Producing Performances that Inspire and Connect
Venice Island Performing Arts Center hosts dance, theater, concerts and special events while also producing our own original productions. With the support of our nonprofit, these programs highlight talented artists, inspire young audiences and help strengthen the community.
Current Venice Island Productions include, in it's fifth year, our Children's Theatre Series continues to grow and provide a Theatrical experience for the young and young at heart. The Shoe Box Short Theatre Festival, held annually in May, allowing artists to present new, short stories, dance and theatrical works.
And NOW, Venice Island is premiering a New Musical Series. To be held annually this series goal is to provide a space for the next generation of composers, lyricists and performers. This is about giving Philadelphia artists room to dream and hone their craft.
Proudly presenting the World Premiere of The Lost Tango
November 21st and 22nd
One night. Six friends. A hundred truths. An original musical that blends sharp, funny banter with soaring songs to trace the twists of friendship, love, and change. The Lost Tango—where love, laughter and last call changes everything.
Made possible by The Gertrude Solkov Memorial Fund
The Lost Tango is made possible by
The Gertrude Solkov Memorial Fund
As a renaissance woman with many talents, Gertie was a pioneer, visionary, and a true embodiment of values that remind us of the impact one person can have on a community and an organization.
Gertie was a force, working with officials to designate portions of Manayunk as a protected, historic area. She served as President of the Business Association of Manayunk for over 10 years spearheading the creation of the annual Arts Festival in Manayunk. At 90 years old, you could see Gertie working at the Arts Festival, braving the heat with a smile that could light up a room.
In the past, Gertie served as musical director, director and producer of the popular Sisterhood shows at Temple Sinai in Dresher. In recent years, she was popular for her piano playing at Ann’s Choice in their Second Time Around Band.
Gert’s passion was her music. One of her favorite expressions was “Music is my life.” She translated this passion into a legacy to pass on to others by bequeathing an endowment to Venice Island Performing Arts Center.
We’re proud to honor her legacy through The Gertrude Solkov Memorial Fund — supporting those who, like Gertie, can say “Music is my life.”
Thank you, Gertie.
Gertrude Solkov
Howard and Robert grew up in Gray’s Ferry and met in high school as members of the South Philadelphia String Band. They went their separate ways and reconnected as adults where their new duo performed at the Legendary Main Point.
Somewhere along the line they started started gathering with friends at The Lost Tango at 20th and South Street!
The years passed and they met at a restaurant in Manayunk the week before Thanksgiving sitting right across the canal from the Venice Island Performing Arts Center. Their friendship was rekindled and they were back to song writing and crafting stories.
The Lost Tango will hit the stage the week before Thanksgiving at Venice Island Performing Arts Center, sitting right across from that restaurant, 11 years later!
Howard Burke
Composer/Lyrics
Robert Calandra
Libretto/Lyrics
Children's Theatre
Our 5th Annual Children's Theatre Auditions and Performance Dates are coming soon!
Check Back for More Details or Subscribe to our Newsletter!
Shoe Box Theatre
Our 5th Shoe Box Short Theatre Festival coming in May!
Check Back for More Details or Subscribe to our Newsletter!
Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center
7 Lock Street
Philadelphia, PA 19127
Tel: 215-685-3583
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