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Figaro? Magnifico!
The clever servant is a pivotal player in two Sarasota Opera productions for its 2025 winter festival.
MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Isee a little silhouetto of a man Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango? Thunderbolt and lightning, very, very frightening me (Galileo) Galileo, (Galileo) Galileo, Galileo Figaro, magnifico
In the 2018 biographical film, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” when a member of the English rock band Queen hears the words to lead singer Freddie Mercury’s new song, he asks, “Who is Galileo?”
A better question might have been: Who is Figaro?
It’s one that Sarasota audiences soon will have the pleasure of pondering. The character shows up in two operas — “The Barber of Seville” and “The Marriage of Figaro” — in the 2025 Sarasota Opera Winter Festival, which begins Feb. 15. Figaro, a cunning servant, barber and all-around “fixer,” first came to life in the plays of French dramatist Pierre-Auguste Caron de Beaumarchais. Figaro was the inspiration for Rossini’s comic opera, “The Barber of Seville” (1816), considered a prequel to Mozart’s masterpiece “The Marriage of Figaro” (1786), even though it was written afterward. Got that? “Stars Wars” fans will understand.
The idea that a servant could outwit his well-born masters was considered so dangerous in monarchist France that Louis XVI banned both Figaro operas from his court. He still ended up losing his head to revolu-
tionaries in 1793, despite bowing to popular opinion and moving his household from Versailles to Paris. The splendor of French royalty can be enjoyed today by tourists at the dazzling Versailles Palace, and the operas about Figaro, who helps Count Almaviva win the hand of his beloved Rosina, and then gets to marry his fellow servant Susanna, entertain those from all ranks of life more than two centuries after their debut. Talk about “legs” — the term used in theater for plays with long runs. Victor DeRenzi, maestro of the Sarasota Opera, knows a little bit about staying power. He’s been in his job since 1982. Among leaders of Sarasota’s arts institutions, DeRenzi’s tenure is only exceeded by that of Florida Studio Theatre Producing Artistic Director Richard Hopkins, who joined FST in 1980. Despite the rarified reputation of his metier, DeRenzi’s life story is an
artistic director of the Sarasota Opera, and Richard Russell, general director, at a recent black tie event.
WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL
Featuring ‘Pagliacci,’ ‘The Barber of Seville,’ ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ and ‘Stiffelio’
Lori Sax
Victor DeRenzi,
Courtesy images
operatic Horatio Alger tale. Recalling a teacher who encouraged him and some of his elementary school classmates to go see their first opera, DeRenzi says, “I probably would have been a garbageman if it weren’t for him.”
Hyperbole perhaps, but fact is, DeRenzi’s hometown of Staten Island, New York, is home to many commercial carting firms, some of which allegedly have ties to the mafia. But it wasn’t DeRenzi’s fate to become a garbageman or a mobster, due to the guidance of his teacher and his seemingly innate love of opera.
Although some middle-class Italian families in New York City had opera playing in the background or made excursions to the Metropolitan Opera, DeRenzi’s kin was not of that ilk.
“My father was a dock worker and my mother was a mother. My grandparents had some Caruso records as Italian immigrants did in that time, but ours wasn’t a musical family,” he says.
For DeRenzi, it was love at first sight (sound?) when he first saw Verdi’s “La forza de destino” as a youth.
While still a student, DeRenzi joined his teacher at a small Staten Island opera called the Matinee Players, where DeRenzi sang in the chorus and built sets.
His love of opera propelled him to major in music theory at Queens College, part of City University of New York.
DeRenzi also privately studied theory, piano and conducting before landing a job as the conductor of a chorus at Wagner College on Staten Island made up of students, faculty and community members when he was just 20.
“In my day in New York, you started out in a lousy company. Then you worked in a less lousy company before you moved to a better company and continued to move up from there,” he says.
DeRenzi says he got an interview in Sarasota through a “friend of a friend of a friend.” He joined the Sarasota Opera in its last season performing at the Historic Asolo Theater in The Ringling before moving to its current historic building downtown.
When he joined the Sarasota Opera, DeRenzi says it wasn’t “wellestablished. It wasn’t a matter of fitting into a mold. It was a matter of making the mold,” he says.
Although Mozart and Rossini’s Figaro cuts a fine figure in this year’s Sarasota Opera Winter Festival, it is through producing the works of Verdi that DeRenzi has made a name for himself and his company in opera circles around the world.
Thanks to DeRenzi, the Sarasota Opera is the only company in the world to have performed all of Verdi’s music. The opera began its 28-year Verdi voyage in 1989 with “Rigoletto” and completed the Verdi Cycle in 2016 with “Aida” and “The Battle of Legnano.”
If you think Italian opera aficionados eagerly welcome new followers, guess again. Just one example: Membership in the all-male Club dei 27 of Parma, Italy, is restricted to 27, the same number of operas generally believed to have been written by Verdi. (Some people think the number is 26, but we’ll leave that debate to scholars.) In other words, a member must die before someone new can join the club. No Welcome Wagon here.
