60+ arts events to see, hear and experience in January in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte
PMP Winter Residency
The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast returns for its 20th anniversary in Sarasota. Led by acclaimed violinist Itzhak Perlman and his wife, Toby, the program invites 30 young string players to study with professional musicians, take master classes (many open to the public) and perform in a celebration concert. Open classes and rehearsals are presented Dec. 29-Jan. 5 at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The celebration concert is at 5 p.m. Jan. 6 at Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. For ticket information: 941-328-1300; perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org
‘Beauty of Inflections and Innuendoes’
Bradenton and Sarasota fiber artists Ellen S. Goldberg, Rebecca Levine Quigley and Michael R. Stevenson will be artists-in-residence at the Gaze Gallery in Sarasota. Stevenson calls the exhibit a “celebration of color, complexity and texture.” He said the artists hope to help “fiber become recognized, respected and celebrated as a fine art medium. Jan. 3-Feb. 29, Gaze Gallery at ARCOS, 340 Central Ave., Sarasota. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Jan. 18.
‘Inside the Night Sky and Beyond’
Artist Anne Patterson and composer Patrick Harlin met while fellows in residence at Hermitage Artist Retreat and have joined together to create an exhibit, “The Truth of the Night Sky,” that will open at the Sarasota Art Museum in April. They will talk about their work together in a program on the Hermitage Beach, joined by multi-disciplinary artist Anthony Hawley, who will share some of his work in progress. 5 p.m. Jan. 5, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. $5 registration; hermitageartistretreat.org
‘Friends and Inspirations’
The Sarasota Orchestra kicks off the new year with a concert led by guest conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya, music director of the Baylor Symphony Orchestra and director of orchestral studies at Baylor University. Sir Stephen Hough, a pianist, author and 2001 MacArthur Fellow, performs Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini in a program that also includes Edward Elgar’s “Enigma Variations” and Clarice Assad’s “Bonecos de Olinda.” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 5, Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 6 and 2:30 p.m. Jan. 7 at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$105. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘Judith’
Urbanite Theatre kicks off 2024 with the world premiere (in association with Hanover Theatre Repertory in Worcester, Massachusetts) of Katie Bender’s one-woman play “Judith.” Livy Scanlon, who conceived and helped develop the story, stars as the sister of William Shakespeare, who dresses as her brother and travels to London to help save his reputation by crafting the plays we have come to know. Jan. 5-Feb. 18. Urbanite Theatre, 1487 Second St., Sarasota. $42, $28 under age 40, $5 students. 941-321-1397; urbanitetheatre.com
Rainforest Masks of Costa Rica
Selby Botanical Gardens marks the 20th anniversary of its annual Rainforest Masks of Costa Rica exhibition, with a three-week display of the traditional art of the Indigenous Boruca tribe of the Costa Rican rainforest. The show will feature hundreds of colorful masks, which will be available for purchase. Jan. 6-21 in the Museum of Botany and the Arts at Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. 941-366-5731; selby.org
Maria Wirries
The singer and actress who started performing in Sarasota area programs as a child has grown into an accomplished professional who has appeared on Broadway in “Dear Evan Hansen” and the off-Broadway revival of “Kinky Boots.” She returns to the Glenridge Performing Arts Center, where she first performed at age 13 with the center’s musical director and her longtime voice teacher Alan Corey. 7:30 pm. Jan. 6. Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $20-$25. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
‘Red Riding Hood’
FST’s Children’s Theatre presents Allison Gregory’s adaptation of the classic fairy tale “Red Riding Hood.” A famous actor named Wolfgang is trying to perform his one-man version of “Little Red Riding Hood,” when he is interrupted by a delivery person carrying a mysterious package. Two actors play all the roles. Saturdays and select Sundays Jan. 7-Feb. 10. FST Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. $10. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Ringling College Galleries exhibits
"Chromatic Echoes" features the work of Colombian artist Omar Chacon, who is best known for vibrant and dynamic paintings. He is a 2002 graduate from Ringling College. In the Patricia Thompson Alumni and Skylight galleries. A meet-the-artist reception is 5-8 p.m. Jan. 12. “Che Colore” features selections from the Richard and Barbara Basch glass collection in the Basch Gallery. Both shows run Jan. 8-March 22. 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-359-7563; ringlingcollege.gallery
‘What She Could See’
