SRQ DAILY Aug 27, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"Another huge piece of the developmental pathway is actually playing in USL League One games."
The Sarasota Paradise is furthering its investment into the local soccer community. Earlier this month, the Paradise announced that the club had signed five players to United Soccer League (USL) Academy contracts. The Sarasota Paradise, which is currently competing in its first USL League One professional season, created their academy as a development pathway for promising youth soccer players. In signing USL Academy contracts, the five players—Lucas Fredericks, Eeli Elovaara, Tristan Frederickson, Joshua “Aran” Spengler and Michael McGurk—have given themselves a bevy of future playing opportunities.
“First and foremost, signing academy contracts allows these players to keep their amateur status to where they can compete within the NCAA, NAIA or any sort of college rank,” says Mark Ward, Sarasota Paradise U20 head coach and first team assistant coach. “These contracts also make the players part of the professional team—they train with the professional team every day and participate in team lifts and gym sessions—and have the opportunity to play in professional matches.”
These five players have competed throughout the year for the Paradise U20 team in the United Premier Soccer League as well as in the USL Academy League. The organization has two development pathways—the Paradise Youth Academy, which develops players from nine to 19-years-old—and then the USL Academy, which also functions as a reserve team for professional club. All five Academy signees had the chance to debut for the Paradise USL League One team on July 29, in a mid-season friendly against Portland Hearts of Pine.
“Another huge piece of the developmental pathway is actually playing in USL League One games,” says Ward. “These contracts also allow us to create a very cool narrative for young people around the Sarasota area. We’re incredibly invested in helping not just young players in general, but in raising the standard of soccer in the area and we’re willing to help any club that wants to be a part of it.” 
Sarasota Paradise Academy Signees Michael McGurk, Joshua Spengler, Eeli Elovaara, Tristan Frederickson and Lucas Fredericks. Provided photo.
ensembleNEWSRQ (enSRQ), Sarasota’s innovative chamber music ensemble, announces its 11th season, featuring six concerts that bring together internationally acclaimed guest artists, world premieres, new commissions and collaborations with Roomful of Teeth, Luna Lab and Sarasota Contemporary Dance. Founders and co-artistic directors Samantha Bennett and George Nickson have curated a season that ranges from music for voice and intimate chamber ensembles to a virtuosic program for two pianos and two percussionists and a season finale combining live music and contemporary dance. The season also welcomes back acclaimed guest artists, including soprano Lucy Fitz Gibbon and pianist Conor Hanick. As part of Season 11, enSRQ also partners with Luna Composition Lab to premiere new works by two Luna Lab composers as part of Luna Lab@10, the organization’s 10th-anniversary commissioning initiative.
Pictured: Roomful of Teeth joins ensembleNEWSRQ to open Season 11 on October 5 at First Congregational Church, with works by Leilehua Lanzilotti, Peter Shin, Wally Gunn and Caroline Shaw. Provided photo.
Sept. 10 at 8:30am at Payne Park Auditorium (2100 Laurel St, Sarasota) The Sarasota Players will gather community members, volunteers, donors, and local leaders for a special celebration marking the start of renovations on its new home. The ceremony will culminate with the lighting of a ghost light at Payne Park Auditorium, symbolically bringing the theatre to life as The Sarasota Players begins its transition into the space. The event will feature speeches from Players leadership and offer a first look at the transformation underway at Payne Park Auditorium. This is the first big step on our road to 100 years.For generations, theatres have kept a ghost light glowing on an otherwise dark stage. While traditionally used as a safety light, the ghost light has also come to represent the spirit of theatre, the promise that the stage will never truly be empty and that another performance is always waiting to begin.
Provided photo.
Join the expedition visiting legendary Candy Man Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder) in this splendiferous classic movie from 1971 that wondrously brings to screen the endlessly appetizing delights of Roald Dahl’s classic book. This effervescent musical never fails to enchant the young and old. From director Mel Stuart, starring Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter Ostrum, Michael Bollner & Denise Nickerson.
Lights at Spooky Point, the Halloween-themed light show introduced to Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus, returns in October for a fifth season. This year’s show kicks off on Thursday, October 1 and remains on view nightly through Saturday, October 31. (*Lights at Spooky Point will be closed on Tuesday, October 13. Tickets for Lights at Spooky Point can be purchased through Selby Gardens’ website at selby.org or in person at either of its two campuses. Member tickets go on sale August 25; Non-member tickets go on sale August 31. To become a member, visit selby.org.
