Storm damage forces Van Wezel to cancel rest of 2024 schedule

The orchestra pit, kitchen, dressing rooms and production offices were all flooded.

By Observer Staff
| 4:18 p.m. October 11, 2024

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has canceled its performances through the end of the year.

Sarasota
News

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has canceled its show schedule for the rest of the year because of damage from Hurricane Milton, it was announced Friday.

The hall sustained significant water intrusion with some areas experiencing up to 4 feet of storm surge, according to a news release.

"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," the release said.

The hall anticipates reopening on Jan. 1, 2025.

Ticket holders to shows will be refunded to the original point of purchase. "Please be patient as our Box Office processes the returns," the release said.

“I’m heartbroken to see the damage sustained to our beautiful Van Wezel,” Mary Bensel, the venue's executive director said. “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.

Here are some shows that won't be coming to Sarasota as a result of the Van Wezel closing through the end of the year: "Dear Evan Hansen" (Nov. 1-2), "Wheel of Fortune Live" (Nov. 12), "Tina: The Tina Turmer Musical" (Dec. 13-15) and "Clue" (Dec. 30-31) as well as numerous holiday-themed celebrations like the Vienna New Year's Concert slated for Dec. 29.

It's not only Broadway touring productions that are affected by the Van Wezel's shuttering. Giancarlo Guerrero was scheduled to direct the Sarasota Orchestra in MasterWorks 1 on Nov. 9-10, It would have marked his first appearance since being named music director designate.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe planned to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a concert Nov. 14 at the Van Wezel.

Future updates on shows and productions can be found on the Van Wezel’s website.