Sarasota artist Joan Libby Hawk presents her first solo show, the multi-disciplinary installation “What She Could See.” Hawk says it “challenges assumptions about two- and three-dimensional art, how people look and move about an exhibit.” The display also includes ceramics. Also on exhibit is “Bullets and Bandaids: A Veteran Anthology,” which features work that looks at the world through the lens of veteran experiences. Jan. 9-March 14, Ringling College’s Englewood Art Center, 350 S. McCall Road, Englewood. Opening reception for both shows 2-4 p.m. Jan. 13. 941-474-5548; ringling.edu/eac
Jonathan Mamora
This Artist Series Concerts emerging artist recital features Jonathan Mamora, the winner of the Olga Kern International Piano Competition among numerous other prizes. His program will include Schubert’s “Trout” quintet. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9. Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. $30-$50. 941-306-1200; artistseriesconcerts.org
Corda Voce
Sarasota Concert Association resumes its music matinee series with soprano Jenny Kim-Godfrey and her husband, classical guitarist Jonathan Godfrey, performing a combination of classical, cabaret, jazz and popular music styles. The concert is sold out, but a waitlist is available. 2 p.m. Jan. 10, First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
‘The Cher Show’
This Tony Award-winning musical explores the life and career of Cher, with three actresses playing her at different stages of her life. The musical features about three dozen Cher songs and even more costumes by her legendary designer Bob Mackie. An extra performance was added during the Sarasota run. Jan. 10-12, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $75-$110. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Tick, Tick … Boom’
Before he became a household name with his Pulitzer Prize-winning “Rent,” composer and lyricist Jonathan Larson wrote this autobiographical musical about what it takes for one composer to create a new show, along with the friendships and relationships he sacrifices. The musical was adapted into a Netflix film by Lin-Manuel Miranda that made it even more about Larson’s own life. Jan. 10-28, Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Suite 1130. $28-$30, $13 for students. 941-365-2494; theplayers.org
‘By Special Arrangement’
This Sarasota Orchestra Great Escapes concert is a celebration of arrangers who are considered unsung heroes in the music world. Christopher Confessore leads a program of pieces that began as piano music and became better known when arranged for orchestra. That includes classical favorites and hits from movies and theater. Jan. 10-14. The Jan. 10, 12 and 14 performances are one hour with no intermission, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $46-$63. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘Freedom to Wander’
Robert Gaglio, a former banker who suffered personal and financial losses in the 2008 stock market crash, traces his journey to reinvention with the launch of his book “Freedom to Wander.” In 2012, he began exploring his family roots in Italy. He’s a master chef and the founder of Italian Culinary Tours. He will take part in several book readings and signings, including 1-2 p.m. Jan. 10 at Selby Public Library, 1331 First St., Sarasota; 2-3 p.m. Jan. 18 at Friends of the Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Both are free. He also will be part of a book talk and concert 7 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. $49. italianculinarytours.com/book-launch-westcoast-black-theatre-troupe.
Theatre Odyssey Ten-Minute Play Festival
Theatre Odyssey introduces audiences to nine new plays by Florida writers with its 19th annual Ten-Minute Play Festival. They are staged and performed by Sarasota area actors and directors. The collection includes Spencer Opal-Levine’s “Flying Solo with IBD," the winner of the 2021 Student Ten-Minute Playwriting Festival. One play is inspired by the Florida Highwaymen artists. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11-13 and 2 p.m. Jan. 14. The matinee will be followed by an awards ceremony. Tickets are $30. theatreodyssey.org
‘Anastasia’
A stage musical that grew out of the 1997 animated film and based on the legend of the youngest daughter of the last Russian tsar. The story by Terrence McNally is about an 18-year-old woman with amnesia seeking to connect to her past when she meets two con men who try to pass her off as the Grand Duchess. The score is by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Jan. 11-21, Rise Above Performing Arts, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1005, Sarasota. $25-$33. 941-702-4747; riseabovearts.com
Selby Gardens reopening
After years of planning, fundraising, construction and challenges with parking and navigation, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens opens the first phase of its new master plan, with ceremonies and special activities. Visitors will find a new parking structure, restaurant, visitor center and administrative and research building that will be open for tours. Details will be announced closer to the opening date. Jan. 11. 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. 941-366-5731; selby.org
‘The Mousetrap’
Agatha Christie’s murder mystery is the world’s longest-running play. Aside from a year-long COVID shutdown, it has been playing in London’s West End since 1952. It now comes a little closer to home with a new production at the Island Players directed by Heiko Knipfelberg. In the story, a police detective questions seven strangers who are staying at the Monkswell Manor Guest House and seem more suspicious by the minute. Jan. 11-28, Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. $28-$30. 941-778-5755; theislandplayers.org
