Performing Arts

Back in Business

Arcadia Opera House Recovers as Local Landmark

More than a century old, the Heard again serves as a resilient reminder of the town’s history.

06/23/2023 By Sarah Owens

Flashback

Photo: Renowned Clown Emmett Kelly as 'Weary Willie,' Circa 1955

Who remembers this iconic photo?

06/23/2023 By Bethany Ritz

Review

Review: Urbanite Theatre Hits Hard With That Must Be the Entrance to Heaven

The world premiere follows the struggles of four Latino boxers, inside and outside the ring.

06/12/2023 By Kay Kipling

Coming Back Strong

Venice Theatre Reveals What's in Store for Its 74th Season

While the theater's Jervey Theatre, severely damaged by Hurricane Ian, won't reopen until summer 2024, there's still plenty to see.

05/23/2023 By Staff

Review

Review: Asolo Rep Offers Up a Rousing Man of La Mancha

The season closer offers some fresh eyes on the decades-old "Impossible Dream" musical.

05/15/2023 By Kay Kipling

Limelight

Photos: Sarasota Ballet Images of Dance

A one-off performance showcased classic pieces and new work.

05/04/2023 Photography by Lori Sax

A Royal Invitation

The Sarasota Ballet Will Perform at the Royal Opera House in London Next Year

The specially curated performances will feature the works of renowned Royal Ballet choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton.

04/26/2023 By Staff

Review

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Steps Out With the Music of Fats Waller in Big Sexy

The new revue salutes not only Waller, but WBTT veteran Leon Pitts, who stars.

04/25/2023 By Kay Kipling

Rum Tum Tugger

Going to See Cats This Week? Consider Adopting a Homeless Kitty to Take Home After the Show.

Cat Depot is partnering with the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall to help adoptable cats find their forever homes.

04/17/2023 By Megan McDonald

Under the Big Top

Celebrate World Circus Day on Saturday

From free admission to The Ringling's Circus Museum to a circus-themed trolley tour, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Sarasota's circus history.

04/11/2023 By Staff

Review

FST's Visit Joe Whitefeather (and bring the family!) Delivers Good Humor

The world premiere play by Bruce Graham draws inspiration from a true story about a town that renamed itself to attract tourists.

04/10/2023 By Kay Kipling

Review

FST's World Premiere of Paralyzed Offers Vulnerability and Hope

In its story of two strangers making a mess of their lives, the play ponders the choices we make, and often regret.

04/06/2023 By Kay Kipling

Motown Muse

Broadway Front Man Chester Gregory Will Perform Live Music at McCurdy's

The acclaimed actor and singer is performing a Motown tribute at the comedy hub for its new "Monday Night Music" series.

04/05/2023 By Kim Doleatto

Preview

'Hamilton' Is Coming to Sarasota as Part of the Van Wezel's 2023-24 Season

The long-awaited megahit is one of several Sarasota premieres of Broadway musicals coming to the hall.

04/02/2023 By Kay Kipling

Review

Urbanite Theatre Tells a Soldier's Story with Backwards Forwards Back

The one-actor show is part of a rolling world premiere for playwright Jacqueline Goldfinger.

03/28/2023 By Kay Kipling

Preview

Asolo Rep Announces 2023-24 Season

The Monday afternoon announcement also welcomed new producing artistic director Peter Rothstein.

03/28/2023 By Kay Kipling

Review

Asolo Rep's Incident at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Flashes Back to the 1970s

The comedy brings back memories of the clothing, the music and the challenges for women in the era.

03/20/2023 By Kay Kipling

Preview

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Announces Its 2023-24 Season

The troupe's 24th season will kick off with Once On This Island on Oct. 11.

03/09/2023 By Staff

Sing, Sing a Song

Hermitage Artist Retreat CEO Andy Sandberg Makes a Brief Return to the Stage

He'll appear in a benefit concert March 20 at the Van Wezel, along with some of his Broadway friends.

03/05/2023 By Kay Kipling

Review

Dreamgirls Returns to WBTT Stage with a Big Production

The show is often a hit with audiences, and this staging is no exception.

02/27/2023 By Kay Kipling