There's always something new on the stages of Sarasota's many theatre venues. This summer, the Golden Apple Dinner Theater serves up one wallop of a musical comedy, while the Banyan Theater Company hosts two star productions: one

The Banyan Theatre performs in the Jane B. Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts

that will have you contemplating stars by the Gulf, and another that'll leave you giggling all the way to the beach.

If you've spent a quiet day by the beach and are ready for some jazzy fun, Thoroughly Modern Millie will fill your entertainment needs. This comedic musical runs July 18 - September 10 at The Golden Apple Dinner Theater, where you'll be submerged in the sights and sounds of the rollicking 1920s as you follow Millie's journey into the rough and exciting world of the big city.

The first in the Banyan Theater Company's mid-summer lineup is The Retreat from Moscow, by William Nicholson, which chronicles the divorce of a couple who has been married for 33 years - a separation that just so happens to unfold during the weekend of their son's visit. Called "subtle and powerful" by The New Yorker, this captivating production can catalyze deep conversations and experiences for two after the show. The play will run July 20 - August 6.

Also at the Banyan, Life X 3, by Yasmina Reza, makes a perfect follow-up to a light-hearted day at the beach, or some child's play at the G.WIZ Hands-On Science Museum. The comedy documents the hi-jinks that ensue when unexpected dinner guests show up at the home of couple Henri and Sonia. A love triangle and scientific rivalry are among the kooky circumstances that crop up during their hectic evening. Life X 3 runs August 10 - 27.

If you go:
Admission to the Golden Apple Dinner Theater is $37-$40 on weeknights, $42-$45 on weekends, and $33-$36 for Saturday matinees. Showtime is at 8 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Saturday at 1:30 p.m., and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Call 941-366-5454 or visit www.thegoldenapple.com for more information.

Banyan Theater tickets are $27.50 for adults, $50 for a two-show package, and $8 for students. Performance times are 8 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday - Sunday. Call 941-552-1032 or visit www.banyantheatercompany.com for more information.

Originally posted 6/20/06