Shanti M. Kennedy

What did our critic think of A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS at West Coast Black Theatre Troupe?aDuring the Holidays in Sarasota, there's always a buzzing downtown parade, an increase in traffic and tourists, and a festive celebration at the West Coast Black Theatre! If you're anything like me, you've got a bunch of guests in town at this time of year.

Join Hard Heart Burlesque at McCurdy's Comedy Theatre for a sparkly show that celebrates winter and the holiday season.

What did our critic think of BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL at Asolo Repertory Theatre?

GFour Productions, winners of 68 Drama Desk and 54 Tony Awards, are proudly bringing the brand-new national tour of Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change' to Sarasota and will play the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for two performances on January 4, 2025 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Life has an uncanny way of serving up surprises, doesn't it? Take Jenna Hunterson, for example. Here she is, a multi-talented waitress and baker stuck in a situation stickier than overcooked caramel. Her husband? Let's just say he's the perfect recipe for disaster. And just when Jenna thinks things can't get any worse, lo and behold, a bun in the oven appears without an invitation!

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, affectionately known as The Jewel of Sarasota, exudes an air of sophistication and class that only a waterfront location can provide. Picture yourself sipping on a glass of wine, soaking in the scenic views, all while eagerly anticipating the next act of a Broadway show that has stolen your heart.

Nan, working alone on a cold winter’s night at a local donut shop, juggles tasks with the grace of a circus performer. Her husband’s calls provide a touch of comedic relief as he bumbles around searching for his elusive car keys. Nan's patience, though worn thin, endures with an exhausted yet loving tone, continuously reassuring him with a heartfelt 'I love you too'.

What did our critic think of SOUL CROONERS at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe?

In a fun and heartwarming tale that many of us know well, 'Shrek the Musical' tells the story of an embittered ogre named Shrek whose peaceful swamp home is taken over by fairy tale creatures banished by the power-hungry Lord Farquaad. With the comical Donkey by his side, Shrek strikes a deal with Farquaad to save Princess Fiona and, in return, secure the rights to his beloved swamp.

'The Life and Music of George Michael' show hitting the shores of Sarasota promises a nostalgic journey for fans both old and potentially new.

What did our critic think of THE OUTSIDER at Florida Studio Theatre?

Dan Landon, with his impressive three decades spent treading the boards of Broadway, has a treasure trove of tales to regale us with! Bursting with anticipation, he has unveiled his latest literary gem to lay bare his journey climbing the ladder within the illustrious Schubert Organization. The pages brim with serendipitous strokes of fortune and impeccable timing, delivering a thoroughly captivating narrative.

Florida Studio Theatre impresses with their Summertime Mainstage Season opener, delivering a delightful mix of love songs, and sharp-witted comic numbers. This lively revue, perfectly suited to lift spirits during the weighty summer months, captures the essence of joy with both familiar and lesser-known tunes.

Spring Awakening, with music by Duncan Sheik and Lyrics by Steven Sater, takes audiences on a wild ride through the tumultuous seas of adolescence. Exploring themes of attraction, desire, insecurity, and the rollercoaster of young adult life, this electrifying show is a must-see for anyone looking to relive the highs and lows of growing up. So, buckle up, grab your teenage angst, and get ready for a journey you won't soon forget!

Making its World Premiere, OAK is presented at our own Urbanite Theater. When entering the black-box space random hip-hop music is playing, but on closer observance, everything is placed with intention. The mix of music used throughout the story, from old TLC through Tyla’s current Billboard hit Water, made it hard to place what time this story is set, the 90’s, 2020’s? The elusiveness of this is effective, as this could be any southern town, even today. Playwright Terry Guest, a 3-time Jeff Award winner, expands his talents with this Southern Gothic Horror that was commissioned by Urbanite Theatre in 2020 and was created and designed specifically with the Sarasota audience in mind.

What did our critic think of TWELVE ANGRY MEN at Asolo Repertory Theatre?

WestCoast Black Theatre Troupe revives one of their most popular original shows, Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul. Created, adapted, and directed by WBTT’s founder, Nate Jacobs, Gaye’s story is told through the narration of his family and friends. Of course, peppered throughout is the enchanted music that made Marvin Gaye an icon and what continues to make him a legend. Originally written in 2011, this time around WBTT is more refined and developed.

What did our critic think of TROUBADOUR at Florida Studio Theatre?

What did our critic think of DIAL M FOR MURDER at Asolo Repertory Theatre?