AnythingArtsNewsletter.com - artists promoting artists

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Welcome to AnythingArtsNewlsetter.com, a bi-monthly (2x a month) electronic arts & enter-tainment newsletter produced by artists, for artists, to promote everything from the funky and avant-garde to high-brow mainstream art and events. Thank you for helping AnythingArts Newlsetter.com to be so successful: tell a friend about us today, they’ll appreciate it. Don't forget to check out our AnythingArts.com site! Share Sign up now to receive the AnythingArtsNewsletter Featured Artists Ditchfield Family Singers
written by Gayle Williams, Vision PR & Marketing There are no snow capped mountains and edelweiss within miles of here, but Sarasota has its very own Von Trapp Family Singers in the family of Stephen and Bernice Ditchfield. For this family vocal ensemble, the values and wonder of “the sound of music“ is a daily reality. Recognized as one of the country’s finest family vocal ensembles noted for their close harmony a cappella singing, the Ditchfield Family Singers create music as the family business. Stephen and Bernice Ditchfield didn’t really intend to build this business as their children grew, but it kinda happened that way. Stephen, a rich baritone who admires singers such as Robert Goulet, Bing Crosby and Matt Monroe sang professionally from the very beginning taking gigs in musical theatre and churches when the children were young. As a family, they naturally enjoyed music and singing together at home, but it was not formal until a local church asked if they would dress up as Victorian carolers for a special Christmas event. They were a hit and the invitation to return came year after year. Their children, sons Nathaniel, Michael and David and daughter Stephanie, were naturally gifted singers but as the opportunities to perform increased the family practiced more and more seriously. Stephen, who was the conductor of the Sarasota Chorus of the Keys men’s barbershop harmony chorus, thought it would be a great idea to introduce his sons to the disciplined art of a cappella tight harmony singing. Thus was born what would become the championship barbershop quartet “My Three Sons." The Ditchfield Family Singers now perform all over the United States and have appeared on national TV with Pat Robertson of the 700 Club. While they perform many patriotic and Broadway style secular programs, the Ditchfields are particularly committed to the more spiritual messages of their overwhelmingly popular inspirational and Christmas programs. Today the ensemble totals eight singers. Son Nathaniel married an exceptionally talented soprano Regina and another honorary member of the family, Taylor Sea performs with them as well. Their 10th Annual Christmas Celebration – A Christmas to Remember – features the entire family including the grandchildren! Three performances are schedule on December 11 and 12 at the Sarasota Opera House. For more information go to www.DitchfieldFamilySingers.com. Click here for video.



Every other Thursday [ for the past 4 years ] Do you have a favorite gallery, theatre, music venue or other entertaining spot that we are missing? We can’t print the events if we don’t know about them, so please let us know and also tell your venue to let us know. We are revamping in order to include even more content, help us out.

Reading [ get lit ] Jeffrey Salzberg designs lighting for theatre, dance and opera in NYC and throughout the country. In fact, he has frequented the stages of Sarasota. Jeffrey has co-authored “Stage Lighting for Students” with Judy Kupperman. While intended for student techno-thespians, it is an interesting read for anyone in the theatre to get a grasp of lighting and even non-theater people to see all that goes into lighting the stage; it’s not just a flick of a switch.

First Tuesdays [ art & backstage pass ] The Fine Arts Society of Sarasota offers a special tour of the Van Wezel on the first Tuesday of every month (Oct-May). The guided tour includes a discussion and history of the many works of art on display in the Hall and a backstage tour of the Van Wezel. The next few are December 1, January 5 and February 2. Call 941-953-3368 for the $5 ticket. (photo: Oscar Lakeman’s “Containers #410 on exhibit at the Van Wezel)

Various Wednesdays [ organ music ] Church of the Redeemer presents Organ Recitals each Wednesday, from 12:10 - 12:40 pm. The recitals are traditionally performed by guest organists, and this year will feature local organists Linda Peterson on December 2, Neil Page on December 9, Barbara Roth Donaldson on December 16, and Richard Benedum and Julane Rodgers playing together on December 23. The recitals are free and the public is invited. For more information, call 941-955-4263.

Now [ art center sarasota ] Lots to see at Art Center Sarasota: in the Atrium and Galleries 1 & 2, artists Dean Mitchell, photographs by Arieh Aizenburg, Richard Brownbill, Jimmy Peters and David McGough. In the Main Gallery is the 6th Annual Florida Photography Juried Exhibition; juried by Elena De La Ville and Jean Blackburn.

