SRQ DAILY Apr 4, 2025
Friday Weekend Edition
"I hope we can all agree that we live in a beautiful country that should be appreciated and not divided."
Tessa Lark is from Richmond, Kentucky, in the Outer Bluegrass region of the state, where rolling foothills of Kentucky bluegrass rise and fall indefinitely before crashing into the Appalachian mountains. Her roots to the state’s culture and music run deep—although Lark has established herself as one of the preeminent classical violinists of her generation, having been nominated for a Grammy award in 2020, she has remained faithful to her bluegrass origins.
Lark is bringing her unique musicality to Sarasota on April 8, for a performance presented by the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota. The program will feature original works by Lark that combine her classical training with her Appalachian background in a style she refers to as “Stradgrass”.
“In the classical world, there have been these incredible, virtuosic violinists that have stretched the technical capabilities of artists. I love showcasing these violinists like Eugene Ysaye, I have a couple of sonatas by him in the program,” says Lark. “I also have some music of my own that’s inspired by Ysaye and Bach as well as my upbringing in Kentucky. My dad still plays the banjo to this day and I started with bluegrass and mandolin a couple of years before I ever played violin.”
Lark notes that although she studied classical music, bluegrass, folk and jazz were always a part of what she played growing up and are foundational to who she is as a musician today.
“I love putting fiddle tunes and other forms of Americana music on programs, because I think that they’re all interconnected,” says Lark. “I’m grateful to have grown up around bluegrass and folk music, because that is music that is designed for all levels of musicians and audiences to be able to relate to immediately. I remember being nine years old in a literal music circle not knowing what I’m doing and the person next to me is 65 and has been playing for decades, but we’re sitting there playing the exact same tune. That sense of community has influenced me a lot with classical music.”
April 8 at 7:30pm, First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1031 South Euclid Ave, Sarasota.
Pictured: Tessa Lark. Provided Photo.
There is a special, mystical quality that music seems to have over those who listen to it. It’s the ability to transform one’s mind, to transport the listener to a different space than where they are. Take that journey this coming Wednesday, April 9, with An Evening with Matt Venuti: AmeriCosmos at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Venuti, a national touring musician and multimedia artist. The performance features Venuti’s unique, improvisational music backed by a montage of videos from nature and outer space.
“It’s live music and a visual journey through the heart of nature, the depth of sound and the vastness of space,” says Venuti. “All of the visuals I captured and edited myself, except for the space visuals, which are from NASA’s footage. The nature videos are from all around the country—Florida, California, the desert states, the canyons, the Finger Lakes, Maine—and I’m playing a live soundtrack to this the whole time, changing and improvising as it goes on. Except for the very first spoken word part, “Desert Dreams”, the performance is never the same.”
What makes Venuti’s work stand out, however, is not just that it incorporates visuals alongside his music. It’s the instruments that he uses to create the ethereal soundscape that propels AmeriCosmos.
“I play the electronic valve instrument (EVI), which is a mini wind synthesizer that I use with a looper, so I can create all kinds of arrangements and then dissolve them into something else. You might think that you’re listening to a symphony orchestra at some points,” says Venuti. “It’s really the perfect instrument that allows me to look at the visuals and create a soundtrack as the visuals unfold.”
Venuti also plays an instrument called the hang, which is shaped like a flying saucer and derived from the steeldrum. The hang is played on the musician’s lap, with the use of their hands to create tonally distinct rhythms and melodies. Beyond the use of unique instruments, Venuti’s mission with AmeriCosmos is to connect audiences through an appreciation of the natural world.
“I’ve been told that there’s something about this experience, musically and visually, that calms people down and gives them a deep appreciation for nature, which is something I feel like we’ve lost as a culture,” says Venuti. “I hope we can all agree that we live in a beautiful country that should be appreciated and not divided.”
April 9, 6:30pm, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W, Bradenton.
Sarasota Orchestra is thrilled to share the initial concept designs for our new Music Center at 5701 Fruitville Road, marking the first step in a multiphase design process led by architects at William Rawn Associates. As preliminary concepts, the designs provide an early look at the Orchestra’s vision for a transformative community asset. Further refinement and development will unfold in the schematic design phase.
