SRQ DAILY Oct 16, 2026
Friday Weekend Edition
"Those stories, along with the interviews at the camp, will delve into their breast cancer journey, why they decided to try out and what it would mean to them to make the team."
In the summer of 2025, Paula Murray was a part of history. Through the United States Dragon Boat Federation, 39 women from across the country were chosen to be on the first ever Team USA Breast Cancer Paddler (BCP) dragon boat team. That team, led by head coach Angela Long—a breast cancer survivor and the programs coach at Nathan Benderson Park—competed in the inaugural BCP division at the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Championships in Brandenburg, Germany. That team competed valiantly, missing out on the gold medal by three-hundredths of a second, and returned home with three silver and three bronze medals.
Murray, a 20-year breast cancer survivor and Sarasota-based strategic design consultant, is now the executive producer of a documentary, Chasing Dragons—Survival Was Just the Beginning. The documentary, currently in production, will chronicle the building of the next Team USA BCP squad that will compete for gold in the 2027 IDBF World Championships in Hong Kong.
“It’s not just a sports film,” says Murray. “It is going to be about these women, about their belief that survivorship doesn’t just stop when you ring the bell after chemotherapy. There’s so much that you can do—ultimately it’s a positive story and will be fun to watch.”
Team USA will be decided through rigorous selection camps happening throughout the year, culminating in a week-long camp in Sarasota in May, with the final 60-80 paddlers fighting to be one of the 30-some members of the team. A little over 20 of the members of the 2025 squad are trying out—those women, as well as paddlers new to the program, have been asked to do self-taped video logs detailing their training and breast cancer journey throughout the year. At the camp in Sarasota, more extensive, filmed interviews with the paddlers will be conducted. “Imagine it’s a self-video of ‘it’s 5:30am, still dark out and I’m going to the gym before work,’” says Murray. “Those stories, along with the interviews at the camp, will delve into their breast cancer journey, why they decided to try out and what it would mean to them to make the team.” 
Team USA Breast Cancer Paddlers (second team from the bottom, blue jerseys) racing at the International Dragon Boat World Championships in Germany last year. Photo by Joe Meschke Jr., 19 Shots Photography.
Sarasota Orchestra polled audiences on which film to show at its ultra-popular Movie Pops concert in the 2026–2027 concert season. The response? An overwhelming “finish what you started!” On October 23–24 at the Van Wezel, Sarasota Orchestra completes the original Star Wars trilogy with Return of the Jedi in Concert, featuring the complete film on the big screen with John Williams’ iconic score performed live. In the saga’s climactic sixth episode, Darth Vader readies the second Death Star while Luke Skywalker joins R2-D2, C-3PO, and Princess Leia to free Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt and launch a desperate attack upon the Imperial Fleet. The Orchestra’s last two Star Wars concerts filled up quickly, so don’t wait to secure your seats for the best show in the galaxy! Add this Movie Pops concert to a Flex Pass concert bundle this season and save up to 20% off your ticket price.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat today announced three additional fall programs. The newly announced events include Hermitage Fellows Talene Monahon and Tommy Lubben in an exploration of how history influences their artistic practices – Friday, November 13 at 5:30pm on the Hermitage Beach; celebrated opera composer Ricky Ian Gordon sharing his original music and creative process on Friday, November 20 at 5:30pm at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point; and composer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist Jen Shyu sharing traditional songs alongside original compositions at the Hermitage Englewood Art Center on Friday, December 4 at 5:30pm. These Hermitage programs are free and open to the public (with a $5/person registration fee), offering Gulf Coast audiences a rare chance to engage and interact with some of the world’s leading talent.
Provided photo.
An artist-in-residence exhibition featuring Jing Herman and Yvonne Krystman brings two distinctive creative visions to Creative Liberties at ARCOS. Herman explores resilience, identity and the American Dream through richly textured paintings and mixed-media works. Krystman takes abstract art beyond the canvas, transforming her paintings into wearable art on dresses. The exhibit runs November 1-December 31.An opening reception is Thursday, December 3, 5-7 p.m., at Gaze Gallery, 340 Central Ave., Sarasota.
Pictured: Jing Herman poses with her richly textured American flag artwork, featuring starfish and seashells. Provided photo.
