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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT | MIDDLE GROUND

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by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

Nick Reichert

capturing

Richard and Rebecca Hopkins conjure intimate theatrical experiences inside Florida Studio Theatre’s Cabaret space.

CABARET Somewhere in between plays and musicals, FST’s Cabaret productions define and expand theater’s most ambiguous form.

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT COVER STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: MIDDLE GROUND

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor (continued from page 1)

capturing CABARET Somewhere in between plays and musicals, FST’s Cabaret productions define and expand theater’s most ambiguous form.

Photos by Nick Reichert

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Joe Casey and Ben Mackel transform from actors into troubadours in the “American Pie” cabaret.

T

he stage, if one can call it that, is 10 by 12 feet in size. Instruments such as a piano, keyboard, mandolin, and electric and bass guitars crowd the small stage; what little space remains is filled with microphone stands and amplifiers. Aglow with a purple light, the stage is wrapped by a tightly packed room that can seat 100 people at tables draped in white tablecloths.

Unlike its sister stages at Florida Studio Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret doesn’t house musicals or plays. It’s the home, as its name suggests, of the cabaret, a fusion between two theatrical forms.

Richard and Rebecca Hopkins, FST’s artistic director and managing director, respectively, have created and produced more than 100 unique cabarets since starting the cabaret space in 1996.

The couple is a smaller scale Brill Building duo, constantly thinking and ruminating on the next idea or song for their cabaret.

“There are probably 10 shows we’re currently working on and planning at any given moment,” says Richard Hopkins. “It takes five or six months to develop these shows, and we’re constantly trying to develop new forms to do in the cabaret each year.”

In Sarasota, a town bursting with artistic opportunities, where does cabaret fall in the theatrical spectrum? Cabaret is a combination of the popular musical and formal play.

In addition, the cabaret stage has no walls or curtain, inviting the audience into the action.

“What separates the cabaret apart from a regular theater ex-

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT the audience.”

The Hopkinses are expanding and producing cabaret productions at a rapid rate to make it commonplace and just as mainstream as FST’s other traditional dramatic fare. And it’s working.

After almost 20 years in operation with three to nine shows per year, the cabaret’s subscription rate has reached approximately 12,000 subscribers, almost rivaling the subscription statistics of FST’s main stage season.

The Hopkinses are always looking for new ideas and inspiration in their current projects; each show runs for months at a time, averaging about 140 performances.

“Each show opens a door to a new idea for me,” says Rebecca Hopkins. “Last year we did a show titled ‘Poems, Prayers and Promises’ that was centered around John Denver and his contemporaries that opened the door to the music of ‘American Pie.’” Richard Hopkins narrows down the allure and identity of the cabaret to his three i’s: intimacy, intimacy and intimacy.

“I think that a simple definition of cabaret is that it’s small or miniature theater,” says Richard Hopkins. “The other big one is corporeal. It’s never pretending to be something other than what it is. There’s a real grittiness to it.”

CABARET CHARACTERISTICS

Cabaret is great because it has forced me to interact. ... I’ve opened up to a new world of performing and engaging with the audience.”

– Ben Mackel, actor, ‘American Pie’

Performances of “American Pie”:

Richard and Rebecca Hopkins, FST’s artistic director and managing director, respectively, have produced more than 100 unique cabarets since opening the cabaret space in 1996. perience is that corporeal environment that you’re in with the audience,” says Rebecca Hopkins. “The audience is a part of the show. The actors onstage are taking on personas, but they’re still themselves, so there is an immediate connection.”

However, in the United States, the notion of cabaret has been expressed in a variety of controversial ways that have limited it from breaking into the mainstream. Imported from the

Parisian nightclubs and small theaters at the turn of the 20th century, France’s underground theatrical movement was stolen as a guise for strip clubs, speakeasies during Prohibition and maudlin burlesque and minstrel shows. Today, America’s metropolitan cabaret scene is a chanteuse and a microphone according to Richard Hopkins, with one singer/performer striding through a collection of pop music standards. At FST, the

Hopkinses have crafted a program that expands that solo format into an ensemble effort that presents a narrative not told through characters and imaginary worlds but through pre-existing songs.

“American Pie” is the current production residing in the Goldstein Cabaret. Running through April 23, the show depicts America’s musical response to the rock ’n’ roll British invasion of the mid-1960s. Actors perform songs from artists such as Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Carole King, Neil Diamond and Billy Joel during the show, forming a musical narrative of that time in American culture.

“As opposed to theater and a concert, it’s a kind of story through song by involving the audience in a journey going from point A to point B,” says Joe Casey, one of the five actors in “American Pie.” “It’s not just a bunch of songs strung together.”

And unlike the Broadway musical, which structures a narrative via a conscious selection of songs, the cabaret artists and actors play all of the instruments and interact with the audience.

“Cabaret is great because it has forced me to interact,” says Ben Mackel, another actor in “American Pie.” “I’ve always found comfort in that fourth wall, but now I’ve opened up to a new world of performing and engaging with

First Cabaret opened:

1881

Le Chat Noir in Paris

FST Cabaret opened:

1996

Goldstein Cabaret stage:

10 by 12 feet

Approximate number of original cabaret shows produced at FST:

More than 100 Shows per season:

Between three and nine About 180

Actors in the show:

Five

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: SPOTLIGHT

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

It Takes Two Translating a Broadway production to a community theater stage poses unique challenges. Two firsttime directors collaborate to tackle the task.

different points in Violet’s past in her rustic Appalachian home. Behind all this on stage will be a rear projector displaying the backgrounds of where Violet is on her journey, along with dates and place names.

