Pictured: Through intergenerational programming, students and adults over 60 are able to create unique solo performances. Photo by Ann Morrison.

SaraSolo Productions, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit theater group run by Artistic Director Ann Morrison and Managing Director, Blake Walton–two award-winning professionals with decades of experience in acting, directing and teaching across the country. Here in Sarasota, they create community and in-school workshops to help soloists develop their own voices and original presentations. “We are always thinking about teaching and helping others develop their own material,” shares Walton. “Creating solo work can be a lonely process so by holding workshops, we are able to give soloists a way to support each other while writing their own individual pieces.”

Six years ago, after running several successful solo festivals for adults, Morrison and Walton thought how great it could be to do the same with teens. With a bit of inspiration from Carrie Mills who runs the theater program at Booker Middle School, they decided to create an intergenerational program where teens and adults aged 60+ would interview one another and each write a monologue from that interview. What they found was remarkable, shares Morrison. “We noticed that these unlikely pairs became friends and they learned about a generation they don’t speak to normally.”

Those same middle school students who took part in the original workshops at Booker Middle School are now in their junior year at Booker High and the work continues to be part of their programming under the direction of Sunny Smith. “It’s amazing when we bring both schools together,” explains Walton. “The students learn from each other and for some, the ten-minute piece they create becomes their wild card to get into college no matter what they are planning to study.”

About four years ago, SaraSolo received a $10,000 grant that helped pay for that year of their in-school programming. Lately, though, they’ve had to rely mostly on individual donations. “This is a vulnerable program because the students are often saying things that are new to those around them and we want to give them a safe space to do so. We also want to make sure the audience is somewhat vetted–that they are actually there to watch and listen,” says Walton. “ It’s theater, it's art and kids are using all sorts of media to tell their story and it’s beautiful.”

According to their mission statement, the theater company is “dedicated to the development and presentation of unique, brave, and uplifting solo performances that illuminate the human condition–especially of those who are considered other than.” As Morrison explains, “Middle schoolers and people over the age of 60 are often unheard in the community. We want to shine a light on those who have to mask and hide, whether it’s because of developmental disabilities or for any other reason that makes them feel marginalized. We want to give them a chance to speak and feel safe.”

From November 1st through December 31st, the organization is celebrating their “Season of Thanks”. They are asking supporters to help them raise $15,000 to help keep these in-school programs healthy and vital. “Rather than asking folks to donate on Giving Tuesday, we are giving them a chance to relax and think about their last bit of support for 2023. The season is also our opportunity to thank all those who support us because it does go both ways,” adds Morrison.

Pictured: Through intergenerational programming, students and adults over 60 are able to create unique solo performances. Photo by Ann Morrison.

To make a donation or learn more about Sarasolo, click here: