SRQ DAILY Jul 11, 2018
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"Joe Orton doesn't give a damn."
After a successful 2017 debut, Dog Days Theatre returns this week to the FSU Performing Arts Center to open its second summer season with a production of Joe Orton’s madcap sex farce, What the Butler Saw. A special initiative of the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training, the goals of Dog Days Theatre are twofold: give Conservatory students the opportunity to work alongside professional performers, and provide year-round Sarasotans with two good-humored but literate productions to counteract the brutal summer heat. “No one knows this,” says Greg Leaming, director of the Conservatory, producer of Dog Days Theatre and director of this particular show, “but the title refers to Victorian porn.” So buckle up.
The final play from Orton, What the Butler Saw pulls out all the stops for comedy of errors that Leaming can only describe as “anarchic.” “[Orton’s] taken the idea of a French bedroom farce,” he says, “and he’s turned it into this chaotic, anarchic, political attack on hypocrisy that is outrageously funny, shockingly funny.” Swapping the bedroom for the psychiatrist’s office, the story centers around the lascivious Dr. Prentice, who tries to seduce the young woman applying for an assistant position, but who receives an unexpected visit from his wife, who has designs of her own. Events unfold, involving everyone from the authorities to a particularly “randy” bellhop.
It’s 1960s humor with an edge, says Leaming. “That nastiness that’s so exciting,” he says. He compares Orton to Oscar Wilde, but with an important distinction. “Oscar Wilde poked fun at a culture and a society that he desperately wanted to be a part of,” says Leaming. “Joe Orton doesn’t give a damn.” No one is spared, from the free love advocates to the conservative faction fighting against them. “He’s satirizing hypocrisy,” says Leaming, and puncturing “heightened political correctness” at the same time. “The audience leaves having had an incredible laugh," he continues, "but thinking, ‘Oh my. Look at what I was laughing at.’”
What the Butler Saw opens July 12 at the FSU Performing Arts Center and runs through July 29. Tickets are $30.
Pictured: Summer Dawn Wallace and David Kortemeier in "What the Butler Saw." Photo by John Revisky.
Take a detour to Michael’s On East on your way home from work Monday night for JFCS’s BeyondMe Launch Party for Young Philanthropists. It’s a completely free event and yes, there will be food, an open bar and live music! It’s a great chance to meet, network and socialize with like-minded people your age and start your philanthropic journeys together. Be among the inspiring crowd as BeyondMe kicks off with a fun and informative event on how to become a changemaker in our community.
BeyondMe’s progressive program aims to be “A Platform For Good” in the community by partnering with nonprofits and offering its members volunteer opportunities through its transformative initiative. The demographic welcomes 21-45 year olds to learn how to become involved with local charities and create change, without dollar signs attached. “We are focusing on philanthropy of the heart more than the wallet in this stage,” says Vice President of JFCS Stephen Fancher. “We want to give people who are just starting out here the forum to explore nonprofits to join in this area in one place.” Referred to as a hub concept—it’s like a one-stop-philanthropy-shop. Fancher and Chief of Development & Marketing Laura McManus-Mesia shared the same idea of concept to showcase nonprofits, while introducing the next generation to all the opportunities for small acts of kindness around them.
“It’s not about writing checks or donating money. Can you donate your time? Are you going to stop and help somebody out one day on the street? If you’re 22 years old and you buy someone a coffee—that’s philanthropy,” says McManus-Mesia. “I’ve actually run something similar back in the UK and its been very successful, so now we want to bring that same hub concept of the philanthropy world to Sarasota.” BeyondMe is writing the platform for people to start their philanthropic journey whether they're 21 or 41, and ultimately shifting how people view humanitarian efforts. It’s certainly a unique time for philanthropy—under this new system, it’s not just for the really wealthy or the retired anymore. “The idea is that by educating and engaging the younger generation coming up about what different charities do in town, they will one day become donors and supporters of the organizations that resonated with them through this program” says Fancher.
Don’t miss the BeyondMe Launch Party, to find out all the fun ways to give back and enjoy what a great community this is at any time in your life, not just in your later life. As an attendee, you’ll receive your first gift from BeyondMe, including a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities, as well as activities to do with family or friends on a Saturday. "There's no place like Sarasota for philanthropy,” says McManus-Mesia. “The generosity that thrives in this town—there's just nothing else like it.”
For more information please contact Stephen Fancher at 941-366-2224 x 142, or email Carly Evans at cevans@JFCS-Cares.org.
BeyondMe - Young Philanthropists Society Launch Party RSVP, Michael's Wine Cellar, July 16th, 7-9PM.