“We loved the music and we loved the script, but we did not like the staging at all,” says Trisolini. “It was way too abstract for us. All the materials were there, but what bothered us and what we changed for this production is that the orchestra was on stage.”

Trisolini and Wiley were both born in New Jersey: Jersey City and Union, respectively. It was in the Garden State that they each found and cultivated their love of stage and performance. Trisolini took a more corporate route into the theatrical world by directing and operating a business theater agency that took Broadway shows and talent and incorporate them into businesses’ ad campaigns and product lines.

Wiley fell in love with the stage when she was 5 years old; her parents took her to a play version of “Peter Pan.” Wiley spent her life as a performer on stage in theater, television and film in New York City and in later years behind the scenes at entertainment companies and networks in Los Angeles.

The pair both ended up retiring in Sarasota but still needed to quench their thirst for theater and performance. That led them to the Players Theatre, where the two met. Since 2005 they have organized the theater’s popular philanthropic event “Got a Minute?” an hour of 60-second-long plays to raise money for cancer research

WANTS TO SAY

When Bob Trisolini and Pamela Wiley walked out of the American Airlines Theatre last summer in New York City, the pair was creatively conflicted. The two were scheduled to direct a local production of “Violet,” the new and acclaimed dramatic musical produced by the Roundabout Theatre Company, at the Players Theatre.

But after seeing Broadway’s interpretation, the obstacles of transferring the show to the community theater stage began to swirl in the duo’s brains. Nonetheless, the longtime theater artists were excited to share the story of a young North Carolina woman’s bus ride odyssey across America looking for physical and emotional redemption with the Sarasota audience.

“The reason I’m so happy to be part of this particular musical is that I’ve always had a theory that not enough time is spent on the development of characters in musical theater,” says Wiley. “So that’s my biggest job in this production because the characters have to be real in this show or it won’t work.”

Trisolini and Wiley absorbed the raw materials of the musical’s inspiring story and music and reformatted them for a more formalized and traditional musical approach. Unlike on Broadway, for example, the orchestra is in the pit, apart from the action on stage.

In another community theater adaptation, the bus Violet takes from North Carolina to Oklahoma is a collapsible set piece that can be rearranged so the seats and risers on the bus transform into stands for a gospel choir. And either far side of the proscenium stage will be used to represent

Nick Reichert

Players Theatre directing pair Bob Trisolini and Pamela Wiley plan their upcoming production of the musical “Violet.” and awareness for the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation in Tampa.

Artistic Director Jeffery Kin has worked with the two on “Got a Minute?” and believed that together they had the artistic expertise to lead their own main stage production.

Trisolini and Wiley’s vision is for the audience to stay with Violet on her transformational journey without getting lost.

Each moment in time has its own space on the stage.

“The other important issue in this play is that it takes place in 1964 right after the passage of the Civil Rights Act,” says Wiley, “so everyone is on equal footing on the bus and not everyone has gotten used to racial equality.”

To tackle this emotionally complex material that takes place over various times and locations, the two split responsibilities and play to their strengths. Trisolini, the

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: STUDIO SPACE

by Nick Reichert | A&E Editor

Creative Commune

Local artists band together to form a unique space that’s more than a gallery.

Nick Reichert

Nancy Taylor, Brandy Boyd and Judi Light create and sell their work at the new visual art oasis, simply titled The Cottage, in Nokomis.

Cottage. Boyd and company wanted to create a space that didn’t have the formal and intimidating trappings of standard art galleries. They also wanted to sell quality art to people in the neighborhood at a price they could afford. The pieces in the gallery range from 75-cent bookmarks to a $900 driftwood and glass piece.

And besides the affordability focus, the participating artists wanted to create a space that served as a den of creativity, a space in which the artists could create and sell their work. A couple of work stations are squeezed into the cottage for artists to use.

“It was a great opportunity to have an affordable space that

you could call your gallery,” says Judi Light, a participating artist at The Cottage. “Everybody who comes in here, everyone loves the feel inside and likes spending time here. It’s like our home.”

Artists in Cahoots is composed of 10 core artists: Boyd, jewelry maker; Light, caricature artist and painter; Cynthia Harper, potter; Ken Hayden, craftsman of copper and other metals; Marley Beers, glass artist; Nancy Taylor, multipurpose artist who is currently working in watercolors; and the wildlife and nature printers collective of Bemice Giorgianni, Heide-Marie Wittman, JoAnn Campisi and Sue Lang. Each artist can display any of his works for sale at The Cottage as long as he works at the gallery space, participates in the Nokomis Art Market and Cottage events and helps pay the rent.

In addition, area artists can apply to sell their wares at The Cottage — prime real estate for eager artists who don’t have access to galleries and want more exposure than monthly and annual art markets.

Looking ahead, the Cahoots collective wants to expand and set up satellite locations of The Cottage in nearby areas where pockets of artists who participate in the Nokomis Art Market live.

“It’s amazing the size and growth of this little business since it opened in September,” says Taylor. “We have something for everybody here. It’s the gallery for everyone.”

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cozy confines that The Cottage embraces today.

“As soon as I saw the building and it just had antiques lying inside, I started putting it out to all my friends and began organizing opening this permanent location,” says Boyd.

The word “anti-gallery” is perhaps the best way to describe the feel and mission of The

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Within Nokomis there lies a young and bright sanctuary for the visual arts. Tucked between Café Evergreen and Captain Eddie’s Seafood off of South Tamiami Trail lies The Cottage, an innovative venture into the gallery scene in Sarasota County.

