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SRQ DAILY May 10, 2019

Friday Weekend Edition

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Friday Weekend Edition

"Our stories are powerful."

- Minita Gandhi, playwright
 

[Theater]  NNPN Festival Spotlight Part 4: Minita Gandhi
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Florida Studio Theatre teams up with the National New Play Network (NNPN) this year to host the NNPN Women in Playwriting Festival right here in Sarasota, inviting four women playwrights from around the country to bring their latest work for a series of staged readings from April 24 through May 10. The featured artists each receive a week of development sessions with FST, followed by the reading and a talkback session to receive feedback from the audience. In this four-part series, SRQ goes backstage with the playwrights.

Born in Mumbai but now based in Los Angeles, Minita Gandhi concludes the NNPN Women in Playwriting Festival with MUTHALAND, a dark comedy about a young woman returning to India for her brother’s arranged marriage, uncovering family secrets, encountering prophets and finding her voice along the way. The reading will be tonight at FST.

With MUTHALAND, why use comedy to explore these topics? In my own life experience, I have learned that humans are equally capable of beautiful and terrible things. So I find naturally there is tragedy in comedy and comedy in tragedy. The advantage is that both myself and the audience can have a truly full experience and go on a journey together. We get to be with fully fleshed out characters with rich and complex motivations.

Why are festivals like this important today? Our theater should represent the nuance and complexity of our world. Yet, for years we have been attending theater written and produced by straight, white men. We have watched women written and directed by men. And when you have women write powerful women and stories from their own rich experience we all benefit. We change the lens and do what theater was meant to do.

How can the theatrical community support women playwrights year-round? Go see plays written by women. Don't give your money to theaters that build seasons around straight white men. In the end, it's a business. You can define the art you want to see by where you put, and don't put, your support. 

How does playwriting give you a voice? I use my art as activism. Art is powerful. Our stories are powerful. And playwriting has allowed me to share my story and find my voice as a woman, an artist and an activist in this world. I can say things through my characters that I myself could not. The audience and I have a conversation that cannot be had in any other medium. 

Pictured: Minita Gandhi.

[Gallery]  Selby Gardens Reveals "Salvador Dali: Gardens of the Mind" for 2020 Exhibition

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has announced the fourth annual exhibition in the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series, Salvador Dalí: Gardens of the Mind. In collaboration with The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, the exhibit will open February 9, 2020 and conclude on June 30, 2020. Salvador DalÍ: Gardens of the Mind will include ten colorful photolithographs of flowers by Dalí along with works from American photographer Clyde Butcher’s series Visions of Dalí’s Spain. These artworks and the Dalí-themed plant displays inspired by them will transform Selby Gardens’ into an evocation of Dalí’s vision.

The Dalí exhibition highlights the artist’s repeated use of botanical imagery alongside a surreal display of tropical plants in Selby Gardens’ Tropical Conservatory and gardens. The lithographic series FlorDalí, on loan from The Dalí Museum, will be the centerpiece of the Museum of Botany & the Arts, along with artifacts and photos that put the artist’s life, work, and relationship with nature into context. Photos of Dalí’s beloved Catalonia by Butcher will showcase the extraordinary landscapes visible in several FlorDalí pieces and in much of Dalí’s art. Additional Dalí works will be on loan from Sarasota collector Keith D. Monda. 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

[Music]  PMP/Suncoast Opens Applications for Super Strings

The Perlman Music Program Suncoast has opened applications for the 2019–20 PMP/Suncoast Super Strings, and is calling Florida string players ages 8–18 to apply for a spot playing side-by-side with The Perlman Music Program String Orchestra under the baton of Itzhak Perlman this winter. Students who are Florida residents and play violin, viola, cello or bass are invited to audition. The music selected for this year’s application is Felix Mendelssohn's String Sinfonia No. 2 in D Major, 1st Movement.

The application deadline is August 26, and September 9 the deadline for audition videos and Teacher Recommendation Forms. On October 1, audition results will be announced. The final performance will be December 28. Auditions are free.

PMP/Suncoast Super Strings is presented as part of a public orchestra rehearsal during the PMP Sarasota Winter Residency. Last year, 52 string students from 15 counties around Florida participated. 

