The Cultural Opportunity of the Year: The Ringling International Arts Festival

[Amy Warren, LMHC / WQ Mag Columnist]

Attention all lovers of arts and culture, this week’s Ringling International Arts Festival is an event not to be missed. As the John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art partners with the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York to bring over 100 artists of international acclaim to the stage, the five-day festival features theatre, music, dance and visual art including several world premiere performances. Under the artistic direction of the Baryshnikov Arts Center (as in Mickail Baryshnikov who will also take to the stage), a few of the highlights of the festival include:

· Solo performances by Mickail Baryshnikov and David Neumann

· The world premiere of the play Hurricane by Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Nilo Cruz.

· Violinist Tim Fain’s performance

· “Opera Baroque” theater/opera fusion by Forman Brothers Theatre

· Dance performances by John Jasperse Company, Rubberband Dance Group, and Les Slovaks Dance Collective

· Sanda and The Takeishis blend of gypsy music, cabaret and jjazz

· Performancee by renowned 19 year-old bassist, violinist and jazz singer Kate Davis

The Festival begins with a champagne toast at Wednesday’s Night of Premieres, followed by a choice of premieres and a post-performance gala in the magnificent Museum of Art courtyard. The elegance of the courtyard will be enhanced with fireworks at this party which is sure to be a highlight of the year. For the next four days, Sarasota’s lovers of culture will delight in numerous opportunities to enjoy the performances of artists from around the world. With 11 shows and 45 performances of theater, music and dance, non-stop excitement abounds with activities morning, day and night around the historic grounds and gardens of the 66-acre Museum of Art with tours and exhibitions. There’s fun for all ages with a Family FunFest, Jazz Sunsets, and Sunday’s sARTée Soiree.

Last year’s inaugural Ringling International Arts Festival was highly praised. Make sure you don’t miss this year’s festival! It’s the perfect opportunity to go out and grab a bit of culture. Visit www.ringlingartsfestival.org for more information.