Media Contact: Julia Guzman (PR Manager)at 941-351-9010, ext. 4800
Event Contact: Deborah Trimble at 941-351-9010, ext. 4700
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Asolo Rep and Lakewood Ranch Announce Continued Partnership with a “Curtain Up” Event
SARASOTA (August 1, 2007) - Asolo Repertory Theatre is pleased to announce the continuation of its partnership with Lakewood Ranch during its 2007-08 Season as LWR Communities, LLC, sponsors A Tale of Two Cities.
On Friday, September 28, 2007, LWR Communities proudly hosts the public launch party of Asolo Rep’s pre-Broadway musical event A Tale of Two Cities, and the kick-off of the second year of the theatre’s literacy initiative Beyond the Book. Cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served at this “Curtain Up” event from 7 to 10 p.m. The party will take place at Fred’s Ballroom on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch where guests will meet the stars and creative team of A Tale of Two Cities. There will be entertainment and some theatrical elements. Tickets are $85 per person and may be purchased by calling 351-9010, ext. 4704. The deadline to RSVP is September 14, 2007.
“We are excited to continue such a wonderful partnership with Lakewood Ranch,” said Michael Donald Edwards, producing artistic director for Asolo Repertory Theatre. “This kick-off event will be extravagant and fun – truly bringing that ‘Broadway feel’ to the community.”
“It’s ‘The Best of Times’ here in Lakewood Ranch,” quipped Sondra Guffey, spokesperson for LWR Communities. “We have a terrific community, wonderful residents who love theatre and many beautiful venues for events. The timing is perfect to show our support for the arts and the incredible contribution they make to our community.”
Performances of A Tale of Two Cities will be presented at Asolo Rep from October 13 – November 18. Music, Book and Lyrics by Jill Santoriello, and based on the novel by Charles Dickens, the play is directed by Michael Donald Edwards. Charles Dickens’ seminal work of genius has sold more than 200 million copies. And now Jill Santoriello’s stirring adaptation has begun its journey to Broadway. This musical event recounts one of the most electrifying love stories ever written, told against a backdrop of one of the most terrifying eras in history.
“This event becomes even more important because it begins the second year of Beyond the Book, which is a wonderful project for our community and something very close to my heart,” Edwards added.
Last season Asolo Rep, in cooperation with other organizations, agencies, libraries and bookstores throughout the community, including Little Bookworms in Lakewood Ranch, launched Beyond the Book. This unique project inspires reading, literacy and community connection on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Beyond the Book starts with the premise: What would happen if everyone in the community read the same book? There will be numerous events and activities surrounding this year’s Beyond the Book project – A Tale of Two Cities. For more information on Beyond the Book please contact 351-9010 ext. 3320.
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Asolo Repertory Theatre is funded in part by the Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Department of State, the Florida Arts Council, the City and County of Sarasota and the Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax through the Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council and the Sarasota County Arts Council. Funding is also received through efforts of support groups including the Asolo Angel Association, the Asolo Rep Guild, the Directors Emeritus and the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations.