Media Kit
About Sarasota Performing Arts Center Foundation (Formerly Van Wezel Foundation)
The Foundation’s philanthropic purpose has deep roots in the rich cultural history of Sarasota. In 1987, we entered a cultural partnership with the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall through its owner, the City of Sarasota. The Hall has served as a beloved performing arts center for over half a century – a home to international creative experiences and a springboard for the Foundation’s educational collaborations.
About The Sarasota performing arts center
The Foundation is leading our community into a new era, creating and developing the vision for a contemporary performing arts model of national significance for Sarasota. The venue will be a magnet destination for generations, with the potential to advance education and enrich communities across the state and country.
About Jim Travers, Interim CEO
For more information, contact:
[email protected]Download the Strategic Plan:
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Fact-based responses to your questions about the Sarasota Performing Arts Center
In the Media
Press Release | Jan 19, 2023
SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC EVENTS FOR ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE ADRIAN ANANTAWAN
On Saturday, January 28th, and Sunday, January 29th, the Sarasota Performing Arts Center Foundation will host two free, public performances for its newest artist-in-residence, Adrian Anantawan.
Press Release | Jan 9, 2023
SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER FOUNDATION BOARD ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION
Sarasota Performing Arts Center Foundation (also known as Van Wezel Foundation) announced that Chief Executive Officer, Cheryl Mendelson will step down from her position in March to relocate to Palm Beach County due to family reasons.
Global Construction Review | Jan 3, 2023
18 STARCHITECTS TO COMPETE FOR “ONCE IN A GENERATION” FLORIDA ARTS CENTRE
An 18-strong shortlist has been announced for the design of the Sarasota Performing Arts Centre in Florida.
10 Tampa Bay WTSP | Dec 23, 2022
Task force to soon pick architect for new Sarasota performing arts center
A firm called the Paratus Group is helping the task force figure out how to come up with the right people for the job
Tampa Bay Business & Wealth | Dec 22, 2022
18 architecture firms selected to submit RFP for new Sarasota Performing Arts Center
More than 40 architectural firms, from around the world, have submitted their qualifications applications to design a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center.
News & Updates
Sarasota Herald-Tribune | Sept 19, 2022
$1.7-Million Record Breaking Gala
The Van Wezel Foundation held its 20th annual Inspiration Gala in January, raising more than $1.7 million. This level of funding makes the 20th annual Inspiration Gala the most successful fundraising event in the Foundation’s history.
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