70+ arts events keep March busy in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties
It's another busy month as we hit the height of snowbird season. There are more than 70 performances, concerts, exhibits and more happening in the region. Here’s a look at what is new and continuing.
One Book One Community
“An Immense World” by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ed Yong was chosen as the 2024 One Book One Community selection for Sarasota County. The author will talk about the book that explores how all animals, including humans, are in their own bubbles and cut off from the rest of the world. He will speak at 10:30 a.m. March 1 at Suncoast Technical College Conference Center, 4445 Career Lane, North Port, and at 7 p.m. March 1 at Selby Library, 1331 First St., Sarasota. Free. sarasotacountylibraries.org/my-library/events/month/2024/03
Stories in Light and Sound
2023 Hermitage Greenfield Prize finalist Maura Brewer, who uses video and images to explore the world, shares a Hermitage Artist Retreat program with David “Doc” Wallace, who uses music and sound to touch thoughts and emotions. 5:30 p.m. March 1. Hermitage Artist Retreat Beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
‘LOVE between LINES’
Azara Ballet, which launched in the fall, returns to end its first season with “LOVE between LINES,” featuring four original contemporary ballets that touch on the theme of cultural freedom and liberation. Founder and Artistic Director Kate Flowers created “Love is Love,” while her partner and co-founder Martin Roosaare choreographed “Kodumaa.” Together they created “In the Studio” and Olivia Huseonica is staging “Ms. Protagonist.” 7 p.m. March 1-2, Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. $35, $32 for seniors and ages 1-18; $20 for a livestream on March 1. azaraballet.org
Sarasota Orchestra Pops
Musician and singer Michael Cavanaugh, best known for performing the music of Billy Joel in Twyla Tharp’s Broadway dance hit “Movin’ Out,” expands his range in this Sarasota Orchestra Pops concert celebrating the music of singer-songwriters Paul Simon, James Taylor and Neil Diamond. Christopher Confessore conducts a program that includes “Sweet Caroline,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Your Smiling Face.” 7:30 p.m. March 1, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. March 2. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $55-$120. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘Intimate Apparel’
Lynn Nottage, the two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, tells a story set in 1905 New York City, where a Black seamstress is seeking love and hopes she has found it in the letters she exchanges with a man from Barbados working on the Panama Canal. Aneisa J. Hicks makes her Asolo Repertory Theatre debut as Esther in the production staged by Austene Van. Feb. 28-April 18, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $29-$95. 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
‘Ruby’
Delayed by the COVID pandemic, the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents the world premiere of a musical play by founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs and his brother Michael Jacobs, along with Nehemiah Luckett, Brennan Stylez and Antonio Wimberly. It’s about the 1952 murder of a white doctor in Live Oak, Florida, by a Black woman and a case widely covered by writer Zora Neale Hurston. Through April 7, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. $50, $20 for students under 25 and active military, $40 for previews. 941-366-1505; westcoastblacktheatre.org
Musical Journey to Ireland
Singer, composer, pianist, comedian and storyteller Cahal Dunne performs favorite Irish melodies and tales from his home in Ireland in this concert program. 2 p.m. March 3. Charlotte Players, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. $28, $14 for students. 941-255-1022; charlotteplayers.org
Cantors in Concert: A Musical Mitzvah for Israel
Cantors and cantorial soloists from the Sarasota area and the Bay Area Cantorial Association are joining their voices for a concert benefiting the Israel Emergency Fund of the Jewish Federation of North America. Among the local congregations represented are Temple Sinai of Sarasota, Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key, the Jewish Congregation of Venice, and Temple Emanu-El of Sarasota. 3 p.m. March 3, Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Road, Sarasota. Suggested donation at the door is $36 (cash or check only). 941-383-3428
Hannah Cope and Marcelina Suchocka
Two of the Sarasota Orchestra’s newest musicians, Hannah Cope, harp, and Marcelina Suchocka, percussion, join together for an Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota program that features solos for each instrument and classics reimagined for marimba and harp duets. 4 p.m. March 3, First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota. $40. 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
Rotterdam Philharmonic
Conductor Lahav Shani, the youngest chief conductor in the 100-year history of the Rotterdam Philharmonic, is joined by pianist Daniil Trifonov, for this Sarasota Concert Association program. Trifonov will play Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The concert also includes Arvo Part’s “Swansong” and excerpts from Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet.” 7:30 p.m. March 3, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$135. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
‘Dancing Through Life with James Whiteside’
Dancer-choreographer James Whiteside, who has been a principal dancer and choreographer for American Ballet Theatre, shares stories about his career in a Hermitage Artist Retreat program. Whiteside, who has performed leading roles in “Swan Lake,” “The Nutcracker,” “Romeo & Juliet” and “Giselle,” is also a playwright, podcast host and storyteller. 5:30 p.m. March 4. Hermitage Artist Retreat Palm House, 6630 Manasota Key Road, Englewood. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Tomorrow’s Voices Tonight
Key Chorale Student Scholars perform a recital in this annual soiree featuring music, cocktails and light bites. 5:30-7:30 p.m. March 4. Westcoast Black Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. $25. 941-552-8768; keychorale.org
‘Stayin’ Alive’
The music of the Bee Gees comes to the stage in this tribute group show featuring such disco hits as “Night Fever,” “Jive Talkin’,” “Stayin’ Alive,” and more tender songs including “How Deep Is Your Love” and “Massachusetts.” The songs are accompanied by video clips, photos and images of the group. 7:30 p.m. March 4, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$60. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Let’s Hang On!’
The sounds of the 1960s come alive with a performance by this group, featuring 10 singers recalling the sounds of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons and the musical “Jersey Boys.” 7:30 p.m. March 5, Charlotte Players at Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. $45-$51, $23-$26 for students. 941-255-1022; charlotteplayers.org
Modern Marimba
The nonprofit arts hub Modern Marimba works to inspire healing, peace, justice and liberation through music. Co-founders and musicians Tihda Vongkoth and Steph Davis perform on marimba, xylophone, vibraphone and other instruments during a Sarasota Concert Association music matinee. 2 p.m. March 6, First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota. The free concert is sold out, but a wait list is available. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
The Midtown Men
Original stars of the Broadway hit “Jersey Boys” come together in this musical offshoot, with the quartet singing iconic hits of the 1960s, from The Beatles and The Beach Boys, to Chicago, The Temptations, and, of course, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The group features Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and J. Robert Spencer. 7:30 p.m. March 6, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $40-$80. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Luck of the Irish’
The Sarasota Orchestra’s Great Escapes series gets in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with this concert led by guest conductor Steven Jarvi. It features Leroy Anderson’s “Irish Suite” and the enduring “Danny Boy.” March 6-10, Holley Hall, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. The March 7 and 9 concerts will run about 105 minutes and the other performances will be one hour with no intermission. $47-$63. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
‘The Wizard of Oz’
Dingbat Theatre Project puts its own spin on a classic with a contemporary take on the beloved musical “The Wizard of Oz." Thayer Greenburg plays Dorothy Gale, with Amanda Heisey as the Scarecrow, choreographer Brian F. Finnerty as the Tin Man and director Luke Manual as the Cowardly Lion. March 6-24, Loveland Performing Arts Theatre, 157 S. Havana Road, Venice. $25-$40, $12 for students. 941-451-7706; dingbattheatre.org
‘The Art of Murder’
Joe DiPietro, author of some of the most popular plays and musicals in the theater, devised a murder mystery set at a remote Connecticut estate that is home to an eccentric painter. Jack has plans to kill his art dealer, who he thinks wronged him, and Jack’s wife is nervous about his plans. March 6-31. Lemon Bay Playhouse, 96 W. Dearborn St., Englewood. $25, $20 for students. 941-475-6756; lemonbayplayhouse.com
Duo Chinoiserie
The pairing of Chinese guzheng performer Jing Xia and classical guitarist Bin Hu comes to a luncheon program presented by Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota. The guzheng is an ancient Chinese zither, and together the two instruments create unique sounds. 11 a.m. March 7, Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. $68. 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
‘Little Women’