Oskar Films of Sarasota, Fla. has announced that its debut short documentary Blacksmith has received worldwide distribution with Filmhub. Based in Santa Monica, CA., Filmhub is a B2B marketplace for filmmakers and streaming services. Directed by Oskar Films President and CEO Frank DiCesare, “Blacksmith” is a poetic documentary capturing the artistry of modern day blacksmith Rob Flurry, who still practices the old ways. To date, Filmhub has successfully marketed Blacksmith to Amazon Worldwide’s English Territories, which services more than 60 countries around the world including Canada, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, New Zealand, South Africa, the Philippines, the Bahamas and Iceland. Filmhub has also found a home for Blacksmith on Vimeo On Demand and UDU Digital.
Sarasota County’s Precision Machining Program at Suncoast Technical College has completed its fifth year by graduating 13 new machinists, bringing the program’s five-year total to 102 skilled workers trained locally. The program also led the state in National Institute of Metalworking Skills manufacturing certifications, with 358 completed and a 96% job placement rate after graduation. The program stems from efforts made by CareerEdge Funders Collaborative to start the initiative, and Sarasota County Government and the Sarasota County School District, which both supported the concept and established a goal to graduate 100 individuals by the fifth year. Funding for the program’s equipment, which totaled $325,000, was provided by Sarasota County Government, with CareerEdge supporting the program with $25,000 and additional funding for internships. Students enrolled in the program take part in the year-long training, with hands-on experience, to attain the credentials. Students then enter a career with an average wage of $15.00 an hour, plus benefits, and the potential for future growth. Due to the success of the program, the college will be offering an Advanced Manufacturing Program that will allow prior graduates to continue their education and career ladder to other positions within the industry.
Legacy Hotel at IMG Academy announced today that Jason Patterson has been appointed executive chef. Patterson, who brings more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality and restaurant industries, will lead concept and menu development, overseeing all of the hotel’s culinary operations, including its signature restaurant, Icon Eatery & Bar, and its banquet and meeting offerings. Patterson started his career in his home state of Texas, as executive chef across several markets with Wyndham Hotels and Resorts. Later with Neiman Marcus, he was responsible for placing upscale dining options in the retail stores worldwide. After relocating to Florida in 2006, Patterson spent the last decade in a variety of roles at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa. Most recently, he served as general manager of the casino’s busiest restaurant, the Fresh Harvest Market Place.
Three attorneys at the Sarasota law firm of Syprett, Meshad, Resnick, Lieb, Dumbaugh, Jones, Krotec & Westheimer, P.A., have been selected by Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters, to its 2018 Florida "Super Lawyers" and "Rising Stars" lists. Firm President Michael Resnick and Partner Teresa Jones were both selected to the "Super Lawyers" list. Associate Attorney Derek Eisemann was selected to the "Rising Stars" list for the second year in a row in the Personal Injury category. Only five percent of lawyers in the state are selected for this annual honor. This is the 12th consecutive year that Resnick has been selected; he was recognized in the category of Family Law. A board-certified civil trial attorney, Jones was selected for the 12th time since 2006 in the Personal Injury-General Defense category. The attorneys are featured in the July issue of Super Lawyers Magazine.
Syprett, Meshad, Resnick, Lieb, Dumbaugh, Jones, Krotec & Westheimer
Sarasota-based DutchCrafters, the largest online retailer of Amish Furniture, has announced Urwa Hameed, Maly Sears and Tan Vu as the winners of its 2018 Heritage Scholarship. Selection criteria included grade point average, a statement of financial need and a 750-word essay on how their heritage has shaped them and their aspirations. Urwa Hameed, Vernon, CT, plans to attend Boston College to pursue a dual degree in political science and international relations on an advanced pre-law track. Inspired by her deceased father who was a lawyer, she was compelled during Ramadan activities in her community several years ago to invest in her neighborhood. Maly Sears, Adrian, MO, has chosen to major in landscape architecture thanks to the support of her adoptive parents, and a 2015 trip to her birth country, Vietnam, where a large, tree-filled park in the busy business district of Saigon captured her attention. Tan Vu, Westminster, CA, credits his mother for his determination, drive and career path. Immigrating to the United States when Vu was two years old, his family experienced many hardships, but he watched as his mother persisted. The three annual recipients of the Heritage Scholarship receive $500 each to assist with the costs of their undergraduate tuition. In its sixth year, $10,500 has been awarded to date.
A musical review of America’s most treasured musical theater songs that came from some of Broadways biggest fiascos. Enjoy an evening of great and enduring all-time hits from composers like: George M. Cohan, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and many more! An exuberant tour through the last 75 years of Broadways musical giants all spawned from Broadways biggest flops.
