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SRQ DAILY Jan 18, 2018

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Freshly Squeezed Content Every Morning

"It's never too late to find love, to find truth, to find goodness, to be alive."

- Peter Amster, director
 

[Theater]  Old People Behaving Badly at the Asolo
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

With the final preview tonight, Asolo Repertory Theatre officially opens its second production of the month this Friday with the comedy Morning After Grace. Written by playwright Carey Crim and directed by Peter Amster, the story follows the amorous pair of Abigail and Angus, two tenants of a Florida retirement home whose post-funeral one night stand leads to new questions about their future. Throw in a retired professional baseball player named Ollie and it’s a bit like an old-fashioned sitcom, says Amster. “Except in this case, it’s old people behaving badly.”

Frankly, Amster found that to be a big draw. At a time when a majority of theater programming is designed to bring in a new and younger audience, productions that speak more directly to the older audience are a treat. “Every once in a while it’s nice to celebrate who’s actually going to the theater,” laughs Amster. “I’m a 68 year old man and it’s speaking to my people.”

And Amster’s people in the Asolo audience will get to see their own version of the show, in a way, as Amster and Crim have also taken the production as an opportunity to give the play its final workshop. Though enjoying its world premiere up in Michigan at the Purple Rose Theatre in 2016, Morning After Grace never received a proper workshop, due to the principal actor (and inspiration for the show) falling ill during rehearsal. “So this is [Crim’s] opportunity to strengthen it, change it, make things clearer and funnier,” says Amster. “And she’s so much fun to work with. She jumps in with both feet and an enormous spirit of generosity.”

At the same time, Amster remains confident that the play can speak to younger crowds as well. Comedy is comedy, and Morning After Grace relies less on old-timey knee-slappers as it does character-driven situational comedy and a solid emotional center. Whether directing drama or comedy, says Amster, it always comes back to the truth of the matter, and the truth resonates beyond age. “These have to be real people,” he says. “If the truth is more important in this moment than the joke, then let the joke go. Throw it away and nail the next one.”

And there’s a lot of truth that Amster hopes audiences will find in Morning After Grace. There are hard truths, such as about grief and loss, which he sees his friends experience more and more as they grow older together, but also inspiring truths, those that he sees as they laugh and do their best to stay young together too. “It’s never too late to find love, to find truth, to find goodness, to be alive,” says Amster. “This is a play that’s there for them.”

Morning After Grace is currently onstage at Asolo Repertory Theatre and runs through March 4. 

Pictured: Jack Wetherall and Catherine Smitko in Asolo Rep's production of Morning After Grace. Photo by John Revisky.

[Daily Shop]  New Year = New Gear
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Leggings that are ultra form-flattering and stretchtastic—probably the closest thing in existence to a Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants item. But once you’ve seen one pair of leggings, you’ve seen them all, right? Not necessarily a beloved local brand of upgraded, breathable athleisure leggings prove to belong in every woman’s activewear drawer. Read on.

Total girlboss Veronica Rosas, created Yummy & Trendy with high-performance and style versatility in mind to take you from yoga to the office without ever having to change outfits or sacrifice comfort. Because, let’s be real ladies— we’d be sporting leggings 24/7 if we could get away with it. Good thing Rosas made certain her premium-quality products would last through the rigours of constant wearing and washing.

The Yummy & Trendy wardrobe is abundant with moisture-wicking, pilling-resistant, lightweight fabrics designed for ease of motion even during your sweatiest pursuits. Super sleek-sculpting action and major support means no budging, from burpees to boxing. With fun colors and funky patterns, it’s the edgy-chic statement tight you’ll want to wear to barre class and your post-workout coffee date. What’s more, the added smoothing effects, seamless cuts and hygge comfort of these second-skin puppies make you undeniably feel your most confident self #2018GOALS

We look forward to spotting you fitness buffs feeling fly and strutting through the Sarasota Saturday Farmers Market in your total knockout leggings. 

Photo provided by: Yummy & Trendy

Yummy & Trendy

[Good Bite]  Avoid "I'm Hangry" - Order Bite Squad
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Bite Squad is gaining ground in Sarasota and now delivers from over 150 local restaurants. They recently put out a list of the most popular foods for delivery in our area. Their top restaurants for delivering Broasted Chicken (marinated, breaded and broasted under pressure in trans-fat-free oil) were Der Dutchman and Sommer's Dutch Family Restaurant. And the top restaurants for burger deliveries were S'macks Burgers & Shakes (multi-year winner of the Best of SRQ Local "Best Fries" category) and Bravo Coastal Bar & Kitchen's Double-Stacked Burger with white cheddar and special sauce. With cold weather ahead, deliveries are bound to ramp up. Stay cozy and warm while Bite Squad does the fetching! 