The Cottage, the vision of local artist Brandy Boyd, opened in September. The Cottage first began as an extension of Boyd’s other passion project: the Nokomis Art Market. Taking place the third Saturday of each month, the market started in March 2014 and has grown to dominate the sizable lot in which it is held, adjacent to Rum Runners Antiques on East Pocono Trail. Vendors, craftsmen and artists from all over the area unite to sell their art and wares to Nokomis residents. Neighboring restaurants sell food, and Boyd hires local musicians to perform for passersby. However, Boyd began to feel like something was missing. She and her artistic brethren needed something more stable than a monthly art market.

Boyd and nine other artists she befriended through the Nokomis Art Market, a collective called Artists in Cahoots, set their sights on a 500-squarefoot building that Rum Runner’s Antique’s owner and proprietor Dan Simic owned. The antique dealer agreed to let the group use the space as an art gallery, and the artists began renovating and creating the colorful and

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: HIGHLIGHTS

SARASOTA SCULPTURE CENTER OPENING Friday, Jan. 23, at Sarasota Sculpture Center Photos by Nick Reichert

Pamela Beck, Susan McLeod and Sam Alfstad

Jerome and Kathryn Chesley

Annie Alfstad and Chris Schumaker

Laura Proctor and Janet Chamberlain

Stacy Prouty and Galina Jordan

DISCOVER WHAT’S ON NatioNal theatre live, A StreetcAr nAmed deSire JAN 30, 7:30 pM $20 / $18 for Members An HD-screening of Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece, A Streetcar Named Desire.

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// ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT: REVIEWS

MUSIC

THEATER // ‘Good People’

// Mary Wilson recital

Money makes the world go ’round.

For some folks, losing a job is the end of the world. Case in point: Margie Walsh (Denise Cormier), the protagonist of David Lindsay-Abaire’s “Good People,” the latest offering at the Asolo Rep. She’s a Southie (south Boston Irish) and a middle-aged, single mom struggling with a disabled adult daughter. Her bad situation gets worse when a callow young manager (Jory Murphy) fires her from her job at the Dollar Store. The exit interview takes place by the dumpster.

Her world having ended, Margie plays a wild card. She pops in on an old flame — Mike (Tim Grimm), a smart kid from the neighborhood who made good. He’s a successful doctor now. So, she heads for the nice part of town and asks Mike for a job.

He has none to give. Margie responds with insults to his “lace curtain Irish” success. To get her off his back, Mike invites her to a party with his rich pals — maybe somebody has a job, who knows? When Mike’s child gets sick, Margie gets a call that the party’s canceled. She doesn’t buy it and shows up anyway. There’s no party, but Margie meets his African-American wife, Kate (Tyla Abercrumbie), who insists she stay while Mike squirms. The evening starts with wine and witty banter and ends with bitter argument and dark revelations. Upton Sinclair is mentioned. Margie doesn’t get a job.

This simmering Boston stew isn’t as grim as it sounds. The playwright shot to fame with his Pulitzer Prize-winning “Rabbit Hole,” a sad, shattering tale of loss. If you’re expecting more of the same, don’t.

Still, another director might approach the material as heavy, but Greg Leaming plays it for laughs. The laughs are on the

Mary Wilson, a soprano who’s soloed from the Boston Baroque to the Hollywood Bowl, gave a recital in the home of Lee Dougherty Ross last week and proved why she’s in such demand. The concert, which also featured Dougherty Ross and Nancy Yost Olson as the collaborative pianists and Sarasota Orchestra violinist Margot Zarzycka, was presented as a prize that Key Chorale and the Artist Series of Sarasota auctioned off. And it was exactly what vocal chamber music — or any chamber music — should be: intimate, charming and beautifully done.

Bernstein’s “Simple Song,” from his “Mass,” is anything but simple. It needs a great vocal technique, beautiful voice and an ability to sing as if the music and words are being made up as the musicians go along. Wilson and Dougherty Ross aced it with a seemingly easy, jazzy inflection that set just the right mood for the afternoon.

Next on this eclectic menu of riches was the gorgeous “Erbarme dich” from Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion.” Yost Olson was the pianist for this work; Wilson and Zarzycka joined her. The sound from everyone was beautiful and compassionate, as Bach meant it to be, but the work was written for a mezzo, and, in the voice of a lyric soprano, no matter how good she may be, it lost the warmth and depth it needs.

Because of the lightness of Wilson’s voice, she (rightfully) needed to take the piece faster than it’s meant to be heard, and that meant the instruments simply didn’t match the weight of the words.

Just the opposite happened when Wilson and Yost Olson presented Schumann’s “Widmung,” one of the classics of the Lieder repertoire. It was abso-

Courtesy

“Good People” runs through March 1, at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. page, not imposed by the director. Gallows humor, to be sure, but laughs nonetheless.

Some wicked-fine performances here.

Cormier puts in a winning take on the pugilistic Margie, a fighter on the ropes but not down for the count. Grimm’s Mike could easily have been a strawman, but he plays his character sympathetically. Abercrumbie has precious few scenes, but she manages to convey a lifetime of history and a world of inner thought. As the bingo-addicted supporting cast, Peggy Roeder, Anne-Marie Cusson and Murphy all give their share of comic relief.

The engine driving the action is class.

Our meritocracy runs on the notion that the successful are a better class of people, either by natural talent or hard work. So, Mike thinks his success was a choice, Margie thinks he got lucky, and that’s what the fight is about.

A lesser playwright would close with a melodramatic, climactic bang — some stunning revelation. But the shotgun over the mantle never gets fired. Lindsay-Abaire ends the play with the anticlimax of real life.

Margie, still jobless, winds up with her Southie pals in the bingo hall. There’s a small note of grace in the form of rent money. It’s not a final answer, but it’s answer enough for now.

Until the rent comes due again.

— Marty Fugate

lute perfection — musically, vocally and emotionally. Elly Ameling couldn’t have done it better.

