SRQ DAILY Jul 6, 2018
Friday Weekend Edition
"We want to talk about our society now."
With one week until the beginning of the Sarasota Improv Festival at Florida Studio Theatre, Ignacio Lopez is feeling a wee bit nervous. As co-founder of the celebrated Spanish improv troupe ImproMadrid, Lopez performed in the festival in 2015, but something is very different this time. The show—part traditional theater and part improv—still needs to be translated from Spanish to English, and some of the wordplay has made that tricky. So Lopez is nervous. “But we have lots of confidence,” he says with a smile.
An improv performer for more than 20 years, Lopez has seen more than his fair share of interpretations, and one thing continued to bug him—that the practice always seemed so dressed down. Whereas traditional stage theater brings to mind visions of opulent staging and huge costumes, improv theater smacks more of minimalism—black t-shirts and black boxes in a black backdrop. On one hand, it makes sense, freeing the stage and performers to be whatever it or they need to be. On the other hand, according to Lopez, something is lost in all that freedom—purpose. “We want to talk about something,” he says. “We want to talk about love. We want to talk about time. We want to talk about memory.” So ImproMadrid blurs the lines.
There will be plenty of improvisation, but within a framework of written and planned traditional theater, complete with costuming, with scenes dedicated to exploring the aforementioned love, time and memory, but also fear. Outside of these scenes, using prompts and material gathered from a question-and-answer session with the audience at the beginning (a much more traditional improv approach), the performers of ImproMadrid live up to the name with their improvisational skills. It’s a tradeoff that works out just fine when the troupe tours Spanish-speaking countries, but raises a bit of a predicament when so much relies on a language the audience likely does not speak.
“The words you use have to go to the heart of the audience,” says Lopez, and if translation does not allow this, it’s up to the troupe to figure out how to convey what is lost using their bodies instead of their mouths. They have to adapt.
In addition to performing at the Sarasota Improv Festival, ImproMadrid will also be leading a workshop for both colleagues and aspiring performers. Called “How to Get to an End,” the workshop will focus on how to arrive at an ending onstage without letting the scene drag to a slow demise (a common improv pitfall that even marred the early years of Saturday Night Live). “It’s a place to grow,” says Lopez of the festival, and why ImproMadrid decided to lead a workshop. It’s a chance to “show your work,” he says, more than they ever can onstage, and a place to see “eye to eye” with fellow performers.
The Sarasota Improv Festival runs from July 12 to July 14 at Florida Studio Theatre. 
Pictured: ImproMadrid in a performance of "Jardines." Image courtesy of Florida Studio Theatre.
A vibrant, new bag line by Bliss Hawaii has made its way into the doors of St Armand’s boutique Apricot Lane—just in time for an impromptu summer shopping spree. Apricot Lane Sarasota is exclusively the first boutique to carry the treasured ‘Olu’Olu bags in the continental U.S (behind Hawaii). ‘Olu’olu, a Hawaiian expression rooted in the word ‘Aloha’, means pleasantries of congeniality, happiness and graciousness. It now also perfectly entitles itself as Bliss Hawaii’s line of women’s luxury bags and home goods—all uniquely styled with the bold colors and vivid textures of Kailua, HI. Hawaiian transplant and Founder Jayne Nhaisi, designed and created every product in collaboration with local artistic talent Susanne Ball. Find the Double-Sided Hobo Bags featuring Ball’s tropical imagery printed from her original paintings, “Lounging in Lanikai” and “Heliconia Heaven”. The Mokulua Micro-Bucket Bag features the painting “Hiking in Paradise” while the Cross Body Bag and Wristlet Pouch feature “Life Is A Breeze”.
All bags are handmade in America and for those keen to adorn themselves in sustainable, eco-friendly fashion—each product features a natural, vegan, renewable cork leather hand-picked off the bark of an oak tree, which only grows along the Mediterranean coast of Portugal. This supple Portuguese cork, along with the microsuede fabric and wipeable vinyl lining are all water safe, so as not to deter you from donning your exotic tote to the beach with you. ‘Olu’Olu bags exude easy living and easy care, while bringing to life the vibrancy of island landscapes and the laid-back fashion of Hawaiian culture. Say ‘Aloha’ to your own piece of wearable art—multiple styles and sizes are now on the shelves at Apricot Lane.
Photo by Wyatt Kostygan.
Apricot Lane Boutique, Bliss Hawaii Bags $95-$285, 464 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, 941-960-1435.
Four attorneys from Sarasota law firm Fergeson Skipper have been selected for inclusion in the 2018 edition of Florida Super Lawyers. Representing no more than five percent of lawyers in the state, Super Lawyers is a highly prestigious rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas. The annual listing has a patented multiphase selection process that includes peer nominations and independent research with each candidate evaluated on 12 indicators of professional achievement. The goal is to create a credible and comprehensive listing of exceptional attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. The Fergeson Skipper attorneys who were selected for this year’s Florida list include: James O. Fergeson, Jr.; Richard R. Gans; Ronald J. Skipper; and Douglas R. Baid. All four attorneys have been included in Super Lawyer listings from previous years, and all are board certified by The Florida Bar in their areas of expertise.
Gulf Coast Community Foundation has renewed its accreditation with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. Administered by the Community Foundations National Standards Board, the accreditation is considered one of the nation’s highest standards for philanthropic excellence. Gulf Coast Community Foundation was among the first community foundations to earn the designation back in 2006, and it has remained accredited since then. The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations establish legal, ethical and effective practices for community foundations. The National Standards program requires foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. It is designed to provide quality assurance to community foundation donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors. Gulf Coast is one of 14 community foundations in Florida currently confirmed in compliance, according to the National Standards website. The foundation’s renewed accreditation lasts for one year.
