Asolo Rep Awarded Strategic Partnership Grant

January 3, 2024

Asolo Repertory Theatre has received a $77,500 Strategic Partnership Grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. This grant comes from the Allen Wirtz Nobbe and Jo Bowen Nobbe Fund, the Two-Generation Approach Fund, and the Zella I. and Junius F. Allen Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. In addition to being the Lead Sponsor for Asolo Rep’s Access to the Arts program, this funding supports the 2023-2024 season and additional events, including the Director’s Take Luncheon, Annual Gala and special events programs.  

“The arts play an essential role in connecting us with stories we have yet to unravel, experiences we have yet to realize and use to better understand ourselves, and futures we have yet to imagine,” said Roxie Jerde, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. “We are proud to expand our 28-year partnership with Asolo Repertory Theatre and support the legacy, storytelling, and connection that the performing arts bring to our community.”  

Asolo Rep’s Access to the Arts brings theatre to local schools and community locations, providing students with the opportunity to see productions at Asolo Rep. This generous donation allows many students to experience the power of the arts for the first time.  

“The Community Foundation of Sarasota County has continually partnered with us to bring theatre out into the community as well as welcome students and families into the theatre,” said Asolo Rep Managing Director Ross Egan. “Their continued support has been instrumental in bringing theatre to many people for the first time inspiring the next generation of theatre lovers.”  

In addition to sponsoring educational and community outreach opportunities, the grant provides support for the entire 2023-2024 performance season. Asolo Rep’s 65^th Sapphire Season is a celebration of the human spirit and testament to the power of communal storytelling. It kicked off with Crazy for You, a brand-new production of a deliciously old-fashioned musical.  

The season continues with a dynamic collection of classics and new works, including Inherit the Wind, Born with Teeth,Intimate Apparel, and Dial “M” For Murder. We close our Sapphire Season with the breathtaking and powerful Twelve Angry Men: A New Musical, a groundbreaking musical about our potential to work together to create a better world.  

The grant will also support related special events throughout the year. The Director’s Take Luncheon allows patrons to dine and enjoy conversations with the directors of upcoming shows. The Annual Gala raises funds to support the season and Asolo Rep’s award-winning Education and Engagement programs. The Starry Night Dinner Series presents three intimate evenings at local locations themed to this year’s productions.