Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
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Wonderful venue for concerts, plays, lectures, and performances of all types. The sight lines and sound are perfect and the seats are spacious and comfortable. The structure's geometric design and violet hue juxtaposed against tall majestic palm trees, the bay, and city skyline make for a grand and dramatic entrance. Parking here is a dream with a spacious lot that is free and never takes long to empty. Current Covid rules require masks and vaccination cards which were easily complied with and appreciated.
Outside for Friday Fest 7/15/22. Free Music is good. 5PM-9PM Bring your own chairs. Supposed to be Food Trucks, literally 1 BBQ, 1 Vegan. The other 3 we're smoothies and drink type trucks. Down by the music were 2 Beer Trucks. In our area, We can do So Much Better. We have tons of Food Trucks people. Thanks ABC7 And Mr Bob Harrigan likes to Dance.
There is not a bad seat in the house and the acoustics are great. The staff is always friendly and helpful. The facility is located right next to Sarasota Bay, so you can enjoy a great view when you are outside either before or after the event. Parking is free, so unlike some venues you won't have a sizable parking fee in addition to your ticket price.
Four of us attended The Price is Right. It was so disorganized, you would think it was their first event. The staff had us stand in several lines to find out we were in the wrong lines. All we did from the time we registered, was walk & walk. Up the ramp, down the ramp then finally back down the ramp (side parking lot) toward the water & around the back of the bldg. It was exhausting. It was hot during the show & our water bottles weren't allowed inside. It was bad enough we had to wear face masks the entire time. Very uncomfortable. We paid extra for VIP seating yet I think 1 person was picked from the first 10 rows. Everyone else was from up back or way up back. VIP allowed you to Spin the Wheel after the show, yet you didn't get anything for it. My sister won $1.00 & they didn't give it to her. It was fun & exciting to be there but I felt we should've received more than just being there. To me it was a joke, managed poorly & the details kept on changing from one staff member to another. To me, it was a disappointment.
Pros: The people who serve as volunteers during events are very helpful. The sound is great!! It's a great location for a graduation ceremony. Cons: The place is outdated and seats are uncomfortable. There is a definite need to create a way to not have to climb over a whole row of people to get out to use the restroom. More walking area inside the hall is needed. I would not want to be in there if there is an emergency 😕.