Schubert’s “Gretchen am Spinnrade,” although Wilson and Yost Olson performed it beautifully, lacked an integrated interpretation, with the pianist sounding rather matter-of-fact and the soprano imbuing the music and words with the great understanding and drama that’s needed.

Midway through the program, the performers switched gears for instrumental chamber music: the exquisite “Meditation” from Massenet’s “Thais” and a fun, jazzy work by John Williams, “Por una Cabeza,” which was used in the film “Scent of a Woman.” Zarzycka has a virtuosic, big, gutsy tone with technique to burn, and she put all her talents to good use in both pieces, always keeping in mind the style and energy of each work.

To end the afternoon, Wilson returned with Yost Olson for two French songs, the gloriously romantic “Ah, Chloris,” by Reynaldo Hahn, and “Apparition,” one of the songs from Debussy’s rarely performed “Chansons de Jeunesse.” One of the reasons that cycle is so seldom heard is that the songs are really hard to sing.

The soprano nailed it. And she followed it

by Mozart’s devilishly difficult concert aria, “Vorrei spiegarvi, oh Dio,” which has not only coloratura that makes the “Queen of the Night” sound like a simple song, but leaps of way more than an octave that Mozart must have written with great glee, knowing sopranos for centuries to come would blanch at the thought of them. The result? Exquisite and dazzling.

Finally, the soprano tossed off Musetta’s aria from Puccini’s “La Boheme.” With Dougherty Ross back at the piano, the two simply won over the audience with their charisma and musical ability.

Look for Wilson, and, when you find her, get tickets. She’s terrific.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// HOME&GARDEN: TREND REPORT

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

the design update: TODAY’S KITCHEN A

OVERALL DESIGN

t the end of a great party, it seems everyone ends up in the kitchen. In the past decade, people have acknowledged that by designing their kitchens with ample space for cooking and entertaining. Now that kitchens play a role as the centerpiece of the home, floor plans are getting larger and the list of musthave features is changing.

To gather examples of the new standard, we stopped in some local showrooms and asked the experts what design details they are seeing in up-to-date kitchens.

Courtesy of Contemporary Cabinetry

The most important aspects of today’s kitchen are still convenience and function, but the design style has changed from closed-off kitchens to a more open floor plan.

• Countertops — Designers are seeing a lot of marble lately, specifically white marble, which goes well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens.

• Patterns in both the floors and backsplashes are popular this year. Designers are using wood planks cut at an angle to create a chevron pattern on the floor.

They are also seeing recessed beveled glass tiles used in backsplashes.

• Multiple islands — “We just finished a kitchen in a new construction home with two large islands — a functioning kitchen island and an entertainment/ eating island,” says Brigid Saah of Tile Market.

TRENDING: • Counter-level eating bar — designers are no longer seeing a raised bar in the kitchen. Everything is one level.

• Full-height backsplashes Recessed and beveled glass tiles are a popular choice now for these.

Anything off of the counter and hidden goes along with the clean, streamlined design style.

– Brigid Saah

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Your home deserves Hunter Douglas Janet and Curt Mattson Owners

Player’s Club

Alustra® Luminette® Privacy Sheers

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

9

// HOME&GARDEN THE LATEST FEATURES

Courtesy photos

Sub-Zero integrated refrigerator

“Large islands, better quality material, clean designs and simpler styling are definitely the trend,” says Connie Beatty of Contemporary Cabinetry. “Base cabinets with doors have now become drawer bases, and rollout trays are now essential to built-in pantries.” Other features include pop-up power stations (below left) for recharging electronics, dimmable LED under-cabinet lighting, and drawers and specific storage for spices, utensils and trays (left).

Also popular are farmhouse sinks (below), built-in coffee makers (lower right) and under-cabinet appliances.

APPLIANCES

customer who prefers a sleeker, more hidden look in the kitchen, Wolf (right) has released a new line of ovens that have the signature red knob. Stovetops on the island are also increasingly popular now, with the oven under the cooktop. The iconic hood is also available with this design.

Appliances are a main focus when it comes to designing a kitchen, and commercial appliances are still a hot trend.

“Much of the industry is going toward integrated design — they come in different widths, can be separate or joined, a swing top with a drawer below, the possibilities are entirely up to the consumer,” says Rob Leclerce, with TRENDING Mullet’s Appliances.

• Microwave drawers — TypiThis integrated style provides cally placed next to the wine more range of flexibility with fridge, microwave drawers incapacity as well as design, by stalled in the island are ideal hiding the appliances within flush for preserving wall cabinet cabinet faces. space and staying out of the The regular built-in product is way.

Sub Zero’s traditional product.

This application sticks out from • Retro ranges — Some the adjacent cabinet set for more designers are using2nd oldOffer ends February February 2ndsuch of an industrial, commercial Offer ends fashioned-style ranges, look. This built-in product can be as the La Cornve. Going covered, however, with a face-on back to a more traditional reveal, if you prefer the built in but look, this old-time range want a more integrated look. mixed with the new details There is a high demand for of kitchen design (such as both commercial-style ranges cutting edge backsplashes, as well as the built-in countertop marble countertops and patstoves and ovens. The stove-top terned flooring) is becoming oven ranges have been popular increasingly popular. for quite some time, but for the

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// FOOD&COOKING: HIGHLIGHTS

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

FORKS & CORKS: THE GRAND TASTING The Ringling and All Faiths Food Bank Sunday, Jan. 25, at The Ringling Photos by Heather Merriman

The Sarasota-Manatee Originals hosted the 8th annual Forks & Corks: The Grand Tasting on Sunday, Jan. 25, at The Ringling.

Jake Broen and Alexis Branzei

Penny Donald shows off her wine glasses.