Now [ spilling bea ] Florida Studio Theatre presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” through January 15. FST describes it thusly (First time I have ever used “thusly." How ‘bout them BUCS?!) “In this hilarious new musical comedy, six young people in the throes of puberty are overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves. Together they learn that winning isn't everything and that losing doesn't necessarily make you a loser.” Call 941-366-9000 for tickets and info. (yes, we know the title is spelled wrong)

November 29 [ aids day ] The Suncoast AIDS Theatre Project presents an uplifting and spiritual evening of reflection and remembrance of those who have passed and those that still suffer from HIV and AIDS, “Reflections: A World AIDS Day Concert." The concert, 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:30) at St Paul's Lutheran Church, Sarasota, features professional performers from the community including, Baron and Connie Garriott, Jorge Acosta, Jeannette Lavoy and Musical Director Jimmy Cox, all of whom are donating their time and talents for the event. Call 941-955-6479 for more information. This concert is free but any donation supports SATP & Community AIDS Network in Sarasota.



December 1 [ author event ] Pulitzer Prize Winning author Jeff Shaara will be at Barnes & Nobles at 7:00 pm to discuss his novels and the third book of his WWII trilogy called, “No Less Than Victory.” Shaara says that many of the stories he heard during his research were personal and previously unpublished. The film “Gettysburg” was based on Shaara’s novel, “The Killer Angels” and is called one of the greatest war movies in the history of the genre. (Photo pinched from Barnes & Noble but linked to them so that you can read an excerpt and buy the book.)

December 1 – 27 [ apple nun ] “Sister’s Christmas Catechism” arrives at the Golden Apple Dinner Theatre. Performance times are Tuesday through Sunday evenings 6:00 pm dinner, 8:00 pm show and Saturday and Sunday matinees Noon lunch, 1:30 pm show. Tickets are $41.00 - $43.00 and are available by calling the Box Office at 941-366-5454. Group discounts are available by calling Paul at 941-366-5454.

December 2 [ smother me with comedy ] The Smothers Brothers, the legendary musical comedy duo, take center stage at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall at 8:00 pm. Marking nearly 50 years in show business, Tom and Dick Smothers are time-honored performers whose career has surpassed all other comedy teams in history. Tickets are $40-$60 (a limited number of “Smart Seats” are available for $10) and may be purchased at the Van Wezel box office, by calling 941-953-3368.



December 3 [ jingle your bells ] It’s time for the 5th Annual Rosemary Rising Holiday Walk from 5:00 - 9:00 pm. It’s free and the shops will be open and festooned and music playing and good cheer and all that jazz. There’s a Children’s Area and something for the entire family. Be there, or be Hum Bug! (the Rosemary District is just North of Fruitville Rd. and includes Central, Lemon and Orange Avenues)

December 3 [ after you jingle your bells ] The Hub is hosting a “Green Screen Party” after the 5th Annual Rosemary Rising Holiday Walk, at their location at 1421 Blvd. of the Arts, from 9:00 -11:30 pm. Don’t wear green because you’ll be able to pose in front of a Green Screen (just like you are Willard Scott) and have all kinds of locations and scenes appear in the photo with you. Should be fun.

December 3 & 10 [ two different things at ringling museum ] On December 3rd from 6:00 – 9:00 pm, the Ringling Museum, decorated for the holidays, is the setting for “Holiday Splendor” and musical performances by more than 400 students. The performances take place all over the grounds and at the Ca’d’Zan Mansion, the Museum Courtyard and in the Tibbals Learning Center. Admission is either $10 or an unwrapped toy to benefit the USMC Toys for Tots program. Then on the 10th, it is the Holiday Swing Big Band Courtyard Concert with "The Bay Band." Bring a chair and a blanket and enjoy. Information and reservations at 941-358-3180.

December 3 – 13 [ christmas at the players ] The Players present “A Country Christmas Carol” including the Sarasota theatrical debut of former City Commissioner Ken Shelin. Call the Box Office for information and tickets at 941-365-2494.

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December 3 - 23 [ the play will come out... tomorrow... ] Drama Kids present “Annie” at the Manatee Players. Call 941-748-5875 to reserve a ticket as they are reporting that some shows are already selling out.

December 4 [ book talk ] As part of a new series, the State College of Florida (formerly MCC) is presenting author and professor Dell Jacobs in the college library from 5:00 -7:00 pm. Jacobs’ new book, “Interrogating the Image: Movies and the World of Film and Television” will be the topic of discussion and available for purchase. The new SCoF Book and Author Series will present local and college authors. For more information, contact 941-752-5306.

December 4 [ live music ] Catch the finger-style guitar music (didn’t know you could play guitar with other body parts) of Richard Gilewitz and special guest Tim May at Ace’s Lounge in Bradenton. His style takes in Blues, Americana and exhibits European influence. Watch him play by clicking here.

December 4 & 5 [ three shows on tippy toes ] “The Nutcracker” returns this holiday season in Sarasota Ballet’s production by former artistic director Robert de Warren. The production runs for three shows only at the Sarasota Opera House. Sarasota Ballet is encouraging everyone to “Take A Child to the Ballet.” Discounts for children under 12 years old with 50% off tickets purchased in Sections II, III, and IV. There is also a special “Cookies and Cocoa” children’s reception in the Opera House courtyard after the Saturday, Dec 5 matinee with photo opportunities with Nutcracker characters. Call 941-351-8000.

December 4, 5 & 6 [ craft show ] The Sarasota American Craft Show is at the Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center beginning at 10:00 am each day. The show includes over 140 juried craft artists showing clay, wood, glass, fiber, jewelry and more.

December 4 and December 6 [ 2 dates, 2 concerts, 2 venues ] On December 4, Jazz Club Sarasota presents “Jazz at 2” with the Mancini Brothers from 2:00 - 4:00 pm at the Bayfront Community Center (803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota). On December 6, it’s the “Big Band Bash” from 1:00 - 5:00 pm at Philippi Estates Park (5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota) with Hellos Jazz Orchestra and the Latin Roots Jazz Ensemble.



December 4 – 31 [ solo exhibition ] M Gallery of Fine Art, Palm Avenue in Sarasota, presents a solo exhibition of Gene Costanza called “Hope on the Horizon." Partial proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Opening reception during First Friday on December 4 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm.

December 4 and beyond [ one month, two artists ] Debra Ridgedill, Raku potter, and Dee Pastorious, watercolor artist, have been named the Featured Artists for December at Island Gallery West. A public reception will be held at the gallery on Friday, December 4, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in conjunction with the Holmes Beach Merchants' Holiday Party. The public is invited to enjoy fine art and free refreshments that evening at Island Gallery West. The exhibit, which opens December 1, runs through the end of the month at Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Call 941-778-6648.

December 5 [ roger the codger ] Carol and Johnnie bring their unique style of variety to Lemon Bay Playhouse on Saturday, December 5, at 7:30 pm. Their vocal performance is embellished by comedy, impersonations, and ventriloquism in the form of “Roger the Codger.” Tickets are available at the box office at 941-475-6756, or online.

December 5 [ art market ] From 10:00 – 4:00 pm The Painted Lady Gallery and Art School of Colleen Cassidy-Berns hosts an art market featuring the works of 25 local vendors. Call 941-924-1200 for more information.

December 5 & 6 [ special art project ] “I AM HOME” is an art project of the Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness. The mission of this initiative is to provide a save and nurturing environment where those who find themselves without homes can express themselves through art. The art work created is exceptional in many ways and is for sale at the “Holiday Market” at First Congressional United Church (1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota) with 90% going to the artist and 10% goes back to fund the project. Saturday 10:00 - 3:00 pm and Sunday 9:00 - 1:00 pm. For more information, contact Barbara Gerdeman at 941-321-6553.

December 5 & 6 [ oliver twist ] Lemon Bay Performing Arts Academy and LBHS Theatre present an original production of “The Musical Adventures of Oliver Twist." The stars of this performance are age 5 – 18 and this show is a true collaboration. Tickets are on sale now at 941-473-0952.



December 5 & 6 [ here comes santa cotton tail ] The Englewood Art Center's Beaux Arts Gift Shop will be holding it's 5th Annual Holiday Gift Show & Sale at the art center located at 350 S. McCall Rd. in Englewood. The event will take place 10:00 - 4:00 pm on Saturday & Sunday. Face painting for kids, Santa on Sunday, with photos and a bake sale. Booth space available for artists wishing to sell their goods (limited number). Call 941-697-4587 for details.

December 6 [ family singers ] Faith Lutheran Church of Sarasota invites the entire community to come here the Ditchfield Family Singers in concert on Sunday, December 6 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children, and are available in advance by calling 941-926-8031, or at the door the day of the event, subject to availability. For more information, call 941-924-4664.

Closing December 6 [ why you dirty rotten ... ] “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” the high-energy comedy about two competing con artists on the French Riviera, opens on Venice Theatre’s MainStage runs through December 6. Based on the popular 1988 film starring Steve Martin and Michael Caine, the musical version took Broadway by storm in 2005 and 2006. It was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and was enjoyed by audiences and critics alike. Tickets are $24 for adults, $12 for students and are on sale now at 941-488-1115.

December 7 [ sonata ] La Musica opens its 24th Season at the Charles Ringling House (on campus at New College) with “Sonata a Due." This year’s gala event brings together pianist Derek Han and violinist Federico Agostini, in a performance of sonatas by French composers Debussy, Ravel and Franck, interspersed with insightful and lighthearted commentary. Dinner in a Victorian setting follows. Tickets are $150 and $250 and includes a reception, the recital and dinner. Call Janet Hunter at 941-371-6798 for information and tickets.

December 11 [ reception and exhibition ] Art Center Manatee invites all to experience the pastels of Carol Ferony, clay sculpture by Bill Kidd, clay figures by Oat Underwood and an exhibition showcasing the talent and creativity of Art Center Manatee students. The Opening Reception is December 11 from 5-7:00 p.m. but you can see the works anytime during regular hours. (photo is of work by Bill Kid)

December 12 [ yoot opera ] The Sarasota Youth Opera will perform its annual Winter Concert at Unity Church of Sarasota, at 5:00 pm. The concert will include Copland’s “At the River," and opera choruses from Bellini’s “I puritani,” Donizetti’s “Don Pasquale,” and Rachmaninov’s “Aleko.” The Sarasota Youth Opera Choruses will perform under the direction of Youth Opera Music Director Lance Inouye, with piano accompaniment by Kristen Kemp. The program is administered by Kate Gigliotti, Sarasota Youth Opera Coordinator. It’s free, with a suggested donation of five bucks. Unity Church of Sarasota is at 3023 Proctor Road, Sarasota, about one mile east of US 41. For more information, call the Education Office at 941-366-8450, ext. 249.

Opening December 16 [ ho ho show show ] "Dickens at the Crosley" fills the mansion with stories and songs of the holidays from December 16 to 23. Live at the Powel Crosley Theatre.



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[ voice and speech training ] John Burr offers voiceover and speech training at his new studio in Sarasota. And this year, he's added a new program for kids from 14 to 18, called the Young Talent Program. Whatever your needs, with his many years of experience, John can help you develop into a world-class voiceover talent or public speaker. Check out John's website for the details.

Deadline Looming [ plays needed ] Theatre Odyssey is gearing up for their 2010 Ten Minute Play Festival. Local playwrights can submit one play free, subsequent submissions carry a fee. Deadline for submission of plays by December 15. Play selections will be announced January 15, 2010; March 25, 26 and 27, 2010 will be the 2010 Festival dates and then winning play (best of) will receive a cash prize. Plays submissions should be sent to Melissa Swenson at 1430 S. Orange Avenue, Sarasota, 34239.

Bunch o’Dates [ 3 different workshops ] The Digital Technology Centre always has a great schedule of interesting classes and students come from all over the state to participate. Up next, Digital Photography for Kids on November 28; Lighting the Studio with Carmen Schettino on December 7; Corel Patiner II (beginner) on December 8; and Infra-Red Photography with Tom Thomas on December 9. Check the Digital Technology Centre website for a full listing of all of the workshops and see the poster ad below for the 10% Off code for AnythingArts.com readers.

Mondays [ qigong club srq ] Begin the week focusing on breath, energy, alignment and movement. Qigong is an ancient health and fitness modality suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Held each Monday at 9:00 am, classes meet at Sarasota's Island Park. This group is led by Alena Nickos, certified to teach the Evidence-Based Qigong and Taiji Program developed by Master Yang Yang, PhD. For more information, contact Alena at 941-921-2806 or email mini.taiji@yahoo.com.

December 7 – 11 [ workshop ] Gene Costanza, contemporary realist painter of traditional matter, leads a workshop at M Gallery of Fine Art. The workshop includes a lecture and study of master works, educational materials, painting demos, field instruction, critiques and a reception. For more information, call 941-954-8774.

[ call to artists ] Mote Marine Laboratory is now accepting entry applications for art representing Mote's 55 years of preserving our world's marine environment and advancing marine science for entry in a week-long exhibition in March. Selected artworks will be shown in the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium 55th Anniversary Celebration Juried Art Exhibition. The display will greet guests in Mote Aquarium, which attracts 300,000 visitors each year, including the opening and closing receptions and a silent auction. Catch a glimmering snook on canvas, sketch a darting dolphin, get colorful with corals — explore the sea of possibilities. For more information, submission and entry forms. Please address questions to Exhibition Chairwoman, Deborah Dart. Entries must be hand delivered and will only be accepted between 10:00 - 3:00 pm, March 10, 2010.

Auditions [ pick me, no me ] Be sure to check the audition pages of local theaters to make sure you don’t miss anything (click the theater name): Florida Studio Theatre • The Players Theatre of Sarasota • Manatee Players • The Golden Apple • Island Players • Asolo Repertory Theatre • Venice Theatre • Lemon Bay Playhouse
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