SRQ DAILY Mar 21, 2025
Friday Weekend Edition
"Sarasota is full of cinephiles that are thirsty for new films."
Sarasota is and always will be an arts town. From April 4 to 13, that storied tradition first brought about by the Ringling Circus will carry on with the 27th annual edition of the Sarasota Film Festival. Variety is the spice of life for this year’s iteration of the festival, which includes 37 feature films, with four world premieres and 10 Florida premieres and 41 short films that will air in various locations throughout Sarasota.
“Sarasota is full of cinephiles that are thirsty for new films,” says Mark Famiglio, festival chairman and president.
The festival opens with Marcella, directed by Peter Miller, which tells the story of famed Italian food writer Marcella Hazan, who is credited with introducing the techniques of traditional Italian cooking to the United States and the United Kingdom. The festival’s other centerpiece films include the world premiere of season 4 of MGM+’s hit drama series, Godfather of Harlem, starring Forest Whitaker. Stars Rome Flynn, Michael Paines and showrunner and creator Chris Broncato will be in attendance. The closing night film is Lovers, by Taylor McFadden, which follows two women who reconnect with their hometown after returning for a funeral. The screening will be followed by a special performance from country singer-songwriter Nathaniel Rateliff.
Some of the festival’s spotlight features include the Florida premiere of Wendy Lobel’s Anxiety Club, Being Maria which stars Matt Dillon as Marlon Brando and the Florida premiere of Long Shadows, a western starring Dermot Mulroney and Jacqueline Bisset.
In addition to documentary, environmental, animated and independent feature films and shorts, the festival will also host a screening of all 2024 Oscar-nominated animated short films on April 12.
“We’ve been very fortunate that a lot of filmmakers and celebrities understand that we make our own rules here,” says Famiglio. “We pride ourselves on supporting all aspects of independent film—the filmmakers, the actors, the directors, the producers and the screenwriters.”
Sarasota Film Festival, April 4 -13, 332 Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota.
Provided photo.
In 1993, Tom Stephens painted the first Coat of Many Colors, a mammoth work of textural abstraction on a sprawling 12-foot canvas. It was never meant to be a full wardrobe. But 30 years later, the artist finds himself forever the metaphorical tailor, crafting Coat after Coat in his home-studio, surrounded by past attempts and previous almosts, searching for something elusive and whose name most closely translates to perfection. There are more than 100 now, and Stephens shows no sign of slowing.
“I’m still trying to find the right way to sing my song,” he says. “And I’m never satisfied.”
This gives Stephens’ latest exhibition—Textures of Experience, currently on display at 502 Gallery—an interesting context in that it is not an end but explicitly a middle, and perhaps even only a beginning. The works on display do not represent the completion of a thing or the final product but snapshots from an ongoing 30-year project that hopefully represent some sort of forward progress for the effort. Like all exhibitions, it is an act of faith, but of a different sort. There is a vulnerability all its own in the uncertain statement.
But it’s all part of the process. And if there’s one thing Stephens trusts, it’s process.
A cursory look at any of the 30+ canvases comprising Textures of Experience may give the initial impression of chaos, or a synonymous lack of intention. The sheer magnitude of marks—their number and variety—threatens to overwhelm and defies immediate or easy interpretation. But closer examination reveals a careful vocabulary at play, defined by palette knives and a certain flick of the wrist, squeeze bottles and even baking utensils. Nothing is random and Stephens documents every step of each painting’s creation, allowing him to subtly experiment with minor changes, making each composition so calculated that it could almost be described as scientific.
“I’m trying to create the perfect recipe, so to speak,” he says, “the perfect way to paint my paintings.” He calls them process paintings. He describes them as “built.” He says he will not stop.
“I have not yet gotten to the bottom of this—I haven’t achieved my goal—but it’s a journey and, after all these years, I’m still learning so much.”
Currently on display at 502 Gallery, Textures of Experience runs through April 9.
Pictured: Coat of Many Colors #91 by Tom Stephens.
The Tony-Award winning production Moulin Rouge! The Musical has touched down in Sarasota. The jukebox musical, based on Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film Moulin Rouge! brings audiences into the Belle Époque or “Beautiful Era” of France at the turn of the 20th century.
