Things to Do

What to Do in Sarasota This Weekend

The Bradenton Blues Festival, a Siesta Beach Seafood Festival, Cinderella, a premiere at Florida Studio Theatre, and more.

By Kay Kipling December 2, 2021

Bernard Allison leads the lineup for this weekend's Bradenton Blues Festival.

Image: Lisa Gray

Editor’s note: In-person events are subject to change. Please check before venturing out.

Bradenton Blues Festival Weekend

Dec. 3-5

There’s a host of blues musicians lined up to play at this 10th anniversary festival, including Latimore, Dawn Tyler Watson and Bernard Allison (Saturday at LECOM Park). But for full details about ticket availability to the all-day Saturday event and the opening Friday night concert (the Sunday Blues Brunch is sold out), you’d better take yourself to bradentonbluesfestival.org, pronto.

George Thorogood and The Destroyers

Dec. 7

Forty-five years of playing rock ‘n’ roll has led to the current “Good to Be Bad” tour for Thorogood and his band, known for hits like “Who Do You Love” and “Bad To the Bone.” It’s a Sarasota debut at the Van Wezel. Wanna be bad yourself? Check out the ticket options by calling (941) 263-6799 or go to vanwezel.org.

Allman Family Revival

Dec. 3

And while we’re on the subject of long rock careers...the late Gregg Allman’s son Devon and his fellows honor his dad’s legacy with this performance at the Van Wezel. The Allman Betts Band is the backbone of the ongoing tour, but you can expect to see and hear an ever-expanding lineup of other musicians paying tribute to the Allman style and songs as well. Check it out at (941) 263-6799 or vanwezel.org.

An Intimate Evening with David Foster

Dec. 6

One more night at the Van Wezel this week, this time of a more pop variety, as Foster—on his “Hitman” tour—demonstrates the songwriting talents that led to his career working with Josh Groban, Celine Dion, Michael Bublé and other stars. Expect lots of Foster’s top hits, and a special appearance by singer-actress Sheléa. At 8 p.m.; (941) 263-6799 or vanwezel.org.

Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival

Dec. 3-5

The fifth annual fest offers days filled with fresh seafood, live music, arts and crafts and more, with the schedule of bands performing starting at 3:30 p.m. Friday. All in all, the event runs from noon to 9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, at 948 Beach Road. To learn more, check it out at paragonartevents.com.

America in One Room

Starting Dec. 8

What happens when eight perfect strangers, of very different backgrounds and political beliefs, meet during a convention designed to bring them together? In this world premiere by Jason Odell Williams, sparks fly and comedy ensues, but there may be some new stages of understanding reached as well. Playing at Florida Studio Theatre’s Keating Theatre; call (941) 366-9000 or go to floridastudiotheatre.org.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Dec. 2-19

Bring the kids to this family-friendly retelling of the classic fairy tale, onstage at the Manatee Performing Arts Center just in time for the holidays. This production is based on the newest Broadway adaptation of the R&H musical, which originally starred Julie Andrews in a hit 1957 TV version.  Popular songs include “In My Own Little Corner” and “Ten Minutes Ago.” Find out more at manateeperformingartscenter.com or call (941) 748-5875.

Creative Liberties Grand Opening

Dec. 4

You’re invited to meet the artists of this brand-new collective, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 901-B Apricot Ave., Sarasota. It’s free, and it also features artisan vendors, music by DJ Scott Kemp, Kona Ice delights and free hot dogs and soft drinks (until they run out!) Creative Liberties Artist Studios seeks to empower regional artists and welcomes everyone interested in art. Learn more about the artists involved at creativeliberties.net or call (941) 799-6634.

A Classic Christmas with Frisson

Dec. 5

Frisson is an eight-member musical ensemble that, as part of the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota season, will present works from the holiday music canon at the Sarasota Opera House, at 7 p.m. Included: “O Come All Ye Faithful,” Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and much more.  For tickets, call (941) 306-1202 or head to artiseriesconcerts.org.

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