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Arts + Culture

Clyde Butcher took "Everglades Restoration" in 1995. He is passionate about protecting the wetland.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • July 1, 2025
Florida photographer Clyde Butcher takes a stand against 'Alligator Alcatraz'

The National Medal of Arts winner wants the Big Cypress National Preserve to remain pristine.

  • Arts + Culture
Upon the closing of the exhibit, the multicolored basketballs that form the towering pyramid will be sent to scores of schools and community groups.
    By
  • Eric Garwood
  • June 27, 2025
Art exhibit will become 650 playthings for Sarasota schools, youth groups

The idea to donate the basketballs came from the artist and was coordinated by the museum.

  • Arts + Culture
A profile portrait of Lillian Blades, who is originally from the Bahamas, in her Atlanta studio.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 25, 2025
Lillian Blades' first solo exhibition sparkles and shines at Sarasota Art Museum

The Atlanta artist's curtain-like assemblages draw on African, Caribbean and Southern influences.

  • Arts + Culture
Via Nova Chorale is known for its programs that span classical and contemporary works.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • June 24, 2025
Choral organizations merge into new ensemble

Choral Artists of Sarasota and Via Nova Chorale are combining.

  • Arts + Culture
Drayton Saunders and Jenne Britell are the new co-chairs of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation.
    By
  • Andrew Warfield
  • June 22, 2025
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation makes leadership move

Board Chair Jim Travers steps back as Jenne Britell and Drayton Saunders step in as co-chairs.

  • Sarasota
  • Business
Hermitage Artist Retreat CEO and Artistic Director Andy Sandberg enjoys the Florida lifestyle.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 18, 2025
Hermitage Artist Retreat leader hopes for smoother sailing

The Englewood arts incubator hosts its first beach event since being hit by two hurricanes in 2024.

  • Arts + Culture
Emily Ann Brooks takes center stage in Florida Studio Theatre's "Dames at Sea."
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 16, 2025
'Dames at Sea' director makes a splash at Florida Studio Theatre

Former theater kid Ben Liebert has directed eight shows in the past year at FST.

  • Arts + Culture
Hermitage Artist Retreat hires new development director
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • June 12, 2025
Hermitage Artist Retreat hires new development director

Melanie Vadzemnieks previously held the same role at Erie Art Museum in Pennsylvania.

  • Arts + Culture
Matthew Glover is the new corporate and events officer of the Sarasota Opera.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • June 12, 2025
Sarasota Opera hires new marketing and events officer

Matthew Glover will support fundraising efforts and lead the expansion of signature events.

  • Arts + Culture
Jesse Nager stars as Jesus and Ann Morrison plays King Herod in Asolo Rep's "Jesus Christ Superstar."
    By
  • Marty Fugate
  • June 6, 2025
Former Broadway star Ann Morrison is back on top

Sarasota's Ann Morrison steals the show as King Herod in Asolo Repertory Theatre's "Jesus Christ Superstar."

  • Arts + Culture
Jared Walker is the ringmaster at the 2025 Summer Circus Spectacular, which runs from June 13 to Aug. 9 at The Ringling's Historic Asolo Theater.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 4, 2025
Come one, come all to the Summer Circus Spectacular

Make it a family day with the Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling.

  • Arts + Culture
With "Mamá Mala," dancer/choreographer Ivonne Batanero explores the conflicting feelings of motherhood June 6-7 at the Squeaky Wheel Fringe festival.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • June 2, 2025
Squeaky Wheel Fringe keeps the momentum going in its third edition

The "smorgasbord" festival takes over the stage at the Jane B. Cook Theatre from June 3-10.

  • Arts + Culture
Tzeva's small plates set a family-oriented dining experience.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 29, 2025
Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week celebrates its 20th anniversary

From June 1-20, local eateries offer $25 specials for lunch and $45 for dinner.

  • Arts + Culture
Jeffrey Kahane, music director of the Sarasota Music Festival, will perform, conduct and teach.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 28, 2025
Sarasota Music Festival holds a mirror to history

Festival Director Jeffrey Kahane uses music to explore the past, including that of his own family.

  • Arts + Culture
"A Band Called Honalee" pays tribute to the folk-rock sound of Peter, Paul and Mary and other musicians.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 27, 2025
Escape the heat — and the news — with FST's Summer Cabaret series

Three musical revues will transport you to another world, if you turn off your cellphone.

  • Arts + Culture
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