| Date | Event Name |
|---|---|
| Sat Nov 28, 2009 at 8:00PM | Dave Koz & Friends: A Smooth Jazz Christmas |
| Sun Nov 29, 2009 at 7:00PM | Lerner and Loewe's Camelot: National Tour |
| Mon Nov 30, 2009 at 8:00PM | Irving Berlin's I Love A Piano |
| Wed Dec 2, 2009 at 8:00PM | The Smothers Brothers |
| Fri Dec 4, 2009 at 7:30PM | Lisa Williams: Messages From Beyond |
| About: | The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center opened in the year 1970 with the popular production "Fiddler on the Roof", and since then there has been no looking back. The center, located at the magnificent bay front of Sarasota, presents the best of concerts, theater, dance shows and comic performances. The Van Wezel Center provides guided tours for those interested in taking a sneak peek into the fascinating world of backstage activities. It also does its bit for the community by conducting several educational programs for school children. |
| Categories: | Tourist Attractions, Government, All Theaters |
| Other Contact Info: | Fax: 941 951 1449 Toll Free: (800) 826-9303 |
I am sad to say that this performance of RENT (4/18/2008) was the worst piece of theater that I have seen in some time, maybe ever. For a fee of $120 I could not hear a word of dialogue nor could I understand more than 10% of the lyrics. The music was so loud that it by itself was a distraction. At least 300 to 400 people left during the break and never came back.
The acting overall was fair at best. Some of the singing pieces were OK (when the music was held to a dull roar).
I have seen several shows at the Van Wezel this season (Gypsy, Putnam County Spelling Bee and the show with Fabian, Bobby Rydell and Frankie Avalon. Each of these shows were very well done and very entertaining.
It was truely a shame!
Billy Joel's "Movin' Out": This is a hidden gem for those of us under, like, 65 here in Sarasota. Take a look at the schedule online, pick a show, go see it. You will not be disapointed. I can't say enough about the staff, the facilities or the price. Loved it!!