Florida Studio Theatre to Host HARD HATS & TAILS, 3/5

As the height of the season is upon us, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is celebrating the past, the present, and the future of the thriving downtown theatre company with a special Black Tie Event. FST's Hard Hats & Tails will be held Monday, March 5, 2012 at 1241 North Palm Avenue in Downtown Sarasota. Carol M. Poteat-Buchanan, one of FST's longtime supporters, will serve as the chair of the event. 

This year's festivities will overlook the construction of the New Gompertz Theatre, and all proceeds will go toward this capital-improvement campaign – the largest expansion in FST's history, to date. 

The evening begins with live music and a "dinner-by-the-bite" cocktail party under the stars at 5:30PM. Food and wine provided by some of Sarasota's most delicious restaurants will be a culinary delight for guests. The event continues with a special presentation at 7:00PM about The New Gompertz Theatre and the announcement of the Spelman Award winner. Following presentations there will be a special performance of the hit show, Sophie Tucker: Last of the Red Hot Mamas, in the Gompertz Theatre. The show is an intimate evening with dynamite actress Kathy Halenda, as she recounts Sophie Tucker's life through story and song. 

After the performance, a delectable champagne and dessert reception will celebrate Florida Studio Theatre, and one of the final performances that will ever take place in the "old" Gompertz.  

Tickets to the event are $150 per person and will be a great way to support FST and its programming, while having a spectacular evening. Sponsorship Opportunities are available.

During the event, FST will present the Spelman Award. Named in honor of Florida Studio Theatre's founding Artistic Director, John Spelman, the Spelman Award has been presented to an individual or a corporate sponsor who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership by providing FST with spiritual, financial, and/or in-kind support. Last year FST was proud to present the Spelman Award to Barbara J. Lupoff for her dedication to the success of the Theatre in the Sarasota community. This year's award recipient will be announced during the celebration. 

Florida Studio Theatre is grateful to its media sponsor SCENE Magazine and its print sponsor Spotlight Graphics for supporting Hard Hats & Tails.