‘Merman’s Apprentice: Musical Theater’s Golden Age’
Hermitage Artist Retreat alums Stephen Cole (writer and lyricist) and David Evans (composer) present a look at a new musical fable they are creating. They will perform selections from a show about a 12-year-old girl who runs away from home toward the end of the Golden Age of musical theater and happens to meet Broadway legend Ethel Merman. Presented with Venice Theatre. 5 p.m. Jan. 12, Hermitage Artist Retreat Beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Tall Tales and Treasure
As it continues its 50th anniversary season, The Venice Symphony is joined by vocalist Lauren Jelencovich, who has toured with Yanni, for a program that features music from adventure movies including “Captain Blood,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Mulan,” ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” and “The Little Mermaid.” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13, Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice. All performances sold out. 941-207-8822; thevenicesymphony.org
‘Rumors’
In Neil Simon’s farce, complications arise during an anniversary dinner party at the home of the deputy mayor of New York and his wife. The official has shot himself, and while it was only a flesh wound, panicked guests lie and twist the truth to cover up what really happened and stories grow wildly out of control. Jan. 12-28. Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. $27, $14 students. 941-255-1022; charlotteplayers.org
‘The Amish Project’
Katherine Michelle Tanner returns to Jessica Dickey’s acclaimed one-woman play based on the true story of the 2006 schoolhouse shootings in the Amish community of Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania. A gunman shot 10 young women and five of them died. Tanner, directed by Todd Olson, plays all the characters in a play that she says is all about humanity and needed more now than before. She previously performed the play at American Stage in St. Petersburg in 2013 and at Sarasota’s Banyan Theatre in 2015. Jan. 12-Feb. 11. Tree Fort Productions Projects, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $40. Treefortproductionsprojects.com
‘Calendar Girls’
Tim Firth’s play, based on the popular 2003 film, is about a group of British women who are trying to raise funds for charity and decide they will do best by posing nude for a calendar. The decisions cause complications for the women and the community, though people rally around the idea. Natalia Mock directs. Jan. 12-Feb. 11, Venice Theatre Pinkerton Theatre, 140 W. Tampa Ave., Venice. $35, $22 college students, $15 youth. 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
‘Picture This: Inaugural Sketchbook Library Exhibition’
Ringling College features its first exhibit of student sketchbooks, where the artists start developing ideas that may get turned into fuller pieces of art. The school says it “captures the essence of artistic evolution.” Brizdle-Schoenberg Special Collections Center. Jan. 12-Feb. 23. 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-359-7563; ringlingcollege.gallery
‘Postcards from Utopia’
This international traveling exhibition features work by more than 80 artists who offer their visions of Utopia. Several of the artists are from Sarasota. During the exhibit and reception, music will be provided by Sarasota jazz musicians Jack Berry and Akiem Esdaile. 3-6 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Phillippi Crest Club, 2421 Burlington Lane, Sarasota. phillippicrestclub.com/events
‘Mutts Gone Nuts’
The Van Wezel is going to the dogs with this troupe of four-legged comedians at center stage. The act includes what is described as “the highest jumping dog in the universe,” a six-pound Pomeranian Pikachu mix, and once-discarded dogs that dance, flip and skip. They are led by Scott and Joan Houghton, who have been performing together since 1984. 5 p.m. Jan. 13, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$55. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘How Sweet It Is'
Grammy-winning songwriter Steve Leslie, who has written for such artists as Kenny Rogers, George Strait and Darius Rucker, celebrates the music of James Taylor in this tribute concert. He’ll be singing “Up on the Roof," “Fire and Rain,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Shower the People” and more. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13, Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $25-$30. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
‘Seeking Balance’
All Angels Gallery hosts an exhibit by artist Janice Newman, whose work is found in public and private collections and has been displayed in galleries and museums around the world. A meet-the-artist reception is 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Jan. 14, and the exhibit continues through Jan. 29. All Angels by the Sea Episcopal Church, 563 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key. revdavidmarshall.com
PoetryMic
