Star-Studded Talent Brings ‘Vienna, Vienna, Vienna’ to The Studios of Key West’s First Look Series3/7/2025 Key West, FL – The Studios of Key West continues its First Look series with a highly anticipated staged reading of Vienna, Vienna, Vienna, a compelling new play by Carey Perloff, directed by Ron Lagomarsino. This meticulously crafted and professionally produced event features a cast of award-winning performers, bringing Broadway, film, and television credits to the stage. The readings will take place on March 28 & 29 at the Helmerich Theater.
Three generations of Jewish women from a close and complicated family arrive in Vienna for an award celebration. As they navigate the city—searching for their stolen apartment, reading Chekhov, and indulging in exquisite chocolate cake—they wrestle with the past, argue about the present, and reimagine their futures. Vienna, Vienna, Vienna is a moving exploration of forgiveness, survivor guilt, and family bonds, brought to life by an extraordinary creative team. The reading stars three celebrated actresses:
Playwright Carey Perloff is one of the most celebrated figures in contemporary theater. She served as artistic director of the American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) in San Francisco for over 25 years, where she produced and directed groundbreaking work. Perloff’s plays, including Kinship, Higher, and Luminescence Dating, have been performed at major theaters across the country, and she has collaborated with some of the most esteemed actors and directors of her generation. Her talent for weaving history, personal narrative, and sharp dialogue makes Vienna, Vienna, Vienna a deeply compelling new work. Directing the reading is Ron Lagomarsino, a visionary director whose career spans Broadway, film, and television. He is best known for staging the world premiere of Driving Miss Daisy, launching a play that went on to win the Pulitzer Prize and become an enduring classic. His Broadway credits include Alfred Uhry’s Last Night of Ballyhoo, and his extensive television work includes directing episodes of My So-Called Life, Picket Fences, The Unit, Ally McBeal, and Gilmore Girls, among many others. His expertise in bringing compelling stories to life makes this staged reading a must-see event. “The level of talent in this production is astounding,” says First Look series producer Jeff Johnson. “Between the award-winning playwright, the legendary director, and this phenomenal cast, Vienna, Vienna, Vienna promises to be an unforgettable experience for our audiences.” Performance Details Helmerich Theater Friday, March 28 & Saturday, March 29 at 8 PM $45 | $35 for members Tickets for Vienna, Vienna, Vienna are expected to sell quickly. Secure your seat now at TSKW.org or call 305-296-0458 for reservations.
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 Key West, FL —The Studios of Key West will host an extraordinary cultural event as Tomasz Jedrowski’s acclaimed LGBTQ novel, Swimming in the Dark, hailed as a modern literary classic for its poignant exploration of love and identity under political oppression, is reimagined as a compelling opera. A pivotal milestone in the project—a developmental staged concert featuring Act One of the opera—will premiere at The Studios on Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at The Studios' box office, by calling 305-296-0458, or visiting tskw.org.