Image courtesy of Bite Squad

Bite Squad

[Community]  Gloria Barron Prize Calls for Entries, Doubles Prize

The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes is currently accepting applications for 2018. The Barron Prize celebrates social entrepreneurship spearheaded by young people from diverse backgrounds across North America. Since its inception, the Barron Prize has recognized 417 young leaders and has won the support of the National Geographic Education Foundation, Girl Scouts of the USA, and National Youth Leadership Council, among other organizations. The Barron Prize has also announced that it is doubling the award amount, from $5,000 to $10,000 per winner. Established in 2001 by author T.A. Barron, the Barron Prize annually honors 25 outstanding young leaders ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive impact on people, their communities, or the environment. The top winners each receive a monetary award to support their service work or higher education. Applications for the Barron Prize are accepted online only and are due by April 15, 2018.  The winners will be announced in September. 

Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes

[Expansion]  Haven Announces Groundbreaking for Aquatic Center

The Haven, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the lives of those with special needs, will be celebrating the groundbreaking of its latest therapeutic amenity, Judy’s Oasis Aquatic Center, on February 5. The Haven’s board, staff and The Friends of the Haven will all be in attendance, as well Haven CEO Brad Jones, Darryl Fry of The Fry Family Foundation and President Jack Cox of Halfacre Construction, who will all be delivering remarks as well. The groundbreaking commences at 9:30am on February 5, at The Haven on DeSoto Road. RSVPs are requested by those wishing to attend. 

The Haven

[Community]  GCCF Hosting Legal Workshop on Workplace Sexual Harassment

In the current environment, it is more important than ever to ensure that your organization understands how to prevent sexual harassment and protect itself from harassment claims. To give its nonprofit partners the tools they need to proactively address the issue of sexual harassment and prevent harassment in the workplace, Gulf Coast Community Foundation is hosting a complimentary legal workshop titled Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace. The event, which is open to all nonprofit organizations in the region, will be held on Tuesday, January 30, at Michael’s on East. Reservations are required and can be made online at GulfCoastCF.org. The workshop will be presented by Jennifer Compton, who is partner and Labor & Employment Practice co-administrator at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick. The session is geared toward executive directors or staff in finance, operations or human resources. It will be offered in a “train the trainer” format, so that attendees leave with the ability to train managers and supervisors at their own agencies. The event will begin with breakfast and networking at 8am, followed by the program from 8:30 to 10:30am. This workshop is offered through Gulf Coast’s Invest in Incredible initiative, which provides professional training, consulting and resources to strengthen the operations and board oversight of nonprofit organizations throughout the Gulf Coast region. 

Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace



[TODAY]  THEATER: Singin' in the Rain , January 18 – February 4, 2pm or

Don Lockwood, with humble roots as a musician, dancer and stuntman, must navigate his movie studio’s transition into “talkie” production. Lockwood falls in love with Kathy Selden, the lovely back-up singer dubbing over the tone-deaf Lina Lamont. A classic love-battle ensues and will determine who shall have their happy ending, as if audiences don’t already know.

The Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  FOOD: Nosh & Knowledge , January 23, 7:00PM

Join the Jewish Housing Council Foundation over dinner on January 23 at Michael’s on East for the conclusion of Nosh and Knowledge. Investigative journalist and author, Carl Bernstein, will be here to share his experience reporting on the Watergate scandal with Bob Woodward as well as participate in audience Q & A. 

Michael’s On East, 1212 S East Ave Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]  THEATER: Native Gardens , January 24 – March 25, 2pm, 3pm, 7pm or 8pm depending on day

When lawyer Pablo and his pregnant wife Tania move into a new house next to Frank and Virginia, two members of the community, a dispute over a longstanding fence spirals out of control into a battle of comical proportions. Clashing on everything from taste and privilege to accusations of entitlement, when a molehill becomes a mountain, nobody wins.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Amadeus , January 24 – January 27, 5:30pm, 7:30pm, and 8pm

The maniacal and quirky music prodigy stereotype exists for a reason. From Mozart’s impishness to Schubert’s obsessive work habits, this presentation explores the intriguing and outrageous stories behind many of the best known musicians and composers. Guest conductor Stefan Sanders will be joined by operatic tenor Jason Collins and Principal Bass John Miller.

