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SRQ DAILY Jul 14, 2017

Friday Weekend Edition

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Friday Weekend Edition

"At its core, it's a very human drama."

- Carl Forsman, director
 

[Theater]  Urbanite Brings Science Fiction Drama with "Pilgrims"
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Urbanite Theatre takes audiences to the far reaches of space in order to probe the innermost workings of the human psyche with the regional premiere of Pilgrims, opening August 4. Written by Claire Kiechel (currently writing for the Netflix science fiction series The OA) and directed by Obie Award-winner Carl Forsman, the production stars Urbanite co-founder Brendan Ragan and, in her Urbanite debut, Betsy Helmer as two colonists aboard an interstellar spaceship, forced in close proximity by an unexpected quarantine.

A self-proclaimed science fiction nerd, Forsman leapt at the opportunity to direct Pilgrims, calling it “a dream.” Science fiction is rare on the stage, largely because of the genre’s traditional reliance on visual effects as a chief selling point. “And the stage is a language-based medium,” says Forsman. “So naturally there’s a bit of a disconnect.” Still, notable examples can be found, such as the 1920 play from Czech playwright Karel Capek, R.U.R., or “Rossum’s Universal Robots,” which introduced the word ‘robot’ to the language and the genre. But Kiechel squared that circle, and more than the thrill of science fiction, Forsman found a wildly inventive story full of “terrific” writing.

“At its core, it’s a very human drama,” says Forsman, and the story revolves around the emotions and arcs of characters, with the science fiction aspect more an exciting setting than the point of the production. The point, says Forsman, is the two people locked in a room but still struggling to connect—this veteran soldier and young woman with a secretive past. “And the two are meeting at a moment when they’re both running from trauma,” he says. Studying the history of post-traumatic stress disorder while preparing for the play, he finds real-life parallels. Pilgrims is not about villains, but troubled people trying their best. Forsman calls it “sincerity,” and it’s something he looks for in all his stories.

A codeword of sorts for believing in vulnerability and compassion and generosity, Forsman says, the concept developed in response to the extreme pessimism and cynicism about human nature that he saw too often passed off as shorthand for truth. People aren’t monsters, in Forsman’s eyes, just flawed, and sometimes tragically so. But most try to be as good as they can be. The drama, as in Pilgrims, lies in whether they succeed. “These two characters are trying to connect,” he says, “but the question remains if they can.”

And to properly encapsulate this drama, Urbanite’s black box setup aligns perfectly. “It’s a play about claustrophobia and being trapped,” says Forsman. “So a little room like this is perfect.”

Opening August 4 at Urbanite Theatre, Pilgrims runs through September 10. 

Pictured: Director Carl Forsman. Photo courtesy of Urbanite Theatre.

[Good Bite]  Eeny Meeny Miny Dough
Shelby Schwartz, shelbys@srqme.com

A brown crisp outside coated in sugar surrounds soft spongy dough within, making for a sensational duo of textures that excite the palate. The doughnut, a favorite breakfast treat, snack and dessert can be found fresh at Meany’s Mini Donuts and Coffee House, a funky tiki hut with a variety of sweet creations. Rolled out and shaped into rings, these famously mini donuts are plopped into a fryer, taking on a glistening gold that promises flavor. Deviating from traditional toppings, these tiny treats undergo a delicious transformation, taking on names such as french toast, glazed goodie, peanut butter cup, strawberry cheesecake and bavarian cream. The donuts can be purchased in quantities of six, twelve or nineteen and come bagged or treated like a shish kebab with a skewer poking through six at a time.  

Photo by Shelby Schwartz.

Meaney's Mini Donuts & Coffee House, 205 Canal Rd., Siesta Key, 941-301-9614.

[Exec Moves]  SCF Hires Fairchild as Dean of Nursing

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) has hired Roseanne Fairchild as the new dean of nursing and health professions. Fairchild joined SCF June 19 from Indiana State University, where she was the director of the doctor of nursing practice. In Indiana, Fairchild was also involved in research in urban and rural health services and will continue her research at the College and in the community. She is particularly interested in testing ways to improve access to and quality of care in rural areas. She also was an n associate professor and director of nursing practice and graduate nursing administration at Indiana State University. Fairchild received her Ph. D. in Health Systems Research and Leadership and her master of nursing in nursing administration with a higher education focus from Indiana University School of Nursing. 