This bold adaptation is a collaboration between composer Martin Hennessy, librettist Stephen Kitsakos, and Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music Opera & Ballet Theater. Featuring 18 artists from Jacobs, the production highlights the significance of adapting powerful literary works into opera, a medium uniquely capable of expressing the depth and complexity of human emotion. “The story unfolds in 1980, as the communist Polish People’s Republic teeters on the edge of collapse,” said librettist Stephen Kitsakos. “At its heart is a passionate love affair, but it’s also a gripping political thriller set in a country being torn apart by upheaval.” The opera follows Ludwik and Janusz, two young men whose love is tested by the political turmoil of their time. Their romance begins during a mandatory agricultural camp, where they bond over James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room. Ludwik, drawn to acts of subversion, aligns with the Solidarity movement, while Janusz clings to survival within the communist system. The result is a heartbreaking exploration of love, identity, and the cost of living authentically in an oppressive society. Directed by Michael Shell, Resident Opera Stage Director at the Jacobs School, the 85-minute Act One will be performed in English by 12 singers and a chamber ensemble. This workshop not only introduces the first act of the opera to audiences but underscores its place in the larger developmental process, showcasing the cultural importance of adapting landmark queer stories for the stage. Kitsakos and Hennessy have a long history of presenting innovative operas, including Single Occupancies, which premiered at The Studios in 2020, and The Pleasing Recollection, which debuted there before its New York premiere at Feinstein’s/54 Below. Kitsakos’s adaptation of Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns, with music by Sheila Silver, premiered with Seattle Opera in 2023 and was shortlisted for Best New Opera at the International Opera Awards. Hennessy’s recent commission with Madrid’s Teatro Real features a libretto by Spanish poet Irma Correa. The Jacobs School of Music Opera & Ballet Theater has collaborated with renowned companies such as the Santa Fe Opera, San Francisco Opera, and Seattle Opera. Recently, it partnered with the Metropolitan Opera to workshop The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon. Swimming in the Dark is a poignant reminder of how love and art can challenge political oppression, a message that feels especially urgent today as LGBTQ rights face renewed attacks. Whether you’re a seasoned opera fan or completely new to the genre, Swimming in the Dark promises an unforgettable experience and a powerful evening of love, art, and resistance. Experience a story that dares to explore the intersection of passion and politics, brought to life through the transformative power of opera. As a special addition to this event, Tomasz Jedrowski will appear at Books & Books at The Studios on Friday, March 21, at 5:00 p.m. to discuss his novel Swimming in the Dark. This intimate conversation will provide audiences with deeper insight into the story that inspired the opera. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., and the event will take place in the PEAR House Courtyard at 529 Eaton Street. Registration for Jedrowski’s reading is required and can be completed at booksandbookskw.com. Explore the Vibrant Creative Scene on Saturday, March 1, 2025 Stock Island, FL – Wander through workshops, smell the sawdust, and see paintings spring to life during the 2025 Artist Studio Tour on Saturday, March 1, from 11 AM to 3 PM. This year’s tour invites you to step inside some of the island’s most intriguing creative spaces, where artists shape metal, clay, wood, and color into something extraordinary. Cap it off with an optional lunch at Lost Kitchen, featuring a menu designed specially for the tour.
Ticketholders will explore 16 artist studios, offering a rare glimpse into the workspaces of some of the area’s most innovative creators. The tour highlights dynamic hubs such as Washed Up Key West, where salvaged tropical hardwoods are transformed into one-of-a-kind art and furniture, and the studio of Cindy Wynn, whose welded industrial castoffs become avant-garde functional pieces. Stockyard Studios, a collective home to painters, sculptors, and woodworkers—including Lauren McAloon, Jeff Ware, and B. Lucy Stevens—adds to the tour’s diversity, while additions like Clay Space and Renegade Clay showcase the island’s growing ceramics scene. “It’s the kind of day where you start with coffee in a metal shop, end with a beautiful lunch in a unique island setting—one that reflects the energy of the working waterfront—and in between, meet artists truly passionate about what they do,” said Elena Devers, tour organizer. To make navigating the tour easy, visitors can drive, bike, or take advantage of the Stock Island trolley, which will shuttle guests between studio stops throughout the afternoon. A free trolley service from Old Town Key West will also be available, with departures from The Studios of Key West (advance reservations required). With artists working in a range of mediums—including ceramics, sculpture, painting, and mixed media—visitors will have the chance to meet makers in their element and gain insight into the creative processes that define the island’s artistic character. For those looking to extend their experience, an optional lunch add-on at Lost Kitchen is available for $35 (a $50 value). The exclusive menu features Paella, Charcuterie, and Cuban Egg Custard, offering a perfect midday break before continuing the tour. Event Details Date/Time: Saturday, March 1, 2025, 11 AM – 3 PM Price: $35/$30 Mbrs Tour Stops: A selection of Stock Island’s artist studios Lunch Add-On: Lost Kitchen Key West (advance reservation required, $35 fee applies) Transportation: Drive, bike, or ride the Stock Island trolley Space is limited, and early reservations are encouraged. Tickets, maps, and additional details—including lunch reservations—are available at https://tskw.org/2025-artist-studio-tours/. This event is sponsored by Historic Tours of America and highlights the incredible talent of the Stock Island arts community.  Mike Rezendes. Photo courtesy of the artist. Key West, FL – January 20, 2025 – The Studios of Key West is excited to announce a special installment of its acclaimed Between Two Palms series, featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mike Rezendes in conversation with Stephen Kitsakos. The event is scheduled for Monday, February 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM at The Studios of Key West.
