Alana Opie returns with her show "Mommy Needs a Drink," but this time she's bringing along five of the area's finest performers who happen to be moms as well! Join Alana, Asia Dekle, Jennifer Baker, Corinne Woodland, Jamie Butrum, and Liz Pascoe-Broome as we sing about the ups and downs of motherhood, including pregnancy, raising kids, men and more! ***Warning, some strong language and lots of booze.
A side splitting sendup of greed, love, revolution (and musicals!), in a time when water is worth its weight in gold. We can’t wait for our most talented young performers to tackle this Tony Award winning satire.
The "stable geniuses" from Random Acts return! After a break last summer to produce Reefer Madness: The Musical we are back with all-new material that we can't mention in polite company! This summer we bring you songs, scenes, and shenanigans guaranteed to make you snort your beer. Polite company should beware, material is completely UNCENSORED. Good times!
After spending 7 weeks learning all about stand up comedy and "finding the funny" from professional stand up comic Gid Pool, our students are ready to share their routines. Get ready to laugh with one of our favorite showcases!
Join the cast of this Summer's Urinetown, as they take a look back and pay tribute to the first 12 seasons of SummerStock. Including songs from Footloose, West Side Story, Oklahoma, Jesus Christ Superstar, Cabaret and more.
Return to the year of America's first man in space, the beginning of JFK's Presidency and the year that Roger Maris hit 61 home runs. And the music...Bye Bye Birdie wins the Tony award, West Side Story debuts in movie theaters and Bobby Freeman, Patsy Cline, Roy Orbison, Ray Charles and the Shirelles are scoring top hits. And don't forget Breakfast at Tiffany's and its theme song that won an Academy Award and a Grammy as "song of the year." You'll experience all this - and more - as you re-live the year that is the same upside down as right-side up!
This dynamic duo unites to share their musical flair with favorite songs from their hearts to yours. Featuring phenomenal Michelle Kasanofsky on piano. You will hear music of Johnny Mercer, Bette Midler, Judy Garland, Barry Manilow, Bobby Darin and Frank Sinatra. The night is new, the faces are friendly and the mood is always right! So dream away with us on Friday and Saturday nights, August 2 & 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Alana Opie will be recreating the only known recording of a live Patsy Cline concert at the Cimarron Ballroom in 1961.
Swanky Valli is back and burlesque-less! Enjoy cocktails and live music with Sarasota’s favorite foul-mouthed emcee that can make a crooner out of any song from Frank Sinatra to STYX. Special Guest performances from Ginger Holliday, Vera Jeanne, Kelly Lee, and introducing “Lish.”
A special opportunity for littles and their parents! This gentle, interactive, and engaging show will help nurture and inspire an appreciation for the performing arts for ages under 7. Parents can enjoy bringing their young child to a show without fear of embarrassment or bothering others as the children will be invited to dance, sing, and interact along with the performers!
Beneva Fruitville sings all the songs she's ever wanted to sing, but couldn't. From the comedic to the dramatic, enjoy songs and stories about love, loss and identify seen through Beneva's sardonic, sassy and sensitive eyes! Rated PG-13
A variety of Jazz standards and ethnic world music featuring rhythm and percussion.
Enjoy the best-loved music from the best-loved singers of our time. From Nat King Cole to Josh Groban, from Tony Bennett to Michael Buble, from the Broadway Stage to the Silver Screen…it’s the music you love, the way you remember it! Join Stephen Ditchfield for an “enchanted evening” of music presented in his own inimitable style – with warmth, humor and inspiration!
Our Teen Improv Troupe (The Peanut Gallery) rehearses once a week for 11 weeks each semester to explore popular improv games, techniques, and concepts in a fun, fast-paced environment. Troupe rehearsals culminate in a HILARIOUS ticketed performance on our Pinkerton stage on Aug. 19 and Nov. 10.
Welcome to the Leftcoast, where the only way to complement the aesthetic paradise is to treat yourself to the sonic paradise of local Leftcoast legends, Sunset Roy (aka Mikal Mancini & Khamor Lyons) and Brandon Gomes. For one night only, experience stripped-down, live renditions of popular hit songs such as ‘Immortal,’ ‘Welcome in,’ ‘Beautifulcrazy,’ and ‘Games.’
Michelle Kasanofsky and her musical family, her father, the incomparable George Mancini and her multi-talented son Mikal accompanied by adopted son Joel Broome, will be performing songs by composer/performers - people who are a double threat like Michel Legrand, Carole King, Stevie Wonder.
