A+E INSIDE: <HOLIDAYS IN THE SAND: ‘Deck the Halls’ returns to FST’s Keating Theatre. 4
BLACK
TIE INSIDE:
BOOGIE DOWN : West Coast Black Theatre boosters get on Soul Train. 7 >
ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT NOVEMBER 23, 2023
YOUROBSERVER.COM
A gold anniversary for Selby Gardens
A Florida gardener’s legacy has left a lasting imprint on Sarasota’s waterfront.
MONICA ROMAN GAGNIER ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
W
hat would Aunt Marie think? That was a burning
question in Sarasota
after Marie Selby Botanical Gardens announced a $92 million project in 2017 to build a new welcome center, parking garage and state-of-the-art research facility on its 15-acre waterfront property. Selby bequeathed her former home and property for the “enjoyment of the general public” in 1973. As her legacy, now a living museum, celebrates its 50th anniversary and Phase One of its master plan prepares to open in January, it’s a good time to take stock of Selby’s gift and how it has been transformed by its stewards. SEE SELBY, PAGE 2
IF YOU GO
Where: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Christmas Tickets: $26 Info: Visit Selby.org.
Monica Gagnier
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki poses among orchids.