Marie and Rosetta at Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts

Marie and Rosetta, running May 8–31, 2026 at the Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, celebrates the legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the godmother of Rock 'n' Roll, and her protégée Marie Knight. Presented by Asolo Repertory Theatre, the production tells the story of two African American women whose music forever shaped American popular song. A special Pay What You Will performance on May 24 will benefit the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, with 100% of proceeds supporting the organization's work preserving and celebrating African American cultural heritage in the region.