Saturday, August 8, 2009

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall


The landmark Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has been at the center of the City of Sarasota’s dynamic performing arts scene for over 35 years. Built along the bayfront in 1968 and partly funded by a bequest from Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel, the hall brings a wide range of first-class performances and artists to the Sarasota community.

The hall opened its doors in 1970 with a performance of Fiddler on the Roof. Since then, a host of Broadway shows, world-class symphony orchestras, top national and international performers, and an array of dance troupes have performed to meet the theatrical needs of Sarasota’s residents and visitors.

The Van Wezel’s unique design and color have helped in making the building a Sarasota landmark. The seashell design was the brainchild of William Wesley Peters, an architect with Taliesin Associated Architects of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the lavender and purple color scheme was the idea of Wright’s widow, Olgivanna Lloyd Wright. The 1,736-seat hall also offers a spectacular dining opportunity at Michael’s at the Van Wezel, the delectable cuisine of Michael’s on the East in a fabulous dinner buffet.

There are still many great shows to catch in the 2009 season, including Kathy Griffin Live (appearing Aug. 14th), Camelot, Avenue Q, and the Moscow Ballet performing The Nutcracker, and the 2010 season has a wonderful calendar already booked.

The Van Wezel is located along Sarasota’s beautiful Bayfront and easily accessible from any of the Downtown Sarasota Condos or barrier islands.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the Downtown Condos or any of the properties listed on Sarasota’s Barrier Island of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key or Manasota Key. Call 941.350.5035.


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