Bookstore1Sarasota hosts local poets Joan Magiet and Linda Robiner in this series that highlights poets from the region. 2 p.m. Jan. 14, Bookstore1Sarasota, 117 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Free or a $7 contribution. 941-365-7902; sarasotabooks.com
Punta Gorda Symphony
Guest conductor Miriam Burns, director of the orchestras at The Ohio State University, leads this concert that features Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” and Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto. Violinist Ming Gao is the guest soloist. 3:30 p.m. Jan. 14, Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda. $35-$65, $15 students and youth. 941-205-5996; pgsymphony.org
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo
The world’s most popular all-male comedic ballet troupe is nearing its 50th anniversary as it returns to Sarasota, bringing excerpts from classic ballets performed with all seriousness and a comical touch. Because of new state laws, the show comes with a warning that it is recommended for those 18 and over. 7 p.m. Jan. 14, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $25-$70. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Sofia Philharmonic
The Sarasota Concert Association presents the Sofia Philharmonic, led by conductor Nayden Todorov, with guest pianist Ivaylo Vassilev. They will be performing an all-Beethoven program that includes the Egmont Overture, Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor,” and Symphony No. 7. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $30-$95. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
‘Three Ringling Circus’
Sandra Gurvis marks the launch of her new book “Three Ringling Circus: A History of Sarasota, Florida & The Famous Ringling Brothers” with a reading and signing event at 5 p.m. Jan. 17 at Bookstore1Sarasota, 117 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Free admission or $25 with the book. 941-365-7902; sarasotabooks.com
Cavatina Duo
In this Artist Series Concerts dinner program, the Cavatina Duo — flutist Eugenia Moliner and her husband, Bosnian guitarist Denis Azabagic — performs flamenco, tango and opera fantasies. 5:30 p.m. Jan. 17. Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice. $78. 941-306-1200; artistseriesconcerts.org
Four Phantoms in Concert
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” is the longest-running show in Broadway history, with a lot of performers who kept it running for more than 35 years. Four of them join together for this concert of Broadway, light classical and pop standards. Brent Barrett, John Curia, Franc D’Ambrosio and Ciarán Sheehan are joined by Kaley Ann Voorhees, one of the youngest sopranos to sing the role of Christine Daaé on Broadway. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $50-$80. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Ugly Lies the Bone’
Florida Studio Theatre opens a new season of its Stage III series with Lindsey Ferrentino’s “Ugly Lies the Bone,” about a woman who returns home after three tours in Afghanistan with a profound disfigurement from burns. Jess uses virtual reality therapy to escape physical and emotional pain. the cast includes Rachel Moulton and Vicki Daignault. Jan. 17-Feb. 9, FST's Bowne’s Lab Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $29-$46. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘It’s A Bird... It’s a Plane... It’s Superman’
In this rarely seen 1966 Broadway musical, with a score by “Bye Bye Birdie” songwriters Charles Strouse and Lee Adams, Superman tries to defeat scientist Dr. Abner Sedgwick, who is seeks vengeance against the scientific world for snubbing him and his research. Sarah Johnson plays Superman opposite Serenna Jones as Lois Lane and Philip Troyer as Sedgewick in this Dingbat Theatre Project production, staged by Luke Manual McFatrich. Jan. 17-28, Loveland Performing Arts Theatre, 157 S. Havana Rd., Venice. $40 for VIP tickets, $25 general admission and $12 for students. dingbattheatre.org/superman.html
‘The Sunshine Boys’
While the Charlotte Players are performing Neil Simon’s “Rumors,” Lemon Bay Playhouse presents his comedic tribute to the glory days of vaudeville. “The Sunshine Boys” is about two former comedy partners and legends who haven’t spoken in years but agree to get together for a history of comedy TV special, with disastrous results. Jan. 17-Feb. 11, 96 Dearborn St., Englewood. $25, $20 students. 941-475-6756; lemonbayplayhouse.com
‘Voice, Vision and Verbs’
Hermitage Artist Retreat fellows Jacquelyn Reingold, Joan La Barbara and Laura Kaminsky share stories and examples of their work. Reingold is a stage and screen writer, who has worked on “Smash,” “Grace & Frankie” and “The Good Fight.” La Barbara is a composer and performer, and Kaminsky is a composer and librettist in contemporary opera. 5 p.m. Jan. 18. Hermitage Artist Retreat beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
‘Stand Up Jesus’
Robert Dubac, who first brought us “The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron?” is back with this new show described as “an irreverent look at reverence.” He presents Jesus as a stand-up comic who has a lot to say about false prophets, duplicitous politicians and what is happening in the world. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $25-$65. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Oklahoma’
