Three Sarasota theaters jump on the trolley

It sometimes takes an act of God like a pandemic or a hurricane to foster real collaboration among Sarasota’s arts groups, which compete for donors and audiences. But three theaters are jumping on the cooperation bandwagon. Actually, it’s a trolley.

On April 18, the Asolo Repertory Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall will present Sarasota: A Theatre Trolley Tour, a free family-friendly arts adventure on April 18. The excursion is presented as part of Suncoast Remake Learning Days, now in its fifth year.

In a press release, it was noted that the theater trolley tour marks the first time the three organizations have collaborated on a shared family arts experience.

A free trolley will transport families to the theaters, where they will participate in activities designed to spark creativity and curiosity. Guests will explore backstage spaces, experience a live theater performance, and take part in an interactive movement workshop — all in one morning of arts discovery.

The journey begins at Asolo Repertory Theatre, where participants will get an insiders’ look at the craftsmanship behind professional theater. Guests will tour rehearsal halls, costume shops and backstage spaces where productions take shape and learn about the artistry, craftsmanship and collaboration that take stories from the page to the stage.

Next, families will travel to Florida Studio Theatre to see “The Pirate Ship and the Sea Monster & Other Winning Plays.” The annual production brings winning student-written plays to life with professional actors, celebrating the creativity of elementary school playwrights from around the world.

The final stop is the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, where participants will join Broadway veteran and Van Wezel Director of Education Justin Gomlak for an energetic movement workshop. 

Blending dance and storytelling, the session invites participants of all skill levels to explore musical theatre performance through character and choreography.

The morning ends with an ice cream social.

Families may attend individual activities or attend all three to participate in the full trolley tour experience. Download the Suncoast Remake Learning Days app to register.