An Afternoon to Remember: All is Calm at Patriot Plaza

I invite you to begin by watching the newly released All is Calm: In Concert at Patriot Plaza video from Bill Wagy Productions. The video captures the energy, emotion, and collective spirit of an unforgettable afternoon—featuring audience reactions, moments from the performance, and glimpses of the many volunteers who helped welcome more than 2,300 attendees to Patriot Plaza.

At the heart of the afternoon was All is Calm, the extraordinary concert presentation by Asolo Repertory Theatre. Written by Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein and brought to life by an exceptional cast and crew, the piece weaves together letters, songs, and firsthand accounts from World War I soldiers who experienced an unofficial Christmas truce along the Western Front. The performance invites audiences to reflect on the enduring humanity that persists even in the midst of conflict. Under the leadership of Managing Director Ross Egan and Peter Rothstein, the AsoloRep team delivered a performance that was both powerful and deeply resonant—perfectly matched to the sacred beauty of Patriot Plaza.

The audience was thoughtfully and powerfully prepared for this experience. The American Legion Post 159 Color Guard opened the program with dignity and honor, followed by Joseph Bruno Jr.’s stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner. The Sarasota Military Academy Drumline, under the direction of SMA Major Michael Finley, further elevated the moment, creating a shared sense of anticipation and reverence that carried the audience into All is Calm. These opening elements did more than begin the program—they grounded the afternoon in meaning and purpose.

The success of the day was also made possible by an extraordinary group of volunteers whose warmth and coordination ensured a welcoming experience from arrival to departure. Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Sarasota, Booker High School’s Interact Club, Patriot Plaza Guides, and family members and friends of consultants for The Patterson Foundation brought energy, care, and professionalism to every role. Victoria Findley, the Foundation's initiative lead for Patriot Plaza, was on hand throughout the day, greeting volunteers, providing orientation, and ensuring everyone felt prepared and appreciated. Special thanks go to Ruth McLaren of the Rotary Club of Sarasota for coordinating their volunteer efforts, and to Kennedy Cole and Avery Cole for leading the volunteers from Booker High School’s Interact Club. Their leadership was evident in the seamless flow of the day and the genuine hospitality extended to each guest.

Behind the scenes, thoughtful hospitality helped sustain the performers and crew. Stacey Gadeken ran the tented green room with warmth and joy, keeping the production crew and actors hydrated, fed, and well cared for throughout the day—an essential contribution that supported the excellence seen on stage.

Adding depth and context to the experience were the Patriot Plaza Guides, who helped attendees understand the commissioned artwork and the history of this remarkable setting. Brian Hersh, Executive Director of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, and Maria Schaedler Luera were on hand alongside the Guides, sharing stories that encouraged guests to linger, explore, and engage more deeply with Patriot Plaza’s art and meaning.

Set within this stunning environment—where art, remembrance, and reflection are woven into the landscape—the convergence of All is Calm, dedicated artists, committed volunteers, and a responsive audience resulted in an afternoon few will forget. The Bill Wagy Productions video beautifully captures that magic and serves as a lasting celebration of a performance and a community brought together in a truly meaningful way.