Moulin Rouge! follows a young composer named Christian, who falls in love with the actress Satine, star of the Moulin Rouge cabaret. Together with fellow bohemians Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Santiago the Argentinian, the trio strike out to the Moulin Rouge looking to get their work on stage. The cabaret, however, is in dire financial straits forcing management to pursue an investment from the underhanded Duke of Monroth. Paths collide when the Duke expresses romantic interest in Satine, despite the burgeoning relationship between her and Christian.
The supporting character of Toulouse-Lautrec lends a legitimacy to the setting and tone of the production. Toulouse-Lautrec, portrayed by Jahi Kearse, is based on the real life Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a multi-faceted French artist whose work depicted the full scope of the bohemian lifestyle in 19th century Paris.
“Toulouse-Lautrec is this crazy, kooky guy. He’s interested in people living their best lives and finding good mischief,” says Kearse. “The process of inhabiting him starts with understanding the world that has been created by the history of the musical, the pop songs that are in the show and the love story that is in the middle of this bohemian, circus situation. I’m also trying to find the ways that the real Toulouse lived his life, because the show has shades of reality and fantasy going at the same time.”
Just as Toulouse-Lautrec, who hailed from an aristocratic family yet fell in love with the underground bohemian lifestyle, lived a sort of dual-life, so too does Moulin Rouge! occupy two different spaces. A jukebox musical, the majority of songs featured in the show are well-known preexisting songs. As such, the production strikes a balance between older 20th century jazz pieces and showtunes with newer popular music from artists like Lady Gaga and Lorde.
“One of my favorite moments is when I get to sing “Royals” by Lorde with Christian and Santiago,” says Kearse. “We’re meeting Christian for the very first time and we start to see what a shining light he is.”
March 18 to 23, The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-263-6799.
Pictured (L to R): Jahi Kearse, Arianna Rosario, Jay Armstrong Johnson, Robert Petkoff, Danny Burgos, Andrew Brewer. Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg (MFA), in partnership with The Margaret Acheson Stuart Society, proudly presents the 28th annual Art in Bloom event, a breathtaking exhibition of floral artistry inspired by artworks from the MFA Collection. Taking place from Thursday, April 10 through Sunday, April 13, 2025, this cherished tradition invites visitors to experience the beauty of spring through a stunning fusion of art and nature.
Sarasota, Florida Project 180 is proud to announce the selection of “The Light They Cast” for screening at the Sarasota Film Festival, showcasing the transformative journey of eight formerly incarcerated men as they reintegrate into society. Produced by Miles Larsen and Janice Shelton, the documentary offers a poignant and hopeful lens on resilience, redemption, and the power of community support.
Festival Screening Details : Saturday, April 5, 2pm, Mildred F. Sainer Pavilion, 5315 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota.
Creative Liberties at ARCOS Gaze Gallery: View work by artist-in-residence Beck Lane, celebrated for a multimedia approach that has captivated collectors worldwide. Lane has been described as "prolific" and "a painter's painter," and is considered by many as "the future of painting." The ARCOS gallery, 340 Central Ave., Sarasota, is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturdays from 10am-5pm.
Experience Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus in a magical new way: Ride a real, live "unicorn"! Get crafty and create your own butterfly or fairy wand! Decorate delicious cookies. Enjoy storytelling on both days. Play with bubbles during the Bubble Show. We'll also have face painting and balloon art. Festive food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Feel the rhythm, taste the flavor, and soak in the sunshine at the Sarasota Reggae & Food Festival, happening March 28-30, 2025 at Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. This free, three-day celebration at promises an unforgettable fusion of irresistible island beats, bold flavors, and good vibes—all set against the beautiful Sarasota backdrop.
Festival Hours: Friday, March 28: 4pm-10p, Saturday, March 29: 11am– 10pm, Sunday, March 30: 11am–6pm.
