Celebrate the arts all summer long! Find performances, exhibits, workshops, and cultural gatherings for all ages and interests. Let’s get inspired…
Free Adult Monologue Writing Workshop at Solis Hall
Discover the story only you can tell during “A Story in You!”, a free writing workshop for adults on Monday, July 21 from 6:30 to 8:00pm at Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Boulevard, North Port. Led by Sandy Davisson, this one-day workshop is part of Wellen Park’s Solis Hall Summer Series and offers a hands-on introduction to writing original monologues. Participants will explore key elements of monologue writing and begin crafting a piece inspired by their own life experiences. To learn more, call 941•486•8679.
Play Reading Series
Sarasota Jewish Theatre invites the community to experience its summer 2025 Newish Jewish Play Reading Series, a showcase of contemporary Jewish-themed plays presented at The Sarasota Players, located in the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Three generations of Jewish women confront identity, faith, and family in the wake of a tragic temple shooting in “Observant” by Pamela Weiler Grayson on Monday, July 21 at 7:30pm. This poignant dramedy was a Jewish Plays Project semi-finalist and a 2024 Broadway World Best New Play nominee. “Time Will Tell” by Jeffery Kin will be performed on Monday, August 4, 7:30pm. Inspired by an Isaac Bashevis Singer short story, this updated love story examines imperfections, longing, and timeless connection. “A Black and White Cookie” by Gary Morgenstein will be performed on Monday, August 11 at 7:30pm. When a rent hike threatens his newsstand, Harold Wilson finds unexpected support in Albie Sands, a Jewish Communist. Together, they forge a touching friendship in this award-winning story of resilience and unity. Single tickets are $20 or $54 for the three-play series. To purchase tickets visit ThePlayers.org or call 941•365•2494. Audience members will have the opportunity to provide feedback on each reading to help SJT shape future programming. Visit SarasotaJewishTheatre.org for more information.
Celebrate Christmas in July with Clyde and Niki Butcher
Celebrate Christmas in July with Clyde & Niki Butcher at the Venice Gallery & Studio, 237 Warfield Avenue, Venice, on Thursday, July 24, 4 to 7pm. Meet Clyde & Niki Butcher in person and enjoy exclusive summer specials on art and books. This event is free and open to the public. RSVP to be automatically entered into a raffle for a chance to win a prize. Must be present to win. At the Venice Gallery & Studio, you’ll see how Clyde and Niki bring their artistic vision to life, from capturing the landscape to printing and framing the final masterpiece. Visit ClydeButcher.com to RSVP.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has launched a new podcast titled “Curtain Call Conversations”, offering listeners an inside look at the Hall and the performing arts world. The debut episode aired July 2 and is available at VanWezel.org/podcast and on major platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Hosted by Public Relations Director Muffy Lavens and Director of Education and Community Engagement Justin Gomlak, the first episode highlights the upcoming Broadway season and the benefits of ticket subscriptions. Future episodes will include behind-the-scenes features with technical staff, interviews with theatre camp students, and stories from longtime team members. New episodes will be released every other Wednesday. Updates and ticket information are available at VanWezel.org or by calling 941•263•6799. Pictured are Director of Education and Community Engagement Justin Gomlak and Public Relations Director Muffy Lavens.
Friday Night Concert Series
Head to downtown Venice for an evening of live music featuring Tomardo at the Friday Night Concert Series on Friday, July 25 from 7 to 9pm at the Centennial Park Gazebo, 200 W. Venice Avenue. This is a free community concert, hosted by Venice MainStreet and sponsored by Neal Communities. Bring your own chairs or blankets. Please note: no alcohol is permitted in Centennial Park. For more info, visit VeniceMainStreet.com.
Arts Alliance Summer Social at 99 Bottles
The Arts Alliance invites creatives, artists, and supporters of the local arts scene to attend the Arts Alliance Summer Social on Tuesday, July 22, 5:30 to 7pm, at 99 Bottles, 1445 2nd Street, Sarasota. Lite bites will be generously provided by the hosts at 99 Bottles. For details, visit SarasotaArts.org.
