A true pioneer in the cultural development of Sarasota, the Van Wezel, (pronounced Van Wayzull), presents a broad spectrum of the world's finest performers representing the diverse tastes of Southwest Florida residents and visitors. This season, with more than 100 events, 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. The Van Wezel also hosts more than 50 performances and events presented by the Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet, the Sarasota Concert Association and the Ringling Library Town Hall Lecture Series.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall utilizes EVOLV Express technology, which allows patrons to quickly walk-through security scanners without stopping. Smaller objects such as keys and eyeglass cases will be detected, and it is recommended these items be kept in your vehicles whenever possible. The EVOLV Express technology is safe for those patrons wearing pacemakers. Please contact our Patron Services Manager if you have any questions or concerns before your visit.
Accessible parking is available on the circle in front of the building and in the main parking lot. Cars must have necessary identification to qualify for these special arrangements.
The parking lot accommodates 850 vehicles and is accessible from 10th Street and 6th Street (Boulevard of the Arts) from US 41 (North Tamiami Trail).
In addition to the main parking lot, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has an overflow parking lot situated directly south of the Entrance located at the G-Wiz Science Center on Boulevard Of The Arts, directly across from the Hyatt Regency Hotel which can accommodate up to an additional 200 vehicles.
A short, scenic walk to the Hall provides easy access for those who may be arriving from Downtown and surrounding southern areas.
Please note: Regulations for designated parking areas are posted throughout the parking lot. Violators will be ticketed.
Valet parking is available for a fee. For the most current information about parking at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, visit vanwezel.org.
Patrons in wheelchairs may enter through automatic doors in both Main and Bayside lobbies on ground level (no stairs). Accessible parking is available on the circle in front of the building and in the main parking lot. Cars must have necessary identification to qualify for these special arrangements. Patrons with mobility issues can be accommodated in restrooms off both lobbies.
There is a wheelchair on the premises for emergency use. However, staff are not allowed to provide physical support if a patron requires mobility assistance. It is recommended a personal care attendant accompany the patron to the performance. Please contact the Patron Services Manager if you have any questions or concerns before your visit.
Please contact the Box Office directly at 941-953-3434 or email us for wheelchair seating and/or any special needs or requests. Wheelchair seating is not available for purchase online.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is the first theater in Sarasota to install the revolutionary Hearing Loop System for those who suffer from hearing loss, thanks to financial support from Sertoma Sarasota. The hearing loop is the only system that transmits performers' voices from a microphone directly into a hearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with telecoils, allowing wearers to use hearing aids as wireless loudspeakers. This system complements the existing Sennheiser Infrared Listening System. Wireless headsets can be used at any seat in the auditorium and are available in both the Main and Bayside Lobbies.