SRQ DAILY Nov 6, 2026
Friday Weekend Edition
"Spending 20 years as a trial lawyer gives you a big insight into life as a storyteller."
There is a new detective on the prowl in the literary world, armed with the sharp insight of trial lawyer and competitive streak of a former Major League Baseball player. The detective is Scott Davis, a character created by Lakewood Ranch resident David Feldman and the protagonist of Feldman’s debut novel, Murder on the Mound, which was published this September. Murder on the Mound follows Davis, a former World Series-winning shortstop with the Boston Red Sox, as he defends his best friend Doug Simons in the murder trial of star pitcher Pete Marcus. Simons and Davis are brothers-in-law and former college teammates, but when Marcus is brutally murdered, all the evidence points to Simons, his teammate on the San Diego Padres.
The idea for the murder mystery—the first in a planned series of Scott Davis legal-thrillers—was directly inspired by Feldman’s 20-year career as a practicing attorney. “Spending 20 years as a trial lawyer gives you a big insight into life as a storyteller,” says Feldman. “Once I retired, I wanted to find a way to combine the things that I enjoy the most, which are baseball and the law, in a way that was useful and enjoyable to myself and others.”
The story of Murder on the Mound, Feldman insists, had been rolling around in his head for 20-some odd years. The character of Scott Davis, like any great protagonist, has bits and pieces of himself. Feldman, a Boston Red Sox fan, hails from Hamden, Connecticut. “Scott’s character is sort of fantasy-biographical, because while it would’ve been a dream of mine to play for the Red Sox, it was never going to happen,” says Feldman. “When the murder investigation happens, Scott’s coming off an emotionally devastating career-ending injury. Everybody around him fears that if this murder trial goes badly, it could be the blow he couldn’t come back from.”
Murder on the Mound is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and bookstores via Ingram. 
An Atlanta Braves pitcher delivers from the mound during 2026 Spring Training game. Photo by Wes Roberts.
Two Company premieres, a stage transformed by sculptural design, and live music await audiences as The Sarasota Ballet presents Program Two, November 20 - 21, 2026, at the Sarasota Opera House. Continuing the Company’s 2026 - 2027 Season, celebrating 20 Seasons under Director Iain Webb, the program features the Company premieres of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Solitaire and Alexei Ratmansky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, alongside the return of Jessica Lang’s Lyric Pieces. Jared Oaks conducts the Sarasota Orchestra in Solitaire and performs as solo pianist for Lyric Pieces. Guest pianist Cameron Grant, who performed at the world premiere of Pictures at an Exhibition, joins the Company for its premiere of Ratmansky’s ballet.
The Sarasota Ballet in Jessica Lang's Lyric Pieces. Photo by Frank Atura.
Andy Sandberg, Artistic Director and CEO of the Hermitage Artist Retreat, announced today that UK-based Olivier Award-winning playwright and actor Waleed Akhtar has been selected as the seventh recipient of the Hermitage Major Theater Award (HMTA). This jury-selected prize, established by the Hermitage in 2021 with generous support from Flora Major and the Kutya Major Foundation, offers one of the largest nonprofit theater commissions in the United States and the United Kingdom. Akhtar will receive a cash prize of $35,000 USD, as well as a residency at the Hermitage (Manasota Key, Florida) and a developmental workshop in a major arts capital – which for this commission will be London in late 2028.
Provided photo.
Art, creativity and Sarasota’s vibrant downtown come together this November as the Sarasota Fall Fine Art Festival returns to J.D. Hamel Park on Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Presented by Paragon Events, the free festival transforms the park into an open-air gallery filled with original works from artists representing Florida and communities across the country. Throughout the park, guests can explore a colorful collection of paintings, sculpture, photography, fine jewelry, glass, ceramics, fiber art, woodworking, metalwork and mixed-media pieces. From striking statement works to smaller handcrafted discoveries, the festival offers an engaging experience for established collectors, first-time art buyers and those simply looking to enjoy a creative afternoon outdoors.
Provided photo.