Marsha Berning, Paige Holloway and Carole Larach

Tom Dart, John Leeming, Kim Dart and Laura Leeming

Dennis and Rebecca Murphy, Sarah and Ryan Lodge and Stephanie and Adrian Olivo Guests had the opportunity to sample more than 350 wines at The Grand Tasting.

ONLINE // For photos from the Jan. 22 VIP Preview Party and a video from the event, visit YourObserver.com.

EXCEPTIONAL Service EXTRAORDINARY Care FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1991

Full Bar • Pizzeria • Subs • Salads • Catering The IL Panificio Family Welcomes our new General Manager,

Sebastian Marin

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featuring

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Black Tie

INSIDE: 7th annual iConcept PAGE 13

YourObserver.com

Alison Gardner and Judy Sande

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2014

Caroline Ellerson, Renne Farmer, Ashley Kozel and Veronica Brady

Jill Ramsey and Crystal Lahners

CORINTHIAN GALA ‘A Night of a Thousand Cranes’

Benefiting Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation • Saturday, Jan. 24, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota • Co-Chairs: Beverly Bartner, Renee Hamad and Chris Voelker • 700 guests

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

Behind the theme:

Every three years, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation hosts the Corinthian Gala, and every three years the event is more magical than before. This year’s theme, “A Night of a Thousand Cranes” inspired elegant Asian décor, transforming the ballroom of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota into a serene paradise. Nearly 700 guests (dressed to the nines) attended the event and enjoyed an evening with great company, dinner and dancing until midnight to Michael Andrew and The Atomic Big Band.

The gala’s theme was inspired by an ancient Japanese legend that promises anyone who folds 1,000 origami cranes will be granted a wish. In Japan, the crane is said to live for 1,000 years, which is why 1,000 cranes are made. Some stories believe you are granted eternal luck, such as a long life or recovery from illness or injury, thus resembling SMF’s initiative to positively impact the quality of health care in Sarasota County.

Margaret Wise and Ping Faulhaber

Co-Chairs Chris Voelker, Beverly Bartner and Renee Hamad

Jim Helmich and Gloria Mos s

Photos by Heather Merriman

Kameron and Bart Hodges

Zach Buffington and Cathy Kennedy with Bianca and Richard Lawrence

Specialty Drinks • Berry Green Tea Fusion — Fresh berries, green tea and rum • Lychee Rose Martini — Gin, rose petal liqueur, fresh lemon juice and lychee juice Bill DeRamo, Paul and Jenni Hudson and Jennifer Horiuchi

Susan Jones and Sally Schule

Jim and Charlie Ann Syprett

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: COLUMN

T

THE BIRD WOMEN he back story of “The Night of 1,000 Cranes” is as beautiful as the event itself.

The ancient Japanese concept that a person who folds 1,000 cranes will enjoy not only longevity but good health for life was a natural choice for the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s triennial event, if, perhaps not the easiest to implement.

Enter Paula Murray of Artefact, the foundation’s designer. She reported that Affairs in the Air had been working on a crane-themed wedding that was canceled.

Introductions were made. The bride’s mother had worked for eight months creating 1,000 origami cranes. She was more than happy for her flock to take flight, and would accept only a small contribution as compensation.

Pam Swain and Mollie Nelson took on the task transforming the birds with spray paint and glitter.

Off they went to Swain’s farm east of town and made the birds (and good portions of themselves) golden.

There’s more. Barbara Rothman folded 100 more cranes and Melinda Place and Patricia Riley hot-glued them to birdcages that were part of the décor.

Hospital CEO David Verinder’s wife, Monica, crafted yet another Japanese prop: making 650 mini umbrellas that served as table cards.

The Japanese have a way to recognize the special abilities and talents of such committed committee members. They say: “You are a crane standing among chickens.”

he Asolo Rep could hardly have picked a better night to open “Both Your Houses” than Jan. 23, when the big news story of the day had to do with the kind of political corruption that is the theme of the play.

In his comments at the dinner preceding the performance, director Frank Galati told guests that friends who had been concerned about his making new ones when he moved to Sarasota several years ago would have been mightily impressed by the crowd in the

S TIDBIT

The play’s the thing … Sarasota playwright Marvin Albert had two 10-minute plays performed Jan. 23 at the Longboat Key Education Center. They were “The Merchant” and “Thanks for the Memories,” a clever, senior citizen twist on the mistaken identity convention.

Director Preston Boyd and actors Connie McManus, David Meyersburg and Richard Pell got many good laughs from a standing-room-only audience that included Gerri Aaron, Judy and Roger Goldstein, Susan Brainerd and Alan Quinby, Diana Lager, Kay Delaney Bring, Elaine Keating and Sid Katz …

Hip, hip, hooray … here’s wishing John Currie a speedy recovery from this week’s installation of a new hip … A party for a party … Orchid Ball Co-Chair Margie

room. New to BT but not to the Asolo: Jo Ann Burhart and her husband Don, resplendent to say the least in a pale lavender jacket and lavender and green shirt and tie … always stunning Suzette Jones was quick to explain that Harry Leopold had only “borrowed” her from Richard Dorfman for the evening … and Betsy Kane Hartnett had a one-word explanation for why dad Stanley Kane is looking like he has found the fountain of youth.

“Daughters,” she joked.

Cooper and husband, Kelvin, hosted the Orchid Ball Sponsor Party Jan. 22, at their home in Harbor Acres. More than 80 guests, including Cathy Layton, Veronica Brady, Anne Westmann, Bruce and Terri Saba, Drayton and Kara Saunders, Kent Hayes, Tom Luzier and Larry Bowman, attended the party. BT hopes you have your tickets for the Valentine’s Day soiree as it sold out in November … Here Comes the Bride …

Luckily for all the brides-to-be in town, Fondren Watts and Nicole Mei’s love for high-end bridal fashion has inspired them to open a couture bridal boutique in Sarasota, Blush Bridal Couture. The boutique will carry Inbal Dror, Reem Acra, Naeem Khan and Ines Di Santo as their initial launch designers.

