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RISE ABOVE PERFORMING ARTS

3501 S Tamiami Trail Suite 1105
Sarasota, FL 34239



Review: THE APIARY at Urbanite Theatre


by Shanti - March 30, 2026

“THE APIARY” stands out as a must-see. This captivating production delves into a myriad of subjects, offering something special for every soul to connect with. It's not just about empathizing with our fellow humans; it's about forging a heart-to-heart connection with nature itself....

Review: THE CRUCIBLE at Sarasota Players


by Jacob Ruscoe - March 30, 2026

Arthur Miller’s The Crucible is already one of the most emotionally charged dramas in the American theatre canon, but the current production at The Sarasota Players elevates the experience into something deeply immersive, intimate, and unforgettable....

Review: A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN at Florida Studio Theatre


by Shanti - March 23, 2026

Step right up and behold the musical sensation that has been causing a stir at Florida Studio Theater, the smash hit production, 'A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN'.  Since its debut back in 2011, this show has been taking audiences on a wild ride of rock 'n' roll glory, earning accolades in every corner o...

Review: OKLAHOMA at Dingbat Theatre Project


by Jacob Ruscoe - March 17, 2026

The Dingbat Theatre Project’s production of Oklahoma! is not your grandmother’s Oklahoma. While the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is often presented with sweeping nostalgia, bright cornfields, and wholesome Americana, Dingbat boldly twists the familiar into something more unpredictable....

Review: ONE HIT WONDERS at Florida Studio Theatre


by Shanti - March 06, 2026

The chart-toppers - those whimsical tunes we can't help but love - take us on a delightful trip down memory lane. They're like little time machines, whisking us back to moments long gone, laughter with friends, tearful heartbreaks, and the dancing butterflies of first loves....

Review: ALICE BY HEART at Rise Above Performing Arts


by Shanti - March 01, 2026

What did our critic think of ALICE BY HEART at Rise Above Performing Arts?...

Review: HOW I GOT OVER, A GOSPEL REVUE at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe


by Shanti - March 01, 2026

Now in their 26th year, WBTT proudly honors the 'Soul of the People,' showcasing the enduring cultural significance that resonates with themes of strength and unity. The electrifying performances of these powerful songs, delivered with such passion and soul (no pun intended), bring immense joy. Witn...

Review: TINA at Van Wezel


by Shanti - February 22, 2026

“TINA–The Tina Turner Musical” is not just a regular musical; it's a high-voltage journey celebrating the iconic Queen of Rock 'n Roll. Darilyn Burtley's portrayal of Tina Turner is truly phenomenal! Her extraordinary voice and impeccable Tina-like moves clearly demonstrate the dedication she ...

Review: THE UNFRIEND at Asolo Repertory Theatre


by Shanti - February 21, 2026

What did our critic think of THE UNFRIEND at Asolo Repertory Theatre?...

Review: GRANDMA GATEWOOD TOOK A WALK at Florida Studio Theatre


by Shanti - February 21, 2026

This is a heartwarming and truly inspiring tale that showcases the remarkable journey of a woman. With just a few wooden crates and simple props, the story unfolds to reveal the incredible hardships she faced with unwavering determination. Her resilience and strength in the face of challenges are no...

Past Shows

The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz
May 8 – May 18, 2025

Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film....

The Diary of Anne Frank
The Diary of Anne Frank
Feb 20 – Mar 2, 2025

The Diary of Anne Frank is one of the most famous and haunting stories to emerge from the 20th Century. The memoirs of this young Jewish...

Bring It On
Bring It On
May 9 – May 19, 2024

Bitingly relevant, sprinkled with sass, and inspired by the hit film, Bring It On The Musical takes audiences on a high-flying journey that is filled...

The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music
Feb 22 – Mar 3, 2024

The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry...

Anastasia
Anastasia
Jan 11 – Jan 21, 2024

From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show...

Aladdin Jr
Aladdin Jr
Apr 15 – Apr 16, 2023

Welcome to Agrabah, City of Enchantment, where every beggar has a story and every camel has a tail! All of your favorite characters are here...

Aladdin Jr
Aladdin Jr
Apr 15 – Apr 16, 2023

Welcome to Agrabah, City of Enchantment, where every beggar has a story and every camel has a tail! All of your favorite characters are here...

Pippin
Pippin
Feb 23 – Mar 5, 2023

Heir to the Frankish throne, the young prince Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories...

Next to Normal
Next to Normal
Jun 10 – Jun 18, 2022

Dad's an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American...

Legally Blonde
Legally Blonde
May 12 – May 22, 2022

A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and...

Seussical
Seussical
Mar 24 – Apr 3, 2022

Now one of the most performed shows in America, Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Tony winners, Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Lucky Stiff,...

Cinderella
Cinderella
Jan 20 – Jan 30, 2022

Rodgers + Hammersteins Cinderella is the new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammersteins most...

The Unpredictable Times
The Unpredictable Times
Jun 18 – Jun 27, 2021

In the coming-of-age drama, five friends reunite in their hometown of Champlin, Minnesota, after graduating college. They attempt to deal with unresolved issues that will...

School of Rock
School of Rock
Sep 12 – Sep 15, 2019

Rock got no reason, rock got no rhymeYou better get me to school on time! School of Rockis a two-hour, two-act musical (plus intermission), based...

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