Artistic Rivals: de Kooning & Pollock
On Thursday, July 24, from 11am to 12:15pm, join lecturer Baila Miller at Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, for a fascinating exploration of the rivalry between Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock, two towering figures of Abstract Expressionism. Discover how de Kooning’s years of struggle were overshadowed by Pollock’s fame, and how critics and patrons debated their legacy. Seating is limited to 70 attendees, first come, first seated. Doors open 15 minutes prior to start. To learn more, call 941•861•1110 or visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com.
Paintings & Stuff Exhibit
Explore creativity in all its forms at Paintings & Stuff, a juried exhibition running July 25 through August 13 at The Venice Art Center, 390 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice. Don’t miss the opening reception on Friday, July 25 from 5 to 7pm, where you can mingle with artists and fellow art lovers. The exhibit also includes an Altman-Vogt Solo Exhibition by featured artist Cosette Kosiba. To learn more visit VeniceArtCenter.com.
In the Round
Experience the creative process in action at “In the Round”, Sarasota Contemporary Dance’s summer in-studio performance series held both in person and virtually on Friday, July 25, 7 to 8pm, at the Sarasota Contemporary Dance Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300, Sarasota. This series showcases works-in-progress by rising choreographers from SCD and select talents from across the country, developed in collaboration with the Summer Intensive participants. General admission is $20. Attend in person or join online. For tickets and more information, visit sarasotacontemporarydance.org/in-studio or call 941•260•8485.
Classic Film Screening: The Birdcage
Join the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, for a night of laughter and heart with a special screening of “The Birdcage” on Friday, July 25 at 7pm. This 1996 comedy stars Robin Williams, Nathan Lane, Gene Hackman, and Calista Flockhart in a witty remake of the French classic La Cage aux Folles. When young couple Val and Barbara decide to marry, their families couldn’t be more different. In a whirlwind of disguise and farce, Val’s father—flamboyant drag club owner Armand—tries to play it straight to impress his conservative future in-laws, with hilarious results. Run time is 1 hour 58 minutes. For tickets and details visit SarasotaOpera.org or call 941•328•1300.
Bluegrass in Arcadia: Ian Lane and Southern Flavor
Don’t miss the Heartland-Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association’s monthly show on Saturday, July 26 at 1pm, featuring 18-year-old fiddle sensation Ian Lane and his band, Southern Flavor, fresh from their performance at the Grand Ol’ Opry. Also performing will be the Heartland Jam Band. This toe-tapping indoor concert takes place in the air-conditioned recreation hall at Craig’s RV Resort, 7895 NE Cubitis Avenue, Arcadia. Admission is free for members and a $10 donation is requested of non-members. Annual household memberships are $35 and support monthly concerts and weekend jams. Craig’s RV Resort offers weekend bluegrass jamming and campsites with power and water hook-ups for $30/night. From SR-70, take US 17 North 7.1 miles and turn left on Cubitis Avenue, then right into Craig’s. For details, call 941•219•2256, email heartlandsouthwestbluegrass@gmail.com, or visit HeartlandBluegrass.org.
Cinderella: Royal Ballet on Screen
Experience a rare staging of Handel’s “Cinderella” as a contemporary morality tale, featuring a world-class cast including Julia Bullock, Joyce DiDonato, and Jakub Józef Orliński. Conducted by Harry Bicket, this modern production breathes new life into Handel’s seldom-performed oratorio. Catch this stunning performance on Saturday, July 27 at 1:30pm at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota. Presented in full cinematic glory, this ballet performance runs 3 hours and 9 minutes. For tickets and more information, visit SarasotaOpera.org or call 941•366•8450.
A Tale of Duty and Valor
Experience an evening of myth, movement, and majesty as SaiNrityalaya School for Dance presents “A Tale of Duty and Valor” on Saturday, August 2 at 7pm at the Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota. This captivating dance-drama, adapted from an ancient Indian epic, tells the story of a dutiful prince exiled by a royal decree, a heroic rescue mission to save his kidnapped wife from a fearsome demon king, and a triumphant return to his kingdom. Blending classical Indian dance with evocative storytelling, this production brings to life themes of sacrifice, courage, and righteousness that continue to resonate across cultures. Tickets start at $20, available at SarasotaOpera.org or by calling 941•328•1300.