On the heels of this summer’s smash hit drag haus production of Romeo and Juliet, Dingbat continues its club re-imaginings of classic works with their chilling, noir-inspired, witchy interpretation of The Scottish Play. Infused with burlesque, drag, choreography, live vocals, and club music, The Tragedy of Macbeth gets new life with Dingbat’s continued commitment of bringing LGBTQIA+ artistry to the forefront in Sarasota. Don’t miss this bloody good time. Friday October 16 at 7:30pm, Saturday October 17 at 7:30pm.
Provided photo.
Via Nova Chorale opens its 17th season with “Voices of the People: America’s 250th Year,” a musical celebration of the ideals that have shaped the nation — freedom, opportunity and the right to be heard. Featuring a 45-voice choir and string orchestra, the program brings together choral and instrumental works by American composers past and present, along with music by Benjamin Britten and Antonín Dvořák. The concert is Friday, November 6, 7 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota. Under the direction of artistic director Steven Phillips, the concert explores the promise of American democracy through music and the words of influential voices, including poet Langston Hughes, women’s rights advocate Susan B. Anthony and poet Emma Lazarus.
Via Nova Chorale opens its 2026–27 season November 6 with “Voices of the People: America’s 250th Year,” a musical celebration of freedom, opportunity and expression featuring a 45-voice choir and string orchestra. Provided photo.
SARASOTA COUNTY — Residents in South Venice looking to dispose of unwanted household items and yard waste can take part in an upcoming free community cleanup event. Residents may drop off items from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 17 at the South County Courthouse, where dumpsters for residential customers will be available at 4004 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. Small vehicle tires (up to four per household), yard waste, tree trimmings, appliances and discarded household items will be accepted. Hazardous materials and electronics will not be accepted, including refrigerators containing refrigerant (Freon), computers, paint, oil and gasoline. At the Nokomis Community Cleanup earlier this October, residents disposed of 7.39 tons (14,780 pounds) of unwanted household items and yard waste, highlighting the continued success of Sarasota County’s community cleanup events.
Provided photo.
Sarasota’s biggest celebration of local businesses is back and nominations are now open!
The Best of SRQ Local Readers Competition celebrates the locally owned restaurants, shops, arts organizations, people, experiences and can't-miss spots that make our community one of a kind.
If your brand is ready to get on the ballot, now is the time to start rallying your customers, clients and community!
Nominations close November 11, 2026
This long-term installation in Gallery 10 of the Museum of Art showcases five outstanding examples of 17th-century Dutch painting on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Featuring a dramatic seascape, an expansive landscape, and captivating portraits set in detailed interiors, this exhibition offers a window into the vibrant artistic production of the Netherlands as the small nation rose to global prominence in the 17th century. The five exceptional paintings from the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, complement The Ringling's holdings of Dutch art and provide additional perspective on the artistry, historical significance, and continuing appeal of Dutch painting from this period.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, 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
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
More than 30 Creative Liberties artists come together for a group exhibition showcasing the range of talent, styles and perspectives within the Creative Liberties community. An opening reception will be held on September 16 from 5pm-7pm.
Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Ave., 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
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
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
A pioneering artist, world traveler and champion of women in the arts, Yoshida Fujio was one of the first Japanese women to receive formal training in Western-style painting and build an international career. Yoshida Fujio: Secret Gardens is the first exhibition in the southeastern United States devoted to this remarkable artist. It brings together a selection of woodblock prints and one painting spanning key moments in Fujio's long career, from her early naturalistic works to the striking abstractions of her later decades.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Based on the novel by Bram Stoker and adapted by Ren Pearson, The Players Studio Black Box invites audiences into the shadows with one of the most iconic Gothic tales ever written. Mysterious, thrilling, romantic and terrifying, Dracula will explore fear, obsession and the darkness that lives just beneath the surface.
The Players Studio Black Box, 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota
The popular Halloween-inspired light show returns to Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point! The campus is transformed into Spooky Point where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and boo-tanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Tickets go on sale August 24.
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey
Each Saturday in October at the Arts Advocates Gallery, guests can view Elisabeth Trostli's new exhibition. The artist's work explores artificial intelligence as a provocative tool for expanding the artist's imagination and invites viewers to look beyond the technology itself and consider what it means to create art in an era when the boundaries between imagination, digital tools and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing. Trostli will present a demonstration on October 3 at 3pm.