True to its name, the summer exhibit, curated by Mark Ormond, features 40 works by eight artists, including Luisa Basnuevo, Jean Blackburn, Luis Delgado, Daphne Gamble, Leslie Lerner, Melissa Meyer, Helen Shulman and Joyce Ely Walker. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.
Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery, 1288 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL, 34236.
Officer Marcus Moscowicz is a small town policeman who dreams of becoming a detective. When shots ring out at the surprise birthday party of great American novelist Arthur Whitney, and Whitney ends up dead, Marcus sees an opportunity to prove his sleuthing skills. With only a short time to solve the case, he has to find out, “whodunit?” In a witty musical homage to classic murder mysteries, Murder for Two is the perfect blend of music, mayhem, and murder.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
The 2018 Circus Spectacular will amaze and dazzle you. Join the performers for an hour of incredible family fun at affordable prices. Presented in collaboration with The Circus Arts Conservatory of Sarasota, this onstage exhibition of circus artistry provides delightful summer entertainment for “children of all ages.”
Historic Asolo Theatre, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Enjoy the great outdoors with a kayak paddle led by John Sarkozy, through Nokomis and the Curry Creek Preserve. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. Bring drinking water, suncreen and your sense of adventure.
American Littoral Society
Wild, risqué, and ferociously funny, Joe Orton’s classic farce takes aim at everything from sex to psychiatry. In an exclusive, private mental health clinic, Dr. Prentice is attempting to seduce his prospective secretary when his wife walks in, interrupting his sordid intentions and kicking off a maniacal tour de force involving a state inspector, bellboys, slamming doors, and, above all, Orton’s wicked wit and breakneck dialogue.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
Take a kayak trip led by John Sarkozy from the wild and scenic Myakka River, and travel downstream from Snook Haven. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 per person for ALS members and $25 for non-members. For those who want it, there will be a short training session given before launch.
American Littoral Society
A musical review of America’s most treasured musical theater songs that came from some of Broadways biggest fiascos. Enjoy an evening of great and enduring all-time hits from composers like: George M. Cohan, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and many more! An exuberant tour through the last 75 years of Broadways musical giants all spawned from Broadways biggest flops.
Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.
Troupes are coming from all over the country, from as far away as France and Spain, all ready to bring their best spontaneous hilarity to the Gulf Coast. Featuring an unprecedented THREE headliners - Baby Wants Candy (Chicago), Impro Madrid (Spain) and Impro Theatre (LA) - one for each day of the Festival. Plus, several returning favorites including North Coast (NYC), Parallelogramophonograph (Austin, TX), ImprovBoston (Boston, MA), STACKED (Chicago, IL) and Available Cupholders (Austin, TX).
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
The Swingaroos return to the cabaret with an all-new show—Music of the Night. Offering their swingin'est versions of songs embraced by the worlds of theatre and jazz, this hit show overflows with hits by the Gershwins, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Rodgers & Hart, Kander & Ebb and many more. With a touch of 30s and 40s flair and bold arrangements, The Swingaroos lend a spirited voice to the most-cherished American songs and personalities of the past century.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
John Sarkozy will lead a kayak expedition through the bays and canals around Nokomis, exploring the small islands, the birds and the marine life of the area. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training class will be offered before the launch, for those interested.
American Littoral Society
Disney's The Little Mermaid is a stage musical based on the animated 1989 Disney film of the same name about a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find love. Come see the theater bring classic underwater tale alive.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. West, Bradenton
Take a kayak trip led by John Sarkozy from the wild and scenic Myakka River, and travel downstream from Snook Haven. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 per person for ALS members and $25 for non-members. For those who want it, there will be a short training session given before launch.
American Littoral Society
The SRQ Transformative Philanthropy luncheon and panel discussion will explore the organizations and individuals who are changing the face of the nonprofit world through innovative approaches, strategic alliances and groundbreaking initiatives that foster and employ engagement to make a difference. The luncheon will culminate with presentation of the SRQ Local Philanthropy Hero Award honoring area trailblazers whose passion and drive are benefitting nonprofit organizations along the Gulfcoast.
The Francis , 1289 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join John Sarkozy, as he shows you the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay. All kayak equipment will be supplied to you and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training session will be given before the trip for those who wish to take it. Take a break on the “crown jewel” of local beaches and take a swim or a walk before paddling back to the mainland.
American Littoral Society
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is continuing their Friday Fest summertime concert series with Reverend Barry & the Funk. Bassist and lead singer Barry Nicholson only has one goal for the band: to keep the crowd dancing all night long! The group regularly performs at nightclubs, parties, and private events around Sarasota. Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Prince are just a few of the classic artists that audiences will hear from this dynamic group. And while you’re enjoying the music, be sure to check out Van Wezel’s selection of food trucks, drink vendors, and more! This seven-piece band--including a live horn section--will make this Friday Fest the best one yet!
Bayside Lawn of Van Wezel, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236
This festival will rock Sarasota's residents and RVs. Bands featured include Kiss America, a slammin' Kiss cover band, the Shane Duncan Band for country music lovers, Rush Hour, an intriguing Countdown Reloaded cover band and many more. You will not want to miss this day of music, food and fun.
Sun n Fun RV Resort, 7125 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota.
Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
Have a relaxing time paddling through Shakett Creek and Dona Bay, led by John Sarkozy. All kayak equipment will be provided and will be included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
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