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Sarasota News Leader December 13, 2013 "It's a classic Neil Simon comedy," Mock notes. "It's important for the students to understand that playwright and his contributions to theatre. Plus, it gives them lots of opportunities to explore physical comedy, and I've been impressed to see how they've brought in elements of the Italian tradition of commedia dell'arte in their character development." There is great lore about the play itself, the release points out. Simon reportedly created it with the intention of writing an unsuccessful play in the aftermath of a divorce settlement that would leave his ex-wife with the profits of his next play. "While Fools initially earned a tepid reception," the release continues, "it Page 115 has since become a crowd pleaser, cementing Simon's reputation as an unflappable writer." "The fact that the students are taking on these scripts and doing them well, I think is important for audiences to support," Mock says in the release. "We bring the same professionalism to the straight plays, and the community should see that." Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. They are available in advance by calling Judy Piercy at 355-2967, Ext. 65215, or online at VPAbooker.com. The Booker High School VPA Theatre is located at 3201 N. Orange Ave. in Sarasota. PATRONS INVITED TO 'PAY WHAT YOU CAN' FOR SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS Venice Theatre will present its traditional rate is not available online. For more inforSounds of Christmas concert Friday and mation about tickets, contact the box office Saturday evenings, Dec. 13 and 14, at 8 p.m., at 488-1115. the theatre has announced. Sounds of Christmas "will feature beautiful "Audiences will be treated to an intimate eve- renditions of wintertime favorites old and ning of holiday tunes sung by some of Venice new," the release continues. Traditional songs Theatre's most talented vocalists," a news and carols such as Carol of the Bells, The First release says. Regular ticket prices for the Noel and Silent Night will be sung along with event are $24 for adults and $10 for students. more contemporary selections such as Baby, However, patrons who might be struggling It's Cold Outside; Mary, Did You Know; and financially are invited to take advantage of a The Twelve Days After Christmas. special "pay-what-you-can" rate, the release Audience members are asked to bring points out. non-perishable food items to the concert to Director Allan Kollar explains in the release, help stock local food pantries, the release "We want everybody in our community to be adds. able to afford a great Christmas show. We hope folks will come out and enjoy the music Venice Theatre is located at 140 W. Tampa and pay whatever amount works for them Ave. on the island in Venice. Tickets and passes for the entire 2013-2014 season are and their family." available by phone at 488-1115 or in person at Pay-what-you-can tickets are available for the box office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday each performance, the release notes. Patrons through Friday and one hour before all shows must purchase them at the door with cash. for walk-up tickets. Tickets are also available Any amount will be accepted. The special 24 hours a day at www.venicestage.com.