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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
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.

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  • Neighbors
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