Behind the Masterpiece on Florida’s Cultural Coast

Visit Sarasota County
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Welcome to Behind the Masterpiece on Florida’s Cultural Coast, a podcast by Visit Sarasota County!

  1. -5 J

    Inside the Venice Chorale: Brent Douglas on Vision, Voice, and the Upcoming Season

    What does it take to breathe new life into a community chorale? Brent Douglas, Music Director of the Venice Chorale, is transforming this beloved Florida ensemble into a hub of innovation, education, and immersive performance. In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, Brent shares how he curates multi-sensory concerts, fosters local talent, and brings global inspiration to the Gulf Coast. From black light opera to Venice’s upcoming centennial celebration, discover how the Venice Chorale is becoming one of the most dynamic arts organizations on Florida’s Cultural Coast. Visit Venice Choral's Website: https://thevenicechorale.org/ Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Brent Douglas, Music Director, Venice Chorale (03:20) Going from education to professional performance (04:30) Blacklight Opera version of Magic Flute coming to Venice (07:18) Growing up a musician (11:40) Planning the Venice Choral season (15:00) “The Big Sing” - Celebrating 100 years of Venice, Florida For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    19 min

  2. 16 SEPT.

    Inside “The Hat”: How the Historic Asolo Theater Shapes Sarasota’s Art Scene with Elizabeth Doud

    What’s “The HAT”? It’s more than just a nickname, it’s a beloved cultural landmark. In this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece, Jeffery Kin sits down with Elizabeth Doud, Currie-Kohlmann Curator of Performance at the Historic Asolo Theater, to uncover the history, heartbeat, and creative soul behind this iconic venue at The Ringling. From the origins of its top-hat moniker to curating global talent for Sarasota audiences, Elizabeth shares how the theater blends historic charm with cutting-edge artistry. Hear how she discovers boundary-pushing performers, why intimacy matters in live arts, and what’s in store for the upcoming season.  Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Elizabeth Doud, Currie-Kohlmann Curator of Performance at The Ringling Museum and the Historic Asolo Theatre (07:00) How Elizabeth got to the Historic Asolo Theatre (10:40) How Elizabeth curates the performances at the HAT (13:00) Masterclasses (15:00) Building relationships with artists (20:30) Upcoming performances (23:00) How do you stay motivated? (27:00) The importance of the arts For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    31 min

  3. 19 AOÛT

    100 Years of Sarasota Art: Inside the Centennial Celebration at Art Center Sarasota

    In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Brian Hersh sits down with Alecia Harper, Centennial Archivist and Guest Curator for Art Center Sarasota, to celebrate 100 years of Sarasota's rich artistic legacy. Alecia shares fascinating stories unearthed from the archives, from telegrams by Cecil B. DeMille to original Beaux Arts Ball tickets, and previews a full year of exhibitions, artist talks, and interactive events leading up to the 2026 centennial celebration. Whether you're a local or visiting Florida’s Cultural Coast, this episode reveals why Art Center Sarasota has been a cornerstone of creativity for generations. Tune in to discover the hidden gems of Sarasota’s art history. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Alecia Harper, Art Center Sarasota Centennial Archivist (01:00) Art Center Sarasota is turning 100! (03:00) What stories are you finding in the archives? (05:30) How is Art Center Sarasota commemorating the past yet focusing on the future? (09:40) The Beaux Arts Ball (11:30) Alecia's exhibit in 2026 (13:50) How can guests experience Art Center Sarasota? For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    17 min

  4. 5 AOÛT

    Preserving Sarasota's Black History: A Conversation with Vickie Oldham of Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition

    In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin sits down with Vickie Oldham, President & CEO of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition. Together, they dive into the emotional roots of her mission, from preserving Black history through the Leonard Reid House to launching legacy projects like butterfly gardens and storytelling murals. Vickie shares how her love for history, community, and even gardening helps shape a more connected Sarasota. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with purpose, passion, and the power of storytelling. Visit the Leonard Reid House: 2529 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34234 Website: https://thesaacc.org/ Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Vickie Oldham, President & CEO of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (01:30) Facebook Byline and getting interested in African American History (06:30) The Leonard Reid House creation and current activities (10:00) Interest in horticulture and the role at Leonard Reid House (13:00) The Legacy Walk and butterfly garden (14:45) Tours of the Leonard Reid House (17:50) Walter Gilbert Murals popping up around town (20:20) Growing up in an artistic household (22:00) Past life as a news reporter (25:11) Discover everything SAACC is doing For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    27 min

  5. 22 JUIL.

