ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation brings nationally recognized artists to our community through partnerships with local arts and social service organizations.

UPCOMING ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Paige Hernandez

Paige Hernandez is a critically acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, recognized as a performer, director, choreographer, and playwright. A proud AEA actress, she has performed nationwide and worked with institutions like the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Smithsonian, and La Jolla Playhouse. Her honors include four Helen Hayes nominations, the Maryland State Arts Council Award, and recognition from The Huffington Post, American Theatre Magazine, and the Washington Post. Known for her work in inclusive, trauma-informed theater practices, she’s also a frequent Disney presenter and recipient of the Victor Shargai Leadership Award. In 2023, she was appointed to the Maryland State Arts Council. Paige currently serves as Associate Artistic Director at Everyman Theatre and tours internationally with her company, B-FLY ENTERTAINMENT.

October 2025

  • Calling all fly girls and b-boys! Join Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s Artist in Residence, Paige Hernandez, for an interactive dance workshop. Explore significant hip hop choreographers, different styles of hip hop dance and regional/cultural influences. Then it‘s time to stretch and flex before you learn a brand new hip hop routine.

  • Young Yeila dreams of being a superstar but her lack of confidence gives her awful stage fright. With advice from her mother and mentors, Yeila begins her journey to find her roots, get confidence and be amazing! Travel with Yeila who visits her grandmother in Cuba to add a salsa flavor to her own hip-hop style! The audience gets to dance along in this dynamic participation play where one actress creates three generations of lively women. Journey with Yeila as she discovers the fun of her multi-cultural heritage.

FREE Public Performances

About our Artist in Residence Program

The Foundation’s artist-in-residence program started in 2021 with Kennedy Center Citizen Artist, Olmeca. The program brings distinguished artists to the Gulf Coast Region to engage in artistic exploration of a community need. In 2024, Artists in Residence will explore building community while continuing to explore barriers to arts accessibility.

We’re looking forward to welcoming our next Artists in Residence, who will bring new ideas, energy, and creativity to Sarasota. Through performances, workshops, and community collaborations, these artists will help us explore the power of the arts to inspire, heal, and connect.

PAST ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

  • Dr. Kevin Spencer | April 2025

    In April 2025, award-winning magician and educator Dr. Kevin Spencer made his Sarasota debut through the Foundation’s Artist in Residence program, bringing his internationally recognized Hocus Focus™ workshops to local schools and organizations. With a background in special education and decades of performance experience, Dr. Spencer uses magic to support learning and healing for individuals with disabilities, trauma, and developmental challenges. His programs have earned global recognition for innovation in health, education, and the arts.

  • Adrian Anantawan | January 2025 | March 2024 | January 2023

    Violinist and educator Adrian Anantawan has partnered with Sarasota organizations through multiple residencies, using music to explore accessibility, inclusion, and innovation in the arts. A graduate of Curtis, Yale, and Harvard, he has performed on renowned stages like Carnegie Hall and the White House, and leads programs that create meaningful opportunities for young musicians with disabilities. Adrian continues to perform, teach, and advocate globally for equity in the arts.

  • Urban Bush Women | May 2024

    In May 2024, Urban Bush Women brought their powerful blend of performance, collaboration, and community engagement to Sarasota through an inspiring residency. The ensemble worked alongside local artists and partner organizations to explore themes of connection, equity, and creative expression—culminating in a vibrant, free public event that combined performance and interactive workshops. With a mission to amplify underrepresented voices and transform the dance field, UBW continues to lead through performance, education, and artist development.