Behind the Masterpiece on Florida’s Cultural Coast

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, ...

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 u...

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 hel...

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...

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 Ba...

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...

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 affordab...

Step inside the beating heart of Sarasota’s arts scene: WSLR + Fogartyville. In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin sits down with Ariel, the dynamic director bringing new energy, charm, and vision to this beloved venue. From his singer/songwriter and restaurateur days in New York City to running one of Sarasota’s most vibrant cultural spaces, Ariel shares how Fogartyville continues to thrive with concerts, com...

Discover the magic behind the laughter in this episode of Behind the Masterpiece as Jeffery Kin chats with Sarah Durham, Associate Director of Improv at Florida Studio Theatre. From her roots in sketch comedy and Second City training to writing beloved children’s shows and sold-out cabarets, Sarah shares how she blends spontaneity with storytelling to create unforgettable theatre. Hear what inspires her writing and improv, and why ...

Discover the dynamic world of Sarasota’s arts scene in this inspiring episode featuring Muffy Lavens, Public Relations Director at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. From insider details on upcoming Broadway hits like MJ and The Book of Mormon, to stories of how live theater impacts local students, Muffy shares what makes the Van Wezel a cultural cornerstone. Plus, hear about her unexpected journey from competitive ice skating to ...

In this episode of This is Sarasota’s Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin talks with pianist, conductor, and musical director Dr. Joseph Holt about his life in music, the influence of mentors, and how creativity shapes a career. From growing up in a musical family to serving in the Army and performing around the world, Dr. Holt shares personal stories—including a hand injury that forced him to step away from the piano for a ye...

Discover how Artist Series Concerts has become a vital force in Sarasota’s cultural scene, presenting innovative chamber music experiences that blend world-class talent with deep community connection. In this episode, Director of Artistic Planning Daniel Jordan shares how the organization curates intimate, unforgettable performances—from Juilliard student quartets to internationally acclaimed ensembles—and why their 30th anniversar...

Discover the passion and purpose behind Sarasota Jewish Theatre in this inspiring episode featuring Artistic Director Carole Kleinberg. Carole shares how she built a career in theater that spans decades, the emotional impact of directing Diary of Anne Frank, and why Lost in Yonkers was a dream come true. With behind-the-scenes insights, reflections on creating meaningful art, and the challenges of staging powerful stories, this epi...

Get a behind-the-scenes look at ensembleNEWSRQ’s thrilling season finale with Co-Artistic Director Samantha Bennett in this episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Discover how world-class musicians prepare a wildly challenging, virtuosic work with just weeks of practice before taking the stage at Sarasota Opera House on May 12. Samantha shares insider details on the rehearsal process, what makes this piece so electrifying, and how Ense...

Discover why Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is making global headlines in this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece with Jennifer Rominiecki, President and CEO of Selby Gardens. Named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places, Selby Gardens is a living museum blending rare botanical research, innovative sustainability, and world-class art exhibitions. 

Learn how Selby became the world’s first net-positive energy botanica...

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffrey Kin sits down with Marianne Chapel, founder and director of SPAACES, a nonprofit arts organization in Sarasota. Marianne shares how the idea for SPAACES came to life, the rotating exhibitions that keep the gallery vibrant, and her vision for the future—including hopes of owning a permanent building. 

With stories about supporting emerging artists, curating meaningful shows, an...

In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, we sit down with Steven High, the Executive Director of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, to explore the museum's fascinating history, collections, and breathtaking grounds. From the recent addition of the Cypriot art collection to the ongoing restoration efforts in the museum's arboretum, Stephen shares his insights on how the museum continues to thrive and innovate. 

Discover hi...

Discover how Arts Advocates is preserving Sarasota’s artistic legacy and shaping its future in this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Host Jeffery Kin sits down with Carol Darling to explore the organization’s impact on emerging artists, the rich history of Sarasota’s cultural scene, and the importance of fostering new generations of creatives. From supporting young talent to uncovering the stories of influential artists...

Discover how Rise Above is transforming young lives through theater in this inspiring episode of Behind the Masterpiece. Host Brian Hersh chats with Jacob, Founder & Director and Tayla, Performer, about the impact of this nonprofit, which offers free acting lessons and stage opportunities to students, fostering confidence, public speaking skills, and lifelong friendships. Hear Tayla’s journey to center stage and get the inside ...