    Behind the Curtain at Lemon Bay Playhouse with Lori Sigrist

    Discover the inspiring story behind Lemon Bay Playhouse and its vibrant role in Florida’s cultural coast in this lively episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Host Jeffery Kin sits down with Executive Director Lori Sigrist to explore the theater’s rich history, exciting 38th season lineup, and the transformative impact of arts education through their beloved “Lemon Drops” youth program. From Lori’s journey from New Jersey social worker to community theater leader, to the behind-the-scenes look at how a season is selected, this episode offers a heartfelt, humorous, and deeply engaging glimpse into the people keeping live theater alive in Englewood. If you care about the arts, community, or storytelling, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Lori Sigrist, Executive Director of Lemon Bay Playhouse (02:10) How did Lori get involved with Lemon Bay Playhouse? (04:00) Getting back into theatre and moving to Florida (12:40) Executive Director vs Artistic Director responsibilities (14:20) The beginning of Lemon Bay Playhouse (15:30) Lemon Drop Kids - Summer Camp (18:15) 38th Season Breakdown (31:20) Fundraiser for the Theatre For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    33 min

  6. 15 JUIL.

    From Sarasota Cuban Ballet School to the Royal Ballet: Francisco Serrano’s Journey

    In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, Royal Ballet dancer Francisco Serrano returns to his roots in Sarasota to perform with the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School. Host Brian Hersh talks with Francisco about his journey from local training to international acclaim, the rigorous life of a professional dancer, and the balance of mind and body required to thrive in the world of ballet. With behind-the-scenes insights into the Royal Ballet, reflections on Cuban ballet technique, and a preview of his upcoming performance, this episode is a must-listen for dance enthusiasts, aspiring artists, and anyone curious about what it takes to make it on the global stage.    Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Francisco Serrano, Soloist at The Royal Ballet (UK) and Guest Artist at Sarasota Cuban Ballet (04:50) What is a day in your life for rehearsal for The Royal Ballet? (08:10) How did training with the Sarasota Cuban Ballet prepare you for The Royal Ballet? (12:10) Preparing your mind and body for performance (15:10) Experience is everything as a professional dancer (17:20) What will we see in your performance with the Sarasota Cuban Ballet? For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    20 min

  7. 8 JUIL.

    Inside The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime with Kim Livengood

    In this lively episode of Behind the Masterpiece, Jeffery Kin sits down with Kim Livengood, entrepreneur, eternal optimist, and the driving force behind The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. Kim shares the inspiring story of how she and her mother transformed a quirky warehouse into one of Sarasota’s most vibrant creative hubs, supporting over 40 local artists, small businesses, and nonprofits. From launching Hamlet’s Eatery to hosting live performances and the nationally recognized Bazaar Shopping Network, Kim talks about resilience, collaboration, and finding joy in community. Whether you're a local arts lover, small business supporter, or just curious about Sarasota’s cultural scene, this episode will leave you energized and inspired. Website: https://www.bazaaronapricotandlime.com/ Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Kim Livengood, Owner/Operator of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime (02:05) What is The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime? (04:45) How did The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime start? (07:05) Creation of the Limelight district (08:45) Hamlet’s Eatery (10:45) Why do you run? (13:36) How does collaboration happen for Kim? (15:56) Bazaar Shopping Network and being on Good Morning America (19:35) Kim growing up (21:41) Handling the hard times

    25 min

  8. 24 JUIN

    Elizabeth & Barbara on Creative Liberties and the Power of Artist-Led Spaces

    In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Brian Hersh sits down with Elizabeth Goodwill and Barbara Gerdeman, co-founders of Creative Liberties, to explore how their artist-led spaces are building community, empowering creatives, and transforming Sarasota’s arts scene. Learn how their journey, from a shared office at Art Center Sarasota to launching multiple collaborative studios and gallery residencies, has provided affordable studio space, exhibition opportunities, and programs like Family Art Day. It’s an inspiring look at how two artists turned a vision into a vibrant creative movement that continues to grow. To learn more about Creative Liberties, visit their website: https://www.creativeliberties.net/ Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Elizabeth Goodwill & Barbara Gerdeman, Co-Founders of Creative Liberties (01:00) What is Creative Liberties? (06:20) What types of artists are at Creative Liberties? (09:15) How can people experience Creative Liberties? (12:20) Elizabeth’s art (15:20) Barbara’s art For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com

    19 min
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Welcome to Behind the Masterpiece on Florida’s Cultural Coast, a podcast by Visit Sarasota County!

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