HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
Two days ago, Circus Sarasota returned to the big top at Benderson Park with OVATION. And yes, this year's version drew a standing O at their second act conclusion. Though Nik is missing this year, the International cast more than makes up for his absence with their daredevil aerial performance without a net. This show runs through March 9. Box office is open daily or you can call 941-355-9805. Or you can click here to order those tickets.
Sarasota opera had its season debut Friday with their first production of Puccini's Manson Lescaut. Running through March 23 it tells the story of a couple who experience love at first sight and face serious obstacle to a lasting relationship. Other featured Operas are Norma and Defland. The season concludes with the more popular and more familiar opera, Bizet's Carmen.Performances are at Sarasota Opera House. For more information call 941-328-1300 or click here for more information.
After hearing so much about NAPULE, from friends, readers and Sarasota Magazine, 5 of us went for dinner Wednesday. Attractive and modern best describes the interior of the restaurant. Imagine Boca or Bravo and you have a pretty good idea. Along with its brick-oven pizza, large screen movie loop and an open second floor for dining, Napule is much more attractive. If you can get by the NOISE, Napule is a positive addition to our growing list of restaurants.
Inexpensive and casual best describes the menu. Some have raved about their pizza, I am not one of them. I prefer a solid crust. Needless to say Napule features a soft crust which made hand holding difficult. Their pasta is rich and flavorful. Desserts look no different than of other Italian restaurants here. Maybe they all get from same bakery.A reservation is suggested; especially on crowded weekends. Call 941-556-9639. For menu and additional information click here. And request 2nd floor. The noise is as bad as one can imagine.
There has been much publicity regarding the JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL. I will have the complete line-up next week. The Festival has grown from a handful of films to overa dozen. Opening night guests include Yariv Mozer and Alon Ben-Gurion. Most screenings will be at Hollywood20. If you can't wait until next week you are welcome to click here for an update on all scheduled movies as well as special evnets associated with film festival.
The closing night film EXODUS will be presented at Sahib Shriners Auditorium in its full over 3 hour un-cut version.
The world is changing along the University Corridor. What once was a sleepy bunch of parking lots with fast food, bank and Outback Restaurant, has welcomed a state of the art WHOLE FOODS, WAWA, soon to open METRO DINER, and the just announced Mote Marine.In addition, UPCC is about to become a recreational district with current owners in charge; and if you are an owner with ballot and a registered Manatee County voter now is time to get that vote in to your Neighborhood Chairperson.
A few parting words on the AMAZON/WHOLE FOODS. It's easily double in size from their 1St. Street location. Included is a restaurant with beer and wine service. Restaurant even offers a happy hour with $2 off 4-7 pm. Just imagine a huge expansion of what you've come to expect from WHOLE FOODS. Along with WA WA, this is one busy strip mall. AND, if you are an Amazon Prime Member, there are additional specials throughout the store.
JIM'S RANT....Ten years ago, Nate Benderson had an idea to create a cultural area around the then being developed UTC and Benderson Park. He offered land and $ to Sarasota Symphony to relocate to that site. In addition he offered to help develop the property. Didn't happen, and now with Mote Marine moving that way, one can only imagine what would have been.....
Thanks for reading.....Until next week.....
JIM
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