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The Arts in Sarasota: Your Guide to Van Wezel
Hosting events ranging from Broadway musicals to comedy shows, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is the premier cultural center near Sarasota homes for sale. Get an in-depth look at this first-class venue as our real estate agents share some fascinating facts.
History of the Van Wezel
Built in 1968 and 1969, the Hall bears the name of Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel, local philanthropists whose bequest provided part of the funding. The rest of the financing was raised by a City of Sarasota bond referendum.
The Van Wezel was designed by William Wesley Peters, son-in-law and mentee of iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Observers have noted Wright's influence in the relationship between the building and its natural surroundings, as well as the dramatic interior and the use of modest materials to create an overall ambiance of richness.
Van Wezel's eye-catching design makes it one of the more recognizable landmarks around Bradenton homes for sale. Wright's widow Olgivanna chose the unique purple seashell theme after being inspired by a seashell she found near the Sea of Japan, which has a prominent place in the Van Wezel lobby.
Van Wezel over the Years
At the dawn of the 21st century, the City of Sarasota recognized the need to update the Van Wezel. To that end, the City engaged the original firm, Taliesin Architects of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, to modernize the building without jeopardizing its architectural integrity. Additions and changes made over the last 24 years include:
- Restructuring the roof to fully realize the scallop shell envisioned by William Wesley Peters
- Installation of elevators, along with more wheelchair spaces and restrooms
- New electronic marquee
- Electric Gala spiral lift system in the orchestra pit
- State-of-the-art Yamaha digital sound console and Meyer speaker array
- New furniture, fire pit, landscaping, and shade sails on the terrace
- Portable Wenger orchestra shell onstage
Inside the Van Wezel
The Van Wezel encompasses 80,000 square feet, with the centerpiece of Roskamp Auditorium. Other spaces include the Grand Foyer, Selby Educational Center, two lobbies, a professional catering kitchen, and administrative offices.
- Roskamp Auditorium is the namesake of Bob and Diane Roskamp, who donated $1 million to spearhead the renovation in 2001. The auditorium seats 1,741, with only 110 feet between the stage and the back rows, allowing for great acoustics and a welcoming ambiance of intimacy.
- Sweeping views of Sarasota Bay are a hallmark feature of the Grand Foyer, Sunset Terrace, and the spacious lawn. These areas are available for weddings, meetings, and other private events. During the summer months, the Van Wezel puts on their popular Friday Fest series, free events featuring live music and food.
- Commemorate your visit with a miniature instrument or other music-themed item from the Gift Shop, which is open one hour before each performance and during intermissions.
Upcoming Events at the Van Wezel
- Jagged Little Pill: The Musical - Tuesday, February 27 and Wednesday, February 28
- Paul Anka: Seven Decades Tour - Sunday, March 10
- Paul Taylor Dance Company - Monday, March 18
- Hamilton - Tuesday, March 26 through Sunday, April 7
- Town Hall Lecture Series: Misty Copeland - Monday, April 15
- The Price Is Right Live - Friday, April 26
- George Thorogood & the Destroyers - Wednesday, May 1
Whether you're a culture junkie or weekend warrior, Sarasota fits your lifestyle. Contact us at Wagner Realty to learn more.