Stay tuned for more info on location and opening date ... Onward

Courtesy

BABIES IN BOLD

T

here must be something in the water. Welcome to the newest additions on the BT scene …

Lauren Glassman welcomed Grayson Oliver Glassman on Dec. 16; Ashley and James Guttridge welcomed Carter James Guttridge on Jan. 13; and Tatyana Sharoubim and Dr. Charles Stewart welcomed Byron Makram-Charles Stewart on Jan. 17.

Heather Merriman

Margie and Kelvin Cooper and upward ... Wishing Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota General Manager Joel Ellzey the best of luck at his new post as vice president/general manager at the store’s Boston location. Terri Najmolhoda, coming from the Chevy Chase store in D.C., will replace Ellzey at the University Town Center location in March.

FUEL HER

FIRE... ... AND SHE WILL CHANGE THE WORLD Girls Incorporated’s 27th Annual Celebration Luncheon Friday, April 10, 2015 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota National Girls Inc. CEO Judy Vredenburgh presents Donna Brace Ogilvie Board of Directors Visionary Award

Cookie Boudreaux

National Girls Inc. Champions for Girls Award

Sherry Watts

2015 Girls Inc. Girl of the Year

Isabelle Crotsley

Buy tickets now! girlsincsrq.org

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Peter Acker

Mollie Nelson and Pam Swain with a few of the 1,000 cranes they turned to gold for the Jan. 24 Corinthian Gala.

T

TALK ABOUT TIMING

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BLACKTIE&TALES

an Grayson Oliver Glassm

by Black Tie Staff

DIVERSIONS

13

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

7TH ANNUAL ICONCEPT

CoHost Joey Panek, Lisa Berger and CoHost Christine Alexander

Benefiting Art Center Sarasota Thursday, Jan. 22, at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium Photos by Heather Merriman

iConcept artist Ray Peper with models wearing his designs

THE FASHION SHOW

Co-Chair Zara Barrie models iConcept artist Eric Cross’s “Homage to Oscar de la Renta”

Allie Vargas models iConcept artist Samantha Kelly’s “Hair Hair Hair!”

Andrea Eason models iConcept artist Jim Stewart’s “Education Calendar Girl Two”

ONLINE // For more fun and fashionable photos from the 7th Annual iConcept and other Black Tie events, visit YourObserver.com.

La Vit a é Bella

Tickets on sale now!

Saturday, March 7, 2015 Sarasota Polo Club, Lakewood Ranch

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

S P A R C C l e o n t h e R u n w a y 2015 Thursday, February 12, 2015

Fashions provided by SPARCC’s Treasure Chest 10 a.m. Boutique Shopping Opens / 11:30 a.m. Luncheon/Fashion Show

Everyone is welcome! Please join us for our 5th Anniversary of polo and fun as we raise money for advances in research, education and the treatment of cancer.

Emcees The Bermuda Mavericks, Les McCurdy and Ken Sons Tickets Call 941-365-0208 ext 110 or online at www.sparcc.net 2015 PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Gloria & Al Webel

Atlas Insurance

GOLD SPONSORS

Bert Rodgers School of Real Estate, Inc. Gail Bowden Susan Erhart, Katie Hayes & Anne Swain Luisa Goldman

Holcomb & Kreithen Plastic Surgery & MedSpa Lynne Koy Lancaster & Eure Linda Zuffa

Since 2011 we have raised over $1 million.

With your help we can continue to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families everywhere.

For sponsorships call 941.928.9296.

Observer Media Group

Purchase your tickets online today.

SILVER SPONSORS

Bev Burger Valerie & Roger Button Coral Pleas Universal Properties

polounderthepalms.com 2015 BENEFICIARIES:

2015 MEDIA SPONSORS:

CANCER & BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH

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

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

Join us for a great event and a great cause.

The Ritz Carlton Sarasota 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive / $125 per person

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Kelly Davis models iConcept artist Yen Reed’s “Plastique Fantastique: Throwaway culture transformed to throwaway couture”

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Chessi Phillips models iConcept artist Lisa Berger’s “Good to the Last Drop (of her head)”

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

10TH ANNUAL ON POINTE LUNCHEON Benefiting The Sarasota Ballet and Dance — The Next Generation Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Michael’s On East

Photos by Heather Merriman

Crystal Ku, Olivia Ratner and Tonirenee Taylor

Deanna Langer, Michael Chokr, Patricia Courtois and Roxie Jerde

Co-Chairs Fred and Lynda Doery

Jennifer Gemmeke and Camia Green

Co-Chairs Walter and Donna Maytham

CLASSES FOR ARTISTS

Come enjoy a good murder.

Adult Art Classes and Workshops Painting, Mixed Media, Watercolor, Collage, Sumi-e, Printmaking, Paper Arts For all skill levels

Murder at the Crosley January 27 through February 6 Select dates

Feel the chill as you immerse yourself into an evening of Who Done It. You’ll follow colorful characters from room to room as you pick up the clues and unravel the mystery.

