Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Welcomes Multidisciplinary Artist Paige Hernandez as Artist in Residence
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is proud to welcome its new Artist in Residence, Paige Hernandez, to Sarasota during the week of October 19-26. A nationally acclaimed performer, director, and educator, Hernandez is celebrated for her dynamic fusion of theater, Hip-Hop, dance, and education. She will connect with students and community members through a week of school visits and interactive workshops, culminating with two free public performances at The Bay Park on Saturday, October 25, and Harvest House on Sunday, October 26.
Havana Hop: A Free interactive Show will be on Oct. 26 at 2 p.m. at Harvest House
“For many young people, access to professional artists can be a life-changing experience,” said Kelli Maldonado, Executive Director of Mission & Impact at Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. “Paige Hernandez brings not only extraordinary talent, but also a teaching style that connects through movement, rhythm, and storytelling to make the arts feel immediate and relevant.”
During her Sarasota residency, Hernandez will not only lead public performances but also share her artistry and teaching expertise with Tuttle Elementary students, Girls Inc., Booker High School VPA students, and local teaching artists.
Paige Hernandez, Artist in Residence
Hernandez has performed across the country and collaborated with world-renowned institutions, including the Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, Smithsonian, and La Jolla Playhouse. She is the recipient of multiple honors, including four Helen Hayes nominations, the Maryland State Arts Council Award and recognition from American Theatre Magazine and The Washington Post. Known for her inclusive, trauma-informed theater practices, Hernandez currently serves as Associate Artistic Director at Everyman Theatre and tours internationally with her company, B-FLY ENTERTAINMENT.
“The arts have the unique ability to open minds and build bridges across generations and cultures,” said Tania Castroverde Moskalenko, CEO of Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. “Since its launch, the Artist in Residence program has explored how creativity can inspire, heal, and connect. Paige Hernandez embodies that mission.”
Free Public Performances
Hip Hop Body Rock
Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 4–5 PM | The Bay Park, 1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
Calling all fly girls and b-boys! Join Paige Hernandez for an interactive dance workshop exploring Hip-Hop choreographers, styles, and cultural influences. Stretch, flex, and learn a brand-new Hip-Hop routine in this high-energy community celebration.
Space is limited, to reserve your free ticket(s): Click Here
Havana Hop: A Children’s Tale of Culture and Confidence!
Sunday, October 26, 2025 | 2–3 PM | Harvest House, 3650 17th Street Sarasota
Young Yeila dreams of being a superstar, but stage fright holds her back. With encouragement from her family, she embarks on a journey to Cuba where she discovers her roots, builds confidence, and fuses salsa with her Hip-Hop style. This participatory family performance—ideal for all ages and abilities—invites the audience to dance along. Sensory bags will be available upon request, and ASL interpretation will be provided.
Space is limited, to reserve your free ticket(s): Click Here