The Broadway musical version of the Louisa May Alcott novel tells the story of Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March as they pursue their lives under the watchful eye of their mother, Marmee, while their father is off serving as a chaplain for the Union Army in the Civil War. March 7-8, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $45-$105. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Parade’
The Manatee Players presents the Tony Award-winning musical by Jason Robert Brown and Alfred Uhry based on the true story of Jewish businessman Leo Frank, accused of killing a young girl who worked for him at his pencil factory in Georgia in 1913. He was later lynched. The 1998 musical was revived last year on Broadway. Scott Keys directs with Heather and Craig Weiskerger playing the Franks. March 7-17. Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. $33-$38. 941-748-5875; manateeperformingartscenter.com
‘Communicating Doors’
Preston Boyd stages Alan Ayckbourn’s comedy about Poopay, a “working girl” at the Regal Hotel who is in danger after an elderly client tells her about the deaths of his two previous wives. Somehow, Poopay is able to travel through time to warn the wives of what’s about to happen. March 7-24. Island Players, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. $28-$30, $18-$20 students with ID. 941-778-5755; theislandplayers.org
Celebrating Ned Rorem
Soundbox Ventures continues its “Listen Hear” salon concerts by celebrating the composer Ned Rorem, including his song cycle “Aftermath,” which was written following the Sept. 11 attacks. Violinist Max Tan and pianist Marisa Gupta are joined by baritone Tom Meglioranza and cellist Lev Mamuya for the program. 7 pm. March 8. St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key. Free. soundboxventures.org/events
BélO in Concert
The Ringling’s Art of Performance series presents the singer-songwriter BélO, one of the most beloved musicians in Haiti. It is part of the series’ ongoing salute to artists from Francophone countries. 7:30 p.m. March 8-9. Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. $30-$40. 941-360-7399; ringling.org
Ballet Hispánico
The largest Latinx/Latine/Hispanic cultural organization in the United States, Ballet Hispánico offers a company, a school of dance and community arts partnerships. It is designed to break stereotypes and celebrate the diversity of Hispanic cultures through dance. The Sarasota Ballet presents the much acclaimed company. March 8-11. FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $40-$125. 941-359-0099; sarasotaballet.org
‘The Women of Broadway Cabaret’
Katherine Michelle Tanner, founder of Tree Fort Productions Projects, has created a musical salute to some female theater composers, with selections from different shows and stories about the writers. Tanner wrote and directed the show and will perform with Martina Long, Kathryn Parks, Ciana-Noelle Bostock, Mila Alice and Sharon Ohrenstein. March 8-17. Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $40. treefortproductionsprojects.com/tickets
‘Up on the Roof’
After a brief pause, the hit Florida Studio Theatre cabaret celebrating pop hits by such songwriters as Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Burt Bacharach, Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, returns. Jannie Jones, Jacquelyne Paige, Joey Panek and Brandon Wardell also are back to sing music that became the soundtrack of an era. March 8-24. Florida Studio Theatre Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. $18-$42. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Terry Fator: On the Road Again
Ventriloquist Terry Fator turned a victory on the second season of “America’s Got Talent” into a long-running headlining act in Las Vegas. He is taking his show “On the Road Again” with a tour that brings him to Sarasota for a show with music, puppets and comedy. 7:30 p.m. March 9, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $75-$105. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Luisa Miller’
It has been 25 years since the Sarasota Opera last staged this opera as part of its long-running Verdi Cycle. Artistic Director Victor DeRenzi, who has conducted every piece Verdi composed, will lead the Sarasota Opera Orchestra in this romantic drama about a woman who is in love with the son of a ruthless count who forbids them from being together. March 9-24. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. $32-$165. 941-328-1300; sarasotaopera.org
‘Embodied’
The Ringling highlights the human figure with a special exhibit from its collection of modern and contemporary art, including William Villalongo’s 2021 “Still Life with Quilt and Drinking Gourds” and Tony Tiger’s “Time and Place: Egmont Key – Indian Territory – LA – Oklahoma," created in 2019. It is the first abstract painting by a contemporary Native American artist acquired by the museum. March 9-Sept. 21, 2025. The Ringling Searing Wing, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-359-5700; ringling.org