GIVING THE DEVIL HIS DUE
Talking with Maestro DeRenzi can be a bit like a verbal fencing match. When a reporter prefaces a question with, “To play devil’s advocate,” DeRenzi interjects, “The devil is doing just fine, by the way.” One might be tempted to reply, “Touché!”
Even though Sarasota Opera’s Verdi Cycle has been completed, the composer continues to be a mainstay of the Sarasota Opera’s winter festival and its fall concerts.
This year’s selection is “Stiffelio,” one of Verdi’s lesser-known operas. It tells the tale of a Protestant minister torn between the Christian forgiveness he preaches and his desire for revenge after he discovers his wife’s infidelity.
Rounding out the Sarasota Opera’s winter festival is “Cavalleria Rusticana” and “Pagliacci,” on a single bill. The two operas, which open the festival, are often performed in tandem because they are similar in theme and style. Both are 75 minutes long.
IF YOU GO
2025 SARASOTA OPERA
WINTER FESTIVAL
When: “Cavalleria Rusticana/ Pagliacci,” Feb. 15 through March 29
“The Barber of Seville,” Feb. 22 through March 29
“The Marriage of Figaro,” March 8 through March 28
“Stiffelio,” March 15-30
Where: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave. $39-$162
Info: Visit SarasotaOpera.org.
If you want to show off around opera buffs, casually refer to the adulterous double feature as “Cav” and “Pag.”
Written by Pietro Mascagni, “Cavalleria” takes place on Easter Sunday in an Italian village when Alfio discovers his wife Lola has reunited with her old flame, Turiddu.
Ruggero Leoncavello’s “Pagliacci” (“Clowns”) tells the story of Canio, an actor in a commedia dell’arte troupe who murders his wife and her lover on stage.
Today, we have so many playwithin-a-plays that the “meta” format threatens to become a trope. However, “Pag” got in on the ground floor.
For those short on time and who want to come to town specifically for the Sarasota Opera’s winter festival, there are Opera Lovers packages that allow patrons to see all four shows (“Cav”/“Pag” counts as one) in as little as three days.
Asked whether attendance levels at the Sarasota Opera have rebounded since COVID, DeRenzi responds, “I don’t think that’s a subject worth discussing. It’s a non issue.”
Pressed further, he says some performing arts organizations are using the pandemic as an excuse for their creative failings. Audiences go to the theater when there’s something they want to see, according to DeRenzi.
Asked whether Sarasota’s generous donors allowed the opera to reach artistic heights not usually seen in a small city (Santa Fe notwithstanding), DeRenzi says that patrons offered their support after seeing high-quality productions.
It’s all about excellence, he says. Instead of the “Field of Dreams” mantra of “If you build it, they will come,” DeRenzi’s maxim seems to be, “If you build a great one, they will come.”
It’s all about excellence, he says. Instead of the “Field of Dreams” mantra of “If you build it, they will come,” DeRenzi’s maxim seems to be, “If you build a great one, they will come.”
If it isn’t evident by the Sarasota Opera’s dedication to Verdi, preserving tradition is paramount to DeRenzi. “We perform operas as they were originally performed, as they are meant to be performed,” he says.
You’re not going to find Figaro on a motorcycle or Susanna wearing a leather miniskirt as long as Maestro DeRenzi’s calling the shots at the Sarasota Opera.
The
Florida Studio Theatre takes a walk on the edgy side
Provocative theater is alive and well in FST’s Stage III spring series.
MARTY FUGATE CONTRIBUTOR
Florida Studio Theatre began as one of Sarasota’s first alternative contemporary theaters. In the early 1980s, its edgy plays pushed the boundaries of language, sexual politics, nudity and subject matter. Thanks to cable networks like HBO, the edge moved by the end of the 1980s. Audiences weren’t easily shocked — and the shock of the new wasn’t the point anymore.
FST’s Stage III series gets back to the company’s edgy roots. It’s overseen by Richard Hopkins, FST’s producing artistic director. Associ-
ate artist Nancy Rominger is also a driving force. She’s responsible for FST’s new play development and will direct two of this season’s Stage III productions.
“This series revolves around provocative content and experimental storytelling,” Rominger says. “These plays are for fearless theatergoers willing to step outside the mainstream comfort zone. When you come to a Stage III production, you know you’re going to the edge.”
‘ADVICE’ Through Feb. 28 at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $25 and up. Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
“These plays are for fearless theatergoers willing to step outside the mainstream comfort zone.”
— Nancy Rominger, FST associate artist
Brent Askari’s “Advice” explores the comic catastrophe of the DunningKruger effect, a phenomenon where a person overestimates his knowledge or ability. Gary’s got nothing but lousy advice — but he thinks it’s wise counsel. In his ignorant self-confidence, Gary writes a clueless self-help guide and lands a book deal from an equally clueless publisher. He’s friends with Ron and Joy, a professional couple who’ve got their lives together. After the launch of his book, Gary plans to quit his job and become a life coach. The couple figures he’ll crash and burn and try to talk him out of it. But Gary doesn’t know good advice when he hears it. Their good deed is quickly punished. Secrets are revealed, and comedy ensues. Directed by Nancy Rominger, “Advice” takes a satiric jab at the self-appointed experts of the self-help industry. Along with laughs, it delivers plenty of wise, skeptical advice.