Provided photo.
Madison’s Contemporary class begins with a guided warm-up that integrates sensation-based improvisation with fluid stretching and strengthening. Emphasis is placed on awakening the mind–body connection, helping dancers build awareness of themselves and the space around them, while preparing the body for dynamic movement. The class progresses into improvisation and across-the-floor set phrases that may incorporate floorwork and contemporary technique. The class concludes with learning and workshopping phrase material, encouraging dancers to explore musicality, intention, and personal interpretation within the combination.
August 28th 10:00-11:30am, Sarasota Contemporary Dance Home Studio, $25, Register online or pay at door.
Provided photo.
Ringling College of Art and Design’s Film program is the No. 1-ranked undergraduate-only film program in the country on The Hollywood Reporter’s latest list of the 25 Best U.S. Film Schools. Ringling College ranked No. 15 overall, standing out as the highest-ranked undergraduate-only program on a list dominated by graduate-level film schools. For more information visit www.ringling.edu
Pictured: Whereas most film schools reserve high-level opportunities for graduate students, Ringling undergrads have exclusive access to five soundstages, two of them 8,400 square feet each, and the 15,000-square-foot Studio Labs post-production facility.
Sarasota County Schools is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities. Many know our district for its academic strength, diverse program offerings, and competitive athletics in traditional public schools serving PreK-12 students. But did you know we also have a program specially designed for adult learners (age 18+)? The Adult & Community Enrichment (ACE) program at Suncoast Technical College (STC) is a tremendous resource for our community! There are hundreds of classes offered – some just for one session, others for 3 or 5+ sessions – on a myriad of topics. Whether you’ve been wanting to learn a new language, dive into a particular period of history, or learn practical skills related to popular computer programs, there is likely a class that meets your interests, skill level, and schedule.
Your future is full of possibilities. Join us to explore them on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00pm at Suncoast Technical College (4748 S Beneva Rd, Sarasota. Event Details: This event is intended for students in grades 9-12 and their families. Meet representatives from colleges, universities, and technical schools. Explore academic programs and career opportunities. Get answers to your questions and take the next steps with confidence. Discover careers in the military and meet with recruiting representatives and liaison officers. Learn about financial aid and scholarships Please contact the Department of Student Services (941) 927-9000 ext. 34756 with questions.
A group of 30 students from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) expanded their studies beyond the classroom during a summer 2026 study-abroad trip to France, Switzerland and the Riviera in June.Led by Michael Rogers, professor of American history and political science at SCF Venice, students explored the region’s history and culture through guided tours and excursions to historic sites, museums and cultural landmarks. Rogers has led SCF’s summer study-abroad trip in Europe since 2016. Rogers is planning a “Cold War” trip to Germany, the Czech Republic and Hungary in Summer 2027. For more information, contact Rogers at 941-752-1485 or RogersM@SCF.edu.
At Easterseals Southwest Florida, the learning opportunities available on the nonprofit's main campus are as unique as the students who are enrolled there. Lily Preschool serves children of all abilities from 6 weeks to 5 years old; approximately 40 percent of the preschool students do not require therapy. Easterseals Academy serves students from kindergarten through the age of 22 who have developmental, physical, learning and mild behavioral disabilities, as well as autism. To showcase the inclusive, highly individualized nature of its education programs - especially as additional openings will be available once the brand-new Malcolm Family Autism Center of Excellence opens in January - Easterseals will hold an Enrollment Fair on Saturday, October 17, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Families can learn about the current educational opportunities as well as the new and/or expanded programs that will be available through the new Autism Center.
To learn more about the Lily Preschool and Easterseals Academy, visit easterseals-swfl.org/our-programs.
Pictured: Teachers and students are back into the swing of things this fall at Lily Preschool Provided photo/Easterseals Southwest Florida.
Provided photo.
Join us on November 6 at Michael’s On East for the 2026 Women Who Roar Leadership Awards, a celebration of the exceptional women shaping the Sarasota and Bradenton community through business, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, innovation and leadership. This inspiring gathering brings together women in business and community leaders to connect, celebrate and honor the remarkable women whose vision and contributions are making a lasting impact across our region.
