What to Do in Sarasota Sept. 24-30
Editor’s note: In-person events are subject to change. Please check before venturing out.
The Fabulous Independent Film Festival
Sept. 24-Oct. 3
This year’s film fest, presented by the Harvey Milk Festival and dedicated to amplifying the voices of minority populations, is going virtual (with the exception of a drive-in screening Oct. 2 in the parking lot of the Players Centre for Performing Arts). But that hasn’t stopped programmer Shannon Fortner from upping the number of movies on view—11 virtual features in all, with shorts, too. For complete info, head to harveymilkfestival.org.
Venice Theatre Reopens
Sept. 26 and 27
It’s true, VT is re-entering the live performance world with a two-person cabaret show, Hope, featuring Kristofer Geddie and music director Michelle Kasanofsky presenting songs by Jason Robert Brown, Billie Holiday, Sammy Davis Jr. and more. Onstage in the company’s mainstage Jervey Theatre, with Covid-19 protocols in place and online ticket sales only. Go to venicetheatre.org.
A Few of My Favorite Things
Sept. 25
The Players Centre for Performing Arts says a virtual goodbye to 90 years in downtown Sarasota (before moving to temporary digs), with a collection of songs, dance, scenes and memories from those who have volunteered their time, energy and love to the community theater over the decades. Go to theplayers.org to purchase a ticket and you will receive a link to watch the show, which airs at 7:30 p.m.
Music Compound Family Day
Sept. 26
National Family Day brings together live music performed by Music Academy students, the Hamlet's Eatery food truck, 30 vendors and fun activities outdoors, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Music Compound's downtown location, in the courtyard at The Bazaar at Apricot & Lime (821 Apricot Ave.) Admission free, but pre-registration required here.
Magic Trick
Sept. 26
Magician Reza (who will appear in 2021 at the Van Wezel) teaches at-home audiences a trick during a live Zoom session at 11 a.m. Participants can sign up at vanwezel.org, and will need two empty water bottles with a skinny lid. Free, and something fun for kids to do, too.
American Roots: The Gospel Experience
Through Nov. 1
In 2019, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Key Chorale teamed to present a three-show series centered on the rich tradition of Black gospel music in America. One show was filmed, and you can tune in to see it at westcoastblacktheatreorg; tickets are $25 per household, and viewers will receive a 24-hour viewing pass that can be activated at any time during the streaming run.
Speaking of the Arts
Sept. 30
Arts Advocates continues its "Speaking of the Arts" series with flutist/composer Allison Loggins-Hall and the Hermitage Artist Retreat's artistic director Andy Sandberg via Zoom, at 11 a.m. The conversation will focus on exploring and supporting the creative process; registration is free, and can be made by visiting artsadvocates.org.