Van Wezel Foundation
Cause: Arts & Culture
Mission: Our mission is to create a world-class performing arts center that enriches the community, supports arts education, and inspires young minds.
The Future - The Foundation recently partnered with The Bay to realize the future of the 53-acre Bayfront and supports the creation of a new performing arts center.
Cultural Beacon - An iconic performing arts center along the Bayfront will contribute to our local culture & arts community for generations to come.
Expanded Educational Programs - As a multi-venue, state-of-the-art center, the Sarasota Performing Arts Center will be more competitive, attract larger touring productions, and expand educational programs with a focus on youth and lifelong learners.
Social Connection - Stay on top of recent developments with the Bayfront project by following us on Facebook and Instagram. See the vision at SarasotaPerformingArtsCenter.org.
Enriching the Community Through the Performing Arts
For over 30 years, the Van Wezel Foundation has operated as a partner, but independently, of the city-owned and operated Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall directing over $13 million to the Hall in support of education efforts, community outreach and beautification.
Over 30,000 students from four counties are served annually through the Schooltime Performance Program, an arts-integrated educational program that provides for grade-level curriculum, teacher workshops, and busing for students to see a classroom lesson or book come to life on stage. Additionally, the Foundation provides for Family Literacy Nights and community outreach ticketing available to military, seniors, and families with low incomes.
With your support we can continue to bring the arts to the community. Please consider giving a gift or joining our Annual Giving Society program with exclusive VIP benefits including concierge ticketing, reserved parking and access to the private Founders Lounge.
“It’s not often to be in the right place at the right time. The right place – Sarasota. The right time – Now. We have a unique opportunity with our 50-acre bayfront to enjoy Sarasota’s natural beauty as well as be stimulated with a world-class performing arts center that will educate, inspire, and light a spark for all.” - Michael Saunders, Michael Saunders & Company
777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 366-5578
