1 minute read
Hermitage Turns 20 Benefit concert
Monday, March 20, at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | Benefiting Hermitage Artist Retreat
Broadway performers of a wide variety of styles joined Hermitage Artist Retreat’s Artistic Director Andy Sandberg is a lively benefit concert celebrating the organization’s 20th anniversary at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on March 20.
The one-night-only concert brought together hundreds of the arts organization’s closest supporters for a night of music and support to raise funds for ongoing repairs for the Hermitage caused by Hurricane Ian.
What’s more is that the night featured Sandberg — a longtime performer and New York musical theater figure in his own right before joining the Hermitage — leading the show by singing a number of pieces himself.
Sandberg was joined on stage by Broadway performers Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer, Laura Bell Bundy, Jay Armstrong Johnson, Jeannette Bayardelle as well as Sarasota theater figure Ann Morrison and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe performer Raleigh Mosely II. The performance had several touching tributes to the Hermitage’s Artist Retreat’s legacy over the years.
The night ended with a reception with Sandberg, the fellow performers and many of the Hermitage’s close supporters in the Grand Foyer.
— HARRY SAYER
Healing & Hope
Friday, March 24, at Michael’s On East | Benefiting Second Chance Last Opportunity
Second Chance Last Opportunity hosted its second Healing & Hope fundraiser at Michael’s On East on March 24.
The nonprofit — which provides classes promoting life benefits like anger management, communication abilities and parenting skills for locals in need — had guests meeting at the event space for an evening of support. This year’s event raised funds for an expanded SCLO Emergency Crisis Center, which will provide food distribution.
Renee Gilmore welcomed the crowd to the event before Dr. Rev. John Walker led an invocation. Guests enjoyed a buffet dinner before awards were presented to local figures. The night ended with a raffle and dancing.
— HARRY SAYER
Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation brought in three speakers to discuss health topics during its Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon at Michael’s On East on March 24. Hundreds attended the 10th annual event that started with cocktails, light bites and silent auction bidding in the Michael’s courtyard. Eventually it was time for guests to take their seats and hear from event Co-chairs
Gwen Mackenzie and Sandi Stuart along with SMHF President Stacey Corley. The programs speaking segment featured Dr. Robinder Bhangoo with First Physicians Group, Sarasota Memorial Hospital Behavioral Health Services Executive Director Terry Cassidy and Psychiatric APRN Dana Gau in a panel moderated by ABC7 Suncoast View’s Stephanie Roberts.
This year’s event benefits patient care services at the Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavilion.
Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon
Friday, March 24, at Michael’s On East | Benefiting Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation
