The arts community in Sarasota has been resilient during one of its greatest challenges in history. Innovation has allowed arts organizations to stay connected with audiences when their traditional format was not possible, through Virtual Happy Hour performances, digital trivia, #ArtworksAnywhere virtual education opportunities, outdoor squares on the lawn … you name it, and these organizations made it happen.

However, there’s no replacement for the magic of live entertainment.

It’s the moment when the lights dim; the pre-show announcement asking you to silence your cellphone; the brief, silent rush of anticipation, followed by the first soaring melody of your favorite Broadway show.

It’s the joy of an evening spent fully immersed in the moment.

The Van Wezel is BACK for a full 2021–2022 season, and it is time to make new memories. Many fan-favorite shows have been rescheduled from the preceding two seasons, and electrifying performances have been added to the lineup.

For Broadway enthusiasts in the community, Come From Away (November 23–28) arrives at the perfect time to instill hope when you need it most. The breathtaking, family-friendly production of Anastasia (March 18–20) will at last make a Sarasota debut with its stunning costumes and set designs. For those who love the music of Gershwin, An American in Paris will also make its Sarasota debut this season (February 2–3), as it takes you to postwar Paris for an evening of music, love, and dance.

Readers might agree that last year’s holiday season was not quite as jolly as we wanted it to be. The Van Wezel will once again be filled with the sounds of the holidays during shows such as Martina McBride: The Joy of Christmas 2021 (December 4) and Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony (December 14). You won’t want to miss a special New Year’s Eve performance by American rock band Jefferson Starship (December 31), or the perfect Valentine’s Day outing: an evening of music with The Four Phantoms (February 14).

If you’re in need of a good belly laugh, you’ll want to check out the Hall’s comedy lineup. Jay Leno returns this season (January 15), and America’s Got Talent winner Terry Fator will make his Sarasota debut at the Hall (April 10).

The safety of audiences, artists, and staff remains a priority as the Hall fully reopens. The #SafeArtsSarasota initiative has recently revised its protocols, effective September 26. For any questions regarding the protocols in place, please visit vanwezel.org. Protocols will be reviewed regularly as the circumstances of the pandemic evolve.

Single tickets are on sale now at vanwezel.org. Tickets can also be purchased in person or by calling the box office at (941) 263-6799. Box office hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.