November 6, 2026 at Michael's On East
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
Curious about the Mediterranean Way of Eating? Join us for Cooking Up Health: The Mediterranean Way, an engaging, educational series that will transform your approach to food! Discover seven simple steps to healthier meals, learn easy recipes, and pick up practical tips that fit right into your everyday life. Registration includes a recipe book. 6-Week Program, Mondays: 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24, and 8/31 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will be virtual and will have a cost of $10 per person. Zoom link for the class will be emailed to participants before the start of class.
Virtual, Virtual
Ever wonder what goes into creating a circus? The Ringling's Canvas City exhibit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make the spectacular entertainment venues come to life, from tentmakers and photographers to costume designers. See over 1,500 pieces, including circus costumes, leotards, band uniforms, animal blankets and more. Costumes on view will be rotated throughout the year as museum registrars review the collection and add notes and new photography to their records.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
This summer, Selby Gardens is excited to present an indoor and outdoor exhibition featuring the work of legendary American photographer, Lynn Goldsmith, who is renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images. Goldsmith’s exhibition at the Downtown Sarasota campus will combine stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence – Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
The exhibition at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition features photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin. Accompanying the photographs are simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. Audio recordings enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
Maria A. Guzman Capron explores the complexities of identity through vibrant figurative textiles. Drawing inspiration from her own multicultural heritage, the artist creates layered portraits of exuberant, multi-faceted characters.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Featuring works by such acclaimed modern and contemporary artists as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, Yoko Ono, David Hockney, Ai Weiwei, and more, this never-before-seen exhibition offers a rare glimpse into private collections held throughout Southwest Florida.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
During the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities invites the community to this commemoration at the pavilion at Greenbrook Adventure Park. The event will honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and will pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who answered the call. Nominations are encouraged for residents who served in response to the 9/11 events, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, medical professionals, military members and others.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Pl, Bradenton
This special benefit concert commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Led by conductor Evan Roider, the program features iconic works including Aaron Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man, Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings and John Williams' Summon the Heroes. The performance will bring the community together through music while honoring those who served, sacrificed and supported others in the aftermath of 9/11.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Tee off for a great cause at the Communi-Tee Golf Classic, a day dedicated to golf, community, and connection. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a fun way to support local initiatives, this event offers an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. Participants will enjoy a beautiful day on the course while helping strengthen programs that bring neighbors together. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations looking to make an impact. Gather your foursome, enjoy friendly competition, and help build a stronger, more connected community.
Calusa Country Club, 18812 Scallop Lp, Lakewood Ranch
Experience the Englewood Pioneer Days Parade on Dearborn Street this September, which runs from Obee's parking lot down W Cowels Street, to McCall Road to Dearborn Street and finishes at Veterans Memorial Pavilion. After the parade, family activities include a pie-eating contest, a watermelon-eating contest, children's games, crafts and live music. Snacks, water and food are provided by Florida Bible Church and Hippie Squeeze Lemonade.
Pioneer Plaza, 325 W Dearborn St., Englewood
Celebrating its 17th year, the Venice Craft Festival showcases vendors throughout Downtown Venice on Labor Day Weekend. Visitors can explore a wide array of handmade items from jewelry and ceramics to coastal decor and candles. You can also bring your pets to this family-friendly event.
Downtown Venice, 200 Miami Ave. W, Venice
Celebrate two decades of community leadership and the lasting impact of investing in young people at the 20th Annual IPG Leadership Breakfast. This event will honor the legacy of those who have helped shape great futures while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders who will continue to strengthen Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for years to come.
Lee Wetherington Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota, 3100 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota
Joseph Kesselring's classic comedy is coming to Bradenton this fall with a blend of mystery, mayhem and outrageous humor. Drama critic Mortimer Brewster discovers that the sweet, elderly aunts who raised him have an unsettling hobby: poisoning lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. Brewster tries to manage his aunts and his psychotic brother while frantically attempting to cover up the crimes.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Facilitated by poet Doug Knowlton, Bookstore1Sarasota hosts an advanced poetry writing workshop every Wednesday this September. Expect close reading, generative exercises and thoughtful critique in this five-session, five-week program. Participants should come ready to share work and engage seriously with others' writing in a collaborative and supportive space. Tickets include a writing journal.
