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Exploring Cultural Icons of Sarasota
Every place around the world has something truly iconic that defines the location. For instance, Paris has the Eiffel Tower, New York City has the Statue of Liberty, and Ontario is home to Niagara Falls. Of course, Sarasota is often defined by the world-renowned beaches of Siesta Key, but there are more “iconic” sights to see on Florida’s “Cultural Coast.” The local experts here at Best Western Siesta Key are highlighting just a few more things to add to your “must-see” list while visiting the area.
The Ringling
As the “Circus Capital of the World,” Sarasota is overflowing with rich circus history and landmarks. In 1927, Sarasota became the “winter home” for the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus as well as for John Ringling and his wife Mable. Since then, John Ringling has been viewed as a founding father of Sarasota, helping to not only bring the “greatest show on earth” to town but sharing his spectacular art collection and molding the city into a place of sophistication and beauty. Today, visitors of The Ringling can spend hours, or perhaps days, exploring the Museum of Art, the Bayfront Gardens, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan (House of John), and the Historic Asolo Theater.
“Unconditional Surrender”
In 2005, Downtown Sarasota became a temporary home to “Unconditional Surrender,” also known as the “kissing statue” located at Bayfront Park. Jack Currans, a veteran of World War II and Sarasota resident, brought the piece to town in memory of his late wife. However, the installation still remains as it formally transitioned into the city’s public collection of art in 2020. Throughout the years, “Unconditional Surrender” has been an iconic landmark where people meet up, take photographs, mimic the piece, remember the past, and discuss its meaning, symbolism, history, and even the controversy surrounding the structure. This 25 ft aluminum kissing statue, created by Seward Johnson, drew inspiration from Alfred Eisenstaedt’s infamous 1945 photograph, titled “V-J Day in Times Square,” and depicts a sailor kissing a nurse in celebration of the conclusion of World War II.
Sarasota Opera House
Originally constructed by Roy A. Benjamin, a great architect from Jacksonville, and named the A.B. Edwards Theater, the now Sarasota Opera House first opened its doors on April 10, 1926. However, as the building evolved into “The Florida Theater,” fell prey to a hurricane, and turned into a movie theater, its doors closed in 1973. With many highs of hosting iconic names, like Sally Rand and Elvis Presley, the opera house also experienced years of neglect. Merely six years after closing, the property was purchased by the Asolo Opera Guild and, little by little was resurrected. In 2007, the building was restored to its original Mediterranean Revival style with an improved orchestra pit, audience sightlines, backstage facilities, lounges, restrooms, lobby, and many other amenities. As a result, the Sarasota Opera House was referred to as “one of the finest venues for opera in the United States” by Musical America.
Performing & Cultural Arts
With a large collection of performing arts venues, like Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, profoundly talented professionals, and an impressive performing arts community that calls Sarasota home, there is no wonder as to why this part of Florida is often called the “Cultural Coast.” In addition to Florida’s oldest orchestra, the Sarasota Orchestra, and the Sarasota Ballet, which has performed numerous world premieres under the direction of Iain Webb, plenty of theater companies bring dramas and comedies to the many stages around Sarasota. Stand-up comedians, improv groups, musicians, and more can be found performing live in Sarasota pubs, clubs, and venues almost every night.
Between lounging on one of the best beaches in the world and hopping from one amazing restaurant to another, carve out some time to experience some of the iconic places and activities of Sarasota. Whether you want to spend more time in the great outdoors or feel a little relief in air conditioning, there is always something memorable, inspiring, creative, and exciting to do. Afterward, we cannot welcome you back “home” to Best Western Siesta Key for a comfortable stay and a great night’s rest.