Poetry Mic
Bookstore1Sarasota hosts poets Meredith Holmes and Susan Nussbaum reading from their works in this monthly event featuring writers who live in the Sarasota area. 2-3 p.m. March 10, Bookstore1, 117 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Free. 941-365-7902; saraasotabooks.com
The Tamuritzans
Artistic Director George Kresovich describes the group as offering “folk with a fresh coat of paint.” The ensemble features 27 artists from Croatia, Bulgaria, Armenia, Ukraine and other countries performing music from across cultures. 5 p.m. March 10. Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $20-$40. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
‘Abraham Lincoln Walks at Midnight’
Choral Artists of Sarasota presents the Florida premiere of a piece by renowned African-American composer Florence Price. She set her music to a 1914 poem by Vachel Lindsay, but the score was lost for nearly 50 years. It will be performed with Haydn’s “Mass for Troubled Times,” also known as the “Lord Nelson Mass.” 7 p.m. March 10, Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. $40, $5 for students. 941-387-4900; choralartistssarasota.org
’Impact: Contemporary Artists at the Hermitage Artist Retreat’
This new exhibit at the Sarasota Art Museum explores the impact of world events on artists creating new work, and how their work impacts the viewer. Curated by Dan Cameron, the show features work by 10 U.S.-based artists who have been fellows at the Hermitage Artist Retreat on Manasota Key. Artists featured are Diana Al-Hadid, Sanford Biggers, Chitra Ganesh, Todd Gray, Trenton Doyle Hancock, Michelle Lopez, Ted Riederer, John Sims, Kukuli Verlarde and William Villalongo. March 10-July 7. A pre-opening party is at 7:30-9:30 p.m. March 8. $25, $15 for members. Members preview day is March 9. Curator Dan Cameron speaks about the exhibit at 1 p.m. March 9. Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-309-4300; sarasotartmuseum.org
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
In addition to leading Sarasota’s La Musica International Music Festival, pianist Wu Han is also the co-artistic director (with her husband, cellist David Finckel) of this renowned chamber group. The ensemble performs a La Musica concert that includes works by Beethoven, Rossini, Britten, Duruflé and a Johann Hummel septet. 7 p.m. March 11. Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota. $60. 941-347-9656; lamusicafestival.org/tickets
Hermitage Writes: Mesha Maren
The Hermitage Artist Retreat and the creative writing department at Ringling College partner on this program featuring novelist and Hermitage fellow Mesha Maren for the Visiting Writers Forum. She will talk about reshaping stories and genres and read selections from her work. 7 p.m. March 12. Ringling College of Art and Design Goldstein Library, Room 113. 1228 Dr. Martin Luther King Way, Sarasota. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Champions of Magic
A cast of five magicians from the United States and England bring an array of illusions from Houdini’s water torture cell escape act to levitation, predictions and more. The production has been described as “The Avengers of Magic.” 7:30 p.m. March 12, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $30-$65. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Curtis on Tour
This concert features three Curtis Institute of Music alumni and three current students performing string sextets by Strauss, Berg and Brahms. The alumni include Benjamin Beilman, violin; Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, viola; and Oliver Herbert, cello. Presented by Artists Series Concerts of Sarasota. 7:30 March 12, Neel Performing Arts Center, State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. $40. 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
‘Better Late’
Larry Gelbart is best known for creating a hit TV series out of “M*A*S*H” and for a number of other pointed comedies on stage and film. His overlooked comedy “Better Late” makes a comeback at the Sarasota Jewish Theatre where it will be directed by Carolyn Michel. It’s the story of a married couple whose relationship is tested when they invite the wife’s cranky first husband to stay with them while he recuperates from a stroke. March 13-21. The Sarasota Players Studio, Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130, Sarasota. $18-$36. 941-365-2494; theplayers.org; sarasotajewishtheatre.com
Hermitage Sunsets
Opera composer Kamala Sankaram joins with performer, composer and storyteller Etienne Charles for “More Than Music,” a Hermitage Sunsets program at Nathan Benderson Park. They will talk about creating new music and offer selections from their work. Charles was a 2022 Hermitage Greenfield Prize finalist. 6:30 p.m. March 14, Nathan Benderson Park Family Finish Tower, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
‘Neil Berg’s 114 Years of Broadway’
Composer, lyricist and producer Neil Berg is back with a new edition of his concert program celebrating the best of Broadway musicals performed by five Broadway performers. 7:30 p.m. March 14, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $47-$78. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Strings Con Brio
The chamber orchestra led by veteran musician, educator and conductor Kenneth Bowermeister performs Baroque, Classical and Romantic masterpieces, as well as favorites from Broadway and the movies in this concert program. 7:30 p.m. March 14. Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $15-$20. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
Dance Makers
Each year, Sarasota Contemporary Dance invites rising choreographers to create new work on the company. This year’s program features rhythmic beats in Frances Bradley-Vilier’s “Tap”’; jazz moves created by Courtney Jones; the interdisciplinary style of Andrea Ward and a finale called “JUSTICE’ by Vince Hardy. 7 p.m. March 14-16, 3 p.m. March 17. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $20-$55. $25 for streaming tickets. 941-260-8485; sarasotacontemporarydance.org
‘Rhapsody in Blue @100’
Guest conductor Peter Oundjian is joined by pianist Michelle Cann for this Masterworks concert that marks the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” That anniversary coincides with the 75th birthday of the orchestra. Cann also will be performing Florence Price’s Piano Concerto in D Minor in a program that also features Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. 7:30 p.m. March 14, Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. 7:30 p.m. March 15-16 and 2:30 p.m. March 17, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $35-$105. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Remembering John Sims
Sarasota High School art students and their teacher, artist Anita Wexler, offer a tribute to the memory of Sarasota artist John Sims, who died in 2022. The exhibit runs March 14 (pi-day in recognition of Sims’ ties to math in his art) through March 29. An opening reception is March 14 and closing reception is March 29. Art & Frame, 1055 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 102, Sarasota.
‘Nunsense II: The Second Coming’
Dan Goggin’s first sequel to his monster hit “Nunsense” features the return of the Little Sisters of Hoboken, who have gotten bitten by the show business bug. March 14-31. Charlotte Players, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. $32, $16 for students. 941-255-1022; charlotteplayers.org
Art Center Sarasota exhibits
Photographer Michael Kinsey focuses his lens on leaders in the Sarasota area Black community for the exhibit “Views from the New Horizon: Portraits from Sarasota Magazine’s 'Listening to Black Voices' Series.” It’s one of four new shows at Art Center Sarasota, including Ukrainian-born artist Natasha Dikareva’s “Through Sorrow into Light,” a display of sculptures that look at the current sociopolitical climate; Angela Pilgrim’s “Rooted in Spirit,” which explores Black women through printmaking, painting and mixed media, and “Great Artists Steal,” an open juried show. March 14-April 20. 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-365-2032; artsarasota.org
Tony Souza art show
Tony Souza, a real estate agent and leader of discussions at Bookstore1Sarasota, puts the books aside for an exhibit of his artwork that reveals his passion for historic preservation and life and history in Sarasota. 4-7 p.m. March 15, Bookstore1, 117 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. Free. 941-365-7900; sarasotabooks.com/events
Arabian Nights
Music Director Troy Quinn leads The Venice Symphony through a program of exotic favorites including its first performance of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade.” The program also includes Maurice Jarre’s overture to “Lawrence of Arabia” and Ernest Gold’s theme to the film “Exodus.” 7:30 p.m. March 15, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. March 16. Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice. $39-$66. 941-207-8822; thevenicesymphony.org
‘Deceit Outwitted’
Each year the Sarasota Opera tries to produce an opera that has been long overlooked or is rarely performed. This season’s entry is the comedic “Deceit Outwitted” by Joseph Haydn. It was written during the composer’s time working for the Esterházy family in Vienna, and many of his operas were not discovered until after World War II. Hanna Brammer, William Davenport and Filippo Fontana are among the returning singers featured. March 15-23. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. $32-$155. 941-328-1300; sarasotaopera.org
Celtic Pops
Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the Pops Orchestra celebrates Irish music and traditions with this concert led by music director Robyn Bell. It features the Jacobites Pipe and Drum group, Highland dancers and Irish Dance Academy of Sarasota. The program includes “Danny Boy,” “Tam O’Shanter” and “Scotland the Brave.” 3 p.m. March 17, Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota and 7:30 p.m. March 18, Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. $30-$60. 941-926-7677; thepopsorchestra.org
