ArtsBeat

After years of financial losses, new leaders are working toward balanced budgets as they try to raise $500,000, for renovations at Payne Park Auditorium.

Joseph Caulkins plans concerts that tell stories through music 2026-27 season programs.

Commissioners approved $2.1 million in county support to 33 organizations. Urbanite Theatre, which declined to sign a DEI acknowledgement circulated by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, was the lone exception.

Holly DeWitt and Marina Pope became close friends while building choir and band programs.

Sarasota County arts organizations seeking a share of $2.1 million in public grant funding this year are facing a new requirement to sign an acknowledgment tied to Florida's restrictions on DEI initiatives. Some have signed despite deep reservations.

Competitive ballroom dancing generates millions of dollars and inspires deep devotion — despite the hefty price tag.

Nate Jacobs' Sarasota-based company returns with a new revue celebrating Marvin Gaye at the biennial festival in North Carolina.

Questions remain about what organizations will receive state support.

Area's oldest performing arts organization expects to move into new Payne Park theater in January.

Audiences respond to orchestral concerts mixing classics and pop music.

Nine new local and national shows are presented in the fourth festival.

40 rising musicians will work with 20 faculty members for a two-week festival of training and concerts