First published in 1894, the adventures of Mowgli and the exotic animals of the Indian forest remain timeless. Countless adaptations for film and stage prove that the themes of law, freedom, obedience and bravery never lose their power. School-time performance: Sep 13 at 11 a.m. Contact Kristofer Geddie at kgeddie@venicetheatre.net or 941.584.0639.
The Goldtones have been called the “hottest doo-wop group in Florida” and entertain their audiences with the sweet sounds of street-corner harmony and all your favorites from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. The group is back by popular demand after performing here at Venice Theatre for five years in a row. PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE VENICE THEATRE GUILD’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND!
Born Yesterday premiered on Broadway in 1946 and was a big screen hit in 1950. 70 years later this hilarious story - about a millionaire and his trophy girlfriend’s designs on Washington - is more relevant than ever!
The Bikinis are bringing back the sun, fun and all the hits they sang down the Jersey Shore in ‘64. Catch up with four inseparable friends 20 years later as they relive their heyday and beyond with a nonstop celebration of songs like “Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” “Heat Wave,” “It’s Raining Men,” “I Will Survive,” and more!
ABBA's hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman's search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.
Back by popular demand! This tribute to The Eagles includes all their greatest songs, from their earliest classics like "Take It Easy," "Desperado," and "One of These Nights" to huge hits like "Heartache Tonight" and "Hotel California."
Margie Walsh is a single mom barely hanging on in Boston’s Southie neighborhood. Will an old boyfriend be her ticket out, or will he reject her and his own humble roots? Frances McDormand won the Tony for her 2011 performance which Variety called, “uncanny” and “astonishing.”
Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to experience Saturday Night Fever! A dynamic, interactive and thoroughly entertaining live tribute to the multi-platinum kings of disco!
“All About Soul” performs incredible renditions of some of Billy Joel’s most requested and popular hits. A must see for any fan of Billy Joel! This truly amazing tribute pays homage to one of the industry’s most decorated, honored, and talented vocalist/musician/singer/songwriters of our time.
The comedy team of Compton and Bennett are off their walkers again in this hysterical sequel to the runaway hit about the nursing home and beyond. Christmas, Hanukkah, and retirement will never be the same.
Dwight Icenhower is considered to be one of the best Elvis Tribute Artists in the country today. He has mastered the '50s, '60s, and '70s eras of Elvis' career and has won a myriad of national Elvis awards.
A magical Venice Theatre tradition celebrating its 20th year! Our original musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic story follows Ebenezer Scrooge (played by Brad Wages) as he reflects on his past, present and possible future. School-time performance: Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. Contact Kristofer Geddie at kgeddie@venicetheatre.net or 941.584.0639.
Singing Christmas Carols is where it all began for the Ditchfield Family Singers and they consider it a true privilege to share this special time of year with you. Journey with them from Victorian England and the traditional carols through the Christmas classics made popular by contemporary performers.
Often seen and heard on PBS and NPR, the Capitol Steps began as a group of Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. Since then, this no-holds-barred political comedy act has become one of the country's (and Venice Theatre’s) favorites. No elected official is safe when the Capitol Steps are in the house!
The final play in Arlene Hutton’s “Nibroc Trilogy.” In 1953, Raleigh and May continue their journey with a cross-country move to Siesta Key, FL. Not long after arriving, their dream house shrinks as relatives descend, further testing the couple’s love as they make difficult decisions in a changing world.
Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, sexual hangups and more! This musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you dancing in the aisles!
Tusk covers all the great hits of Fleetwood Mac, which has featured the talents of Mick Fleetwood, Christine and John McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, Stevie Nicks and others over the years. The five seasoned, well-respected musicians comprising Tusk have been making music together in various combinations and styles, in original outfits and in cover bands, for over 25 years.
This group of 10 seasoned entertainers is preserving the music and style of the iconic group Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Respectfully paying tribute to all the classic "Seasons" details, Let's Hang On! also pays tribute to the Broadway show, The Jersey Boys.
Peter Blair Denis Bernard Noone is a multi-talented entertainer who has been delighting audiences nearly all his life. At the age of 15, Peter achieved international fame as "Herman," lead singer of the legendary '60s pop band Herman's Hermits. His classic hits include: "I'm Into Something Good," "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," "I'm Henry VIII, I Am," "Silhouettes," "Can't You Hear My Heartbeat," "Just A Little Bit Better," and "Dandy." Ultimately, Herman's Hermits sold over 60 million recordings including 14 gold singles.
Matt McClure returns to Venice as Buddy Holly. Hear all your favorite Buddy Holly songs live in concert complete with Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper! You won't want to miss this high energy event!
One person’s junk is another one’s treasure! This original musical comedy about a break up, a yard sale and … a mermaid caught our attention when it won awards at a recent national festival. Trust us, this show is as funny as its title!
Hailed as the perfect musical comedy, this award-winning, boat-rocking classic gambles with luck and love under the bright lights of Broadway. School-time performance: March 13 at 11 a.m. Contact Kristofer Geddie at kgeddie@venicetheatre.net or 941.584.0639.
This show is an exact re-enactment of an Elton John Concert. Rus Anderson has spent years perfecting the piano playing, vocals, and mannerisms of Elton John and has traveled the world over and literally has thousands of performances to his credit. This insanely energetic tribute is endorsed by the official Elton John Fan Club!
Yet another Venice Theatre very special event. The Showtime Benefit is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and features some of the area’s top talent. Come join us for an afternoon of singing, dancing and just plain fun while helping to support a worthy cause. Be there!
Featuring Tom Becker, a former member of the New Christy Minstrels. Tom Becker recreates the style and sound of one of America's immortal musical storytellers. Hear all your favorite John Denver songs like "Country Roads," "Annie's Song," "Rocky Mountain High" and more, in an evening that is sure to have you singing along.
Often seen and heard on PBS and NPR, the Capitol Steps began as a group of Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. Since then, this no-holds-barred political comedy act has become one of the country's (and Venice Theatre’s) favorites. No elected official is safe when the Capitol Steps are in the house!
Experience one of Venice Theatre's most popular concerts of all time for one day only! Our own Kim Kollar is joined by Cathy Baudrit-Noeth, Michelle Pruyn and that “boogie woogie bugle boy,” David Pruyn, in a loving tribute to the performers that provided the soundtrack for America's "Greatest Generation."
Dwight Icenhower is considered to be one of the best Elvis Tribute Artists in the country today. He has mastered the '50s, '60s, and '70s eras of Elvis' career and has won a myriad of national Elvis awards.
The Silver Foxes are a professionally-directed volunteer troupe who have been bringing entertainment to the area for 25 years. These young-at-heart retirees act, sing and dance! Their reputation has spread far and wide with audience and booking demands growing every season. They travel throughout the area from November to April performing at communities, organizations and other venues. In March, they bring a full-scale production to our MainStage, led by VT’s own BRAD WAGES, director extraordinaire!
Danish prince Hamlet discovers that his uncle Claudius murdered his father and took the throne; Hamlet’s mother has married the usurper. This action-packed interpretation of Shakespeare’s tragedy will have you on the edge of your seat. School-time performance: April 17 at 11 a.m. Contact Kristofer Geddie at kgeddie@venicetheatre.net or 941.584.0639.
The longest-running American Musical in Broadway history finally comes to Venice! CHICAGO has everything that makes Broadway musicals great: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz; one show-stopping song after another; and the sexiest, most astonishing Bob Fosse-inspired dancing you’ll ever see. CHICAGO has been honored with 6 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy® and thousands of standing ovations all around the world.
The Folk Legacy Trio sings the Great American Folksong Book™, the songs of the great Folk Era from the ‘50s through the mid-‘70s, including songs from The Weavers, The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters, Peter Paul & Mary, The New Christy Minstrels, The Brothers Four, The Chad Mitchell Trio, Tom Paxton, Judy Collins, Joan Baez, Gordon Lightfoot, Simon & Garfunkel, John Denver, and others. It is a journey through American Musical History with their signature dynamic harmonies enriching some of the most beloved songs ever written.
Una and Ray had a relationship 15 years ago and haven’t set eyes on each other since. She’s found him again and is seeking answers about the past. Guilt, rage, and raw emotions run high in what The Telegraph calls, “an extraordinary, no-holds-barred drama."
Matilda is an extraordinary girl with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind. But her talents are constantly belittled by her cruel parents and headmistress. Dreaming of a better life, she stands up against those who would oppress her, taking her destiny into her own hands. School-time performance: May 22 at 11 a.m. Contact Kristofer Geddie at kgeddie@venicetheatre.net or 941.584.0639.
