News
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Cancels Shows Through December Due to Damage From Hurricane Milton
Sarasota, FL (Oct. 11) – The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall sustained significant water intrusion, with some areas experiencing up to 4-feet of storm surge, as a result of Hurricane Milton. The orchestra pit, kitchen, dressing rooms, and production offices have all experience flooding. The electrical wiring was also impacted by the water intrusion. Additionally, the roof sustained damage, which is currently being patched. The docks, sidewalks, and surrounding areas have also been impacted by the storm.
At this time, all performances through December 31, 2024 will be canceled, and we anticipate reopening January 1, 2025. Ticket buyers with tickets to shows October – December will be refunded to the original point of purchase. Please be patient as our Box Office processes the returns.
“I’m heartbroken to see the damage sustained to our beautiful Van Wezel,” shares Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. “We had such a wonderful season planned and we were so excited to welcome everyone to these fabulous productions. We are already working to remove the water and repair the building. We will come back stronger, and we look forward to the day we can welcome you back to the Hall.”
Tickets for the remaining shows in 2025 can be purchased at VanWezel.org. While the building is closed, the parking lot will be used as an emergency staging area for restoration crews throughout the City of Sarasota.
Future updates on shows and productions can be found on the Van Wezel’s website and social media accounts:
• www.VanWezel.org
• https://www.facebook.com/VANWEZELPAH/
• https://twitter.com/VanwezelPAH
• https://www.instagram.com/vanwezelpah/
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About the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents a broad spectrum of the world’s finest performers representing the diverse tastes of Southwest Florida residents and visitors. The Van Wezel has carried on the long tradition of presenting spectacular Broadway musicals, top national and international performers, popular comedians, world-class symphony orchestras, and a compelling mix of classical, modern and ethnic dance. In carrying out the mission of the Hall, the Van Wezel’s education program brings visiting artists into the community and area schools for a wealth of educational and outreach activities. To learn more about the Van Wezel, visit VanWezel.org.