Arts + Entertainment

Ian Swaby
March 27, 2025

Balcony opera performances share the music form with the public

Apprentice artists have joined the lineup in the Sarasota Opera's weekly performance for the public, held each Saturday on the balcony.

Sarasota
Neighbors

Su Byron
March 27, 2025

These Key artists take inspiration from their surroundings

Local creators share how their home bases on Sarasota's barrier islands give them an artistic boost.

Arts + Culture

Monica Roman Gagnier
March 26, 2025

27th Sarasota Film Festival offers fresh flicks, communal screenings

"Marcella" will open the 2025 Sarasota Film Festival on April 4.

Arts + Culture

Ian Swaby
March 26, 2025

Sugar Champagne Bar prepares for Friday opening

The luxury reservation-only bar, with a minimum tab of $150, will hold its grand opening Friday, March 28 in downtown Sarasota.

Arts + Entertainment
Eat + Drink

Observer Staff
March 25, 2025

The best things to do in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat for March 27-April 2

Don't miss these arts and entertainment events around Sarasota and Manatee counties this week.

Arts + Entertainment
Things To Do

Monica Roman Gagnier
March 25, 2025

Azara Ballet uses dance to address screen addiction in its second season

Choreographed by company co-founder Martin Flowers, "7 Hours" uses cellphones as props.

Arts + Culture

By Naples Picasso Artist Network
March 24, 2025

Longboat Key Art Splash

This festival presents a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best of Longboat Key's local arts and culture scene all in one place.

Arts + Entertainment
Spotlight Partners

Connecticut schoolteacher Synia Carroll found her voice in Sarasota

Jazz vocalist Synia Carroll, who died March 14 at age 67, helped build musical bridges in the Tampa Bay area.

Arts + Culture

Marty Fugate
March 23, 2025

'Lost in Yonkers' is a family affair

Sarasota Jewish Theatre's production of the classic Neil Simon play finds laughter and tears.

Arts + Entertainment
Reviews

Monica Roman Gagnier
March 23, 2025

Star Newman is all about the abracadabra

Card tricks, movie lore and mentalism are in the Sarasota magician's bag of tricks.

Arts + Culture

Monica Roman Gagnier
March 22, 2025

Sarasota Film Festival poster sparks a Facebook firestorm

Humorous mentions of the 51st state and the Gulf of America fall flat with festival fans.

Arts + Culture

Emma Burke Jolly
March 22, 2025

Shuck yeah! These are the best oysters around Sarasota

Local eateries take this island staple to the next level with innovative sauces and toppings.

Arts + Entertainment
Eat + Drink

Monica Roman Gagnier
March 19, 2025

Sarasota Ballet finally presents Sir Frederick Ashton's 'Romeo and Juliet'

The Florida premiere of the romantic, rarely seen ballet was delayed by the pandemic.

Arts + Culture

Observer Staff
March 19, 2025

Sarasota Arts & Culture Coalition rebranded PAC Sarasota

The goal of the Sarasota Arts & Cultural Coalition is to advocate for Sarasota's arts and cultural organizations.

Sarasota
Business

By Longboat Key Chamber
March 18, 2025

Arts in April!

Stroll through beautiful outdoor art galleries, enjoy live music, and grab a bite from local food trucks.