Sea Grape Gallery: July Artist
Throughout the month of July, Sea Grape Gallery in Punta Gorda will spotlight the vibrant and expressive works of Barb Albin, a watercolor artist known for her colorful interpretations of nature’s energy and beauty. A member of the Florida Watercolor Society, Women Contemporary Artists of Sarasota, and The National League of American Pen Women, Barb has exhibited in over 300 juried and invitational shows, juried several competitions, and led numerous art workshops. Visit Sea Grape Gallery, located at 113 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, or browse her collection and other featured artists online at seagrapegallery.com. For more information, call 941•575•1718.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat has announced three Florida arts educators as recipients of the 2025 State Teachers Artist Residency program, now in its fifteenth year. Selected from Seminole, Orange, and Hillsborough Counties, the artists will spend part of July at the Hermitage campus on Manasota Key to focus on their own creative work. This year’s STARs include Jennifer Bennett, a theater educator and playwright; Abbey Kish, a visual artist specializing in printmaking and photography; and Emma Olivia Chandler, a metalsmith and educator at Blake High School. The program is presented in partnership with the Florida Alliance for Arts Education. As part of their residency, the artists presented a family-friendly showcase on July 11 for students at the Englewood YMCA. For more information, visit faae.org/star. Pictured L-R are Jennifer Bennett, Abbey Kish, and Emma Olivia Chandler.
Vice & Virtue
Art Center Sarasota’s annual juried regional show, Vice & Virtue, is now open. Juried by curator and artist Jessica Todd, this exhibition invites artists from across the Southeast to explore the dualities of the human experience. The show spans all four galleries and runs through Saturday, August 2. Art Center Sarasota is located at 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To learn more visit ArtSarasota.org or call 941•365•2032.
“How Sweet It Is”
Get ready to groove as “How Sweet It Is” hits the stage at Florida Studio Theatre’s Goldstein Cabaret, 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, running now through August 3. This musical revue pays tribute to the sound of Motown, with fresh takes on classic motown hits. The show not only celebrates the hits but also reveals the rich stories and unexpected connections between Motown legends and artists like The Beatles, James Taylor, Eric Clapton, and Smokey Robinson. For tickets or more information, call 941•366•9000 or visit floridastudiotheatre.org.
Selby Gardens Accepting Submissions for Photography Exhibition
Calling all photographers! Selby Gardens’ 45th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition will be displayed online from August 28 through September 30. Presented in partnership with Observer Media Group, this celebrated exhibition invites artists to creatively capture the beauty of nature across five distinct categories: Living Art – Interpret nature through artistic use of light, color, and composition; Make a Splash – Feature the scenic aquatic beauty of Selby’s bayfront sanctuaries; Plant Portraits – Highlight the striking personalities of Selby Gardens’ plant life; The Birds and the Bees – Focus on the vibrant wildlife at both Sarasota campuses; and Black + White – Showcase nature’s elegance through monochromatic photography. Online submissions will be accepted August 4 to 11. For more information, visit selby.org.
Summer Circus Spectacular
Step right up for summer thrills and family fun as The Circus Arts Conservatory and The Ringling team up to present the Summer Circus Spectacular at the Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. This family-friendly show features world-class circus artists performing jaw-dropping feats, awe-inspiring acrobatics, and delightful comedy to entertain audiences of all ages. Regular performances run now through August 9: Tuesday through Friday at 11am & 2pm and Saturdays at 2pm & 5pm. Tickets are $20 Adults, $15 Children (12 & under). Add admission to the Circus Museum for just $5 with your show ticket and explore the Historic Circus Galleries and Tibbals Learning Center. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit Ringling.org or call 941•360•7399.