Paul Taylor Dance Company
The iconic modern dance company marks its 70th anniversary. The program includes Taylor’s acclaimed “Promethean Fire,” created after 9/11 and described by The New York Times as “quite simply one of the best dance works” he has created. It also includes the comedic “Gossamer Gallants” and the Florida premiere of resident choreographer Lauren Lovette’s “Echo.” 7 p.m. March 18. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $30-$80. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
Doo Wop Project
Five stars from such Broadway shows as “Jersey Boys,” “A Bronx Tale,” “Motown: The Musical” and more, join voices in this concert show that offers new versions of classic doo-wop hits like “16 Candles” and “In the Still of the Night,” and adding a doo-wop style to more contemporary hits like Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” and Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places.” 7:30 p.m. March 20. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $25-$65. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘The White Chip’
Sean Daniels, a Florida Studio Theatre Associate Artist and director of the new Recovery Project, is the author and director of this semi-autobiographical play (recently produced off-Broadway) about an alcoholic married theater director whose life is spinning out of control and how he finds his way to sobriety. Part of the FST Stage III series. March 20-April 12. Bowne’s Lab Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $25-$46. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Classics for Wind and Brass
This Sarasota Orchestra Chamber Soiree features Carl Nielsen’s Wind Quintet and Victor Ewald’s Brass Quintet No. 3. 5:30 p.m. March 21, Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $42-$52. 941-953-3434; sarasotaorchestra.org
Hermitage Writes: Elisa Bocanegra
Elisa Bocanegra, a Puerto Rican artist and founder of HERO Theatre, talks about her creative process and her involvement in the Nuestro Planeta new work commissioning project in this Hermitage Artist Retreat program as part of the Venice Writers Festival. Noon March 22, Jervey Venice Public Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Kristin Chenoweth
The Tony and Emmy Award-winning star of such Broadway musicals as “Wicked” and “Promises, Promises,” and the TV series “The West Wing,” “Glee” and “Pushing Daisies,” returns to Sarasota as the special guest of the annual Sarasota Performing Arts Center Foundation Transformation Gala. 8:30 p.m. March 22. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Concert only tickets: $65-$100. 941-239-6799; vanwezel.org
Cirque des Voix
Circus Sarasota artists perform their thrill acts while the 110 voices of Key Chorale and the Cirque Orchestra perform a range of musical favorites in this annual production. 7 p.m. March 22, 2 and 7 p.m. March 23. Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota. $50-$100. 941-355-9805; circusarts.org
Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival
The event will feature a variety of authors in genres including children's books, fiction and nonfiction. March 22-23; West Blalock Festival, 401 Pensacola Road, Venice and William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Public Library, 300 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice; $20, $35 with box lunch (writers festival); venicebookfair.com
‘Florida Woman’
In this Ringling Art of Performance series program, Miami dance artist Rosie Herrera and Sarasota’s Leah Verier-Dunn (director of Sarasota’s Moving Ethos dance company) play off the internet meme of the “Florida Man” with a dance theater elegy to stereotypes and myths of Florida life and restrictive laws on women’s bodies. 7:30 p.m. March 22-23, 5 p.m. March 24. Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. $30-$40. 941-360-7399; ringling.org
‘The Spitfire Grill’
Venice Theatre presents a musical version of the 1996 film about a woman who gets hired at a small café after being released from prison and how her spirit helps to change attitudes in the small town. Brad Wages directs a cast led by Vera Samuels as Percy and Lynne Doyle as the café owner. March 22-April 21. Venice Theatre Raymond Center, 140 W. Tampa Ave., Venice. $37, $22 for educators and college students, $15 for youth. 941-488-1115; venicetheatre.org
‘Dial M for Murder’
The classic cat and mouse murder mystery created by Frederick Knott (and turned into a hit film by Alfred Hitchcock) gets a contemporary update in a new version by Jeffrey Hatcher at Asolo Repertory Theatre. It’s still a story of blackmail and revenge, with lots of plot twists as a husband plots to murder his wife in 1950s London when his plans go awry. March 20-April 25, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $29-$95. 941-351-8000; asolorep.org
