday, April 5, at Michael’s On East

Debbie Dannheisser, Doris Berkey, Manda Jordan, featured speaker Jaimie Mayer Phinney and Chairwoman Sue Seiter

GEMS OF PHILANTHROPY LUNCHEON

Chairwoman Lisa Donahue with ABWA President Diane Stewart

Benefiting Association of Fundraising Professionals Southwest Florida Chapter Tuesday, April 8, at Michael’s On East

Pamela Sennott, Joann Kootz and Jennafaye Holliday

 Denise Pope and her daughter, Caroline with Melissa Wandall and her daughter, Madisyn

Photos by Harriet Sokmensuer

Marian Hancock, Barbara Kiracofe and Francine Locrasto

Photos by Heather Merriman

Heather Todd, honoree Carly Grimes, Lynn Grimes and Yolanda Mancha

Carole Stevens Bibisi and Sue Sweeney

social

search

local

mobile

promo

web

video

Oaks Meridian Penthouse $1,299,500 USD Top Floor at the Oaks Golf & Country Club. Breathtaking views of both the Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Top of the line upgrades, full amenities, and a two car garage.

Honoree Clarissa Liu and Kathleen Sullivan

YOUR SARASOTA DIGITAL AGENCY

602 Weston Pointe Court $999,900 USD Courtyard Home in Bay Isles on Longboat Key. Gated with heated pool, guest suite, open plan and boat dock.

Access to Sarasota Bay.

DigitalObserver Media

SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST

HELPING YOU THROUGH A SEA OF DIGITAL DECISIONS.

PERFORMANCE YOU CAN COUNT ON

Charlotte Hedge, Tom Hedge Sr., Monica Barth, and Tom Hedge Jr. 888.886.0105 www.HedgeTeam.com tom.hedgejr@sothebysrealty.com Have a question about new downtown projects—Contact us

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

941.366.3468

5645 America Drive $1,149,000 USD Gorgeous Tuscan retreat on boating water minutes to downtown and Siesta Key. One of the finest homes in Sarasota.

121362

Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

digitalobservermedia.com 138930

403 Sunrise Drive $2,395,000 USD Directly on Roberts Bay with dramatic water views. Over 5000 sq ft with boat house, efficiency apartment, heated pool & spa and more.

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

23

PRESENTS

Johan Kobborg, Alina Cojocaru & Friends

Your Only Chance To See Some Of The Most Talented Dancers From Around The World FLORIDA EXCLUSIVE

Johan Kobborg Former Principal of The Royal Ballet Director of National Romanian Ballet Alina Cojocaru Principal of English National Ballet One of the greatest Ballerina’s of our time Shelby Elsbree Boston Ballet Herman Cornejo Principal of American Ballet Theatre Daniel Ulbricht Principal of New York City Ballet Daniil Simkin Principal American Ballet Theatre

25 - 26 APRIL 2014 SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

138976

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office | 941-359-0099 ext 101 | www.sarasotaballet.org

YourObserver.com

DIVERSIONS

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014

127781

24