ASC welcomes back the extraordinary cellist Mike Block, performing this time as part of the uniquely joyful trio Biribá Union. Borrowing its name from a Brazilian wild sugarapple, the musicians of Biribá Union met through Silkroad’s Global Musician Workshop, initially bonding over their shared love of Brazilian music. Their original compositions draw on the freestyle theatrics of hip-hop and Go-go music, the effortless beauty of Brazilian forró and choro, the earthiness of American roots music, and the improvisational spontaneity of jazz. The program will be announced from the stage and will include original compositions, arrangements from global collaborations, and tunes from their debut album Passing Go. Artists sponsored by James H. Johnson, Jr., MD PA. Artists and school program sponsored by Miles & Barbara Capron.
Biriba Union. Provided photo.
Reprised from last season, Sarasota Jewish Theatre is pleased to share that its educational production of Celeste Raspanti’s “I Never Saw Another Butterfly” will be performed for over 3,000 middle and high school students at nine schools in Sarasota and Manatee counties this month. The tour is made possible in part by Presenting Angel Leonard Engelberg, in memory of his wife Ida, who had a passion for butterflies. Inspired by I Never Saw Another Butterfly: Children's Drawings and Poems from Terezin Concentration Camp, 1942–1944, the play is a stunning testament to resilience, humanity, and courage in the face of unimaginable hardship.
"Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karksi" featuring Michael Raver, 2026. Photo by Sorcha Augustine.
Looking for more entertainment close to home? The Pops Orchestra is coming to Parrish with an afternoon of live music that brings rock 'n' roll favorites and the sound of a full orchestra right to the neighborhood. On Saturday, November 14 at 3 PM, singer Alex Shillo joins The Pops Orchestra at the Parrish Community Performing Arts Center at Parrish Community High School for "Born in the U.S.A." The concert features the music of Bruce Springsteen, followed by a patriotic salute honoring those who have served. For Parrish residents looking for a fun afternoon out with friends, a date close to home, or a chance to experience live orchestral music, this is an invitation to get to know The Pops.
Provided photo.
Get ready to swing to the sounds of The Venice Symphony Big Band as The New Voice of the Great American Songbook brings beloved classics to life. Featuring guest artist Danny Sinoff, a dynamic jazz pianist, vocalist and bandleader, the concert showcases an artist who has spent more than 20 years captivating audiences throughout Southwest Florida and beyond.
Saturday, Nov. 14, at 3:30pm, Tickets: $55–$65, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Building 5, Venice.
Please join Marie Selby Botanical Gardens President and CEO Jennifer O. Rominiecki—recognized for a fourth consecutive year as one of Florida’s most influential leaders in Florida Trend Magazine’s “Florida 500”—for a talk and an inspiring inside look at Phase Two of Selby Gardens’ visionary three-phase Master Plan. Botanical Briefings is complimentary for members and included with admission! Registration is required to attend. Stay for lunch at The Green Orchid by Michael's On East or Selby House Café.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens' Downtown Sarasota Campus. Provided photo
Nomination Round is here! Best of SRQ Local 2027 nominations are now open, giving Sarasota-area businesses, organizations and community favorites the chance to make the official ballot.
Encourage your customers, clients and community to show their support and nominate your brand during the five-week nomination round, running through November 18. Save the date and get ready to rally your community!
Nominations close November 18, 2026
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
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
Enjoy fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities on Bradenton's Old Main Street every Saturday from October through May. Local farmers, artisans and chefs share their talents, and you'll always be greeted with a smile from the market vendors.
Old Main Street, 400 12th St. W, Bradenton
From fiery chemistry and haunted experiments to escape rooms and flying pickles, STEAM Saturdays classes return this fall. Every Saturday, students in grades 2-3, 4-5 and 6-8 are invited to participate in hands-on, project-based activities with themes including Haunted Alchemy, Autumn Escape Room, Fireball Chemistry and a pickle-powered aerospace class. Younger students have the chance to build technical skills, confidence and creativity while learning alongside near-peer role models.
Faulhaber Fab Lab, 4452 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate the rebellious nature of America through the music of artists who challenged convention, inspired change and gave voice to generations of Americans. Featuring unforgettable songs like Born in the U.S.A., Blowin' in the Wind, What's Going On and True Colors, this joyous musical journey celebrates the rebels, dreamers and visionaries who helped shape the American story. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
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
From visual art to live entertainment, November's Fresh Fridays event brings the community together to explore the many ways art inspires and connects. Beyond The Canvas is dedicated to the local artists, creators and creative energy that make Sarasota such a vibrant place. Spend your evening strolling through downtown, discovering something new and enjoying the energy of Sarasota's arts scene on North Palm Avenue.
