An 80-year-old widower who stumbles into a dog park and unexpectedly finds love anchors "The Last Romance," the romantic comedy running through Aug. 16 at Florida Studio Theatre's Gompertz Theatre in downtown Sarasota.
Written by Tony Award-winning playwright Joe DiPietro, the production closes FST's 2026 Summer Mainstage Series. Performances are at the Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St., with tickets ranging from $25 to $46 for matinee and evening shows.
Director Reflects on Late-Life Love
Director Kate Alexander, FST's associate director at-large and a 40-year veteran of the theatre's artistic leadership, said in a press release ahead of opening night: "When we reach a certain age, the dreams of our youth often return for another chance, if we are lucky."
Cast Brings Broadway, Film Credits to FST Debuts
John Guerrasio plays Ralph Bellini, the widower who breaks from his routine of "Jeopardy" episodes and predictable dinners to pursue a connection with Carol Reynolds, played by Laura Gardner. Both actors are making their FST debuts, bringing experience from Broadway, regional theatres, television and film, according to FST.
Bonnie Black plays Rose Tagliatelle, Ralph's overprotective younger sister who resists the disruption to their shared life. Jason Sekili, also making his FST debut, plays the Young Man, a younger version of Ralph who once auditioned for the Metropolitan Opera before family commitments led him down a different path. Sekili appears throughout the 90-minute, one-act production, singing and helping Ralph change costumes.
Critic Highlights Set Design, Italian-American Atmosphere
Sun Newspapers arts critic Jay Handelman, reviewing the show July 27, noted the scenic design by Isabel A. and Moriah Curley-Clay of Axis Studios Design: a dog park rendered in oranges and golds of fall leaves, with a bench, a bridge and trees. Italian big-band music by Perry Como and Dean Martin plays as audiences enter the theatre, setting the Italian-American family atmosphere before the lights go down.
Production Team, Playwright's Background
DiPietro's previous works include "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change" and "Over the River and Through the Woods." The production team includes Jessé Martins as music director, Tony Toney on costume design, Andrew Gray on lighting and Nicholas Christensen on sound design.
Previews began July 22, with the official opening July 24. The show runs through Aug. 16.
For tickets, call 941-366-9000 or visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
Coming Up in Sarasota
- "The Last Romance" at FST's Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First St., through Aug. 16. Tickets $25-$46. Call 941-366-9000 or visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org.