Mike Rezendes is celebrated for his investigative reporting as part of The Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team, which uncovered the Roman Catholic Church’s systemic sexual abuse scandal. His work earned the team the 2003 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service and inspired the Academy Award-winning film Spotlight, where Rezendes was portrayed by Mark Ruffalo. Stephen Kitsakos, the creative force behind Between Two Palms and Artistic Advisor at The Studios of Key West, has shaped the series into one of The Studios’ most beloved programs. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic as an online initiative to deliver meaningful arts programming directly into homes, the series has since transitioned to in-person events, becoming a cornerstone of The Studios’ offerings. Past Between Two Palms guests have included prominent figures such as actress and activist Alyssa Milano, comedian and talk show host Joy Behar, Pulitzer-winning composer Michael R. Jackson, Emmy and Tony-winning actress Judith Light, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paula Vogel, Academy Award-winning actress Marisa Tomei, Tony-winning actress Tonya Pinkins, and four-time Emmy Award winner Tony Shalhoub. This intimate series offers audiences unique access to the creative journeys of influential artists, writers, and cultural leaders. The upcoming conversation promises an engaging look into storytelling, investigative journalism, and the pursuit of truth. Tickets for this highly anticipated event are available at www.tskw.org. Space is limited, so reserve your seat today to join this extraordinary evening.
Key West, FL – In recognition of the centennial of James Baldwin’s birth, The Studios of Key West has partnered with La Maison Baldwin to support their "24 Black Writers in 2024-2025" initiative. This collaboration brings three exceptional Black writers to Key West for residency fellowships in May 2025, offering them the space and inspiration to build on the work of one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.
La Maison Baldwin, a non-profit that began in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France, where Baldwin spent his final years, fosters creativity, equity, and cultural exchange while preserving the profound impact of James Baldwin's work. The organization serves as a sanctuary for writers and a hub for global dialogue. The writers selected through the partnership exemplify the depth and diversity of thought Baldwin championed, with each bringing unique perspectives to issues of identity, equity, and culture: Dr. Sonia Mae Brown, from Little Rock, AR, is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Division of Arts and Humanities at Philander Smith University. She is a scholar whose work focuses on gender, sexuality, and Black female eroticism. With a doctorate from Howard University and a Masters in Creative and Professional Writing from Long Island University, Dr. Brown describes herself as a “Literary Sexual Anthropologist.” Her scholarship seeks to frame eroticism as a critical lens for textual inquiry, pushing boundaries in academic and literary spaces. Dr. Brown is passionate about enriching current scholarship on The Erotic and elevating its significance as a tool for intellectual exploration. Dr. Royel M. Johnson, based in Los Angeles, CA, is one of the nation’s leading voices on diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. A tenured professor and PhD program chair at the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education, he also serves as Director of the National Assessment of Collegiate Campus Climates at USC’s Race and Equity Center. Johnson is the author of five books and over 60 scholarly works, and he was recently recognized by the Los Angeles Times as a DEIA Visionary for his impactful contributions to the field. Dr. MaryLouise Patterson, from New York, NY, is a retired pediatrician and advocate for universal healthcare who draws inspiration from her upbringing in a family deeply rooted in the Black Radical tradition. Educated in the USSR and UC Berkeley, Dr. Patterson co-authored Letters from Langston: From the Harlem Renaissance to the Red Scare and Beyond. Her work and activism celebrate the richness of Black history and culture. An avid lover of jazz, art, and political discourse, Dr. Patterson continues to champion justice and equity in healthcare and beyond. Together, these writers bring bold perspectives, groundbreaking scholarship, and a passion for cultural and intellectual exploration that continue to push boundaries and inspire meaningful dialogue. “This partnership represents the power of art and storytelling to connect communities across time and place,” says Jed Dodds, Executive Director of The Studios of Key West. “We’re thrilled to welcome these accomplished writers and to continue Baldwin’s enduring legacy of fostering creativity and dialogue.” For more information about the Peyton Evans Artist Residency (PEAR) Program at The Studios of Key West, or upcoming events, visit www.tskw.org. Divalicious: A Night of Glamour, Music, and Magic with Amanda McBroom and Ann Hampton Callaway1/3/2025  Amanda McBroom and Ann Hampton Callaway. Photo courtesy the artists. Key West, FL — Prepare to be transported. Divalicious is more than a concert—it’s an enchanting journey through music and storytelling, delivered by two of the most celebrated voices in cabaret. Amanda McBroom and Ann Hampton Callaway bring their extraordinary talents to The Studios of Key West on Tuesday, January 21, and Wednesday, January 22, at 7pm for two unforgettable evenings that promise to leave audiences spellbound.
