Review: FENCES at Westcoast Black Theatre TroupeJanuary 28, 2025August Wilson penned his Pulitzer Prize-winning play in 1983. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, it delves into the African-American experience, generational prejudices, and other challenging themes. By concentrating on the journey of one family, the play portrays a spectrum of difficult times that individuals may look back on in their later years, while also acknowledging the fleeting moments of joy that can shine through even the toughest circumstances.
Interview: Melody Munitz of THE ADDAMS FAMILY at Van WezelJanuary 27, 2025Family values are the cornerstone of our existence, and despite the differences in our upbringings, we can all relate to the dynamics of a quirky family. Snap, snap! The Addams Family stands out as the epitome of eccentricity and charm, proudly wearing their 'creepy and kooky' banner for all to see.
Interview: Van Wezel Performing Arts Executive Director Mary BenselJanuary 10, 2025Van Wezel, the beloved cultural institution in Sarasota, opened last week with a bang and has been delighting audiences ever since! With a jam-packed schedule, they are forging ahead gloriously. We recently had the opportunity to chat with their dedicated Executive Director, Mary Bensel, to learn about the incredible journey they underwent to achieve their ambitious goals, following the immense challenges faced after Hurricane Milton.
Review: SPACEMAN at Urbanite TheatreJanuary 8, 2025A highly accomplished woman successfully joins NASA and embarks on a solo mission to Mars following her late husband's path. Initially filled with a cheerful demeanor, she finds herself alone on the spaceship stage, confiding in her computer and an answering machine stocked with messages from Earth.
Review: A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS at West Coast Black Theatre TroupeDecember 11, 2024What did our critic think of A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS at West Coast Black Theatre Troupe?aDuring the Holidays in Sarasota, there's always a buzzing downtown parade, an increase in traffic and tourists, and a festive celebration at the West Coast Black Theatre! If you're anything like me, you've got a bunch of guests in town at this time of year.
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Comes To Van Wezel Next MonthDecember 2, 2024GFour Productions, winners of 68 Drama Desk and 54 Tony Awards, are proudly bringing the brand-new national tour of Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change' to Sarasota and will play the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for two performances on January 4, 2025 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Review: WAITRESS at Florida Studio TheatreNovember 13, 2024Life has an uncanny way of serving up surprises, doesn't it? Take Jenna Hunterson, for example. Here she is, a multi-talented waitress and baker stuck in a situation stickier than overcooked caramel. Her husband? Let's just say he's the perfect recipe for disaster. And just when Jenna thinks things can't get any worse, lo and behold, a bun in the oven appears without an invitation!
Interview: Mary Bensel of THE VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALLNovember 5, 2024The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, affectionately known as The Jewel of Sarasota, exudes an air of sophistication and class that only a waterfront location can provide. Picture yourself sipping on a glass of wine, soaking in the scenic views, all while eagerly anticipating the next act of a Broadway show that has stolen your heart.
Review: JENNIFER, WHO IS LEAVING at Urbanite TheatreOctober 28, 2024Nan, working alone on a cold winter’s night at a local donut shop, juggles tasks with the grace of a circus performer. Her husband’s calls provide a touch of comedic relief as he bumbles around searching for his elusive car keys. Nan's patience, though worn thin, endures with an exhausted yet loving tone, continuously reassuring him with a heartfelt 'I love you too'.
Review: SHREK THE MUSICAL at Van WezelSeptember 25, 2024In a fun and heartwarming tale that many of us know well, 'Shrek the Musical' tells the story of an embittered ogre named Shrek whose peaceful swamp home is taken over by fairy tale creatures banished by the power-hungry Lord Farquaad. With the comical Donkey by his side, Shrek strikes a deal with Farquaad to save Princess Fiona and, in return, secure the rights to his beloved swamp.
Interview: Dan Landon on his Memoir FROM THE BACK OF THE HOUSEJune 17, 2024Dan Landon, with his impressive three decades spent treading the boards of Broadway, has a treasure trove of tales to regale us with! Bursting with anticipation, he has unveiled his latest literary gem to lay bare his journey climbing the ladder within the illustrious Schubert Organization. The pages brim with serendipitous strokes of fortune and impeccable timing, delivering a thoroughly captivating narrative.