Bookstore1Sarasota, 117 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
This festive community event features a variety of eateries with tasty food samples and wine tastings. What better way to support the nationally recognized Sarasota Youth Opera! VIPs enjoy early access and special seating at 12:30pm.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Participate in the third annual Farmhouse Scramble golf tournament to benefit all furry, feathered and shelled animals at Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. With an 8am shotgun start, this 18-hole course builds community spirit and camaraderie throughout the day. Enjoy contests, games, raffles and prizes, as well as complimentary practice balls on the driving range. A light continental breakfast, indoor salad bar and deli lunch buffet are provided.
Tara Golf and Country Club, 6602 Drewrys Bluff, Bradenton
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
The Sarasota Orchestra Harmony Gallery collaborates with the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, the presenters of Voices of Color. This exhibit features the work of Jamaican-born artist Alicia Brown who works from her studio at SPAACES. Greg Cruz is a multidisciplinary artist and educator whose work bridges urban nostalgia and themes of healing and human connection. Ronnique Hawkins's work spans and supports peace initiatives, vulnerable communities and awareness of prostate and breast cancer. A reception will be held on October 7, and a meet-and-greet is scheduled for October 15.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Wish upon a star and follow Pinocchio on an unforgettable adventure! From curious encounters to daring escapades, this beloved tale springs to life with laughter and plenty of magic. As Pinocchio learns that honesty matters more than anything else, audiences of all ages will delight in this enchanting retelling of a timeless classic. The play runs 50 minutes with no intermission.
Keating Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Learn the basics of choosing the right plants to create a beautiful yard that beats the Florida heat. This workshop explores the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping in a fun and informative environment. You'll learn how to save water and also create a haven for pollinators. At the end of the class, you can take home a copy of the new Florida-Friendly book.
UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St. W, Palmetto
Based on a ridiculous tabloid story, Bat Boy: The Musical is a comedy horror show about a half-boy, half-bat creature who is discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, West Virginia. As he learns to navigate human society and falls in love with a local veterinarian's daughter, Bat Boy discovers that fitting into a community can be far more complicated than simply learning how to act normal. The production will be performed in-the-round, placing audiences in the middle of the action and creating an immersive theatrical experience.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
As Art Sarasota Center closes its centennial season and begins another century, it welcomes four artists and their works for the upcoming August and September season. Molly Duff-Clarke will showcase Home for Dinner, and curator Alecia Harper will present Shaping Sarasota: A Century of Art, which presents a chronological visual history spanning 100 years of creativity. Antoine Williams presents a new body of work that reimagines Black southern cultural folklore and traditions with Putting Breath in the Body. Finally, juror John Pirman presents the juried show, Icons.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This free summer program encourages guests to explore all six Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations while enjoying exclusive savings and creating memories along the way. Available while supplies last, each passport includes more than $100 in exclusive offers that can be redeemed throughout the promotion. The grand prize winner will be announced on September 8, and passport offers are valid through October 31. A bonus grand prize entry is available at Cafe on St. Armands.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
See the historic relationship between fiery abolitionist and former slave Frederick Douglass and a cautious statesman, President Abraham Lincoln, who is determined to preserve the Union. Written by award-winning playwright Beth Duda with original spoken word poetry by Cedric Hameed, this play explores how two men with different perspectives found common ground during one of the most divided times in American history. This is a 90-minute production that includes a staged reading, followed by a panel discussion with the actors and playwrights.
Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota
Put on your favorite disco attire, gather your friends and enjoy an evening of classic hits, dancing and great company at Disco Dance Night in Solis Hall. Dress in your best disco-inspired costume for a chance to win the costume contest. Your ticket includes one complimentary wine or beer, light bites and access to the 360 photo booth.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
FST's resident improv team returns with Out of Bounds, an audience-favorite competition where two teams battle for laughs in a fast-paced series of games. Every scene is inspired by audience suggestions, and the winning team is up to the spectators to decide–and the method of voting is applause! This no-holds-barred comedy showdown runs 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
Bowne's Lab, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
From the smooth soul of Motown to the irresistible hooks of pop and R&B, this dynamic tribute spans the greatest classics from the 1960s through today. Relive beloved hits made famous by icons like The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Four Seasons and The Temptations. Featuring tight harmonies and charismatic showmanship, this energetic revue delivers constant hits and fresh takes on old favorites.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
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