From the very first note, Divalicious immerses you in the golden age of song and the brilliance of contemporary cabaret. This is your chance to experience world-class performers in an intimate setting, creating a musical magic that lingers long after the final curtain. The New York cabaret scene has already fallen under their spell. NiteLife Exchange raved about the show’s New York debut at 54 Below, praising the duo’s seamless blend of humor, heart, and stunning musicality. “There are few cabaret performers more compelling than singer-songwriters Ann Hampton Callaway and Amanda McBroom,” wrote Andrew Poretz, calling the sold-out performances a triumph. Expect to be dazzled by a rich repertoire of timeless classics by Rodgers & Hart, Kern & Hammerstein, Cole Porter, and the Gershwins, alongside deeply moving original songs written for icons like Barbra Streisand and Bette Midler. Amanda McBroom, hailed as “one of the greatest nightclub performers of all time” (BroadwayWorld), captivates with her signature storytelling style, wit, and her iconic composition “The Rose.” With every lyric and every glance, McBroom draws audiences into her world. Ann Hampton Callaway, celebrated for her “sheer vocal beauty” (The New York Times), brings her dazzling jazz expertise, quick-witted humor, and Broadway charm to the stage. From her Tony-nominated performance in Swing! to her unforgettable theme song for The Nanny, Callaway delivers a performance that is as dynamic as it is soulful. At the piano, Michele Brourman, an accomplished composer and frequent collaborator of McBroom, provides the perfect musical foundation. Together, these three artists create an extraordinary synergy, delivering a performance filled with humor, heart, and unparalleled artistry. Event Details: When: Tuesday, January 21 & Wednesday, January 22, 2024, 7.p.m Where: Helmerich Theater, The Studios of Key West Tickets: VIP Table for $500/Individual Tickets: $65, $55 Members at www.tskw.org or by calling 305-296-0458 The Studios of Key West invites art lovers to its first First Thursday of the year on January 2, 2025, from 6–8 p.m., with four bold and dynamic exhibitions. Featuring live pigeons, evocative photography, whimsical paintings, and striking sculptural works, this diverse lineup highlights artists Duke Riley, Jeffrey Cardenas, Mena Ganey, and a shared exhibition by Pamela Kostmayer and Jane Beck.