Violinist Tessa Lark is one of the most unique and captivating artistic voices of our time. Nominated in 2020 for a Grammy in the best classical instrumental solo category, she is also a highly acclaimed fiddler in the tradition of her native Kentucky. This program is comprised of original works inspired by her combination of classical training and Appalachian upbringing – a style she lovingly calls “Stradgrass.” Click here to purchase concert tickets ($43 and $63). Concert sponsored by Peter and Melody Kretzmer.
Tuesday, April 8, 7:30pm, First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Avenue, Sarasota.
Selby Gardens presents an exciting exhibition that explores the deep and meaningful connection between musician George Harrison – best known as the lead guitarist of the legendary rock band The Beatles – and the pastime of gardening, which became his greatest passion. The resulting multi-sensory experience highlights George’s connection to nature and celebrates his life and legacy through the power of plants!
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street Sarasota, FL 34236
502 Gallery is pleased to present ‘TOM STEPHENS: Textures of Experience’, a solo exhibition showcasing a compelling new body of work by Florida-based artist Tom Stephens. Known for his ability to capture the essence of Florida’s natural and built environments, Stephens' paintings masterfully balance realism and abstraction, inviting viewers to engage with his dynamic use of light, texture, and form.
502 Gallery, 502 S. Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236
In the 60s and 70s, a new sound came into mainstream music that changed the scene forever. Led by early folk-rock artists like John Denver, Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez, this musical revue celebrates their top hits and the songs that transcended generations. 59th Street Bridge is a celebration of the timeless music such as, “Annie’s Song,” “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” and “Both Sides Now.”
Florida Studio Theatre, 1239 North Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
An exuberant tribute to the music of rhythm and blues pioneer and alto saxophonist, Louis Jordan, Five Guys Named Moe is an international sensation. Five Guys Named Moe is about our hero, Nomax – he's broke, his lovely girlfriend Lorraine left him and he's listening to the radio at 5:00 in the morning. Out of the radio, five guys named Moe - Big Moe, Four-Eyed Moe, Eat Moe, No Moe, and Little Moe emerging from his 1930s-style radio to comfort him.
The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
Cirque Des Voix® – The Circus Arts Conservatory’s exciting collaboration with Key Chorale – the spectacle of circus, the power of a mega-choir and the thunder of the symphony take you on an unforgettable Sci-Fi Voyage for a performance unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235
Direct from Washington, D.C., Music Director Gianandrea Noseda leads the National Symphony Orchestra in Beethoven’s powerful Symphony No. 5. Three-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Hilary Hahn joins the Orchestra in Erich Korngold’s beautifully romantic and virtuosic Violin Concerto, a fusion of Viennese romance and old Hollywood.
Ven Wezel, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Program Six sees the long-awaited Company premiere of Sir Frederick Ashton’s full-length story ballet Romeo and Juliet, bringing the grandeur and passion of Shakespeare’s beloved tragedy to the Sarasota stage. Choreographed in 1955 to Sergei Prokofiev’s score, the ballet brought great success for the Royal Danish Ballet. Unlike many other productions, Ashton decided to truly focus on the “intimate tragedy of two young people caught in an all-consuming passion” (David Vaughan, Frederick Ashton and his Ballets, 1977). Infused with Ashton’s musicality and penchant for heart-fluttering pas de deux, Romeo and Juliet clearly demonstrates Ashton’s choreographic genius and his ability to portray the nature of humanity through dance.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Artists Anthony Mancuso and Bobby Aiosa explore the complexities of our built environment and how designed spaces, both public and private, impact our daily lives. Both artists examine the dynamic interplay at the threshold of domestic and public spheres, investigating how one influences the other. Anthony Mancuso’s paintings focus on visualizing the psychology of everyday domestic scenes of cohabitation through multiple perspectives, askew angles, and saturated colors.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St. Sarasota, FL
Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums explores the essential role art and objects played for mediums and magicians “communicating” with the dead during the 19th- and 20th-century Spiritualism movement in the U.S. and Europe—a time when people actively debated and wondered, "Can spirits return?" See paintings, posters, photographs, stage apparatuses, costumes, film, publications and other objects that will transport visitors to the age of Harry Houdini, Margery the Medium, Howard Thurston, and the Fox Sisters, among others. Whether you’re a believer, skeptic or somewhere in between, gain a new perspective on the timeless draw of mediums and magicians, séances and magic shows.