Sarasota Art Museum Exhibits
Three exhibitions are at Sarasota Art Museum through August 10, each exploring a different facet of contemporary life through the lens of African American experience, self-preservation, and technology. “Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press” showcases works by seventeen artists including Martin Puryear, Kerry James Marshall, and the Gee’s Bend Quilters. This national exhibition celebrates African American creativity and influence on today’s art world. “Chris Friday: Where We Never Grow Old” marks the first solo museum exhibition for the multidisciplinary artist, known for her emotionally rich chalk drawings. Friday’s immersive installation reflects on personal sanctuaries and the spaces we create to feel safe and seen. “Jillian Mayer: Slumpies” invites a playful and critical interaction with technology. This interactive sculpture series encourages guests to sit, climb, and “slump” into sculptural forms designed to support the body while using digital devices, blurring the line between furniture and art. For museum hours, tickets, and more information, visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org or call 941•309•7662.
Big Waters Land Trust has announced the juried selections and winners for their sixth annual Summer Photo Contest. Photographers of all ages and experience levels were invited to submit their original work showcasing the beauty of natural Florida to this online competition. This year’s competition is sponsored by Sarasota Scene Magazine. View the winning images and full exhibit online at BigWatersLandTrust.org and on their Facebook page. Pictured is Best-in-Show winner “Sea of Fish and Light” by Brice Claypoole.
Dorothy’s Dictionary
From now to Sunday, August 10, experience the power of words and unexpected connection in “Dorothy’s Dictionary”, presented at the Keating Theatre, 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota. This heartwarming new play follows the unlikely friendship between a troubled teen and a strong-willed woman, brought together through the transformative world of books. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the story explores memory, identity, and the healing language offers. Matinees and evening performances are available. Ticket prices start at $25. To learn more or purchase tickets, call 941•366•9000 or visit floridastudiotheatre.org.
Call for Photo Entries
Charlotte County is requesting photo submissions for the “Live, Work and Play in Charlotte County Calendar Contest”. The 2026 calendar theme is “Live, Work and Play in Charlotte County” reflecting the county vision: “To preserve and enrich our community’s quality of life for those who live, work and play in our paradise.” Photos must be taken in Charlotte County. Submit photos online at CharlotteCountyFL.gov/contest by Friday, August 15. Calendars will be available late November at county facilities.
Eclectic Expressions
Discover the creativity of local talent at “Eclectic Expressions”, a rotating summer exhibit featuring juried members of the Island Gallery and Studios in Bradenton. This collection will be on display now through August at the Arts Advocates Gallery, located inside The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. To learn more visit islandgalleryandstudios.org or artsadvocates.org.
Contemporary Photography and the Birds
Soar into summer with “The High Life: Contemporary Photography and the Birds” at Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota. This international exhibition features seventy striking works by over fifty artists, curated by William Ewing and Danaé Panchaud and organized by the Foundation for the Exhibition of Photography. On view indoors and throughout the gardens from Saturday, July 19 to Sunday, September 14, the show invites guests to explore the beauty, mystery, and symbolism of birds through a global lens. To learn more visit Selby.org or call 941•366•5731.
“Through the Veil”
Step into a luminous world of memory, identity, and reflection with “Through the Veil”, the first solo museum exhibition by artist Lillian Blades at the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. This immersive, site-specific installation invites visitors to wander through a suspended labyrinth of mixed-media veils crafted from acrylic, fabric, found materials, and shimmering surfaces, bathed in light from the museum’s central skylight tower. Inspired by her Bahamian heritage and her late mother’s legacy as a seamstress, Blades’ radiant color palette and intricate assemblages reflect themes of connection, transformation, and cultural discovery. The exhibition’s centerpiece is surrounded by wall-mounted works that further expand the viewer’s journey through layers of light, texture, and personal meaning. Curated by Lacie Barbour, “Through the Veil” runs now through October 26. To learn more visit SarasotaArtMuseum.org or call 941•309•7662.
These listings are as accurate as possible. Please call the listed numbers for confirmation and further information. If you have an art event or happening you would like to have considered for “Art Chat,” please send information and/or photo to The Englewood REVIEW, 370 W Dearborn St, Suite B, Englewood, FL 34223, or email: info@englewoodreview.com.