‘BAD BOOKS’ March 7-28 at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $29. Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Sharyn Rothstein’s “Bad Books” reads between the lines of relationships, loyalty and moral compromise. The dark comedy begins when a concerned single mother visits her teenage son’s high school library. She discusses his reading material with the school librarian. But their reasonable dialogue quickly escalates into a war of words. As the mother is a school board member, it’s not just an academic discussion.
The controversy quickly escalates — and divides the community along the battlelines of censorship, parenting and freedom. Directed by Kate Alexander, “Bad Books” offers a nuanced take on America’s 21st-century culture wars. Both sides claim to be fighting for “the children.” Rothstein’s play considers the unspoken, ulterior motives behind the fight.
‘SHEDDING A SKIN’ April 4-25 at Florida Studio Theatre’s Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St. $29. Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Amanda Wilkin’s “Shedding a Skin” is a resonant, one-person play and a 2020 Verity Bargate Award-winner. It follows Myah, a young woman navigating loneliness, dead-end office jobs and her mixed ethnic heritage. Her transformation begins after she leaves a toxic relationship — and loses her job as well, after punching her boss in the face. Once she’s all on her own, Myah rents a room from Mildred. This elderly Jamaican woman teaches Myah about empathy, courage and self-acceptance. As Myah’s self-discovery unfolds, it’s occasionally punctuated by moments of transcendental reverie. But Myah and Mildred’s intergenerational bond is the heart of this play. Wilkin’s play, directed by Nancy Rominger, is a testament to the power of human connection. It’s always moving, but never mawkish.
Courtesy images
James Evans, Patrick Noon and Amanda Kristin Nichols star in Florida Studio Theatre’s “Advice,” which runs through Feb. 28 at FST’s Bowne’s Lab.
THIS WEEK
THURSDAY
LYNNE KOPLITZ
7 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd.
$28 Visit McCurdysComedy.com.
Sarasota native Lynne Koplitz has hosted her own Netflix special, “Hormonal Beast,” and has appeared on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “Tough Crowd” with Colin Quinn and Jenny McCarthy’s comedy special “Dirty, Sexy, Funny.” Runs through Feb. 15.
FREEDY JOHNSTON
7 p.m. at Fogartyville, 525 Kumquat Court
$26 Visit WSLR.org.
No, that’s not a typo. Singer/ songwriter Freedy Johnston is bringing his acoustic guitar to Sarasota. Long based in New York City, Johnson set up shop in Joshua Tree to record his latest album, “On the Road Back to You,” which critics are hailing as a return to form for the American Roots singer.
‘JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN’
7:30 p.m. at FSU Center for Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail
$40 Visit AsoloRep.org/Conservatory.
FSU/Asolo Conservatory presents newcomer Kimberly Belflower’s play about Georgia high schoolers who try to tell the difference between fact and fiction as they study Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” while confronting injustice in the world around them. Runs through March 2.
Aja Goes, Jannie Jones and Dakota MackeyMcGee star in “Divas: Time After Time”
OUR PICK
‘DIVAS: TIME AFTER TIME’ New to Sarasota? We’ve got two words for you: Jannie Jones. When Jones is performing at Florida Studio Theatre, run — don’t walk — to the Court Cabaret. She is one-third of the trio starring in FST’s new cabaret show, “Divas: Time After Time.” The other talented singers are Aja Goes and Dakota Mackey-McGee. First-
‘FENCES’ 7:30 p.m. at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave. $22-$52 Visit WestcoastBlackTheatre.org.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents “Fences,” the sixth play of playwright August Wilson’s 10part American Century Cycle. Set in 1957, it follows Troy Maxson, a garbage collector whose baseball dreams were derailed by bigotry. His
timers to FST’s cabaret shows will leave amazed to discover such talent here in our laid-back beach town. Runs through June 22.
IF YOU GO When: 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13 Where: FST’s Court Cabaret, 1265 First St. Tickets: $37-$39 Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre. org.
unresolved anger creates trouble with his son, Cory, who’s got his own big league ambitions. Runs through Feb. 23.
‘THE CHINESE LADY’
7:30 p.m. at The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road $40 Visit AsoloRep.org/Conservatory.
Sarasota has some wonderful stages and some are in unexpected spaces.
FSU/Asolo Conservatory presents “The Chinese Lady” in the Wagon Room of The Ringling Museum of Art. Written by Lloyd Suh, whose “The Heart Sellers” is currently running at Florida Studio Theatre, “The Chinese Lady” follows the first Chinese woman to immigrate to America. Runs through March 2.
GREAT ESCAPES: ‘CRAZY FOR YOU’
7:30 p.m. at Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail
$47-$63 Visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.
Sarasota Orchestra’s annual Valentine’s Day-themed concert is always a crowd-pleaser. This year’s program is conducted by Michelle Merrill and features romantic selections such as “My Funny Valentine,” “Some Enchanted Evening” and songs from “West Side Story.”
THE CZECH NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
7:30 p.m. at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail
$34-$99 Visit SCASarasota.org.
Sarasota Concert Association Czech National Symphony Orchestra, led by Jan Chalupecky, will perform Mozart’s “Prague” Symphony No. 38 and Dvorak’s Piano Concerto, featuring 21-year old international competition winner Maxim Lando.
INNA FALIKS:
‘SPARKLING VIRTUOSITY’
7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Sarasota, 2050 Oak St. $42, adult; $5, student Visit ChamberOrchestraSarasota.org.
Inna Faliks joins the Chamber Orchestra of Sarasota led by Robert Vodnoy for a program that includes Shostakovich’s “Piano Concerto No. 1,” Rossini’s “Sonata in G Major for String Orchestra,” Bach’s “Concerto in G Minor” and more.
NÉLIDA KARR
7:30 p.m. at the Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road $40-$50 Visit Ringling.org.
Fans of world music need look no farther than our own backyard as The Ringling’s Art of Performance series brings Equatorial Guinea native Nélida Karr to the Historic Asolo Theater. Karr is a singer/ songwriter and multiinstrumentalist who combines Afro Fusion with jazz, blues, Spanish and Latin influences. Continues Feb. 14.
‘THE HEART SELLERS’ 8 p.m. at FST’s Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave. $25-$42 Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Images courtesy of Sorcha Augustine Circus Ring of Famer Brando Anastasini will perform on the tight wire at Circus Sarasota, which runs through March 9 in the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park.
it’s not too late to talk turkey about assimilation, identity and female bonds. Runs through Feb. 23.
FRIDAY
LAUREN HENDERSON
8 p.m. at Fogartyville, 525 Kumquat Court
$34
Visit WSLR.org.
Want to get lost in a dream? Head over to Fogartyville for an evening with Lauren Henderson, whose vocals are reminiscent of Diana Krall’s sultry style but with a Latin flavor. Henderson’s family tree extends into Panama, Montserrat and different regions of the Caribbean, but her styling has found favor all over the world.
SATURDAY
CIRCUS SARASOTA 2025
2 p.m. under the Big Top in Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle
$28-$80
Visit CircusArts.org.
Circus Sarasota returns to Nathan Benderson Park with a new lineup presided over by Ringmaster Joseph Bauer. Among the circus artists featured are tight wire artist Brando Anastasini, a 2024 Generation Next honoree in the Circus Ring of Fame, aerialist Eve Diamond, the Pellegrini Brothers hand balancers, juggler Noel Aguilar and the Flying Caballeros trapeze artists. Runs through March 9.
VERDI’S REQUIEM
4 p.m. at Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road
$45; students 18 and under free at the door
Visit KeyChorale.org.
Key Chorale presents Verdi’s Requiem, sometimes called an “opera in disguise” because it features symphony, chorus and vocal solos. Joining Maestro Joseph Caulkins and 150 musicians are four opera soloists — Rebecca Krynski Cox, Jamal Sarikoki, Olivia Vote and Jonathan Burton.
THE TWO RIVERS ENSEMBLE
FEATURING AMIR ELSAFFAR
7:30 p.m. at the The Ringling’s Historic Asolo Theater $40-$50 Visit Ringling.org.
According to Downbeat magazine, Amir ElSaffar’s ensemble was “the first Middle Eastern-imbued jazz combo at Newport to win a standing ovation for its first song.” Find
DON’T MISS ‘COME FROM AWAY’
Looking to revive your faith in human nature? The touring production of the Broadway hit “Come From Away” is just the ticket. It tells the story of how a village in Newfoundland opened its doors — and its arms — to more than 7,000 stranded travelers after air travel was halted on 9/11. Continues through Feb. 20.
IF YOU GO
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18
Where: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $50-$135 Info: Visit VanWezel.org.
out why with this concert at The Ringling. The Two Rivers Ensemble is a sextet that brings together the musical traditions of Iraq and nearby regions with American jazz. Continues Feb. 16.
SUNDAY
THE JAZZ AMBASSADORS GO TO BROADWAY
3 p.m. at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 3131 61st St. $5 Visit SuncoastConcertBand.org.
The Jazz Ambassadors sends its regards to Broadway in their latest Sunday concert. Call 941-907-4123 to reserve a ticket and please be sure to dial the right number.
HARD HEART BURLESQUE
8 p.m. at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 1923 Ringling Blvd. $37 Visit McCurdysComedy.com.
It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day weekend without McCurdy’s holiday-themed show featuring Hard Heart Burlesque, starring Miss Marina Elaine, Karma Kandlewick and other stars of Florida stages. Whether you’re head over heels in love or nursing a broken heart, come celebrate Cupid’s delights.
MONDAY
‘TRUTH AND MAYHEM’
7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave. $30 Visit ENSRQ.org.
EnsembleNewSRQ’s “Truth and Mayhem” concert is sure to heighten the audience’s appreciation for percussion. EnsemblenewSRQ cofounder George Nickson knows a little something about percussion; the former Sarasota Orchestra member is now the percussion chair at SMU. Cellist Abe Feder performs in “Elegy: Snow in June” for solo cello and percussion.
Turn up the heat, treat yourself and toast with Soju this Valentine’s Day at Korê Steakhouse.
From buzzing bistros to a do-it-yourself dining activity — here are some of the perfect spots to celebrate romance.
A feast for the heart: Where to dine on Valentine’s Day
the places we would go (probably on Feb. 15, 16 or 17).
INDIGENOUS RESTAURANT
’ve never been one to jump on the Valentine’s Day bandwagon. To me, love should be celebrated every day, not just on some designated 24-hour Hallmarkdesigned window. That’s why, in a few days, I’m renewing my wedding vows with the guy who always gets it. The “just because it’s Tuesday” flowerbuying dude, the “I stopped and got you that bottle of the wine you really like” on the way home guy, the “don’t cook — let’s go out to dinner” man of my dreams.
On Feb. 14, Patrick and I will probably be sitting on the couch in our pajamas by 7 p.m., ordering Uber eats and watching the last season of “1923” before the new season comes out two days after we say “I do” ... again. But if we did celebrate Valentine’s Day, here are
Join Us... Join Us...
239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota; 941706-4740; IndigenousSarasota.com
Love at First Bite: While the menu may change at this downtown destination dining spot, there’s one thing you can always count on — the Parmesan beignets ($16). These little fluffy while crispy bites of heaven are made with local honey, thyme and pears, offering the perfect balance of savory and sweet to kickstart your meal. In the mood for mushrooms? The wild mushroom bisque ($10), made with truffle oil and rye croutons, is a dynamite appetizer that will leave your tastebuds in utter bliss.
That’s Amore: Whatever the special is, I’m sure it’s phenomenal when you go. But as a staple for the main event, dig into uncle’s legend-
*Tickets sell out quickly. Reserve your seats today!*
Courtesy image
For
outing to be a favorite date night. Chef Steve Phelps is truly one of the most innovative culinary masterminds in our community — and, like my husband, hails from Cleveland. His Sarasota gem is a must-visit for both local lovers of food and tourists on the trail of the tastiest meal in town. This charming spot focuses on sustainable seafood to bring the freshest seasonal ingredients to your plate night after night. Set in a beautifully restored, cozy yet sophisticated home in Towles Court, it’s a place where each bite not only delights your tastebuds but warms your heart, too.
KORÊ STEAKHOUSE
1561 Lakefront Drive, Suite 111, Sarasota; 941-928-5673; KoreSteakhouse.com
Love at First Bite: Looking to turn up the heat this Valentine’s Day? Korean BBQ might be the Seoulmate you’ve both been searching for. This new-to-the-block Waterside eatery has established itself as a Korean steakhouse meets Asian fusion vibe that’s too good to miss — especially during happy hour! Monday through Friday, sip on smooth Soju ($11), grab a Korean lettuce wrap ($5) and dig into a sizzling bowl of dolsot bibimbap ($12), a delicious mix of steamed rice, veggies and beef served in a pipinghot stone bowl.
That’s Amore: Visualize premium cuts of meat hitting the grill, the sizzle whispering sweet nothings to your tastebuds and the aroma of spices filling the air as you master the art of Korean BBQ. Your reward? That first melty, flavor-packed bite that makes you wonder why you ever let someone else cook your steak. From buttery A5 Wagyu to Galbi short ribs ($24), pork bulgogi ($11), fresh lobster ($21), duck breast ($15) and even a mushroom mix
($14) — why settle for one when you can grill like royalty? You’re the head chef of your own five-star feast. What a great way to impress a brand new Valentine or your forever wedding date. For the Couple Who: Likes to DIY or keep it cool. Not every couple wants to grill their own dinner on a romantic night out, and that’s OK. Head to the raw bar and bite into the bluefin tuna crudo ($19) topped with a garlic chili truffle ponzu, scallions and a touch of heat or indulge in the Yukhoe ($20) a Korean beef tartare drizzled in truffle oil, topped with caviar, scallions and sesame seeds. This is the recipe for love that lasts.
OPHELIA’S ON THE BAY 9105 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota; 941-349-2212; OpheliasOnTheBay. net
Love at First Bite: Patrick and I celebrated our first anniversary at Ophelia’s in 2017. We raised (many) glasses to our future but also indulged in a delightful feast.
To kick off your own evening, order the Vermont Creamery chevre and beet salad ($11+), a perfect choice for the gluten-free couple. It features a combination of yuzu honey, pistachio oil, sundried grapes, fresh basil, vincotto fig vinegar and, of course, golden beets.
That’s Amore: Sitting dockside on the Sarasota Bay, Ophelia’s offers an entree menu designed to impress and an inviting yet elegant atmosphere. The Hokkaido sea scallops ($56) come to enchant. Scallion salad with yuzu kosho beurre blanc and seared scallops that melt in your mouth are paired with blue crab fried rice. Looking for luscious lobster for this special evening?
The “lazy” butter-poached Maine lobster risotto ($65) will delight any date. It’s paired with roasted cauliflower, yellow tomato cruda, fresh basil and pecorino romano.
For the Couple Who: Deserve to treat themselves. This is truly one of the greatest waterfront restaurants in town — but also one of the most romantic. Save room for dessert like the chocolate cheesecake ($14), the warm apple upside-down cake ($14) and more made daily by Ophelia’s pastry chef, Josh Draken.
Why Supporting Tidewell Hospice Matters
BY: TIDEWELL HOSPICE
No matter how deeply empathetic we may be when hearing about someone’s loved one nearing the end of life, we can never truly understand the weight of that loss until we experience it ourselves. Death is something most people shy away from, avoiding conversation or even thought about it. Yet, it remains an inevitable part of life.
UNWAVERING SUPPORT
For those of us who have endured such a loss, is something we know we couldn’t have navigated without. Their unwavering support is a lifeline, not only for those facing the end of life but equally for the families and friends enduring one of the hardest times they’ll ever face. The uniquely trained staff at Tidewell Hospice provides vital care with an unmatched sense of humanity, offering both the patient and their loved ones the dignity and comfort they need in these profound moments. It’s a service our community cannot afford to lose.
ENSURING THEY CAN LIVE THEIR FINAL DAYS WITH DIGNITY AND COMFORT
Supporting Tidewell Hospice is crucial because it provides compassionate end-of-life care for patients, ensuring they can live their final days with dignity and comfort. It also offers vital support for families and caregivers, helping them cope with grief and stress.
RESPECT DURING LIFE’S FINAL CHAPTER.
Another benefit to our community is by allowing patients to stay at home or in a peaceful setting, hospice reduces the strain on hospitals and the healthcare system. A community that supports hospice shows empathy, strength, and a commitment to care, making sure that no one faces death alone and that everyone is treated with respect during life’s final chapter.
Ultimately, supporting a hospice isn’t just about offering care to the dying; it’s about providing the emotional and psychological foundation that a community needs to ensure everyone is treated with the utmost respect, compassion, and dignity at the end of life.
If you’ve ever wished there was more you could do to help a family member, friend, colleague, or neighbor going through this incredibly tough time, supporting Tidewell Hospice is the perfect way to make a meaningful difference.
Please help Tidewell Hospice continue to support our community by sponsoring or attending Tidewell’s signature events or simply donating. By supporting Tidewell Hospice, we are not only honoring those who have passed but also strengthening the fabric of our community. Together, we can ensure that no one faces the journey alone, and that every individual’s final days are filled with the love and care they deserve.
When the crucible comes to campus
‘The Cancellation of Lauren Fein’ shows that witch hunts don’t discriminate.
Christopher Demos-Brown’s
“The Cancellation of Lauren Fein,” now on stage at Florida Studio Theatre, is a wellwritten, intelligent play that deals with tough issues. The first act is a timely comedy about the foibles of 21st-century academia. The second act is also timely. It isn’t funny at all.
Lauren Fein (Rachel Moulton) is the eye of the play’s storm. She’s a tenured professor at a first-rank university. She’s Jewish and in a happy same-sex marriage to Paola (Ana Miramontes). Their household includes Dylan (Luke Brodersen), a Black teenager whom they’ve apparently adopted. The kid has the typical adolescent gripes, but he seems happy, too.
Professionally, Lauren’s research into sickle cell anemia has put her on the fact track for the Nobel Prize. It’s a good life. What could possibly go wrong? Turns out, everything.
Rachel lives for pure research. But her academic life isn’t that pure. As part of her job, she’s got to teach a remedial class in evolutionary biology at the unnamed university. In an unguarded moment, Rachel describes accelerated evolution with an off-thecuff metaphor.
An angry student detects a racist implication in her statement. It’s a baseless accusation, but that’s beside the point. Many students now feel that Rachel is a racist. Their righteous anger is its own irrefutable argument. Who is she to deny it?
Rachel hopes the students’ outrage will blow over. It doesn’t. As the play unfolds, she is targeted by the 21st-century equivalent of the Red Guard. These angry students start digging for more offenses —
and find them, of course. Their anger turns into demands. The righteous students want Rachel censured, fired, punished and canceled. In a cynical calculation straight out of “The Game of Thrones,” the college’s dean (Tatiana Williams) starts to think that’s the right move.
FST Producing Artistic Director Richard Hopkins’ direction brings everything to a slow boil in the first act. When mob mentality takes over in the second act, he turns up the heat.
The actors let you know the human cost of this crucible.
Moulton’s Lauren is the kind of academic nerd who thinks logic is the answer to everything. But she’s not an emotionless Spock. Baseless accusations against her character make her angry. Lauren’s outbursts of rage lead to more accusations. High IQ or not, her character doesn’t know how to stop this vicious cycle.
Miramontes is grounded and sympatico as Paola, Rachel’s Latinx wife and fellow professor. She’s loyal — and can’t imagine any other choice. Her character has no idea how much that choice will cost her.
The couple’s foster son, Dylan, is a sympathetic character. He’s also damaged. His biological mother did a number on him. When Dylan impulsively acts out against Lauren, it’s understandable. But it damages everybody. Buddy McGovern (Howard Kaye) is the legal powerhouse who defends Lauren in her trial. (Officially, it’s a “disciplinary hearing.” But it’s a damn trial.) McGovern’s character could be James Carville’s long-lost twin. His fearless, incandescent wit is always a crowd-pleaser.
Arguing for the prosecution, Amy Bodnar dials up the chill factor as Melanie — the play’s
designated Torquemada. She aims to destroy Lauren’s life for all the right reasons. Williams’ Dean Whitney isn’t a true believer. Melanie has to work on her to make her sacrifice her friend.
Freddie Bennett shows nuance as Lauren’s fundamentalist pal, “Chi” Nweze. The Bible says homosexuality is a sin. While his character believes it, he won’t let dogma kill his friendship.
Kevin Leveque’s Evan is also Lauren’s friend. But his character follows in the footsteps of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. Evan walks soft, keeps his head down and cracks smart jokes. But he won’t take sides when Lauren’s livelihood is at stake.
Isabel and Moriah CurleyClay’s set is imaginative and
The Chinese Lady
By Lloyd Suh
evocative. It’s framed in ruined columns, some chipped and patched, some fallen. It evokes the sense of an advanced culture in decline — the graves of academe.
Demos-Brown is a smart playwright. His play throws out references to Kant’s categorical imperative, Heidegger’s dasein, and Atticus Finch, the heroic lawyer of “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
On top of that, the playwright has a keen grasp of legal theory and academic inside baseball. He’s got a lot to say. But there’s a lot he doesn’t say.
“Cancellation” is a highly distilled story. To keep it that way, the playwright ignores its realistic implications. If this were fact, not fiction, Lauren would be a conservative cause celebré.
IF YOU GO ‘THE CANCELLATION OF LAUREN FEIN’
When: Through March 15
Where: FST’s Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St.
Tickets:$25-$49
Info: Visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Various right-leaning foundations and individuals would take Lauren under their wing — and make her the poster child for the evils of DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion). But that would’ve muddied the story’s waters with complications. That’s not the story Demos-Brown wanted to tell.
The story the playwright told may be distilled. But it’s honest. And it defies expectations. Mine included.
David Mamet’s “Oleanna” (1992) took aim at the hypocrisy and bad faith of political correctness. I expected “The Cancellation of Lauren Fein” to be a 21st-century update of Mamet’s one-sided polemic. I was wrong. Demos-Brown’s “Cancellation” is a political play with surprisingly little politics. Lauren is besieged by the supporters of diversity, equality and inclusion. But “Cancellation” throws no stones at DEI. If it’s against anything, it’s mob mentality. Here, it reminds me of Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.”
Following in Miller’s footsteps, Demos-Brown’s perspective is simple.
Witch hunts from the left are wrong. Witch hunts from the right are wrong. Witch hunts are wrong, period.
If you go hunting for witches, you’ll be sure to find them. And destroy innocent lives in the process. That’s the message of this play. Sadly, it’s a timely one.
Image courtesy of Sorcha Augustine
Rachel Moulton stars as an embattled professor in Florida Studio Theatre’s
“The Cancellation of Lauren Fein,” playing through March 15 at FST’s Gompertz Theatre.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025
ORCHID
Friday, Feb. 8, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Benefiting Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
eorge Harrison and The Beatles brought us “Here Comes the Sun,” but Marie Selby Botanical Gardens brought us the 2025 Orchid Ball: Here Comes the Moon on Feb. 8, marking the 51st year of the gala.
Known as the “quiet Beatle,” Harrison, who died in 2001 at the age of 58, has impressed with lyrics, music, the sitar — and, who knew? — his gardening prowess. The Orchid Ball celebrates the opening of this year’s Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition: “A Gardener’s Life,” which explores connections between Harrison and his pastime of gardening. The installation features his music and lyrics throughout the gardens and will run through June 19. The event was co-chaired by Liebe Gamble and Ashley Kozel. Held at the downtown Selby campus with about 500 guests in attendance, the event sported weather guaranteed to make any gardener happy: humidity at 82%, winds at 5 mph and a 2% chance of rain. Glasses were raised for a special toast to celebrate Jennifer Rominiecki’s 10-year anniversary as president and CEO of Selby Gardens. Rominiecki’s credits include spearheading a master plan to shore up the facility’s infrastructure, which is being completed in three parts. Proceeds from the Orchid Ball benefit international research, conservation and horticulture displays at Selby Gardens.
— JANET COMBS
Curtis Jordan and Paige Petersen
Helen McBean and Vickie Oldham
Roxanne Permesly,
Denise and John Saputo, Sandy and Vern Buchanan and Elita Kane
Photos by Lori Sax Rob and Selby President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki
Co-Chairs Ashley Kozel and Liebe Gamble
The installation features photos, music and lyrics of George Harrison.
Wolfgang Krutzler and Gigi Rogers with Christa Sullivan
Photos by Janet Combs
Alisa Mitchell, executive director of the Library Foundation, gives a statistic that a quarter-million audio books were borrowed in 2024. Vic and Char Romano Marilyn Thompson and Mary BraxtonJoseph Robin Radin, Jake Zeigler and Tony Souza
Phillip Lanham, author and speaker Ann Patchett, Jennifer Johnston and Rachel Denton
Library Foundation Chair Sarah Karon with husband, Paul, and Mira Akins and Jack Paley
Mariannne Cohen, Suzanne Drake, Cyndi Nelson, Saji John, Sarah Smith and Alison Vesco are members of the 45-year-old book club, Sarasota County Medical Alliance.
Lara Yull, Eileen Scudder and Jen Comparoni
Photos by Janet Combs Chacha Sunshine takes a selfie.
Chairwoman Bridget Spiess and St. Regis General Manager Winfred Van Workum
Catholic Charities CEO Chris Root and Bishop Frank Dewane
Rodney Padgett, Milli Ricciardelli, Marilee and Gary Roberts
Mike Fuller and Greg Campbell
Jack and Terri Meredith
Carol Whitmore, Sen. Jim Boyd, Jackie Dezelsky, Rep. Will Robinson and Jerilyn Chapin
Photos by Lori Sax Stuart and Tia Henderson
Robert Sethward and Theresa Guest with Chris and Shawn Byrd
President Tommy Gregory receives the key to the college from Maverick the Manatee.
It’s February — the sweetest month.
When I was growing up, sweets were not daily edibles. But every Sunday morning, my parents took us to The Cake Box in Whitehouse, N.J., where we each picked out a doughnut. (My dad got to round off the half-dozen.) With all the negative sugar reports in the news, I recently began to consider eliminating it from my diet. But there is a compelling force I see more and more of at events that always causes my head to turn: the candy bar.
Not a lone candy bar off the shelf or out of a box, but a table filled with candy treats irresistible to even the most recovered sugarholic. Candy bars are skillfully styled with carefully curated colorful confections that bring back childhood, complete with adorable mini shovels designed to act as complicit helpers. Bags and ties beckon to be filled and taken home for a late-night fix. The Gulf Coast Heat Homeschool Athletic Cooperative held its homecoming prom with about 160 uber cool teenagers in attendance. And, you guessed it, there was a candy bar full of an assortment of goodies that guests frequented in between shots at their “under the sea” step-and-repeat.
Kickoff time, and we are not talking Super Bowl!
It was a true sneak peek in the Tom and Sherry Koski Gallery at the Sarasota Art Museum’s VIP party. With a guest list that included local creatives, shoe aficionados and art lovers sporting their own fancy, colorful and unique kicks, the opening of this innovative exhibition was a kick indeed.
SAM is hosting Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks through May 4. It features futuristic designs from Toronto’s Bata Shoe Museum and loans from other collections. Everything from funky French flats from the 1840s to a pair of circa 2023 Big Red Boots (inspired by Astro Boy) are on display. With shoes made from mushroom leather and reclaimed ocean plastics, there is something for everyone. But these boots are not made for walking; nothing is for sale at this exhibit.
Tidbits
On the move: If you have seen Tina Napoli out and about, you know she is a mover and shaker whose zest for life is infectious. She and her husband, Dan, wanted to commemorate their last days at their Ritz-Carlton residence overlooking the Gulf of Mexico before a new buyer begins “moving on up.” Together with their
daughter, Catherine, son-in-law, Jon, and baby granddaughter, Charlotte, they enjoyed some family style documentary photography to memorialize their beachfront life over the years.
Pottery, pottery please!
Congratulations to Terri and Michael Klauber on their wedding anniversary. If you sent a porcelain gift their way, you know how many years they have been legally wed.
Overheard ...
I happily listen to stories in between clicks. This week’s include a husband running off with the family company’s PR gal, a romantic match made in Washington, D.C., at the recent presidential inauguration ball, a fundraiser favorite maxing out her credit card at the SAM gift shop and a college president photographed with, oh my gosh of all things, a Bud Light bottle in his hand! Pish posh!
Our Sarasota social season is in full force, so check your calendar, put on your favorite kicks and join us in supporting your favorite cause. Who knows, you might come face to face with an enticing candy bar!
If you have a tips, tidbits, secrets you want revealed or locked in the vault, please email me at JCombs@ YourObserver.com
Janet Combs
Jon, Catherine and Charlotte Holt with Tina and Dan Napoli