Youth & Teen Classes

Tickets on sale now $15-$25 (plus convenience fees)

Saturday Afternoon, After School Portfolio, Creative Kids Art Camp

Tickets are $5 additional at the door Group Discounts Available

ART CENTER SARASOTA

TicketMaster.com and at Bradenton Area Convention Center Box Office 941-722-3244, ext. 0 PowelCrosleyTheater.com

Observer_murder_1-29_REV.indd 1

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1/5/15 3:36 PM

941.365.2032 WWW.ARTSARASOTA.ORG

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707 NORTH TAMIAMI TRAIL SARASOTA, FL 34236

8374 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SARASOTA, FL 34243

Sponsored by:

Bruce Handford

Jan. 27-29 – 7:30pm Jan. 30 -31 – 2:00pm, 7:30pm Feb. 1 – 2:00 pm Feb. 4-5 – 7:30pm Feb. 6 – 2:00pm, 7:30 pm

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

15

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

WOMEN IN POWER LUNCHEON Benefiting National Council of Jewish Women, SarasotaManatee Section Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Michael’s On East Photos by Heather Merriman

Honorees Renee Hamad, Wendy Surkis and Eleanor Merritt Darlington

Marion Marshak, Chairwoman Sally Yanowitz and Marian Moss

Janet Hunter and Gloria Moss

Cynthia Wright, Joan Gastman and Joan Shuster

Susan Merrill and Judy Bloch

Milman-Kover

JANUARY 31, 2015 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Main Street at Lakewood Ranch

GRAND A t

L a k e wo o d

R a nc h

Art. Music. Dance.

Explore the shops and boutiques of Main Street. Dine at cozy restaurants and cafes. Discover street vendors and local non-profits groups.

There’s so much to see and do – it’s a perfect family-friendly day with something for everyone!

SPECIAL GUESTS AND EVENTS! OPENING NIGHT: SUNDAY, MARCH 8TH THEO BIKEL in person plus Dessert Reception

GOD’S SLAVE

SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH: “Real Russ and Daughters Brunch”

HUNTING ELEPHANTS

SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH: DANI MENKIN in person, “Is that You?” Premiere, plus Dessert Reception FOR TICKETS, VISIT JFEDSRQ.ORG/JFF OR SEE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL BROCHURE COMING SOON TO YOUR HOME!

Presented by:

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Seating is provided.

No coolers please.

Free admission and parking.

For more info, visit LWRevents.com

MARCH 8-16, 2015

KIDON OPERATION SUNFLOWER THE STURGEON QUEENS UNDER THE SAME SUN

6TH ANNUAL THEODORE BIKEL: IN THE SHOES OF SHOLOM ALEICHEM

IS THAT YOU?

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SATURDAY

The sidewalks will sing and the streets will dance as the 8th annual Grand Ovation returns to Lakewood Ranch Main Street. A delightful mix of street festival and concert hall, this celebration will showcase an amazing array of local artists on multiple performance stages.

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

ART & SOUL GALA Benefiting Booker Middle School’s Visual and Performing Arts Program Friday, Jan. 23, at Michael’s On East

“Quality & ExpEriEncE SErvEd with tEndErnESS & carE” Botox / Dysport • Radiesse • Latisse • Perlane / Restylane Juvederm / Voluma • Skin Care • TCA Peel

Rita Altman, PA, MPAS 153599

Aesthetic Medicine

Photos by Heather Merriman

Emory University Trained • 28 Years Experience National Trainer • Top Injector U.S.

Terri, Mikayla and Michael Klauber

Come visit me at my new location 2161 Siesta Drive, Sarasota (across from Southgate Mall) 941.951.2161

160343

Kathryn Coleman and Chairwoman Jennifer Fretz-Smith

Ava Podewitz, Will Egan, Nathan Epstein and Payton Saturen

cabaret

mainstage

“Perceptive play” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Ella Shell and Jane Hoffman

B 14!

HELD

U FE R THR

OVE

“Strong and vibrant” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Amy Crawford and Mary Falotico

Maddy Dill, Daniela Rengel and JaShaiya Paschal

by Mark St. Germain -The Observer

Vanessa Morosco and Jason Cannon. Photo by Cliff Roles.

Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director

“Infectiously joyful” -The Observer

Courtney Stokes and Jannie Jones. Photo by Maria Lyle.

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

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

FST IMPROV - FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS @ 7:30PM

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“Brilliant dialogue”

Janel and Brian Dorn

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

17

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

‘PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ’ Benefiting Aging in Paradise Resource Center Sunday, Jan. 25, at Sarasota Bay Club Photos by Heather Merriman

Margaret Noble with Fred and Betty Haas

Be the Guest Ringmaster at Circus Sarasota’s Incredible New Show FEARLESS at The Big Top • Meet King of the Highwire Nik Wallenda • Season’s 52 VIP 7-Course Chef’s Tasting Dining Experience with Master Sommelier Selected Wine Pairings for (4) persons • A Lux Limo Ride by Town & Country • 4 Box Seats to FEARLESS Carol Peschel, Gene Campbell, Joan Partridge and Ruth and Bob German

• (4) Tickets to FEARLESS & Circus Souvenirs • $25 Gift Card & Special Barware from SEASON’S 52

yourobserver.com/contests Co-Chairs Donna Dunio and Becky Jones

Inge Boudreau and Lavern Mikesell

no purchase necessary to win

CIRCUS SARASOTA presents Dick Pelton, Donna Dolan, Phil Dunio and Dale Richter

Friday February 6 - Sunday February 22

CIRCUSARTS.ORG • 941-355-9805

LIMOUSINE Liz Yerkes with Bob and Joyce Mazurek

Alice and Andy Dzenitis

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town and country

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DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: CAMERA READY

Infiniti Aesthetics

SPRING TRENDS WE LOVE

Minimally Invasive Facial Rejuvenation: Botox • Juvederm Ultra Plus XC • Juvederm VOLUMA XC

June Simmons Jewelry hosted a private event Saturday, Jan. 24, at The Met, to showcase the latest trends and introduce pieces from Paige Novick.

