Review: JOYFUL!JOYFUL! at Westcoast Black Theatre TroupeDecember 13, 2023What did our critic think of JOYFUL!JOYFUL! at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe? With their Christmas Card to the Sarasota Community, the WBTT encapsulates traditional and contemporary treasures of holiday music. This show is part Spiritual, part R&B show and part Rock Concert! This show was created by Nate Jacobs, Founder and Artistic Director of WBTT. The intention of this show was to create a feeling of gratitude and to “remind us to celebrate the gift of life”. In this performance I would say that this ensemble has surpassed this assignment!
Interview: Justin Gomiak of VAN WEZEL EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY at Van WezelNovember 10, 2023Like a lot of our neighbors, and maybe our own journey to becoming a permanent resident of Sarasota, Justin Gomlak first came here on vacation. After coming for a few years, the lifestyle, culture and the arts scene made him take stock of what was important in his life and move out of the Big Apple. Gomlak made the most of his 25 years as a resident of New York City, including many impressive years of stage performances (on and off-Broadway), obtaining a master’s degree from NYU (in Educational Leadership), teaching at some of the best private/ parochial schools and much more.
Review: ONCE ON THIS ISLAND at Westcoast Black Theatre TroupeOctober 30, 2023This multi-award winning musical started running in the 1990’s off-Broadway and has been revived multiple times. Once on This Island was nominated for 9 Tony Awards, winning in the category of Best Revival of a musical in 2018. Take note, as this musical is currently in development by Disney as a film adaptation.
Review: NEWSIES at Rise AboveOctober 24, 2023What did our critic think of NEWSIES at Rise Above? Rise Above Theater takes this show on in stride. There were many production choices that made this not just a night at the theater, but an experience! From being greeted at the door and ushered to our seats by the costumed cast, to the entire theater being used as a stage including side bar and aisles.