OCTOBER 18, 2015

WELCOME BACK...HARD TO BELIEVE SEASON IS UPON US......DIDN'T YOU JUST LEAVE?

If you are reading Jim Knows SARASOTA on Saturday, Tracy Morgan returns to the stage tonight at 11:30 as guest host on Saturday Night Live. This will truly be an emotional start to a program that seems to get better with age.

Last Wednesday, FST/ CABARET kicked off the season in grand style with SOUL MATES: A Journey to Hitsville.  Four young and very talented performers combined to sing hit after hit from an era most of us not only remember, but can sing along to as well; the dawning of R&B as interpreted by Motown. Too many songs to mention here, but all should bring back the wonderful memories of  My Girl, I'll Be There, ABC and more.  Soul Mates is playing at the Court Cabaret through February 7, 2016.

Also debuting on Wednesday at WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE  was The Color Purple.  First a novel, then movie starring Oprah Winfrey, to a Broadway musical generating 11 Tony nominations, it is now the first of what promises to be a string of sure to be sold outshows this season.  The director, James Harkness from the original Broadway cast was last seen on Broadway in Beautiful, the show written by Carole King.  That too will be playing later this season at The Straz Center in Tampa.  Purple runs through November 21.  Saturday performances are already sold out.  Call 941-366-1505 or click here for schedule and ticket purchase.

Purple is being revived on Broadway as well.   Starring  Jennifer Hudson with Oprah as producer.  My guess, our production, though not as elaborate, will be just as good or even better than NY!!!
The Main stage opens its season in a month with a show recently performed on Broadway, ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS.  Combining music, slapstick and serious issues, this show takes place in England, I can guarantee you will be charmed and delighted by the cast assembled for this one. For more seasonal information or to purchase tickets call 941-366-9000 click here to visit their wonderful website. 

The Great Escapes series of themed contemporary music also began its season on Wednesday with a collection of music culled from famous Hollywood musicals.  Music from Jurassic Park to Bugs Bunny to Amadeus thrilled the audience.  Though there were scattered empty seats, their season is also close to selling out.  Our Sarasota Orchestra under the direction of Andy Lane has never sounded better.  Call 941-953-3434 click here for this season's schedule of popular and classical music.

Benefit for Nate's Honor Animal Rescue Medical Fund

BULLETIN....BULLETIN....In addition to Premium seats for the Howling For Honor benefit at McCURDY'S Comedy Theatre, A block of performance only tickets  are now available at $75.  Open seating starting at 6:30 with performance at 7:00.  Food and drink will be available for purchase before the show.  Tickets will go fast so I urge you to click here to purchase tickets now!!

THE ROSEMARY

Here's some breaking news for those of you who have dinner before theater.  Savory Street which closed recently is about to reopen with new owner, name and menu.  The team that made Treviso such a success is moving over to Savory's location as THE ROSEMARY. They will also serve breakfast and lunch as well.

A perfect spot for before theater dining.  Within shouting distance of WestCoast Black Theatre, FST, Opera House and Van Wezel, they will get you to the show on time!!!  And, the good news is no absentee management.  The owner, who I personally know will be working to assure his success as well as your satisfaciton.  More on menu, hours, etc. in a few weeks.

More restaurant news:  Maria Van Brunt writes...."Wheat and Water...good home cooked Italian food, served by an efficient staff in a delightful environment.  We recommend the Caesar Salad, done just right, wonderful pizzas, especially the Arugula and Artichoke Bainca, homemade meatballs, great pasta Fagioli and many signature dishes such as Fettuccine Caprino and Lasagna Bolognese.  All with a full bar and very reasonably priced.  Located at 7303 52nd place E. Bradenton in Bells/Lowes strip mall.  Bon Appetite!!"

JIM'S RANT.....many of you responded to last week's rant in reference to my answer to all the negative response surrounding Nathan Benderson Park. The best was from rkline..."You hit the nail right on the head.  Reading the letters to the editor is frightening and the paper itself isn't much better.  What is their problem with Benderson?  The rowing will bring in far more revenue than the 12 baseball games played in our 35 million dollar ball park!"
As usual, a fine editing job by Tracy....thanks for reading.....keep your fingers crossed...until next week....JIM

CONGRATULATIONS CUBS!!!!!