Step inside the beating heart of Sarasota’s arts scene: WSLR + Fogartyville. In this episode of Behind the Masterpiece, host Jeffery Kin sits down with Ariel, the dynamic director bringing new energy, charm, and vision to this beloved venue. From his singer/songwriter and restaurateur days in New York City to running one of Sarasota’s most vibrant cultural spaces, Ariel shares how Fogartyville continues to thrive with concerts, community events, educational programs, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or hearing about it for the first time, this conversation reveals why Fogartyville is more than a venue — it’s a movement.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Ariel Aparicio-Jerro, Director of Fogartyville

(01:45) What is WSLR?

(03:00) What does the Director of Fogartyville do?

(05:00) Ariel adding his flair, like hosting rock and roll

(08:00) Ariel’s past life as a singer/songwriter and coming to Sarasota

(12:25) Ariel’s love of music

(15:00) Musical mentor

(16:35) Ariel playing at CBGB’s

(18:00) How Ariel became involved with Fogartyville

(21:00) How Ariel handles stress

(24:00) Does Fogartyville have a season?

(26:00) How to attend events

(27:20) Education events including summer camps

For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com