(Sarasota, FL) — Florida Studio Theatre is pleased to announce that due to audience demand, the Broadway smash hit Once is extended through January 7. Filled with song, dance, and a highly creative cast, this emotional and captivating production continues to entertain audiences night after night in the Gompertz Theatre. Subscriptions are still available to see four shows for as little as $59. Single tickets range from $56-$59. Subscriptions and single tickets may be purchased by calling the Box Office at
(941) 366-9000 or online at www.floridastudiotheatre.org.
Critics have raved over Once. The Sarasota Herald-Tribune calls this a “Rousing” production that is ”Engaging and heartwarming.” Broadway World says Once “Hit the ball out of the park,” with “Exceptionally gifted performers” calling it “A flawless production.” Sarasota Magazine says “You’ll be impressed by their life and spirit.”
Audiences enthusiastically agree. With the chance to join the cast on stage before each performance for a drink at the pub, audiences say, “That was fabulous!” “It was phenomenal,” and “Absolutely amazing.”
Playing the role of the plucky and charismatic music shop owner, Billy, is Chris Blisset. “I’ve done over 100 contracts of actor-musician shows in my career,” says Blisset. “Once is by far the best of these pieces. I feel so fortunate to be at Florida Studio Theatre. I’ve wanted to work here for years, and I’m very happy to have the opportunity to stay a little longer. This cast, crew, and theatre are such a treat to work with!”
Director Jason Cannon adds, “Knowing that the cast is affecting the audience powerfully enough to warrant adding performances is equally humbling and joyous. But specifically with this show I am eager for the messages of hope, forgiveness, and acceptance to reach as many people as possible.”
Set around a charming Irish pub filled with song and dance, Once continues in the Gompertz Theatre through January 7. Subscriptions for all four Winter Mainstage shows can be purchased for as little as $59. Single tickets range from $56-$59. Subscriptions and single tickets are available by calling the Box Office at (941) 366-9000 or online at www.floridastudiotheatre.org.
About Florida Studio Theatre
Known as Sarasota’s Contemporary Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre was founded in 1973 by Artist, Jon Spelman. Starting out as a small touring company, FST traveled to places such as migrant camps and prisons. The company eventually settled down into a permanent home, acquiring the former Woman’s Club building – now renamed the Keating Theatre. In the years that followed, Florida Studio Theatre established itself as a major force in American Theatre, presenting contemporary theatre in its five theatre venues: the Keating Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret, the renovated Gompertz Theatre, the John C. Court Cabaret and Bowne’s Lab Theatre.
Even with its growth, Florida Studio Theatre remains firmly committed to making the arts accessible and affordable to a broad-based audience. Under Producing Artistic Director and CEO, Richard Hopkins, FST develops theatre that speaks to our living, evolving, and dynamically changing world. As FST grows and expands, it continues to provide audiences with challenging, contemporary drama and innovative programs.
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