The Asolo Repertory Theatre brought the 1950s back in style with its Sock Hop at The Drive In gala on May 1.
The annual gala moved to Nathan Benderson Park for a throwback Drive-In event that had guests dressing up in their most vintage and colorful retro attire that ranged from poodle skirts to greaser jackets. Guests drove up to the concert space and parked their cars right next to their tables where they then mingled or headed over to the tented diner area to pick up a quick cheeseburger. The seven-piece 1950s Chome 57 band played lively tunes for guests to enjoy before sitting down for dinner.
After a successful December outdoor holiday concert, Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota will return to its Terrace Stage for four more shows in February through May for a revised season that includes concerts with two-time Tony nominee Laura Osnes and “Evita” star Ana Isabelle and a new play about civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer.
Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards announced the new 2021 season in an online video presentation Wednesday afternoon. Several of the shows planned for the current season, including “Our Town,” Grand Horizons,” the world premiere of “Knoxville” and the new musical “Hood,” will be postponed until the 2021-22 season.
Arts events for Sarasota-Manatee: Dec. 17-23
Our weekly guide to the visual and performing arts in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Dancing in the street
Sarasota Contemporary marks its 15th anniversary with the outdoor street festival “Fiesta de Colores.” Presented from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday in the courtyard of Rosemary Square, adjacent to the company’s studios, it will feature DJ Karim Manning, local lyricist and B-boy Rick Levin and an interactive projection design by Logan Gabriel Schulman tp showcase highlights from SCD’s history. Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños-Willmott describes it as the quinceañera she never had as a child. There will be a premiere of a live collaborative performance with the SCD company and the Sarasota Contemporary Dance Ensemble, an elite training company for aspiring dancers. Cuban-themed entrees and drinks will be available from the Overton restaurant. A minimum $15 donation is requested. For more information: 941-260-8485; sarasotacontemporar