APRIL 8, 2018

ROARING INTO SARASOTA NEXT SEASON..............

While awaiting my anticipated  fresh look at Jersey Boys and A Chorus Line, VAN WEZEL, announces their 2018-19 Subscription series; and it's a WHOPPER!!!  The eagerly awaited THE LION KING will be making an unprecedented two plus week engagement there along with an extended run of ON YOUR FEET, RENT, STOMP and more.  It's being called the best season in memory with more to come.  Get your subscription now by calling 941-953-3368 or going on line here. 
 
We are only days away from the 20th Anniversary Sarasota  Film Festival.  Their official program guide was distributed in last Sunday's Herald, but  You can also pick up a copy at Hollywood 11 and several other locations, including Whole Foods. 

 Two  films of note, Eighth Grade and Class Rank are running trailers promoting their area premiers immediately

Nick 2018

after the Festival closes.  Love Means Zero, The Nick Bolletieri documentary is the closing day film screening at the Sarasota Opera House.

Announced this week an appearance by Jon Heder will accompany the World Premiere of his new film "When Jeff Tried to Save the World.  Date is April 16. The screening is at 9PM at Hollywood 11, with bowling party to follow!!  Also added, an acclaimed Sundance entry Leave No Trace.  This one is showing at 8:45, Monday April 14.  Also at Hollywood 11.

 For a complete schedule, including parties and luncheons click here.

We are now into the second week of SOL at the STARLITE. In his fourth attempt at creating the ultimate delicatessen experience in Sarasota, his product stands the test!! 

 On my only visit, the corned beef was hot and lean;  the chopped liver tasting home-made; the potato latkes cooked to perfection; the pickle deli quality, but oh that bread!!  Sol promises to improve, as his supplier, Bavarian Bakery is new to the game of rye bread.

  And best of all, the cheese cake is as good as I can remember. 

If you are in the mood for this type of meal, than I can happily suggest a visit to 1001 Cocoanut Avenue this week.

Many of you are regular Westcoast Black Theatre subscribers.  Others go show to show; whatever if you did not see Lady Day At Emerson's Bar&Grill, you missed a grand performance by Tony winner Melba Moore.

  So many exceptional shows at Westcoast, it has become mandatory for a season subscription.  Starting with In The Heights,  then in rapid succession, The Mountaintop, Lady Day and closing with Nate Jacobs World Premier Soul Man.  Keep watching here for next season's attractions. For as little as $125.00 you could have been a subscriber.  To purchase tickets call 941-366-1505 click here. Every seat is a good one!!

Another subscription for your 2018-19 consideration is Sarasota Orchestra Great Escapes.  Their sixth and final will be Wednesday April 11-Saturday April 14.  Mavericks of Rhythm, showcasing familiar American composers, Bernstein, Copland, Mancini and Ellington.  This blend of pops and light classics is available by calling 941-953-3434 by going to their website here.

More late breaking restaurant news.  As first reported here months ago,  Polo Grill and Bar is closing the end of May.  At the time, it was rumored Nancy's BBQ was expanding and taking over part of their location along with other unnamed restaurants and retail.  Stay tuned.

It was officially announced Yummy House is closing its North Trail location once new South Trail location is ready for business.   As first reported here, the new Yummy will have a full bar and will be able to accommodate 100 diners for lunch and dinner.  Their new location is in the former Square 1 Burgers building across from Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Rolf

Chef Rolf is now hiring for his new restaurant in the now shuttered site of Roy's 2001 Siesta Drive location.  More information as it becomes available.

JIM'S RANT....As a passive user of Facebook, I am not as disturbed as most of you are about the exposure of personal data.  It happens everyday with on-line sites.  That Facebook didn't do a better job in protecting that information is sinful.   But now if you really want privacy on Facebook you are going to be charged for that privilege.  Oh, and by the way, this has been going on for over 2 years!!!.....As always, thanks for reading. Until next week...JIM