‘Westminster’
Urbanite Theatre presents the second of three world premieres in its 10th season with Brenda Withers' play, which won the company’s 2023 Modern Works Festival. In “Westminster,” a woman gives her best friend a rescue dog as a surprise, which raises issues of class and accountability between two couples. Urbanite had a hit with an earlier Withers play called “Northside Hollow.” March 22-April 28. 1487 Second St., Sarasota. $42, $28 for under 40, $5 students. 941-321-1397; urbanitetheatre.com
Robin Spielberg
Pianist and composer Robin Spielberg has around two dozen recordings to her credit, starting with her debut, “Heal of the Hand.” She will perform works that include original pieces and American standards. 7:30 p.m. March 23. Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $22.50-$27.50. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
Joshua Bell/Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
In addition to being one of the foremost violinists in the world, Joshua Bell serves as music director of the acclaimed Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, a chamber orchestra formed in 1958 by Sir Neville Marriner. Bell and the ensemble will perform works by Rossini, Max Bruch and Johannes Brahms. 8 p.m. March 23. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $85-$130. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
‘Peter and the Wolf’
This favorite by Prokofiev, considered a symphonic fairy tale for children, is presented for family audiences in two languages on March 24. It will be presented with English narration at 1 p.m. and in a Spanish version at 4 p.m. Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $5 and up. 941-953-3434; saraotaorchestra.org
‘You are Free’
ensembleNEWSRQ returns with a varied program of work composed since 2016. It features Raven Chacon’s Pulitzer Prize-winning “Voiceless Mass” as well as the organization’s second world premiere and commission of a piece by Kyle Rivera. Musicians also will perform works by Sarah Kirkland Snider, Shawn Okpebholo and Ania Vu. 7:30 p.m. March 25. First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota. $25 or $10 for live streaming. ensrq.org
Hermitage Writes: Brandel France de Bravo
Writer and poet Brandel France de Bravo, whose new work “Locomotive Cathedral” looks at her search for permanence in our changing world, talks about her writing process in this partnership with the creative writing department at Ringling College. 7 p.m. March 26. Ringling College of Art and Design Goldstein Library Room 113, 1228 Dr. Martin Luther King Way, Sarasota. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
‘Hamilton’
Sarasota gets its shot at the biggest Broadway hit in years as Lin Manuel-Miranda’s hip-hop musical about the life and loves of founding father Alexander Hamilton arrives for a two-week run. It became a sell-out hit before it opened on Broadway in 2015. March 26-April 7. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $69-$289. A lottery for 40 $10 seats will be held for all performances. 941-263-6799; vanwezel.org
First Lady of the Highwaymen
Arts Advocates marks Women’s History Month with a lecture about the legacy of artist Mary Ann Carroll known as the "First Lady of the Highwaymen.” The Highwaymen were a group of 26 Black landscape artists who emerged in the Fort Pierce area from the mid 1950s into the 1980s. Wanda Renee Mills will talk about her mother’s work and its impact. 2 p.m. March 27, Arts Advocates Gallery, Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail. $20, free for Arts Advocates members. reservations required. artsadvocates.org
‘Piano Classics Remade’
Conrad Tao, a concert pianist and composer, presents a Hermitage Artist Retreat program that will show why he was described by New York Magazine as “the kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music.” He has performed with the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony and other major international orchestras. 7 p.m. March 28. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota. $5 registration. Hermitageartistretreat.org
Bruce Liu
The first prize winner at the 2021 Chopin International Piano Competition returns for a Sarasota Concert Association Great Performers series concert. Bruce Liu will be performing works by Rameau, Chopin, Ravel and Liszt. 7:30 p.m. March 29, Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota. $30-$85. 941-966-6161; scasarasota.org
The Landscape of Guitar
Guitarist Bruce Hecksel and singer-songwriter Julie Patchouli bring together music from their two projects. Terra Guitarra is described as one of the top nuevo flamenco groups in the world. Patchouli features the artist’s lead vocals, duets and compositions. 7:30 p.m. March 29. Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. $22.50-$27.50. 941-552-5325; gpactix.com
Tournament of Fools