North Palm Avenue, N. Palm Ave., Sarasota
Think big on a small scale. This playful exhibition at Creative Liberties features imaginative, affordable original artworks that make memorable holiday gifts. An opening reception will be held on November 6 from 5-7pm.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
Feel the collective rush as Sarasota Orchestra launches the Masterworks season in magnificent fashion. Legendary violinist Gil Shaham performs Beethoven's luminous Violin Concerto—a piece that soars with pure lyricism. The concert opens with Lera Auerbach's gripping musical retelling of the myth of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun. Also, hear Sergey Prokofiev's Symphony No. 5.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter is proud to announce the upcoming Sarasota Design Conference, scheduled for November 12–14, 2026. This year’s highly anticipated event will take place at the iconic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sarasota, a mid-century masterpiece designed by legendary architect Victor Lundy. For the first time, this event will be held in conjunction with Architecture Sarasota, an organization dedicated to the stewardship of the globally renowned Sarasota School of Architecture. The conference coincides with the 13th annual Sarasota MOD Weekend and conference attendees will receive a discounted rate for tickets.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota
In this Joyful Journeys Author Series, learn how the Sarasota Audubon Society is dedicated to the protection, conservation and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment. Discover the significant history of this organization and recognize the many volunteers who have dedicated a substantial amount of their time and effort in service. Their persistent efforts to preserve the Celery fields as a prime birding location have resulted in the area designated as part of the extensive Great Florida Birding Trail.
Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta's famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food and drink, shopping, sand sculpting demonstrations and family-friendly activities–all set against the backdrop of one of America's top-ranked beaches. Whether you're an art lover, beachgoer or local supporter, the Crystal Classic offers a truly unique experience that inspires creativity and brings the community together year after year.
Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Kick off the holidays with a merry celebration along N. Cattlemen Rd. that features giant balloons, fantastical floats, marching bands, dance troupes and a special appearance by the one-and-only Santa Claus. The excitement continues with thrilling FMX stunts by Nik Wallenda's Wonderland Circus, the lighting of UTC's 50-foot holiday tree, dazzling fireworks and an after-party concert. Visit the kids zone for games and crafts from 3-5pm, and pre-party entertainment begins at 4:15pm.
UTC District, N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
At the Living Arts Festival's opening party, expect color, connections and surprises around every corner. It's the perfect way to kick off a week of art, music, dance and theatre. Experience live performances, singing, dancing and visual art, plus a first look at everything during festival week.
Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
This competition will showcase the best in music, art, theatre, dance and acrobatics. The energy is electric, the talent is real and the winners take home cash prizes. Join the excitement as a panel of celebrity judges chooses the champion. Awards and prizes are presented at the end of the competition.
Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, 6116 Crestwood Ave., Sarasota
This family-friendly celebration will spotlight young entrepreneurs alongside Black art, music, dance and soul food. Participating young business owners include Genesis Williams of Little Genny's Italian Ice, Zahi' Jennings of Jass Lemonade, Kay Gallego of Kay's Sweet Empire and more. The event gives young people a chance to introduce their ventures to neighbors, engage potential customers and see the wider community celebrate their ambitions.
The Historic Leonard Reid House, 2529 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
This family-friendly event features local music, dance, theatre and arts groups performing all day. Kids can jump into hands-on art and theatre workshops for budding creatives of all ages, while food trucks keep everyone fueled. Bring the whole family and let your little ones discover what they love.
Civic Green, adjacent to the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This kaleidoscopic closing performance wraps up the 2026 Living Arts Festival with a world of entertainment. You'll experience the sights and sounds of your favorite area performers, plus surprise appearances. Sit on the edge of your seat to hear awards including Best of the Festival, Small But Mighty and Creativity At Its Finest. Highlights include the 2nd annual presentation of the Teacher Tribute Awards to two area art teachers who inspire and motivate youth in music, art, theatre and dance.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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