Sarasota is arguably the cultural capital of Florida. The arts thrive here, and it’s because of one group of people — the supporters.

For the rest of the season, The Observer is producing a weekly online video series spotlighting patrons’ stories and their effect on the arts. Visit YourObserver.com/Content/Patron-Saints-378 to watch the Gardiners’ story involving WBTT.

First in this series, take Longboaters Michael and Karen Gardiner. They went to a Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) show four-and-a-half years ago because the Motown theme attracted Michael Gardiner’s attention. The man, who had retired from marketing for Hertz Rent-a-Car, noticed WBTT’s advertising was a little less than par. He offered his assistance to founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs. Watch the video for the full scoop.

Click here to view upcoming Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe performances.

To learn about more local patrons, click here.

WBTT Patrons from The Observer Group on Vimeo.

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