PMP/Suncoast Super Strings

[Gallery]  GAZE Modern Hosts Closing Reception for "Common Denominator"

Join the local arts community at GAZE Modern gallery this Saturday, May 11, from 4pm to 6pm for the closing reception of its current exhibition, Common Denominator. The artists, Mary Grandpre and Tom Casmer, will be in attendance for a Q&A alongside GAZE Modern Director Tim Jaeger, to discuss the artwork and take questions from attendees. 

GAZE Modern

[Theater]  Asolo Rep, Sarasota Ballet Install New Seating in Mertz Theatre

Asolo Repertory Theatre and The Sarasota Ballet have announced the installation of brand new seating in the Harold and Esther Mertz Theatre, the main performing space for Asolo Repertory Theatre and the home of The Sarasota Ballet. Located in the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, this installation will take place over the summer and is expected to be completed by the end of August 2019. The seating in the theatre has increased from 503 to 535 seats, with most of the new seats added to the orchestra section of the theatre. Comfort and sight-line clarity were first and foremost in the process. The new layout also allows for an increase in ADA seating at a variety of price points.
The seats, manufactured by Irwin Seating, are a replica of those in the historic New Amsterdam Theatre, the oldest operating theatre on Broadway, and reflect the style and aesthetic of the Mertz. The installation was funded by Florida State University and championed by Sally McRorie, the university's Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

Asolo Repertory Theatre

[Music]  Choral Artists of Sarasota to Celebrate Independence Day at Sarasota Opera House

The Choral Artists of Sarasota will celebrate Independence Day with “Sounds of Independence,” featuring rousing songs celebrating America, July 4, 4pm, at the Sarasota Opera House. Under the direction of Dr. Joseph Holt, the concert will feature traditional patriotic songs, the area premiere of Sarasota resident’s Jerry Bilik’s “Independence” with the Sarasota Concert Band, rousing Sousa marches, a special salute to the armed forces and more.

The Concert Band, with William Barbanera conducting, will join Choral Artists for the second half of the program, featuring favorite selections such as John Philip Sousa’s “Thunderer March,” Morton Gould’s “American Salute,” and Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” Other highlights will include a performance of the first movement of René Clausen’s arrangement of Wadsworth’s poem, “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere,” “I Once Had a Dream,” which features quotes from the Declaration of Independence, and “America, the Dream,” written as a celebration of singing for racial and social justice, and utilizing the 11th stanza of the Langston Hughes poem “Freedom's Plow.”

Tickets are $20 to $45. Student tickets are $5. 

Choral Artists of Sarasota



[WIB]  SRQ Magazine | Hear Me Roar

SRQ MEDIA recognizes Women Leaders in Sarasota and Bradenton who have made meaningful and significant contributions in the areas of business, health, education, entrepreneurship, science, sports, philanthropy, and the arts in Hear Me Roar. This special section of the She Roars magazine is now available to view online.  

Click here to view the feature

[TODAY]  FESTIVAL: Harvey Milk Festival , May 9 – May 11

The photo exhibition, at the Art Center Sarasota from May 9-11 is intended to showcase American LGBTQ+ history from the 1890s to the times of Harvey Milk. May 10-11, located at 500 Tallevast Rd, presents the BASSment which offers the community a safe space and diverse platform to inspire the youth. May 11 starts off with a brunch at Stage Restaurant following the Harvey Milk Music Festival which celebrates the 10 year anniversary by presenting music at HD Jamal Park.

Various locations , Various locations

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: An Afternoon of Operetta , May 12

Two centuries after the beginnings of operetta - a form of opera with light music and subject matter - it continues to delight audiences worldwide. Our production showcases the work of favorite composers Gilbert & Sullivan, Franz von Suppe' and Jacques Offenbach. Revel in the glorious melodies featurning soloists, chorus and instrumentalists.

