The Ringling Unveils Exciting 2026-2027 Art of Performance Season in Sarasota

June 3, 2026 | Suncoast Post Staff | Events

Sarasota’s cultural scene is about to take center stage once again. The Ringling has announced its highly anticipated 2026-2027 Art of Performance lineup, bringing an eclectic mix of music, theater, dance, spoken word, international performers, and immersive artistic experiences to Florida’s Suncoast.

Held primarily inside the stunning Historic Asolo Theater on the Ringling campus, the Art of Performance series has become one of Sarasota’s most unique live entertainment programs, attracting audiences from across Florida and beyond. The series continues to blend world-class talent with the intimate atmosphere that makes The Ringling one of the most treasured cultural destinations in the Southeast.

Located along Sarasota Bay, The Ringling is far more than just an art museum. The 66-acre estate includes the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan mansion, Bayfront Gardens, and the Historic Asolo Theater, creating a complete arts and entertainment destination for residents and visitors alike.

2026-2027 Art of Performance Schedule

October 16, 2026: Ringling Revealed – Where Wonder Begins

The season kicks off with an energetic outdoor performance in the Museum of Art Courtyard featuring Grammy-nominated Cuban vocalist Jose “Pepito” Gomez and La Royal Orquesta performing classic 1950s mambo music. This event promises a lively evening of Latin rhythms and celebration on Sarasota Bay.

October 28-30, 2026: Maldonne by Leila Ka

Internationally acclaimed French choreographer Leila Ka brings her powerful contemporary dance performance to Sarasota. Maldonne explores identity, femininity, and transformation through bold movement and emotional storytelling.

November 13, 2026: Georgia Heers Live in Sarasota

Rising jazz vocalist Georgia Heers takes the stage after performances at renowned venues including The Kennedy Center and Dizzy’s Club in New York City. Her fresh interpretation of jazz standards and soulful vocals have earned national attention.

December 18, 2026: Valerie June Performs at The Ringling

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Valerie June will bring her signature blend of folk, blues, soul, gospel, and indie music to Sarasota for what is expected to be one of the season’s most anticipated performances.

February 10-11, 2027: Birdie by Agrupacion Senor Serrano

This internationally recognized multimedia production combines live video, miniature models, projections, soundscapes, and theatrical storytelling inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. The performance has received critical acclaim across Europe and North America.

February 24, 2027: The Shopping Center of the Universe by Robin Frohardt

Presented in partnership with EcoSummit 2027 at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, this imaginative multimedia and puppetry performance explores consumer culture, environmental impact, and humanity’s relationship with nature.

April 30, 2027: MicroWIP

Returning for its fifth year, MicroWIP showcases works-in-progress created by artists from Sarasota and Manatee counties. The event gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at emerging local talent and creative experimentation.

A Season Designed for Sarasota’s Expanding Arts Community

The newly announced Art of Performance season continues The Ringling’s commitment to presenting innovative programming that appeals to a broad audience. The series has earned a reputation for showcasing performances that are bold, global, creative, and often unlike anything else appearing in Southwest Florida.

The Historic Asolo Theater itself adds to the experience. Originally built in Italy in the late 18th century and later reconstructed at The Ringling, the theater offers audiences a rare opportunity to enjoy modern performances in an elegant European-style setting.

Why The Ringling Matters to Sarasota

For decades, The Ringling has served as one of the cultural anchors of Florida’s Gulf Coast. While many visitors know the property for its breathtaking art galleries and circus history, locals increasingly recognize the venue as a year-round entertainment hub featuring concerts, lectures, festivals, outdoor events, film screenings, and live performances.

The Ringling’s popularity continues to grow as Sarasota’s reputation as a national arts destination expands. Alongside institutions like Sarasota Orchestra, Florida Studio Theatre, and Asolo Repertory Theatre, The Ringling plays a major role in making Sarasota one of America’s leading mid-sized arts cities.

The museum campus also hosts numerous popular seasonal events throughout the year, including:

Ringling by the Bay waterfront concerts
Art After Five evening museum access
Summer Circus Spectacular performances
Educational lectures and film events
Outdoor community gatherings along Sarasota Bay

More Than a Museum Experience

One reason The Ringling continues to attract both tourists and locals is the ability to turn a performance into a full-day experience. Guests can explore world-famous art collections, stroll through the Bayfront Gardens, tour the Ca’ d’Zan mansion, and then enjoy an evening performance in the Historic Asolo Theater.

The museum grounds themselves are considered among the most beautiful cultural properties in Florida, especially during sunset hours overlooking Sarasota Bay.

Visitors should also note:

The Ringling is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday evenings feature extended Art After Five hours
Florida residents often receive special admission opportunities
Many performances sell out quickly, especially during snowbird season

Ticket Information

Subscription packages go on sale May 18, 2026
Individual tickets become available September 1, 2026
Additional information about performances, memberships, and tickets can be found at The Ringling official website

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