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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
Former Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter talks with Brian Hersh, CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance, at an Arts Summit held May 21 at the Sarasota Opera House.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 22, 2025
Summit highlights challenges and opportunities for Sarasota arts scene

Potential loss of government funding is offset by upbeat demographics and philanthropy.

  • Arts + Culture
Artist Stephen Harlan offers a glimpse into his creative process this weekend at Wyland Gallery Sarasota on St. Armands Circle.
    By
  • Dana Kampa
  • May 22, 2025
Self-taught digital artist shakes up high-end art world

Florida-based artist Stephen Harlan met with fans this weekend at Wyland Gallery Sarasota on St. Armands Circle.

  • Longboat Key
  • Neighbors
Urbanite Theatre's "From 145th to 98th Street" follows a Black family who changes neighborhoods in New York City.
    By
  • Marty Fugate
  • May 21, 2025
Urbanite's 'From 145th to 98th Street' follows a family's search for a better life

Nia Akilah Robinson's world premiere challenges stereotypes with sharp storytelling and lyrical language.

  • Arts + Culture
Arts Advocates honors Andy Sandberg with Luminaire Award
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 21, 2025
Arts Advocates honors Andy Sandberg with Luminaire Award

The prize celebrates outstanding contributions to Sarasota arts.

  • Arts + Culture
Joshua Stayton has been hired as artistic director of Azara Ballet.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 20, 2025
Azara Ballet adds artistic director position

Joshua Stayton joins the company for its third season.

  • Arts + Culture
Nate Jacobs and members of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will host the third annual Juneteenth Arts Festival on June 22.
    By
  • Observer Staff
  • May 19, 2025
WBTT to host third annual Juneteenth Arts Festival

The festival takes place June 22 at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's campus.

  • Arts + Culture
These summer camps inspire future artists, performers and cultural connoisseurs
    By
  • Su Byron
  • May 16, 2025
These summer camps inspire future artists, performers and cultural connoisseurs

Wondering what to do with the kids this summer? Arts camps abound for a variety of interests.

  • Arts + Culture
Benny Sato Ambush is the artistic director of the Venice Theatre.
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 15, 2025
Benny Sato Ambush steps down as artistic director of Venice Theatre

Ambush helped the community theater rebound from COVID and Hurricane Ian.

  • Arts + Culture
Save the date for these fall arts and entertainment events in Sarasota
    By
  • Monica Roman Gagnier
  • May 14, 2025
Save the date for these fall arts and entertainment events in Sarasota

Here are six shows that you won't want to miss.

  • Arts + Culture
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Latest News

1
Santa greets visitors from the window of 9605 Governor's Club Place in The River Club.
  • December 20, 2025
Christmas decorating isn't just for kids
2
The Family Church caroling crew from left to right is Melody Johnson, Laurie Houston, Nancy Pilato, Pastor Phil Derstine and Terrial Robinson.
  • December 20, 2025
East Manatee church members will go through bars to spread Christmas joy
3
Evidence discovered in the home of 33-year-old Demond L. Smith who was arrested by Sarasota police on multiple charges.
  • December 20, 2025
Repeat felon faces charges in Sarasota drug bust
4
Keera Herbst, Donn Githens, Kim Verreault and Alexa Olivas help celebrate the opening of the new Longboat Key Goodwill bookstore and donation site on Dec. 18.
  • December 20, 2025
Longboat Goodwill officially celebrates grand opening
5
Traffic cleared after fire, bridge malfunction in Sarasota, Longboat
  • December 19, 2025
Traffic cleared after fire, bridge malfunction in Sarasota, Longboat

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