The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic that changed musical theater forever returns to the Manatee Players with a story about love blossoming on the open plains of a new state. Producing Artistic Director Rick Kerby stages and choreographs the musical that features the songs “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning,” “People will Say We’re in Love” and “Surrey With the Fringe On Top.” Jan. 18-28, Manatee Performing Arts Center Stone Hall, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. $33. 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
‘Crimes of the Heart’
The Manatee Players hosts a double opening night. With “Oklahoma!” on the mainstage, Beth Henley’s Pulitzer Prize-winning comedic drama “Crimes of the Heart” opens its run in the smaller Kiwanis Studio Theatre. It’s about the ups and downs in the lives of Meg, Babe and Lenny Magrath, three sisters who are reunited at their grandfather’s Mississippi home after Babe shoots her abusive husband. Jan. 18-28, Manatee Performing Arts Center Kiwanis Studio Theatre, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. $27. 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
‘A Soldier’s Play’
Charles Fuller’s gripping, Pulitzer Prize-winning play set in the segregation-era South of 1944 returns to the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. Acclaimed director Chuck Smith stages the story about an investigation into the murder of a Black sergeant that touches on racism, service and identity in America. Jan. 18-Feb. 18. WBTT Donnelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. $50, $20 students age 25 and younger and active military, $40 previews. 941-366-1505; westcoastblacktheatre.org
‘Evolving/Revolving’
Each year, Sarasota Contemporary Dance invites back choreographers to further develop new work and stretch the boundaries of the company. This year’s program features choreographer/dancer Alyson Dolan and composer-musician Drew Silver to co-create a new multi-disciplinary piece with Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott. Jan. 18-21, Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $20-$55. Virtual streaming tickets available. 941-260-8485; sarasotacontemporarydance.org
‘Songs from the Sand’
In this Hermitage Artist Retreat cabaret, Sarasota area singers and actors perform songs from a variety of Hermitage fellows, including Tony Award-winning Jeanine Tesori, Michael R. Jackson and Gavin Creel, as well as Adam Gwon, Kit Yan, Zoe Sarnak and Rona Siddiqui. 5 p.m. Jan. 19 at Longboat Key Town Center, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
‘Inherit the Wind’
Peter Rothstein, Asolo Repertory Theatre’s new producing artistic director, stages this American classic by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee based on the Scopes monkey trial. Two prominent attorneys face off in a Southern courtroom over whether a teacher violated the law talking about Charles Darwin and evolution. The production opens the theater’s winter rotating repertory schedule. Jan. 17-Feb. 24, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $29-$95. 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
‘Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville’
The Broadway musical built around the chart-topping songs by the late Jimmy Buffett brings a laid-back vibe to Venice Theatre. Preston Boyd directs and Vanessa Russo choreographs the production that features a book by television veterans Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley. The score includes the hits “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere,” “Son of a Son of a Sailor,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Margaritaville.” Jan. 19-Feb. 18, Venice Theatre Raymond Center, 140 W. Tampa Ave., Venice. $37, $22 college students, $15 youth. 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
‘Broadway Showstoppers’
Broadway performers Teri Hansen, Ali Ewoldt and Sean MacLaughlin, veterans of such shows as “Les Misérables,” “The Sound of Music” and “Phantom of the Opera,” join guest conductor Evan Roider for this Sarasota Orchestra Pops concert of hits from such shows as “Mamma Mia!,” “Chicago,” “A Chorus Line,” “Wicked” and “Rent.” Roider is music director and conductor of the national tour of “Wicked.” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 19, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $41-$95. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘String and Piano Quartets’
Sarasota Orchestra string players and pianist Jonathan Spivey perform a program that includes a string quartet by Florence Price, who in 1933 became the first Black woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. Her quartet includes touches of folk music, spirituals and the blues. The concert also includes Robert Schumann’s Piano Quartet, inspired by his wife, Clara. 4 p.m. Jan. 21, Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $42-$52. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Embracing Our Differences
The annual exhibition of 50 billboard-sized works of art accompanied by inspirational quotes from students and adults from around the world returns to Sarasota Bayfront Park. This year’s Sarasota exhibit runs Jan. 21-April 14 at 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota. The grand opening celebration will be noon-3 p.m. Jan. 21. It will be followed by a second display March 2-31 at Poynter Park, 3rd Street South and Ninth Ave., South, St. Petersburg. Several awards are offered, including best-in-show for adults and students and People's Choice categories chosen by visitors. You can see an online gallery of the work at the organization’s website: embracingourdifferences.org
‘Hyprov’
This show (pronounced hip-rawv) offers improv under hypnosis. Colin Mochrie, a veteran improviser best known for “Whose Line is it Anyway?” joins hypnotist Asad Mecci for this program. Mecci will invite about 20 audience members on stage to be hypnotized, and the most receptive will perform improv sketches with Mochrie. 7 p.m. Jan. 21, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $25-$60. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Night and Day’
The contemporary classical music group ensembleNewSRQ performs the world premiere of Scott Lee’s “Karst,” which was written for founders and artistic directors Samantha Bennett and George Nickson. It is the first of two commissions to premiere this season. The program also includes string, harp and percussion pieces by Molly Herron, Sebastian Currier, Einojuhaari Rautavaara and Sam Adams. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22, First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota. $25 live performance, $10 streaming. Ensrq.org
Harlem Quartet
The Grammy Award-winning Harlem Quartet, known for eclectic programming and collaborations with famous soloists, makes its Sarasota Concert Association debut. The group will perform works by Beethoven, Guido López-Gavilán, Caroline Shaw and Fanny Mendelssohn. During their Sarasota visit, they also will hold masterclasses at Booker and Riverview high schools. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24, Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota. $39-$89. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
‘Music on the Wind’
In this Hermitage Sunsets @ Selby Gardens program, composer and musician James Stephenson and flutist Emi Ferguson share selections from their compositions and talk about the creative process. 5 p.m. Jan. 25. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. $5 registration fee. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Art Center Sarasota
Art Center Sarasota opens three exhibits by individual artists and the annual Juried Members Show. Brian V. Jones’ “Looking for Home” is a photo exhibit exploring his relationship with life in Sarasota. Carole Lyles Shaw’s “Black Women: Music of the Heart & Soul,” is a display of textile collages or artquilts celebrating Black women musicians. Christopher Skura’s “Social Studies” captures life in lower Manhattan with influences of street art. Jan. 25-March 2, Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Jan. 25. 941-365-2032; artsarasota.org
‘Titans’
Guest conductor Giancarlo Guerrero, a multiple Grammy Award-winning conductor and music director of the Nashville Symphony, leads this Sarasota Orchestra Masterworks program. Guest artist Ji Su Jung, marimba, performs Kevin Puts’ Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra on a program that also includes the overture to Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26-27 and 2:30 p.m. Jan. 28, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$105. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘Graziano Celebrated’
The Sarasota Ballet marks 10 years of principal dancer Ricardo Graziano serving as the company’s resident choreographer with three pieces, including a world premiere set to music by Franz Schubert. The program also includes his “Sonatina,” with music by Antonin Dvořák and “In a State of Weightlessness,” with music by Philip Glass. Jan. 26-29, Mertz Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $40-$125. 941-359-0099; sarasotaballet.org
MicroWIP
Ringling’s Art of Performance series hosts a presentation of four Sarasota area performance artists who have been chosen to showcase excerpts of works in progress (WIP). 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26, Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. $10, $5 members. 941-360-7399; ringling.org
‘In Parachutes Descending’
Poet Tana Jean Welch marks the launch of her new book with this reading and signing program at Bookstore1Sarasota, 2 p.m. Jan. 28. Free, or $18 including a copy of the book. 117 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. 941-365-7902; sarasotabooks.com
Flying Horse Big Band
From the University of Central Florida, the Flying Horse Big Band is led by composer, saxophonist and arranger Jeff Rupert, who is joined by Harry Allen on tenor sax. The group recently released its eighth album, “Big Man on Campus.” 2 p.m. Jan. 28, Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $25-$30. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
‘Hadestown’
Anaïs Mitchell’s Tony Award-winning musical is a modern retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, weaving together a variety of stories. In this version, the underworld is depicted as an industrial place with always-working drones. Orpheus follows Eurydice there hoping to lure her back home. Jan. 30-Feb. 4, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $45-$125. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Fully Committed’