Players Centre for Performing Arts, 838 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.
Florida Studio Theatre will bring together over 75 of the best improvisers from all over the country, from as far as France and Spain. Beyond 28 opportunities to witness skillful spontaneity performed by professional improvisers, attendees will also have 16 opportunities to dive into their own comedic creativity with one full day of workshops running Saturday, July 14 from 9AM to 4PM. Led by Festival performers, participants will have the chance to learn from some of the best in the industry with workshops ranging across a variety of skill and experience levels.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Every second Friday of the month, the Art Center holds a lively and informative discussion group, free and open to everyone. A famous artist(s) is featured each month; this month, artist Wassily Kandinsky is the focus of the group. Join the fun and chat with artists, art lovers, and the curious minded.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Come celebrate the music and experience the heart-pounding visual excitement of “Swing Dancing” from the 1920s, 30s, 40s all the way to the 2000’s, performed on stage by Wilsons Dance Club International’s World Class Dancers and Performers.The show also sees the much anticipated return of international performers: Artur Kozun and Natasha Barrera. The show is directed & choreographed by Wilson Barrera- 3 Time Global Ballroom Dance Champion and one of this year’s hand selected international judges at the world renowned “Blackpool Dance Festival” in Blackpool, England.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. West, Bradenton.
Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
John Sarkozy will lead a kayak expedition through the bays and canals around Nokomis, exploring the small islands, the birds and the marine life of the area. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training class will be offered before the launch, for those interested.
American Littoral Society
The Swingaroos return to the cabaret with an all-new show—Music of the Night. Offering their swingin'est versions of songs embraced by the worlds of theatre and jazz, this hit show overflows with hits by the Gershwins, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Rodgers & Hart, Kander & Ebb and many more. With a touch of 30s and 40s flair and bold arrangements, The Swingaroos lend a spirited voice to the most-cherished American songs and personalities of the past century.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
Disney's The Little Mermaid is a stage musical based on the animated 1989 Disney film of the same name about a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find love. Come see the theater bring classic underwater tale alive.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. West, Bradenton
Take a kayak trip led by John Sarkozy from the wild and scenic Myakka River, and travel downstream from Snook Haven. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 per person for ALS members and $25 for non-members. For those who want it, there will be a short training session given before launch.
American Littoral Society
Join John Sarkozy, as he shows you the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay. All kayak equipment will be supplied to you and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training session will be given before the trip for those who wish to take it. Take a break on the “crown jewel” of local beaches and take a swim or a walk before paddling back to the mainland.
American Littoral Society
The SRQ Transformative Philanthropy luncheon and panel discussion will explore the organizations and individuals who are changing the face of the nonprofit world through innovative approaches, strategic alliances and groundbreaking initiatives that foster and employ engagement to make a difference. The luncheon will culminate with presentation of the SRQ Local Philanthropy Hero Award honoring area trailblazers whose passion and drive are benefitting nonprofit organizations along the Gulfcoast.
The Francis , 1289 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is continuing their Friday Fest summertime concert series with Reverend Barry & the Funk. Bassist and lead singer Barry Nicholson only has one goal for the band: to keep the crowd dancing all night long! The group regularly performs at nightclubs, parties, and private events around Sarasota. Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Prince are just a few of the classic artists that audiences will hear from this dynamic group. And while you’re enjoying the music, be sure to check out Van Wezel’s selection of food trucks, drink vendors, and more! This seven-piece band--including a live horn section--will make this Friday Fest the best one yet!
Bayside Lawn of Van Wezel, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236
Learn to make a Stained Glass Suncatcher with artist Pamela Kramer, using the traditional copper foil techniques with lead free solder. Many colors are available and all tools will be provided to complete your masterpiece! Bring a friend and start creating! Seating is limited so register today! Tickets cost $40.00 and include supplies, wine or beer, and light snacks.
ArtCenter Manatee , 209 9th St West, Bradenton, FL 34205
This festival will rock Sarasota's residents and RVs. Bands featured include Kiss America, a slammin' Kiss cover band, the Shane Duncan Band for country music lovers, Rush Hour, an intriguing Countdown Reloaded cover band and many more. You will not want to miss this day of music, food and fun.
Sun n Fun RV Resort, 7125 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota.
Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
“Don Quixote” is a ballet based on episodes taken from the famous novel “Don Quixote de la Mancha” by Miguel de Cervantes. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to the music of Ludwig Minkus and first presented by the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, Petipa’s choreography reflects the local Spanish culture by incorporating the dance idiom into the movements and bringing Cervantes’ gypsies and bullfighters to life. This is a perfect family comedy ballet with rich costumes and sets and a host of colorful characters.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. West, Bradenton.
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