Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage

Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

2023: June 20, July 17, August 21, September 18, October 16, November 13, December 11, February 12, March 11, April 15, and May 20 in 2024
2024: January 22, February 12, March 11, April 15, May 20
1:30-3:00 p.m.

The paintings and sculptures within the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall were created by noted Florida artists and are on loan from Arts Advocates. In this two-part tour, a docent will guide you through the paintings and sculptures including those by Robert Chase, William Hartman, Eugene White, Ben Stahl, Julio de Diego, Thornton Utz, Frank Colson, Dean Mitchell, and more. Then you will step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide will give you a peek behind the curtain to learn about the many hands that create the Van Wezel’s shows. You will see the ropes and pulleys that “fly” the scenery on and off the stage, the movable orchestra pit, dressing room, and loading dock where traveling shows back up their 18-wheelers to move their shows onto the stage. All the while you’ll be dazzled by stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business!

Tours cost $15 per person and begin in the main lobby and. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Van Wezel box office Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. or by calling (941) 263-6799. Private group tours can be arranged by calling (941) 955-7676. Proceeds benefit Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel’s education/outreach programs.