Doug Shapiro stars in Becky Mode’s one-man comedy about an out-of-work actor who supports himself by handling reservations at Manhattan’s number one restaurant, swatting away callers who pretend to be someone to get a seat, and revealing a bit about himself along the way. Sarasota Jewish Theatre. Jan. 31-Feb. 4, Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Suite 1130. $18-$28. 941-365-2494; theplayers.org
‘The Lehman Trilogy’
One of the most acclaimed dramas of recent years, Stefano Massini’s play (adapted by Ben Power) traces the extensive history of the Lehman Brothers, from their arrival in New York through 163 years until the company collapsed into bankruptcy. Jan. 31-March 24. Gompertz Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $39-$59. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘Revolutionary Music’
In this Great Escapes concert, the Sarasota Orchestra performs music that was considered revolutionary when it was first performed because of the impact it had on audiences. Guest conductor Lawrence Loh, music director of Symphoria in Syracuse, N.Y., and the West Virginia Symphony, leads works by Beethoven, Mozart, The Beatles and film composer John Williams. Jan. 31-Feb. 4. The Jan. 31, Feb. 2 and 4 performances are performed in one hour with no intermission. Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $47-$63. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Continuing
Art Center Sarasota
You have until Jan. 13 to see three solo shows by Aimee Jones, Ethan Fielder and Tom Casmer, plus a juried show called “Still Life” at Art Center Sarasota. Jones’ paintings use the dichotomy of the female form as a political landscape. Fielder displays sculptural ceramics, and Casmer’s show, “ge-stalt,” is inspired by the human figure, nature and machine-made elements. 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-365-2032; artsarasota.org
Asolo Rep
Asolo Repertory Theatre’s hit fall musical comedy “Crazy for You” continues through Jan. 4, with lots of tap dancing set to the music of George and Ira Gershwin. It’s about a banker’s son who just wants to be a song-and-dance man, and who falls in love when he’s sent to foreclose on a theater in Deadrock, Nevada. Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$98. 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
Circus Arts Conservatory
High-wire artist and daredevil Nik Wallenda produces and stars in this new holiday-season production presented with the Circus Arts Conservatory under the big top in the East District of University Town Center. Wallenda and family members perform, along with acrobatic contortion, hula hoops, comedy, aerial pole, freestanding ladder and dog acts. Extended through Jan. 7. 257 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota. $30-$75. 941-355-9335; circusarts.org
Florida Studio Theatre
Long runs keep Florida Studio Theatre’s multiple stages busy. Sharr White’s “Pictures from Home,” inspired by Larry Sultan’s acclaimed photo memoir, continues through Feb. 18 in the Keating Theatre. $25-$39. “Little Shop of Horrors” has been extended a second time through Jan. 21 in the Gompertz Theatre. “Up on the Roof,” a cabaret featuring music by songwriters who emerged from New York’s Brill building, continues through Feb. 4 in the Court Cabaret, and “Take it to the Limit,” a revue of songs by rock ‘n’ roll rebels, continues through April 7 in the Goldstein Cabaret. Cabarets are $34-$39. 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
The Ringling
There are multiple shows on display at the museum complex. “The True Story of Eve” features work by author and multimedia artist Michele Oka Doner. Through June 2, Monda Gallery. “Friar with a Gold Earring” explores a rare portrait by the Italian Baroque painter Guercino (Giovanni Francesco Barbieri). Through Jan. 7. “500 Years of Italian Drawings from the Princeton University Art Museum,” featuring 95 works from the late 15th century to early 20th century, continues through Jan. 21. “Working Conditions,” an exploration of labor seen through the lens of photographers, continues through March 3. “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” continues through June 23. “As long as there is sun, as long as there is light” continues through Jan. 7. The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-359-5700; ringling.org
Ringling College galleries
“Fluid Impressions: The Paintings of Syd Solomon,” an immersive collection featuring expressive, storytelling paintings from the master abstract impressionist, continues through March 25 in the Stulberg Gallery.Dreamscape: 2023 Illest of Illustration Annual Exhibition” continues through Jan. 12 in the Smith Gallery. Ringling College, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-359-7563; ringlingcollege.gallery
Sarasota Art Museum
“Embodied Memories, Ancestral Histories,” an exhibition of work by Cuban-born artist Juana Valdés, exploring her Caribbean identity, Cuban roots and African ancestry continues through Feb. 11. “Contemporary/Traditional,” an exhibit of glass work from the collection of Richard and Barbara Basch from the late 20th and early 21st centuries continues through Feb. 11. “Picking Up the Pieces,” a new installation created for the museum by Judy Pfaff is on display through March 24. 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-309-4300; sarasotaartmuseum.org
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: 60+ January arts events in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties
