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SRQ DAILY Dec 15, 2017

Friday Weekend Edition

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Friday Weekend Edition

"It really is one of the great roles in theater. There should be other people who get a chance to do it."

- Eric Watters, Venice Theatre
 

[Theater]  After 16 Years, An Iconic Scrooge Takes His Final Bow
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

When Venice Theatre raises the curtain tonight to begin this year’s run of A Christmas Carol, it will be the 18th annual production of this original musical adaptation, commissioned by the theater in the year 2000. It will be the 16th year that Venice Theatre Executive/Artistic Director Murray Chase directs and the 16th year for Music Director Michelle Kasanofsky as well. And it will be the 16th, and final, performance for the man who has played Ebenezer Scrooge for Venice audiences every year since 2002. “I’ve had a lot of joy from it,” says actor Eric Watters, “and I will do it now, at 70 years of age, and that’s some sort of landmark for me.”

Watters first picked up the role in his mid-50s, reinvigorating a production that sputtered off the starting line. The commission was costly but ticket sales light for the first two years, and Chase was worried. “I hadn’t found the perfect Scrooge yet,” he says. “Bringing in Eric, and then Michelle as music director, brought the show to a new level.” Since then, ticket sales and audiences have only grown.

“I thought I would be sadder than I am,” says Watters, of approaching his final run. “I’m really kind of happy about it actually.” Not only does this mean his knees get a break next year from all of the singing and dancing and running up and down a narrow spiral staircase (upon which he “impales” himself once a year, he says), but he’ll have a chance to see the show as a member of the audience for the first time in 16 years.

Even when diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2011, Watters made sure to be in fighting shape for his annual role. Weathering chemotherapy through October and November, he stopped treatment for the production because it left him “zombified.” The theater stepped in to help, finding a generous stand-in who would work with the cast through the entire rehearsal process, only to step aside for Watters when the production began. “It was unusual and not easy,” Watters downplays, “and that’s the one I will remember the most. Not because of the cancer, but because of the kindness.” He has since won his battle with the disease.

And he’ll miss the energy and camaraderie of the production, particularly the children (even if he does get sick every year, and suspects that youthful “petri dish” may be the culprit), but Scrooge will always be with him. After 16 years, Watters knows him better than most and finds him a highly sympathetic character—wounded but not bad, and more complex than many may give him credit for. And it was Scrooge that was there with Watters when he lost his mother three years ago, the last member of his family. “I found myself quoting a line from the show,” he says: “There he sat, all alone in the window, quite alone in the world, I do believe.” It wasn’t really Scrooge’s line, but it fit.

Now, upbeat and ready to take the stage once more, Watters already looks forward to seeing what someone else can bring to the character. Plus, it’s time to give someone else a shot. “It really is one of the great roles in theater,” he says. “There should be other people who get a chance to do it.” But he has a bit of advice: “Make the role your own.”

A Christmas Carol opens tonight at Venice Theatre and runs through Dec. 21. 

Pictured: Eric Watters as Ebenezer Scrooge at Venice Theatre in 2016. Photo courtesy of Venice Theatre.

[Exec Moves]  RASM Announces Officers and Board of Directors for 2018

The REALTOR Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) installed its 2018 officers and directors. The newly installed officers for 2018 are President Greg Owens, Keller Williams on the Water, President-Elect Amy Worth, RE/MAX Platinum Realty, Treasurer David Clapp, RE/MAX Alliance Group, Secretary Christina Pitchford, Suncoast Homes & Dreams and Immediate Past President Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty. The board of directors serving in 2018 are Marie Avery-Withers, Michael Bruno, Adam Chicoine, Georgina Clamage, Michelle Crabtree, Bill Furst, Sharon Gould, Alex Krumm, Maryann Lawler, Diane Lee, Renee Marquiss, Brian McGreevy, Robert Milligan, Maryellen Paterson, Roger Piro and Tony Veldkamp. Incoming President Greg Owens announced his goals for the year, which includes sharing the Association’s value to its members and the community at large, promoting a higher standard of professionalism and protecting private property rights. 

Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee

[Expansion]  Lee Wetherington Homes Unveils San Mateo Model at the Lake Club

Lee Wetherington Homes has unveiled its new San Mateo model in The Lake Club at Lakewood Ranch. The European-style country house provides three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a great room, kitchen, dining area, den, and laundry room within 2,960 square feet of living area. The outdoor living/dining area, garage and entry bring the total to 4,277 square feet. A three-car, side-entry garage is neatly placed at the end of the guest wing, while the master bedroom is the exclusive occupant of a private wing. Eight-foot-tall doors with custom iron trim open to the San Mateo’s foyer, great room, and view of both inside and outside. Rooms in the entire back of the home—great room, kitchen, dining area, and master bedroom—overlook the outdoor living/dining area, its pool, and a lake. Inside, crown molding and significant architectural ceiling details match the flooring in the great room, dining room, kitchen, foyer and master bathroom. Casement-hung impact windows and soft-close doors and drawers are used throughout. The guest wing includes two bedrooms with full baths. The outdoor space at the San Mateo features colonnades and gas lighting fixtures. The pool, by LeeSure Water Pools, provides an infinity spa and comfy sun shelf. Models by Lee Wetherington Homes in Matera Court range from $682,000 to $824,700 (plus homesite). Only 14 homesites remain. 

Lee Wetherington Homes

[Education]  Sarasota County Schools Seeking STEM Fair Judges

Sarasota County Schools are looking for volunteers to serve as judges at the coming Sarasota County Schools Regional Science, Technology & Engineering Fair. STEM Fair judges need not have STEM expertise, as training will be provided. The High School/Middle School Fair will be held at Robarts Arena on Wednesday, January 31, 2018. The Elementary School Fair will be held at Robarts Arena on Thursday, February 1, 2018. Those with questions may contact Bev Stancel at beverly.stancel@sarasotacountyschools.net. Those looking to register as judges may do so at the link below. 

STEM Fair Judge Registration

[Synergy]  CareerEdge, Local Dealerships Partner for Technician Training

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, in its ongoing mission to connect people to high demand, career-laddering occupations in the region, is partnering with six local automotive dealerships to offer a free short-term technician training program at Suncoast Technical College(STC). Piloted this past fall with a class of ten Gettel Automotive entry-level employees, the “express” certification class will launch a second cohort of students in January with the additional dealerships on board to participate in this training program funded by CareerEdge through a donor with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Gettel Automotive, Sunset Auto Group, Peterson Toyota of Sarasota, Venice Honda, Venice Toyota and Wilde Automotive will hire individuals with no experience at $12 per hour for full or part-time trainee positions. The new hires must then attend a mandatory, free 11-week automotive training program at STC’s Beneva Road campus on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 4pm to 8pm,January 16 to March 28, 2018. Once participants complete the 11-week class, they will be paid $13 per hour full time with benefits, and will have the potential for additional certifications and growth at the dealerships.  Average wages for mechanics are between $40,000 and $50,000. Interested applicants should apply online directly at one of the following dealerships. The employers will choose the students for the free automotive technician training program.Ca 

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative



[TODAY]  FOOD: Men, Whiskey, Watches and Wheels , December 15, 6:00PM

Men, Whiskey, Watches & Wheels features whiskey tasting from select distillers, an assortment of fine luxury watches, exotic cars, a live and silent auction, casino-style games, and networking with the area’s business community. Proceeds will support Child Protection Center’s mission in the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse. This year's poker tournament will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at One Eyed Jacks Poker Room at Sarasota Kennel Club at 6pm. Ticket to the main event includes an open bar, whiskey tasting and food buffet.

Edson Keith Mansion at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, FL 34231

[WEEKEND]  MUSIC: Dynamite Dulcimer Jam , December 16, 8pm

Come out and experience two virtuoso folk artists laying it down individually and in duo performance. Dan Landrum is the nation’s best known dulcimer artist, having been tapped for three world tours with keyboardist Yanni. Aaron O’Rourke began performing on mountain dulcimer at the age of 16. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Lights in Bloom , December 21 – December 30, 6:00PM

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens lights up the holiday season with Lights In Bloom. Over one million lights will illuminate the garden and walkways will be transformed into sensory light tunnels. Visitors will have the opportunity to stroll through magical gardens filled with beautifully lit flowers, radiant rainforest butterflies, dragonflies and more. The tropical holiday paradise includes nightly visits from Santa and his elves (before Christmas Eve), children’s arts and crafts activities and games, plus live entertainment with SoulRCoaster each evening. Grilled foods will be available for purchase from the Michael’s on East grill including a cash bar. The Selby House Cafe will also be open with its full menu. In its 14th year, Lights In Bloom has become a tradition for residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season in Sarasota

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens , 811 S Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  MUSIC: Perlman Music Program Winter Residency , December 21 – January 6

The Perlman Music Program’s (PMP) intensive 17-day Winter Residency offers unparalleled musical training for international students, ages 12 to 20+, who play the violin, viola, cello and bass. With a faculty led by Toby and Itzhak Perlman and comprising some of the most gifted musical talents of our time, the PMP Sarasota Winter Residency offers an artistic and personal experience that changes students' lives forever. The winter residency’s free public events include orchestra and chorus rehearsals, master classes, and works-in-progress student recitals. Question and answer sessions with the Perlmans, PMP students and faculty follow many of these events that take place in a heated, outdoor performance tent on the grounds of the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. Each year, the winter residency culminates with the Celebration Concert with Itzhak Perlman conducting the PMP String Orchestra and Patrick Romano leading the PMP Chorus at the Sarasota Opera House. 

USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL

[SOON]  THEATER: Home for the Holidays , December 26, 8pm

The five young comedians of local group Millenial Fresh are sure to make audiences laugh in this holiday inspired sketch comedy show. Taking place at Westcoast Black Theatre, this event will be a great way to bust your gut for the holidays.

Westcoast Black Theatre , 1646 10th Way, Sarasota

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: New Years Eve Fireworks , December 31, 7:00PM

The 7th Annual New Years Eve Fireworks Celebration at Marina Jack will be bigger and better than ever. Enjoy a variety of entertainment and menu options onshore at Marina Jack along with a sparkling midnight fireworks show. Climb aboard the Marina Jack II for a four–hour celebration dinner cruise, complete with party favors, live music and fireworks on Sarasota Bay. Either way, you are sure to have a sparkling New Year! 

Marina Jack , 2 Marina Plaza Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  MUSIC: An Evening in Mayberry , January 5

The Dillards are a a musical group with a history dating back to The Andy Griffith Show over 50 years ago. Join them for an evening in Mayberry, and have the opportunity to relive musical memories and meet some of the Mayberry friendly faces. Tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door.

Fogartyville Community Media & Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Musical Landscapes , January 6, 7:30pm

See the world from your seat with an evening of musical panoramas. Whitacre's luminous reimagining of the River Cam, which flowed past his window at Cambridge University, features Sarasota Orchestra's own principal cellist Natalie Helm. Hailed for his "energy and enthusiasm," guest conductor Stefan Sanders dynamically guides guests on this matchless musical tour. 

Sarasota Opera House, 61 North Pineapple Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Cast, Cut and Cold - Glass , January 8 – March 24

Technically amazing and visually stunning examples of creations by more than two dozen masters of glass art including Peter Bremers, Vadlec Ciglar and Irene Frolic astound in this exhibition. Numerous examples, styles and methods of glass casting and etching are represented in this one-of-a-kind gallery.

Ringling College of Art and Design Gallery, 2700 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Shakespeare in Love , January 10 – March 28

Adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, Shakespeare in Love will offer an entrancing theater production that follows the story of Will Shakespeare, a struggling playwright tormented by writer’s block. To his rescue comes the vivacious Viola, Will’s greatest admirer. But Viola has a secret and Will finds himself star cross’d.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: The Mountaintop , January 10 – February 18

This performance depicts a fictionalized portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his last night of his life. With a theatrical imagination, the play gives viewers a window into what went on in the legendary man's life, and what his hopes, vulnerabilities and fears were.

Westcoast Black Theatre , 1646 10th Way, Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit Call for Applications , January 10

SRQ MEDIA is calling for 6th, 7th & 8th grade girls to find your inner “roar” at the 2018 SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit and Luncheon on Friday, March 16, 2018 from 10:30am-1:30pm at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota.

Explore the possibilities and celebrate every girl’s potential at SMARTgirl. Participants will engage in an innovative program designed to educate middle school girls in 6th, 7th and 8th grades on career imaginings and the tools they need to succeed through mentorship, soft skills training and hands-on workshops with some of the community’s top women leaders.

 

Hyatt Regency Sarasota , 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  THEATER: Nine , January 11 – January 28, 2pm, 7:30pm or 8pm depending on day

Guido Contini is a wreck and dreading his 40th birthday, a dread that stifles the easy flow of his creative juices. He runs off to Venice in search of inspiration. In a swirl of present issues, revisiting traumatic memories and grasping at women likes straws, Contini finds himself on the verge of total annihilation.

Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton

[SOON]  SEMINAR: An Evening With Audrey , January 11, 5:30-8:00pm

Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993) was one of the greatest fashion icons and screen legends in history whose innate style and kindness captivated the world. Pamela Fiori, former editor in chief of Town & Country and Travel & Leisure magazines and six-time published author, presents a portrait of a much beloved woman, award-winnng actress, devoted mother, humanist, passionate gardener and Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Join SRQ MEDIA and WIB Trailblazer Honoree Pamela Fiori for an enchanting evening of sparkling cocktails, conversation and exploration into Hepburn’s luminosity through images, film and stories.

Mildred Sainer Pavilion, New College , 5313 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

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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