Sarasota Opera HOuse , 61 NOrth Pineapple Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Hydrosols - The Next Aromatherapy , May 15, 10am-1:30pm

Discover the multilayer use of the distillates of aromatic plants, including the aromatic waters of Rose Damascena, Greek Sage, Frankincense, Rose Geranium and Lavender Angustifolia. These aromatic waters can also be found as a delicious flavoring in deserts, complementing their simultaneous therapeutic value. Taste, smell, and experience food and drinks from these waters and blend some to take home. Registration is $50 for members/$65 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Spritzing, Spattering, Sponging, French Rule and More Advanced Watercolor Techniques , May 16, 10am-4:30pm

At this special workshop with Academy of Botanical Art Founder, Olivia Braida, learn various advanced watercolor skills. Bring all paints and brushes. Instructor will supply several special tools and paper to help accomplish our goals. Registration is $135 for members/$160 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Introduction to Ikebana , May 17, 10am-2pm

Discover the pleasures of this ancient Zen art and learn to create spontaneous, understated and decorative flower arrangements using branches, flowers and leaves easily found around the home and garden. No experience necessary. Instructor will furnish materials. Bring garden scissors, paper towels and a creative spirit. Registration is $50 for members/$65 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  HEALTH: Relay for Life Sarasota , May 18

The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is the world’s largest movement to end cancer. Money raised from Relay For Life helps the American Cancer Society save lives by funding ground breaking research to discover cancer’s causes and cures and help people facing cancer today with free programs and services. People form teams and raise money together leading up to the event. Then, everyone comes together for a night of fun that celebrates cancer survivors, remembers loved ones lost to cancer, and unites us in our commitment to fight back against the disease.

Van Wezel , 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL

[SOON]  FOOD: Morton's Market 50th Anniversary Party , May 19

Join Morton's Market to celebrate their 50 Year Anniversary. Food & Fun! Live music & raffle prizes! All proceeds to benefits the Morton Culinary Education Fund.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Fur, Feather, Flora & Fauna , May 21 – June 21

An all media, open exhibition throughout all galleries. Includes Art & Animals on June 1—a fun family day with animals and art, nonprofit organizations, information, activities and photo opportunities. Guests are invited to bring their leashed, well behaved pets.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St W., Bradenton

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kokedama - A Different Bonsai , May 22, 10am-12pm

Kokedama is a style of bonsai in Japanese culture. In this class you will take a fresh plant (epiphyte) and wrap it in a peat-based soil recipe that is designed to hold its spherical shape; then you will fasten moss around it to make a gorgeous little green orb. You will make two of these plants to take home and display. Registration is $35 for members/$50 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  HEALTH: Warrior Pose For Warriors: A Yoga Fundraiser Supporting Veterans at the Sarasota Opera House , May 23

An evening with Operation Warrior Resolution (OWR) supporting military servicemembers with yoga, breath and body work and sound immersions on the stage of the legendary Sarasota Opera House. The event will be led by popular yogi master and Lululemon ambassador, Ms. Ashley Stewart. All proceeds will support OWR’s mission of providing immediate and effective mental health care at no cost for all U.S. military veterans and family members. Operation Warrior Resolution is a locally-based military nonprofit celebrating its first year as an officially recognized 501 c3 with a warrior pose for warriors – doing a downward dog on the same very stage a young Elvis Presley once shook his hips and sang “Hound Dog” at the Sarasota Opera House.

 

A variety of small eats and juices will be provided by local vendors in the courtyard immediately afterwards. Spots are limited, so get your ticket today and support our country’s warriors with a warrior pose yourself at the Sarasota Opera House!

Sarasota Opera House

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Still Life & Flat Lay Photography , May 23, 10am-1pm

Learn how to photograph “top down” from above. Create vignettes, explore props to use, minimalist styles, what to use for backgrounds and how to create backgrounds. Hands on play and photographing. Focus on mobile photography but all cameras welcome. Open to all levels. Registration is $60 for members/$75 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Gelli Plate Printing a la Gauguin , May 24, 10am-3pm

Experience the joy of mono-printing without a press thanks to the gelli plate, a product that looks and feels like gelatin and can be used again and again. In recognition of the Gauguin exhibit, special emphasis will be placed on printing leaves and flowers from Selby Gardens Botanical Paradise. Create one-of-a-kind prints using textures, stencils, household items and acrylic paint. Registration is $50 for members/$60 for non-members.

Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: SRQ Margarita Festival , May 25, 2:00PM - 10:00PM

Join us for the inaugural SRQ Margarita Festival, the perfect combination of live music and margaritas. Enjoy a variety of margarita flavors, 5 great bands, the areas best food trucks, games, anda spectacular firework display to end the night. Tickets are limited and are on sale now. Proceeds from event will benefit Turning Points, Barking Out Loud Rescue, and Farm Dog Fosters. #SRQritafest

Van Wezel, 777 North Tamiami Trl., 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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