Sanger Gallery — Trading with the Enemy by Duke Riley What if pigeons could challenge the way we think about borders, history and politics? In 2013, Duke Riley did just that. A trailblazing artist celebrated for transforming maritime history and urban folklore into captivating modern narratives, Riley orchestrated an extraordinary feat: training a flock of pigeons to smuggle cameras and Cuban cigars across the 90-mile stretch from Havana to Key West. Through this audacious project, Trading with the Enemy, Riley turned these unassuming birds into symbols of resistance, sparking conversations about surveillance, smuggling and Key West’s longstanding unique relationship with Cuba. At the center of the exhibition is Riley’s original pigeon loft, made from found materials and stocked with live pigeons. The artist housed a kit of 50 pigeons there in 2013, after four years of meticulous planning and eight months of breeding, with the goal of releasing them in Havana to make the trek home. “The birds were either ‘smugglers’ carrying contraband, and named after historical smugglers, or ‘documentarians’ wearing customized cameras, named after filmmakers who have had brushes with the law,” Riley recalls. “Eleven pigeons successfully completed their mission. One documentarian landed on a yacht and quickly became the subject of conversation.” In addition to the live installation, the exhibition includes video of the pigeons’ historic flights, painted portraits of the individual pigeons on repurposed Key West roof tiles, and related works that delve deeper into the themes of migration, ingenuity, and exchange. Its resonance has only grown in recent years, with the continued US embargo, and the historic exodus of millions of Cubans in the post-pandemic era. Zabar Project Gallery — On the Reef by Jeffrey Cardenas In On the Reef, Jeffrey Cardenas takes viewers on a stunning journey through the coral reef ecosystems of the Caribbean, Polynesia, and beyond. Through his powerful photography, Cardenas reveals the vibrancy, complexity, and fragility of underwater worlds, celebrating their role in supporting marine life while prompting reflection on their urgent need for conservation. A longtime Key West resident and seasoned sailor, Cardenas blends art and environmental advocacy with a poetic lens. XOJ Gallery — Object Permanence by Mena Ganey Mena Ganey’s Object Permanence is an exploration of nostalgia, identity, and perception through vibrant and whimsical works. Known for her eclectic, pop-infused style, Ganey’s paintings blend neon colors, playful humor, and bizarre yet endearing characters to reflect on the absurdities of life and the stories we carry. Drawing on personal reflection, Ganey examines how our histories shape what we see and feel, infusing each piece with a mix of charm, chaos, and thought-provoking detail. Zabar Lobby Gallery — Parallels by Pamela Kostmayer & Jane Beck Wood and glass meet in Parallels, a poetic conversation between material and form. Pamela Kostmayer’s sculptures, crafted from Dade County pine, vintage wood, and metal, mark a shift toward dynamic, three-dimensional works that invite exploration from all angles. Jane Beck’s fused glass creations, honed over decades of experimentation, celebrate light, texture, and transformation. Together, the two artists highlight intriguing intersections in their processes, offering viewers a captivating dialogue of craft and creativity. America’s Finest Folk and Americana Artists Shine Indoors and Under the Star  Dom Flemons, the ‘American Songster,’ brings his mastery of early American music to The Studios of Key West on January 14 & 15, blending banjo, harmonica, and storytelling in a captivating celebration of America’s musical roo Photo by Shervin-Lainez [Key West, FL.] The Studios of Key West unveils its most exciting Old Town New Folk season yet, featuring an extraordinary lineup of America’s finest singer-songwriters. In 2025, audiences will enjoy intimate concerts in the Helmerich Theater and unique rooftop shows at Hugh’s View, a terrace that captures the island’s radiant evening light.
“Our Old Town New Folk artists will grab you by the heart and leave you hanging on every word,” says Jay Scott, series curator. “Even if their names are new to you, by the end of one set, their stories and songs will make you feel like you’ve known them forever.” The series launches on January 7 & 8 with Susan Werner & Jonatha Brooke, two renowned performers whose artistry spans genres. Werner, hailed as “one of the most innovative songwriters working today,” charms with sharp wit and dazzling musicianship, while Brooke’s stunning voice and engaging stage presence create an unforgettable experience. “Susan is a longtime favorite of The Studios, and when we asked her to invite another musician who would resonate with Key West’s unique spirit, she immediately thought of Jonatha Brooke,” continues Scott. “Jonatha’s artistry and authenticity are a perfect match for our audiences, and together, they promise a truly magical start to the season.” On January 14 & 15, Dom Flemons, known as the “American Songster,” brings a rich tapestry of early American music to the