“These early conceptual designs of the Music Center reflect the artistry and dedication of our team working closely with our architectural partners to bring this vision to life,” says Sarasota Orchestra President & CEO Joseph McKenna. “Our Music Center will enhance the region’s cultural landscape and create a prideful place that is truly unique for our community.”
Provided photo.
He earned his stripes on Broadway… now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, BEETLEJUICE is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O! Don’t miss your chance to see BEETLEJUICE in Sarasota! Tickets start at $75 and can be purchased at the Van Wezel box office, by visiting VanWezel.org, or calling 941-263-6799. Group orders of ten or more may be placed by calling 941-263-6726.
Although Sarasota Opera’s Winter Festival has ended, area residents will have the opportunity this spring to view recorded performances of three operas from this year’s season for free at The Bay park, the blue-and-green gathering place in downtown Sarasota! The Bay and Sarasota Opera have partnered to present the three opera films in April and May. Opera at The Bay kicks off from noon-1:30pm, Sunday, April 27, with a brunch-time performance of Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana. This opera opened the 2025 winter season at Sarasota Opera, and features world-class artists, including mezzo-soprano Lisa Chavez, baritone Jean-Carlos Rodríguez and tenor Rafael Dávila, with Artistic Director Victor DeRenzi conducting the Sarasota Opera orchestra. It takes place on a tranquil Easter morning in a rural Sicilian village shaken by a betrayed lover who sets off a chain of events ending in tragedy. The opera features the “Intermezzo,” one of the most memorable and melodious pieces in the repertoire.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is thrilled to debut the newly redesigned Van Wezel website, offering patrons and enhanced online experience. This exciting development reflects the Van Wezel’s commitment to providing a seamless digital platform that complements its world-class performances. The revamped website features a design inspired by the roof line of the Hall with improved navigation, making it easier for users to find upcoming shows, purchase tickets, and explore the offerings of the education and community engagement department. The new website will also provide valuable resources for patrons, including artist interviews and behind-the-scenes content.
The Perlman Music Program Suncoast welcomes the internationally acclaimed Aeolus Quartet—comprised of alumni of The Perlman Music Program—for two Sarasota performances. The first, a free outdoor concert, takes place Sunday, April 13, 4–5 p.m., at The Bay Oval (1055 Boulevard of the Arts). Audiences are encouraged to bring chairs for this open-air experience designed to engage listeners of all ages. For tickets, guests should register to attend through PMPSuncoast/Aeolus: https://tinyurl.com/wuty79zp. The second performance, on Tuesday, April 15, 7:30 p.m., at The Venue @ LEC (3650 17th Street), features works by Haydn, Dvorak, and Jessie Montgomery, each demonstrating the composer’s ability to manipulate textures and voices to sublime expressive effect. Peter Dugan, pianist, composer, and host of NPR’s “From the Top” joins the quartet for a special performance of Dvořák’s monumental Piano Quintet in A Major, Op 81, which pulls equally from Czech folk traditions, the western Classical tradition, and Dvorak’s own unique genius resulting in one of the finest piano quintets in the literature.
Tickets for April 15 are $30 (general admission), $40 (VIP/front rows), and $10 (under 21). For tickets and information, visit PMPSuncoast.org.
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce Kelly Addington has been appointed Chief Development Officer. In this role, she will oversee the Foundation’s capital campaign, ensuring the organization fulfills its mission to create and sustain a vibrant performing arts center and advance arts education.
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota presents the final two concerts of its 29th season in May. Scintillating Saxophones featuring the Sinta Quartet takes place on May 4 at First Presbyterian Church. The Beijing Guitar Duo performs on May 8 at the Sarasota Yacht Club. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call (941) 306-1202.
