Name: The Life of Thomas Paine
Start: 2025-10-25T14:00:00-04:00
Location: Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota

Save the Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Back by popular demand
To begin the world over again – The Life of Thomas Paine
The acclaimed actor, Ian Ruskin, portrays the Hero of the American Revolution and the unheralded Founding Father of the birth of America. Paine’s writings inspired the colonies to fight for independence. His fearless denunciation of rule by monarchy, where the King can do no wrong is still relevant today. Thomas Paine was a true visionary. He was centuries before his time – advocating for the end of slavery, social security, and women’s right to vote.
Help keep the legacy of Thomas Paine alive. Don’t miss To begin the world over again – The Life of Thomas Paine – one performance only.
After the play there will be a Q&A session with Ian Ruskin followed by a reception with light refreshments.
Ticket Information: General admission tickets are $25/person and can be purchased on the ticket link above or online at
https://givebutter.com/TP-Play
Ian Ruskin Bio
ACTOR, WRITER AND INDEPENDENT SCHOLAR
I trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and worked for 15 years in repertory companies, London’s West End, television and film. I came to Los Angeles in 1985 and found myself with guest star roles in episodic television. This work did not in any way fulfill my dream to be involved in great works that could move audiences and shine a light on their shared humanity. This was not happening on the soundstage of “MacGyver.”
Then I was cast to play a real-life character, Harry Bridges, in “Citizenship: The Harry Bridges Story,” and my life changed. This was a man whose beliefs and values inspired me, and when we performed for his union, his story inspired them. I had found my way to shine a light again.