Things to Do

What to Do in Sarasota: Oct. 22-28

The Sarasota Ballet kicks off its digital fall season, concerts of all kinds and a fiesta or two.

By Kay Kipling October 22, 2020

Sarasota Ballet dancers Lauren Ostrander and Ivan Spitale.

Image: Matthew Holler 

Editor’s note: In-person events are subject to change. Please check before venturing out. 

The Sarasota Ballet Fall Digital Season

Oct. 23-27

The ballet company’s first-ever digital program, employing a multi-camera setup, includes works and extracts created by British choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton, including Meditation From Thais, Monotones II, Façade, the Vision Scene from The Sleeping Beauty and more. You’ll also see behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage. Single tickets are $35. A subscription including future digital programs is also available.

Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota: Under the Stars

Oct. 26

Where better than Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to present an outdoor concert on a fall evening? This one features soprano Jennifer Kreider and tenor John Kaneklides, along with pianist and director of artist programs Joseph Holt. Expect to hear works by Brahms, Donizetti, Kurt Weill, Jerome Kern and more. At 5:30 p.m. Call (941) 306-1202 or visit artistseriesconcerts.org for ticket info. 

Nathan Benderson Park Fiesta! Fridays

Oct. 23

Nathan Benderson Park is the setting for waterfront entertainment, food, drink and exhibitors on its Regatta Island, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. This inaugural event features The Black Honkeys, playing a mix of Motown, funk, rock and soul, and a portion of proceeds goes to the American Cancer Society for the fight against breast cancer. Tickets limited to 1,500 people; $10 each for 15 and older, free for 14 and younger. Check it out at nathanbendersonpark.org, and look for future Fiesta! Fridays in the coming months.

Cabaret By the Bay

Oct. 23 and 24

Following its sold-out series premiere, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall continues these intimate shows with Sarasota jazz duo Ariella in the hall’s Grand Foyer, a limited-seating concert. Ariella McManus and Nicolaas Kraster from Ari and the Alibis will offer some original music, and drinks and light appetizers will be available for purchase. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show starts at 7:30. Call (941) 263-7399 or go to vanwezel.org.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Oct. 22-Nov. 8

Pining for live theater after a long dry spell? The Manatee Players presents this musical version of the classic Charles Schulz comic strip, featuring Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Snoopy and the gang. Live social distance seating performances on tap, along with drive-in performances Oct. 23 and 24 and Nov. 5, 6 and 7. There is also a closed-circuit screening option. Call (941) 748-5875 or go to manateeperformingartscenter.com.

New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players’ I Have a Song to Sing, O!

Oct. 24

Another Van Wezel Hall offering, this exclusive video celebration of timeless Gilbert and Sullivan favorites features seven performers exploring repertoires from seven of the duo’s operas, including The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore and The Mikado. At 7 p.m. Tickets ($25) available at vanwezel.org.

Suffragists and Circus

Oct. 25-Jan. 21

The Circus Museum at The Ringling takes a look at the role strong, independent female performers played more than 100 years ago, when they were not only stars under the Big Top but well-traveled, knowledgeable women who entered their own contracts and advanced their own careers as the fight for the right to vote raged. Vintage posters and more help tell the tale. ringling.org 

Siesta Fiesta

Oct. 24 and 25

This 42nd annual showcase for artists and craftspersons takes place at 5124 Ocean Blvd. on Siesta Key, with social distancing and other safety protocols in place. Sculptures, paintings, jewelry, ceramics and more will be for sale, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Visitors are encouraged to reserve a free time slot on Eventbrite. Visit artfestival.com/festivals for more details.

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