The Ringling - Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Back for its highly anticipated second year, the Sarasota Wine Festival has quickly become one of Sarasota’s favorite events, bringing together wine lovers, foodies and local businesses for an unforgettable evening. With a vast selection of wines, delicious food, live music and a vibrant atmosphere, this festival is a must-attend celebration of community and culture. The 2025 Sarasota Wine Festival will take place on Saturday. Festival goers can look forward to a wide selection of wines from around the world, fine spirits, live music, food trucks, local vendors and more.
Selby Five Points Park, 1 Central Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Children's book author Christina Shawn will read her book LUCAS PLAYS and invite kids to try out the instrument! Come get a personalized copy of the book and pre-order her upcoming title, AND THEN CAME YOU. Although everyone is welcome, this event is especially for kids in pre-school and K-5. Let's go on a magical musical adventure together! We will make connections between music, books, and our lives. We will explore our imagination while listening to different types of music. We will read LUCAS PLAYS and learn about the violin. Together we will generate ideas that we can play with. Maybe some of them will turn into stories of your own!
Bookstore 1, 117 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Each year, My Hometown Fest draws thousands of people from Florida’s Suncoast for a day of fun featuring food from dozens of area restaurants, craft beer samples from around the country, and live music from the region’s best bands. The event features plenty of family friendly activities as well.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235
After stormy weather postponed its January grand opening, Embracing Our Differences has reimagined the celebration as "Embracing Our Community: A Celebration of Kindness."; This free event takes place on Sunday, March 30, from noon to 3 p.m., at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. The celebration features three performances by the phenomenal musician, singer and songwriter, Shelby Sol. Local arts and education organizations will be in attendence.
Sarasota's Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.
Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd
Longtime friends Chef Charles Amherst of Chaz 51 Steakhouse in Venice and Barbara Gerdeman, co-founder of Creative Liberties Artist Studios in Sarasota, have joined forces to create a series of interactive “live art dinner showcases.” Join us every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings from 5-8:30 pm.
Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US-41 BYP, Venice, FL 34285
Join us on the Bolger Campiello for live music and dancing. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on the bayfront. One chair per person will be available. No outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted. Members please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Think while you drinks! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
Gecko's Grill & Pub, Multiple Locations
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated Sunday Brunch. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful brunch experience on our beautiful covered patio or casual dining room with nautical touches. Our new brunch menu features a variety of mouth-watering dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast, savory Steak & Eggs, succulent Lobster Benedict, the flavorful Tripletail Brunch Burger, and Crab & Shrimp Omelet. To complement your meal, guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with the purchase of any entrée.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits , 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231
The Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society was founded in 1983 with 17 Charter members and 24 Associate members. The original purpose to foster the advancement of and promote excellence in the art of watermedia painting remains their focus today. As of August 2023, 90 of their 170 members attained Signature status and 27 are Master Signature members.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
Torn from today’s headlines. What starts as a polite discussion between a mother and a town librarian about a teenager’s reading list unexpectedly explodes into a fiery clash of values and beliefs. Spiraling dangerously close to violence, their battle over books becomes a razor-sharp examination of censorship, parenting, and freedom. Equal parts absurdly funny and deeply poignant, this bold new play asks: What does it really mean to protect our children?
Bowne's Lab, 1265 First Street Sarasota, FL 34236
The Perlman Music Program & Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe present a Renaissance String Quartet Recital followed by selections from the operetta Ransom Place. A unique collaboration featuring Perlman Music Program alumni, the Renaissance String Quartet and singers Jacob Smith and Raleigh Mosley from WBTT. The quartet will present a recital with selections announced from stage followed by a program featuring WBTT singers under the direction of Founder and Artistic Director, Nate Jacobs performing arias from the operetta, Ransom Place, re-orchestrated for string quartet and voice.
The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. From their New Jersey roots to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this electrifying show captures their journey from a groundbreaking sound to international stardom, revealing a story of fame and personal struggles that continues to captivate audiences.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First Street Sarasota, FL 34236
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