Photos by Heather Merriman

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Host Liebe Gamble and Mary Pat Radford

~Take Your Youth to Infiniti~

352 Somerset Ave. @ Alchemy Day Spa • Sarasota, FL 941.920.5785 • InfinitiAesthetics.com

Kelly K. Stevens, PA-C, MPAS

Double rings, such as these from Paige Novick’s Phyne collection, are trending.

PUCCINI

GUESTS ENJOYED …

A diva's jealousy leads to tragedy

• A trendy braid courtesy of a Met stylist • Champagne cocktails • Paleo donuts and breakfast bites from Uggs Bakery • Hand massages • Essie spring nail colors — each guest received a gift in one of spring’s hottest colors

Also in the Winter Opera Festival, February 7-March 28: The Marriage of Figaro The Golden Cockerel Don Carlos paris version

SEASON

Seats start at just $19— see all 4 operas for as little as $69

SARASOTAOPERA.ORG (941) 328-1300

Production Sponsor:

Real-time English translations above the stage

SARASOTA’S GO-TO GUIDE TO THE ARTS & SOCIETY

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.

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IMAGE: Richard Termine Sarasota Opera

31ST ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL

FEB. 5-8 THURSDAY – SATURDAY … 11 AM – 9 PM SUNDAY … NOON – 8 PM

ADMISSION $4 / Kids 12 & Under FREE • PARKING FREE • Offsite Parking Shuttle Available – Look For Signs

THURSDAY FREE ADMISSION *

* Entry donations to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County

OF MANATEE COUNTY

GET YOUR RAFFLE TICKETS TODAY! Provided by Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota

2015 2015 Mercedes Benz C300 Mercedes Benz GLK350 MSRP $42,690

MSRP $39,785

2nd PRIZE: $7500 CASH

3rd PRIZE:

$5000 Travel Voucher

$100 Donation (Only 1500 Tickets) TICKETS AT: www.StBarbaraFestival.org PH. (941) 355-2616 Email: StBarbara34243@gmail.com

Don’t get left out this SEASON

DRAWING … SUNDAY, FEB. 8 @ 7 PM

Spring 2015 Issue - March 5th

RESERVE YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE TODAY!

RAFFLE RULES are available at the church office: 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 • PH. (941) 355-2616

GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH

7671 North Lockwood Ridge Rd. Sarasota, FL 34243

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ST. BARBARA

Please contact your OMG representative, call 941.366.3468 or email advertise@yourobserver.com

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1st PRIZE:

DIVERSIONS

YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

// BLACK TIE: EXCEPTIONAL TIMEPIECES

19

by Heather Merriman | Black Tie Editor

HOTFLASH

TREND ALERT

Gucci Rose Gold Automatic, Limited Edition starting at $17,800 at McCarver & Moser

WRIST WORTHY

Vintage Rolex dials on leather straps

People are always bringing in old Rolex watches and asking Diamond Vault what to do with them, so the jeweler came up with a stylish solution to give them new life. It puts the vintage dials on leather straps, creating a custom vintage piece for customers.

It has been buying back the watches and selling them or redesigning them for its clients.

Here is one the jewelry store is working on now:

W

atches are not only a necessity, but also a glamorous accessory. Black Tie stopped in some fine jewelers to see what’s ticking. The following assortment displays some of the latest trends in the luxury-timepiece world.

Rolex rose gold Day-Date, about $28,000 at Diamond Vault Photos by Heather Merriman

Hermès Arceau – rose gold set with brown diamonds, $88,200 at Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota

Hermès Heure H – $22,500 at Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota

This vintage rose-gold face will be put on a calf leather strap with pink stitching for a Diamond Vault client. We placed these dark and light leather straps next to the dial to illustrate two options.

DID YOU KNOW?

Courtesy

Patek Philippe Aquanadt, rose gold, $47,600 at McCarver & Moser

Patek Philippe two-toned Nautilus, 18k rose gold and stainless steel with gradient blue dial, $67,000 at McCarver & Moser

When watches are photographed, they are always set at 10 and 2, so it looks like they are smiling.

5 Learn more about how First Step’s Mothers & Infants program helps women deliver healthy, drug-free babies at the 12TH ANNUAL CARING HEARTS LUNCHEON February 19, 2015 Michael’s On East 11 AM - 1 PM Honoring Mollie Cardamone as the Caring Heart of the Year

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Call 941-552-2065 for more info or register online at www.fsos.org.

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Rolex steel, with custom diamond work by Diamond Vault, $8,400

Panerai Luminor black leather watch with skeleton back, $6,500 — a best seller for men’s watches at Diamond Vault

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DIVERSIONS

PoshPlum-SarasotaObserver-FP-4_Layout YourObserver.com 1 1/26/15 9:32 AM Page 1

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

www.theposhplum.com

Grand Opening in Sarasota

February 2

®

consign & design

consign

W

• Deep Discounts on Like-New

hen we wanted to update

our look, we called on the experts

Furnishings and Accents for Your Home

®

at Posh Plum to help. They were

• Elegant Showrooms in Naples,

able to secure the highest resale value for our furnishings – AND –

Bonita Springs and Grand Opening Monday, February 2 in Sarasota!

with the exciting styles they offered, we created a new look for our home!

& design

• Consignors Welcome Email us

at Sarasota@theposhplum.com

• Highest Resale Value for your items • SW Florida’s Premier Furniture Bee Ridge Rd

41

Posh Plum®

Riverwood Ave

•

Proctor Rd

Sarasota 4625 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone 941.312.4527

•

Email: Sarasota@theposhplum.com

161680

Camino Real Field Rd

Consignment Store