Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located in Sarasota, Florida. It offers a full-service entertainment facility for performing arts presentations. It is located along the bayfront and has been in operation for nearly half a century. Visitors to the center enjoy theater performances, as well as music, dance and comedy shows. The center was built in 1968 and opened in 1970. They also offer outreach and educational programs in an effort to bring the performing arts into the community and generate interest in both the hall and in performing arts in general. Programs are geared toward everyone, from toddlers through seniors. They have also partnered with the education system in Florida, providing students with an exciting option for learning about the performing arts. The hall underwent renovations in 2000 and now contains 25,000 additional square feet. It houses a large lobby, a Grand Foyer, restrooms, a stagehouse and an up-to-date sound and lighting system. They also added the Education Center in 2000. The hall features 1,736 seats. The Grand Foyer is capable of hosting events and can seat anywhere from 35 to 350 event attendees. The Terrace and Lawn areas are also popular venues for events. The center is available for rental for private and corporate events.