Art Advocates Gallery, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Drawing on the ephemeral and fragile properties of smoke and mirroring, along with the purity, fragility and apparent permanence of porcelain, the work exposes false narratives, conflicted virtues and fractured identities. Using transience and tension as both visual and material metaphors, figures formed with smoke hover between presence and evasion across pristine porcelain and mirrored, color-shifting grounds. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
A work doesn't have to be monumental to demand our attention. The fifth installment of 502 Gallery's popular annual invitational exhibition, Shopliftable, is a celebration of small-scale works by 20 artists. Each artwork is modest in size but full of possibility, inviting viewers to look closely and discover how much an artist can say within a limited physical space. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Opening the fall 2026–spring 2027 season at SPAACES, this exhibit showcases artists who work outside the public eye. Curator Yosnier Miranda brings together artists who maintain dedicated, disciplined studio practices while choosing not to exhibit their work publicly. Bedroom Communities offers a rare opportunity to encounter work that has largely remained unseen despite years of thoughtful and passionate creation.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Over four days, Art Fair Tampa brings together 110 talented artists from across the country for creativity, inspiration and community. Explore stunning works across painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media and more. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering art for the first time, you'll find pieces that speak to you. Meet the artists, learn about their creative process and take home something truly special.
Tampa Convention Center, 333 S Franklin St., Tampa
To kick off The Ringling's 2026-27 season, experience an unforgettable celebration under the stars in the Museum of Art Courtyard. Enjoy a first look at the upcoming season's world-class exhibitions, live performances and inspiring educational performances. Hear an electrifying performance by GRAMMY-nominated Cuban vocalist Jose Pepito Gomez and his dynamic ensemble, La Royal Orquesta. Food and drinks are available for purchase, and doors open at 7pm.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
At The Ringling's third annual Wonder Symposium, guests will investigate the work of museums and cultural organizations as agents of wonder and the role that wonder can play in building and sustaining community. The opening keynote address by author and museum educator Claire Bown will be held on October 15 at the Historic Asolo Theater. Expect a full day of engaging sessions, presentations and experiences on October 16, followed by The Ringling Night of Wonder, a launch party for the upcoming season.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Decorate floating lanterns with personal messages of love, hope, remembrance or intention and release them together onto the water at sunset. This nationally recognized event offers a display of glowing lanterns to create a powerful, shared moment that many attendees describe as one of the most beautiful nights of their lives. Add a flower crown, mandala throw or glow sticks to your ticket purchase.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota
Hear this award-winning Chicago-based saxophone quartet at the First Presbyterian Church of Sarasota for an evening of lively contemporary music. Synchrony Quartet features Philip Kleutgens on soprano saxophone, Hudson O'Reilly on alto, Matthew Johnson on tenor and Haven Kahn on baritone. The program includes works by Caroline Shaw, Anton Webern, Astor Piazzolla and more. After the concert, join the musicians at a meet and greet with light refreshments.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
Explore the collection of photographer and humanitarian Judy Glickman Lauder in this exhibit featuring approximately 100 photographs by over 50 artists. Presence creates an inspiring dialogue through tender portraits, candid photojournalism and spontaneous cityscapes. See works by Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Danny Lyon, Gordon Parks and more.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This Tony-winning stage musical is about a shy high school student with social anxiety who becomes entangled in a lie after a classmate’s suicide. By fabricating a friendship with the deceased, Evan finds the popularity and connection he always craved. He faces a crisis when his deception threatens to unravel his life and ruin his relationships. Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that–even in our loneliest moments–you will be found.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Ringling College of Art and Design alum Chie Fueki synthesizes Japanese ukiyo-e atmospheric techniques with Western abstraction, perspectival space and practices of overlay and juxtaposition. Drawing from her own Japanese and Brazilian heritage, Fueki's vibrant and densely layered works dance with an elaborate interplay of painting, drawing and constructed mulberry paper compositions. Spanning 25 years of Fueki's career, these works carve out familiar scenes that fuse figuration and abstraction to create an intricate floating world.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This new outdoor music event celebrates the missions of both The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Palma Sola Botanical Park through live performances, natural beauty and opportunities to gather with friends. Guests will enjoy the scenic grounds of the Park while listening to live jazz from The Pops Orchestra's Jazz Combo. Valet parking and food add-ons will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton
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