Van Wezel Performing Arts Center in Sarasota Florida

Approximately 20 minutes south of Bradenton in Sarasota, Florida is one of the most fantastic theaters in the state of Florida.  Created by architect William Wesley Peters of Frank Lloyd Wright's firm, Taliesin Associated Architects, it was designed specificly with an eye to its proximity to the water.  The renovations and enlargement that was completed in 2000, was done by the same firm.  The proforming arts center was nicknamed "the purple cow" and "the purple people seater", when it first opened in 1970. 

For more that 40 years, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has hosted hundres of incredible performers.  The Van Wezel has featured plays, musicians, dancers, and comedians since opening it's doors in 1970.  Working closely with the Sarasota County School Board, the Van Wezel has been able to provide education in the performance and arts field to many of the local students of our area.  The west coast of Florida is considered Florida's Cultural Coast, giving us a little piece of paradise full of art, history and diversity.

In 2000 the Van Wezel Hall was renovated and added 25,000 additional square feet.  This included larger lobbies and Grand Foyer.  Also added was a new stagehouse, new lighting and sound systems, new restrooms and an education center.  The performance center will seat 1,736 and from my experience, there is not a bad seat in the house.  The center is very handicap friendly completely compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The center is available for weddings and other personal festivities.  The Grand Foyer is 6,000 square feet and can seat anywhere from 35 to 350 guests and opens up onto the Bayfront lawn and terrace, which can accommodate and additional 1,500 people.

The theater is easy access from St Armands Circle and Longboat key, as well as Bradenton, Florida.

To check out this years' performance schedule, including purchasing of tickets go to http://www.vanwezel.org/.