Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Appleton Awards, recognizing educators in the Gulf Coast region who integrate the arts into their classrooms to deepen learning and strengthen community. The winners will be recognized at the Foundation’s Annual Gala on March 6, 2026.

The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce its board of directors unanimously approved a new slate of officers during its annual meeting on June 18, 2025. Dr. Jenne Britell and Drayton Saunders were elected to serve as Co-Chairs of the Foundation’s board. They’re succeeding Jim Travers, who is stepping down but will remain on the board after six years of distinguished service as Chairman. The Foundation expresses its deepest gratitude to him for his exceptional leadership during a pivotal period in the organization’s growth.

The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s 23rd annual Gala raised over $1 million to support arts education, community programs, and the future Sarasota Performing Arts Center!

Held on March 21, this unforgettable evening brought together 255 guests for a Parisian-inspired celebration along Sarasota Bay. The night honored visionary supporters like Paul Seed, recognized outstanding arts educators from across four counties, and featured a captivating performance of Moulin Rouge! The Musical—plus a special appearance by Broadway’s Derek Klena.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, this event will have a lasting impact on students, educators, and the arts in Sarasota and beyond.

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation welcomes Kevin Spencer, internationally acclaimed magician and educator, as its newest Artist in Residence beginning April 21, 2025. His residency will conclude with a free sensory-inclusive performance—The Magic of Kevin Spencer—on Saturday, April 26 at 1 p.m. at Selby Auditorium, USF Sarasota-Manatee. Designed for all audiences, including individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, the performance blends storytelling, illusion, and interactive magic.

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is proud to welcome Kelly Addington as its new Chief Development Officer. A seasoned philanthropy leader with more than 20 years of experience, Addington will lead the Foundation’s capital campaign to support the creation of a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center and expand arts education initiatives. Previously with the University of South Florida Foundation, she helped secure $700 million in fundraising efforts. Her expertise in strategic development and passion for the arts will help drive transformational impact for Sarasota’s cultural future.

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is proud to announce Laura Ansel, APR, CPRC, as its new Director of Communications. With over 20 years of experience in public relations and marketing, Ansel will lead strategic communications for the Foundation’s efforts to build a new world-class performing arts center in partnership with the City of Sarasota.