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce award-winning magician and educator Kevin Spencer will make his debut as the organization’s Artist in Residence on April 21, 2025. His weeklong residency will culminate with The Magic of Kevin Spencer, a free sensory-inclusive performance on Saturday, April 26 at 1 p.m. at Selby Auditorium on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus (8350 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota). This special performance is designed to welcome all audiences, including families with individuals who have autism or other developmental or intellectual disabilities with sensory sensitivities.
The foundation’s residency program brings nationally recognized artists to the Gulf Coast region, providing opportunities to collaborate with the community and address diverse needs through their art form. The performance will feature relaxed lighting and sound, flexible seating, and a quiet room available for families. A social story will be available to families in advance.
The Magic of Kevin Spencer, Saturday, April 26, 1:00pm (Doors open at 12:00pm), Selby Auditorium, 8350 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To reserve free tickets, visit PerformingArtsFoundation.org/Events/The-Magic-of-Kevin-Spencer.
Celebrate the women who have captivated the world with their dynamic personalities and fierce vocals. Starting in the 1960’s, female artists such as Cher, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion have been pushing boundaries and shattering records with hits such as, “Turn Back Time,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “My Heart Will Go On.”
John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's 25th anniversary season, titled "25 Years of Black Heritage," continues through May 25. The remaining shows in the season are "Fences" (through February 23), "Five Guys Named Moe" (March 5-April 6), and WBTT's first-ever, world-premiere tap dancing musical revue, "Syncopated Avenue." Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org to learn more about WBTT and to purchase tickets. Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Artists Anthony Mancuso and Bobby Aiosa explore the complexities of our built environment and how designed spaces, both public and private, impact our daily lives. Both artists examine the dynamic interplay at the threshold of domestic and public spheres, investigating how one influences the other. Anthony Mancuso’s paintings focus on visualizing the psychology of everyday domestic scenes of cohabitation through multiple perspectives, askew angles, and saturated colors.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St. Sarasota, FL
In the 60s and 70s, a new sound came into mainstream music that changed the scene forever. Led by early folk-rock artists like John Denver, Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez, this musical revue celebrates their top hits and the songs that transcended generations. 59th Street Bridge is a celebration of the timeless music such as, “Annie’s Song,” “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” and “Both Sides Now.”
Florida Studio Theatre, 1239 North Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums explores the essential role art and objects played for mediums and magicians “communicating” with the dead during the 19th- and 20th-century Spiritualism movement in the U.S. and Europe—a time when people actively debated and wondered, "Can spirits return?" See paintings, posters, photographs, stage apparatuses, costumes, film, publications and other objects that will transport visitors to the age of Harry Houdini, Margery the Medium, Howard Thurston, and the Fox Sisters, among others. Whether you’re a believer, skeptic or somewhere in between, gain a new perspective on the timeless draw of mediums and magicians, séances and magic shows.
The Ringling - Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. From their New Jersey roots to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this electrifying show captures their journey from a groundbreaking sound to international stardom, revealing a story of fame and personal struggles that continues to captivate audiences.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First Street Sarasota, FL 34236
The 27th annual Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) is recognized as a world-class cultural event featuring thought-provoking films from some of the best-known and emerging independent voices. Held in Sarasota, FL, SFF emphasizes the best in cinema alongside exciting programs and events with filmmakers and celebrity guests. It screens over 200 films each year, including features, documentaries, shorts, and a robust educational program.
Various Locations, Various Location
The nostalgia of the best decade returns to Fresh Fridays. Join us for our classic Back to the 80s night on Main St. from 7 to 10 pm on April 4. Stay tuned for all the throwback details that are soon to come.
Downtown Sarasota, Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States
We’re back with the incredible 2025 TGIF | BEST OF SRQ LOCAL PARTY celebrating the winners recognized and voted on by our readers in SRQ Magazine’s epic 2025 Best of SRQ Local Readers Competition. Join us on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 5-8 pm at the Aloft Hotel in Downtown Sarasota to taste and experience some of this year's "Best of SRQ Local" restaurants and cocktails. Share a hip evening with our area’s passionate localvores and foodies.
Aloft Sarasota, 1401 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236
BAM!Fest (Bradenton Art & Music Festival) is a free event that will transform the Riverwalk into a dynamic, diverse, immersive art and music experience from bridge to bridge! This community collaboration is coordinated by Realize Bradenton and includes: musicians from a variety of genres on multiple stages, pop up performance acts along the Riverwalk, live creation of large scale visual art, interactive art projects, local art for sale, and culinary treats from local food vendors.
Bradenton Riverwalk, 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Taught by nine-time Broadway veteran and Director of Education Justin Gomlak. $30 per class or 4 for $100. Justin Gomlak is a veteran of nine Broadway shows, originating companies, understudying major roles, and serving as a dance captain and swing in multiple productions over fifteen years.
Ven Wezel, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
The spring concerts will take place Fridays, April 11 - May 2 from 6 - 8 pm at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or a blanket to enjoy music and food along the beautiful Manatee River.
Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion, 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
This incredible evening will feature inventive cocktails, an elegant dinner, and a one-night-only Pops performance by YOUR Sarasota Orchestra. The performance will feature sensational songs by Marvin Hamlisch and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota FL 34232
WBTT produces its first tap dance revue in this original, historical musical journey through the captivating and entertaining world of tap dance. The show takes us to an avenue where all things flourish with rhythm, style, and class. This innovative musical uses dance as a universal language and features an exciting repertoire of unique arrangements on popular jazz tunes by iconic composers such Duke Ellington's "Don't Mean A Thing', Eubie Blake's "I'm Just Full Of Jazz" and Irving Berlin's "Cheek To Cheek!" The show also offers new songs arranged and created by Nate Jacobs, Lamont Brown and Louis Danowsky.
The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
The art in the Van Wezel created by noted Florida artists and is part of the Arts Advocates collection. A docent leads a tour of the
paintings and sculptures including those by Robert Chase, William Hartman, Eugene White, Ben Stahl, Thornton Utz, Frank Colson, and others. Participants then step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
A clever mix of live theater and film, "My Unauthorized Hallmark Movie Musical" follows Eloise, an exhausted essential worker who finds comfort in binge-watching Hallmark movies. As she writes her own Hallmark-inspired musical, the characters come to life on screen, hijacking the story and challenging her to find her own happy ending. Some audience members will receive a free Hallmark Keepsake collectible ornament to commemorate this one-of-a-kind theatrical experience.
Glenridge Performing Arts Center , 7333 Scotland Way Sarasota, FL 34238
Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.
Experience some of the best food and flavors of the region with more than 100, and still growing, curated vendors. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch has fast become a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, delicious prepared foods, and specialty items and gifts. Aside from all the goodies you can shop at the Farmers Market, find your flow in a free yoga class or have the kiddos get creative during weekly-hosted workshops.
The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.
Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd
Join us on the Bolger Campiello for live music and dancing. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on the bayfront. One chair per person will be available. No outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted. Members please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
The Sarasota Farmers Market Vendors Incorporated (“SFMV”) has been established as a not for-profit organization under laws of the State of Florida, continuing the 40+ year tradition of enhancing and improving the quality of life in Sarasota. Our charitable mission is to create a social opportunity for residents and visitors to gather and interact, to bring foot traffic to downtown Sarasota sustaining the economic viability of the entire downtown area, and to provide a venue for other not-for-profit organizations benefiting Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer's Market, N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!
Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240
Join The Market on Dearborn every Friday evening from October 2024 - May 2025 from 3pm-7pm on Historic Dearborn Street in Englewood, Florida as we launch an evening market to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs and provide an additional family-friendly event for local residents and guests of Englewood
The Market on Dearborn, 232 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL, United States, Florida 34223
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated Sunday Brunch. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful brunch experience on our beautiful covered patio or casual dining room with nautical touches. Our new brunch menu features a variety of mouth-watering dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast, savory Steak & Eggs, succulent Lobster Benedict, the flavorful Tripletail Brunch Burger, and Crab & Shrimp Omelet. To complement your meal, guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with the purchase of any entrée.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits , 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231
SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. 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. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email |
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