FST Improv presents what it calls a “knockdown, drag-out comedy battle royale” featuring ensemble members competing in a series of improv scenes, songs and games. 8:30 p.m. March 30. FST Bowne’s Lab Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $15-$18. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
‘The Power of Peanut Butter & Other Winning plays’
Throughout the year, teams of actors from Florida Studio Theatre work with students around the world encouraging them to write new plays. The winning entries are collected and performed Story Theatre-style in this annual festival that is presented on weekends by FST’s Children’s Theatre. March 30-May 4, FST Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. $10. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
Artist Series Salon
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota presents violinist Hina Khuong-Huu, first prize winner of the 2023 Elmar Oliveira International Violin Competition, accompanied by pianist Rohan De Silva in an intimate recital. 4 p.m. March 31 and April 1, Fischer/Weisenborne Residence, 7459 Cabbage Palm Court, Sarasota. $60. 941-306-1202; artistseriesconcerts.org
Continuing
Asolo Repertory Theatre
The winter repertory is in full swing with Liz Duffy Adams’ “Born With Teeth” continuing through March 29, rotating performances with this month’s new entry, “Intimate Apparel.” FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $33-$95. 941-351-8000; asolorep.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 for its 21st season to Sarasota's Bayfront Park. Through April 14, 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota. It will be presented March 2-31 at Poynter Park, Third Street South and Ninth Avenue South, St. Petersburg. embracingourdifferences.org
Florida Studio Theatre
Several productions that opened earlier in the season continue into March. Stefano Massini’s “The Lehman Trilogy” runs through March 29 in the Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $39-$59. The one-man play “A Night in November” runs through March 15 in the Stage III series in Bowne’s Lab, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $25-$46. The cabaret show “Take it to the Limit” saluting rock ‘n’ roll rebels of the 1970s, continues in the Goldstein Cabaret through April 14. $37-$42. “The Flip Side,” a revue of songs that take a humorous look at life, runs through June 16 in the Court Cabaret, 1265 First St., Sarasota. $37-$46. The FST Improv show “Life’s a Beach” continues at 8:30 p.m. Saturdays through March 23 in Bowne’s Lab. $15-$18. 941-366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
FSU/Asolo Conservatory
The second-year students in the FSU/Asolo Conservatory master’s degree program are performing their own rotating repertory schedule, alternating performances of August Strindberg’s “Miss Julie” with Lynn Nottage’s “Clyde’s.” Through March 10. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. $28.80-$32. 941-351-8000; asolorep.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. “Mountains of the Mind: Scholars’ Rocks from China and Beyond” continues through June 23 in the Chao Center for Asian Art. “Working Conditions,” an exploration of labor seen through the lens of photographers, continues through March 3 in the Searing Galleries. “Shinique Smith: Parade,” focused on European artistic tradition, continues through Jan. 5, 2025; 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-359-5700; ringling.org
Ringling College
Several shows continue continue in several of the Ringling College of Art and Design galleries. “George Pratt: Carnet de Voyage — Morac” continues through March 22 in the Selby Foundation Illustration Gallery. “Omar Chacon: Chromatic Echoes” continues through March 22 in the Thompson Alumni & Skylight Galleries. “Che Colore!” featuring selections from the Richard and Barbara Basch glass collection, continues in the Basch Gallery through March 22. “Fluid Impressions: The Paintings of Syd Solomon,” an exhibit curated by students, continues through March 25 in the Stulberg Gallery. And "Ligature Show XIV: Dimensions” runs through March 22 in the Smith Gallery. 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-359-7563; ringlingcollege.gallery
Sarasota Art Museum
“Picking Up the Pieces,” a new site-specific installation created for the Sarasota Art Museum by Judy Pfaff, is the artist’s reflection of the impact of Hurricane Ian in 2022 on the Fort Myers area. Through March 24. 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-309-4300; sarasotaartmuseum.org
Sarasota Opera
With this month’s additions of “Luisa Miller” and “Deceit Outwitted,” the Sarasota Opera winter season will be in full swing in a repertory schedule. “Carmen” continues through March 22 and “Lucia di Lammermoor” runs through March 23. Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. $32-$165. 941-328-1300; sarasotaopera.org
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This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: 70+ arts events opening in March in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte
