Sarasota Performing Arts Center | Van Wezel Foundation

Sarasota Performing arts center (spac)

After six years of planning and collaboration with our civic and public partners, the city of Sarasota approved a master plan initiative to restore and revitalize 53-acres along the bayfront. Throughout this process, there was one vision that remained steadfast — the need to build a new state-of-the-art performing arts center.

Sarasota’s new performing arts center will be a place for ideas, a place for the arts, a place for you.

In collaboration with the City of Sarasota, the Van Wezel Foundation is looking to raise our sights to ensure Sarasota is the preeminent destination for the performing arts in the nation. Click here to see our latest updates.

our guiding priorities

Build a world-class performing arts center

A large 2, 250-seat main stage to become more competitive and attract larger touring productions.
Grand lobby and multiple event spaces, including a 400-seat flexible performance venue.
A multi-venue facility taking advantage of the bay views, outdoor space and other amenities.
A facility that will stand as an iconic structure on the bay for generations to come.

Enhance the patron experience

Contemporary, state-of-the-art systems to connect in the 21^st
Improved acoustics and performance technology, allowing for more sophisticated productions.
Center-aisle seating with greater ADA seating options.
Expanded food & beverage options.
12-month programming including public events and alternating exhibits.

Invest in mission-based programming

A robust education center, expanding programs with a focus on Sarasota youth and lifelong learning.
Growing a regional impact to serve more children and families.
Extending professional development and teacher training deeper into the community.
Developing unique learning opportunities designed for students with special needs.
Increasing partnerships with social service organizations to benefit at-risk youth.
Increasing programs and services to include the summer months when students need enriching learning experiences most.

A Place for Ideas

Expand educational programming to serve more students, teachers and families, and cultivate lifelong learning opportunities.

A Place for the Arts

Design a state-of-the-art performance center to recognize Sarasota as a first-choice destination for the most celebrated and acclaimed performers, artists, dancers and musicians.

A Place for You

Enhance the patron experience through contemporary facilities, advanced technology and universal accessibility to support a broad variety of performances and outdoor programming experiences.

Join the Conversation

We invite you to attend events for updates on the status of the performing arts center and to let your voice be heard. Use #SarasotaPAC to share, tag and comment.