State College of Florida

[Synergy]  PMP/Suncoast Receives TDC/A Grant for '17-18 Season

The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast (PMP/Suncoast) has announced the approval of a Tourist Development Cultural/Arts grant in the amount of $51,445 from The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. These funds will help support performances by alumni of The Perlman Music Program (PMP) at various cultural institutions throughout Sarasota County for the 2017-2018 season, such as Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Ringling College of Art and Design and Historic Spanish Point. as well as the annual Celebration Concert held each January at the Sarasota Opera House. This is the second year PMP/Suncoast has received funding from TDC/A for its Classic and Classical programming. The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County administers almost two million dollars each year in Tourist Development Cultural/Arts grants. Grants are available to non-profit organizations with a recognized ability to produce, present and promote cultural and arts activities that appeal to tourists. 

Perlman Music Program/Suncoast

[Exec Moves]  Glass Elected to CFEF as Member-at-Large

The Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (CFEF) recently elected Mary Glass, president of Manatee Education Foundation, as a member-at-large. Glass is one of five statewide members who, along with three statewide officers, will govern the membership organization for Florida’s district-wide local education foundations. Established in 1987, the CFEF seeks to maximize the individual and collective strength of Florida local education foundations to support local partners and schools. It now has 63 member foundations and collectively 1,100 volunteer board members, raising more than $63 million annually to support students, teachers and schools through a variety of programs. 

Consortium of Florida Education Foundations



"Little Island" by Barbara Krupp. Dabbert Gallery.

[TODAY]  THEATER: Broadway in Black , June 21 – July 23

This summer, the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe salutes Broadway with an original revue by Nate Jacobs. Sing along with your favorite songs from award- winning shows and breakthrough roles that helped launch the careers of such Black artists as Melba Moore in Purlie, Ben Vereen in Pippin, Jennifer Holliday in Dreamgirls, and Nell Carter in Ain't Misbehavin'. It's Broadway, WBTT syle...electrifying! 

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe , 1343 Main St. Suite 402 Sarasota

[TODAY]  PERFORMANCE: The Jersey Tenors , June 13 – July 16

A combination of Opera and Rock creates a mash-up sensation of a explosive blend of iconic music. From the opera classics to artists such as Queen, ABBA, Frankie Valli, The Four Seasons, Frank Sinatra, Springsteen, and more – The Jersey Tenors will have you singing along as they raise the roof with their powerful voices. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.floridastudiotheatre.org

Florida Studio Theatre , 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[TODAY]  MUSEUM: ROAR! Ringling Order of Art Readers , July 14 – July 28

ROAR! is a storytime program, designed to engage toddlers and preschoolers in activities that connect art with early literacy. This program is free and no registration is required.

Education Center , 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[WEEKEND]  MUSEUM: Family Day: Skyway , July 15, 11:00am – 2:00pm

Join us for a special family day to celebrate the special exhibition now on view, Skyway! This Family Day will feature activity stations, and a special summer-themed family activity booklet to use in the galleries. Family Days are fun for the whole family! Join us for art making, and activity stations. We will also distribute themed family activity booklets to use in the galleries.

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art  , 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[WEEKEND]  GALLERY: Marc Chagall, Flowers and the French Riviera: The Color of Dreams , February 12 – July 31, 10am–5pm daily

A first-of-its-kind, immersive exhibition of Marc Chagall’s nature-inspired artwork, on display in Sarasota’s world-renowned botanical garden. As the first botanical garden to exhibit Chagall’s work, “The Color of Dreams” also marks the first time that the profound influence of nature on the great artist is examined in-depth. Tickets and more info at www.selby.org.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota

[WEEKEND]  THEATER: Disney’s My Son Pinocchio Jr. , July 13 – July 17

Join the Blue Fairy, Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond his toyshop to discover the meaning of family. When the Blue Fairy grants Geppetto’s wish to bring his beloved puppet to life, the new father quickly learns about the challenges of being a father.

Venice Theater , 140 W. Tampa Ave., Venice

[WEEKEND]  THEATER: Brian Craft and Ashley Figlow present On the 21st Century , July 15 – July 16

A swift-paced, vibrant variety show featuring mash-ups of popular songs, musical theatre favorites and beyond. Brian and Ashley will add some flavor and put a new twist on some of your favorite tunes while keeping those toes tappin’ throughout.

Pinkerton, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Chamber 411 Member Briefing , July 18, 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Join Sarasota Chamber members and guests at Chamber 411, for a new member introduction and reception. Meet Chamber staff and hear about exciting committees and initiatives that benefit area businesses. Bringing approximately 50 business cards, company brochures or flyers to share with fellow members is recommended.

Sarasota Chamber of Commerce , 1945 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: The Blue Eyed Bettys , July 18 – August 20

With Daniel Emond on banjo, Sarah Hund on fiddle, and Ben Mackel on guitar, The Blue Eyed Bettys delight with their contemporary bluegrass sound. An original music group formed while performing in the hit FST Cabaret show Poems, Prayers, and Promises, audiences are snapped to attention with their powerful vocals, three part harmony, inventive storytelling, and natural onstage chemistry. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.floridastudiotheatre.org

Florida Studio Theatre , 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Chamber Connect , July 20, 5am - 6:30pm

Make connections with Chamber business professionals at this bi-monthly event. Enjoy light appetizers, a cash bar and door prizes in a laid-back atmosphere perfect for meeting your next customer or client. They will be networking over complimentary hors d'oeuvres, as well as a cash bar, to kick off an early start to the weekend.

Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar - St. Armands , 325 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota

[SOON]  DANCE: Timeline , July 20 – July 21

Join SCD for the debut of a new solo danced by Stephanie Bastos, who performs with the aid of a prosthetic leg. The riveting work is based on Stephanie Bastos’ life and will kick off the SCD summer performance series.

New College of Florida, Black Box Theatre (Hamilton Center), 5850 General Dougher Place, Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Michelle Kasanofsky presents To All the Men I've Loved Before , July 20 – July 21

Kasanofsky will serenade audiences with her favorites from male composers and songs about men and relationships like “Fever,” and “The Lady is a Tramp.” Featuring her dad and son.

Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Art Making , July 20, 5-8pm

Drop by the Children’s Welcome Center in the Visitors Pavilion which has been transformed into an art studio for the evening. Instructors will teach you how to become comfortable will many different materials that artists use. This event is free and all ages are encouraged to participate. For more information please visit www.ringling.org

The Ringling, 5401 Bayshore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  DANCE: Sarasota Contemporary Dance , July 20 – July 23

Directed by Leymis Bolanos Wilmott, a one woman show performed by Stephanie Bastos, who dances with the aid of a prosthetic leg.

New College of Florida, Black Box Theater, 5800 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 GOOD HAND: Building Capacity in Our Philanthropic Sector , July 20, 7:30-9:00am

Join SRQ Magazine for the last SB2: Breakfast Symposium of the season on Thursday, July 20, 2017 from 7:30 am-9:00 am at The Francis, Downtown Sarasota. Keynote David Odahowski, President & CEO of the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundationwill give us insight on building capacity in the philanthropic sector. Special guest panelists include: Roxie Jerde of The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Stacey Corley of Ringling College of Art and Design, Veronica Brandon Miller of Goodwill Manasota, Susie Bowie of Manatee Community Foundation and Heidi Brown of the Jewish Family and Children's Service. Moderated by SRQ MEDIA Executive Publisher Wes Roberts. Tickets are $35/per person and includes a delicious breakfast buffet provided by The Francis. Reserve your spot online at SRQSB2.COM.

The Francis, Downtown Sarasota, 1289 N. Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Shrek the Musical , July 21 – July 22

Based on the Oscar-Winning DreamWorks Animation film and fantastic Broadway musical. It’s a “big bright beautiful world” as everyone’s favorite ogre, Shrek leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek the Musical is a hilarious show with a powerful message for the whole family.

Manatee Performing Arts Center , 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton

[SOON]  BUSINESS: YPG Summit: "Thrive" , July 21, 8am - 12:30pm

Learn new ways to grow personally, professionally, and as a leader in the community with the Sarasota Young Professionals. Nominations are currently being accepted for the Young Professional of the Year Award. Registration is now open: $50 for YPG Members, $65 for non-members.

USF Sarasota - Manatee , 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, SMC-C305, Sarasota

SRQ Media Group

SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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