James Thaggard News Today

John James spent 31 years as director of theater at what is now State College of Florida. Dozens of former students followed him into arts careers.

Outdoor orchestra, top-notch drama, virtuoso performers and burlesque artists enrich the Sarasota senses this week.

Arts events for Sarasota-Manatee: Dec. 17-23 Our weekly guide to the visual and performing arts in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Dancing in the street Sarasota Contemporary marks its 15th anniversary with the outdoor street festival “Fiesta de Colores.” Presented from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday in the courtyard of Rosemary Square, adjacent to the company’s studios, it will feature DJ Karim Manning, local lyricist and B-boy Rick Levin and an interactive projection design by Logan Gabriel Schulma...