Holley Hall, 709 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 Luncheon: State of the Region and LOCALPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARDS , January 25, 11:00am-1:00pm

Join SRQ Media for the next installment of the 2017-2018 SB2 Luncheon Symposia series with SB2: State of the Region on Thursday January, 25 2018 from 11:00am-1:00pm at The Francis, Downtown Sarasota. Local experts will explore the economic link and symbiotic relationship between entrepreneurship and tourism in the Sarasota and Manatee region. The luncheon will culminate with the presentation of the SRQ LOCALPRENEUR OF THE YEAR awards honoring area trailblazers whose initiative and business savvy are helping our region grow.

Guest Panelists include: Elliot Falcione, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau; Virginia Haley, President of Visit Sarasota County; Mark Huey, President and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County; Brian Mariash, Senior Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor of Mariash Lowther Wealth Management; Jeff Mayers, General Manager of the Resort at Longboat Key Club; Rick Piccolo, President and CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

Tickets are $65/per person, which includes a mouth-watering plated lunch provided by The Francis. Reserve your spot online at SRQSB2.COM

The Francis , 1289 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  DANCE: Dance Makers –12th Annual concert , January 25 – January 28

Sarasota Contemporary Dance's annual concert featuring imaginative dance pieces by internationally acclaimed contemporary choreographers.

Jane B Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: A New Beginning , January 25, 10:30 AM

Join Selah Freedom for the Fifth Annual "A New Beginning" Fashion Event on January 25th. The event will feature a runway show showcasing stunning fashions, a champagne luncheon, sip & shop, and inspirational survivor stories.

Selby Five Points Park, 1331 1st St Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Northside Hollow , January 26 – March 11

Trapped underground after a deadly collapse, a coal miner finds his salvation in the arrival of a young and inexperienced first responder. While they wait for additional rescue assistance, they discover they have a curious amount in common. As the men confront mortality, their connection may unearth a deeper revelation about acceptance and spiritual refuge. For more information please visit www.urbanitetheatre.com for show times and tickets.

Urbanite Theatre , 1487 Second Street, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Moving Identities , January 26 – January 29, 2pm and 7:30pm

Opening with another company premiere, Paul Taylor’s Airs kicks off the night with a beautiful and flowing performance that showcase the choreographer’s passion for modern dance and ballet. Following Airs, Sarasota Ballet Resident Choreographer Ricardo Graziano brings the return of his Valsinhas, which premiered in 2013.  

Sarasota Ballet, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Dance Makers 12th Annual Concert , January 27, 7:30PM

Join Sarasota Contemporary Dance for their annual concert featuring imaginative dance pieces by internationally acclaimed contemporary choreographers. Performances will be held at FSU Center for the Performing Arts and continue for several nights. 

Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N Tamiami Trl Sarasota, Florida 34243

[SOON]  MUSIC: Tango!! , January 28, 3pm

All the way from Buenos Aires, Latin Grammy-winning pianist and composer Pablo Ziegler celebrates the tango in all its forms in an intimate chamber music setting. Ziegler brings his own compositions, as well as works of tango legends such as Ángel Villoldo, Gerardo Matos Rodríguez and Ástor Piazzolla, for whom Ziegler served as pianist for many years and iconic recordings. 

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice

[SOON]  GALLERY: My Sarasota , February 1 – March 9

An illustrator, graphic designer and former student of the great Paul Rand, John Pirman unites influences from modern architecture and Swiss design to pop culture and old posters of the WPA for his own distinct, minimalist and symbolic style. See vibrant illustrations of Florida life, as well as Pirman’s own renderings of various pieces of modern architecture.

ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: SWAC Speaker Series , February 6, 6:30PM

Join the Sarasota World Affairs Council for a series of high–profile foreign affairs lectures covering current international issues ranging from foreign intelligence to peace negotiations to immigration and trade. This month, President and CEO of the Rachel Carson Foundation, Doctor Robert Musil will discuss the social responsibility of sustaining the planet for future generations and global climate change. Each lecture is followed by a wine and cheese reception for members. 

Mildred Sainer Pavillion, 5313 Bay Shore Rd Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  THEATER: Shakespeare's Greatest Hits , February 7 – June 10, Varies by day

"Brush Up Your Shakespeare" with the best of the Bard. This tongue-in-cheek musical revue is a collection of songs inspired by the world's greatest playwright. From relevant to irreverent, from soulful to sinful, from "Get Thee To A Nunnery" and "Othello's Rap" to "What A Pieve of Work is Man" and "Tonight." 

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Rhinoceros , February 7 – April 14

A biting absurdist satire from Eugene Ionesco, a seemingly normal man wakes up, goes to work, drinks too much and flirts with his coworker, when normalcy is shattered by the thundering arrival of a full-grown rhinoceros. As the townsfolk transform into horned beasts around him, this man must contemplate the temptation and tragedy of following the herd. Directed by the Tony Award-winning Frank Galati.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

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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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