stage. A founding member of the Grammy-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops, Flemons masterfully blends banjo, harmonica, rhythm bones, and more into his captivating repertoire. On February 4 & 5, Will Kimbrough, a legend in the Americana world and co-writer of Jimmy Buffett’s poignant final single Bubbles Up, takes the stage. Over the Rhine performs on March 4 &5, offering poetic lyrics and haunting harmonies that have earned them acclaim for over three decades. On March 11 & 12, Ellis Paul and Radoslav Lorković offer an evening of lyrical storytelling and virtuosic piano and accordion. Beth Nielsen Chapman, a two-time Grammy nominee, appears on March 18 & 19, performing her deeply personal songs, including works recorded by legends such as Willie Nelson and Bette Midler. John McCutcheon, performing on April 15 & 16, brings masterful musicianship and moments that resonate deeply with his audience. Closing the season on April 22 & 23, the Henhouse Prowlers deliver high-energy bluegrass with a modern twist. As “Chicago’s bluegrass ambassadors,” their innovative sound and dynamic shows leave audiences exhilarated. Hugh’s View, perched atop The Studios of Key West, offers an extraordinary setting for live music, with panoramic views and a backdrop of the island’s shifting evening hues. The Helmerich Theater, by contrast, provides an intimate indoor space with exceptional acoustics, allowing audiences to experience every note and nuance of the performances. Tickets are available now! Reserve yours by calling 305-296-0458 or visiting tskw.org.  The Studios of Key West. Photo Larry Blackburn. Key West, FL – This December, The Studios of Key West is celebrating Monroe County teachers with a special offer: a complimentary one-year membership for all educators in the county. It’s a small way of saying “thank you” to those who work so hard to inspire the next generation.
“Teachers give so much to our community, and we want to give something back,” said Michael Ross, Director of Exhibitions and Education at The Studios. “A membership at The Studios means a chance to connect with art, recharge, and maybe even explore something new.” The membership comes with plenty of perks, including access to exhibitions, performances, and other cultural events, plus discounts on workshops throughout the year. And just for Monroe County teachers, we’re adding an extra 20% off one workshop in 2025—on top of the regular membership discount. Teachers can claim their free membership by bringing a valid teacher ID to The Studios at 533 Eaton Street any time before December 31, 2024, during regular hours. The Studios of Key West is all about creativity, community, and connection. From workshops and exhibitions to performances and special events, The Studios is a hub for artistic inspiration in the Florida Keys. Learn more at www.tskw.org. Key West, FL — On Thursday, November 7, from 6–8 pm, The Studios of Key West invites the public to its highly anticipated First Thursday event, featuring the opening of exhibitions that explore powerful themes of nature, resilience, and nostalgia. In addition to enjoying the exhibitions, visitors are welcome to experience Hugh’s View, The Studios’ scenic rooftop terrace, where stunning sunset views over Old Town Key West set the scene for an unforgettable evening.
In Submerged Serenity, on view in the Sanger Gallery, Australian artist Debra Hill delves into the lush, intricate flora and birdlife of her homeland, reflecting on humanity’s profound relationship with nature and one another. Her vibrant, nature-inspired works invite viewers to pause and consider their own connections to the environment, as well as the ties they share with others. With It Only Hurts, on view in the XOJ Gallery, Key West artist Emma MacLean presents a powerful and deeply personal exploration of chronic pain. A chronically ill and disabled artist, MacLean uses 78 textile pieces to visualize the language of pain, with each piece representing a word from the McGill Pain Questionnaire. Through her painstakingly crafted textiles, MacLean brings visibility to the invisible and often isolating experience of chronic illness. Key West native Catherine Solmo transports visitors to a bygone era in Memory Lane, a nostalgic series inspired by family stories and old photographs, on view in the Zabar Lobby Gallery. Her evocative paintings pay tribute to generations of Conchs and their traditions, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the island’s past and the vibrant lives of those who once called it home. Also on display in the Zabar Project Gallery is a collection of student watercolors from a beachside workshop held this past June. Watercolor enthusiasts gathered just before sunset, armed with paints, brushes, and open imaginations. A selection of their works will be shown alongside one created by their instructor, Susan Sugar, celebrating both artistic growth and the collaborative spirit of the class. The First Thursday event is free and open to all. To learn more about the exhibitions, classes, and events at The Studios of Key West, visit www.tskw.org. |
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