Mary Bensel News

At the Van Wezel Foundation's 10th annual Gala last evening, the Honorable Congressman, Vern Buchanan presented Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, a congressional proclamation in honor of her service and leadership of the Hall and in support of the educational programs and community engagement activities of the Hall. The gala and the show, which featured Dionne Warwick, were sell outs. Congressman Buchanan stated that the Van Wezel is a driving force in Sarasota's vibrant art scene, which is a major economic driver for the area.

JULIA MAYS, the Marketing and Development Manager of the City of Sarasota's Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, has been named October Employee of the Month.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall announced today that Dame Edna, scheduled to perform on April 12, 2011, cancelled plans for touring for the foreseeable future. We hope to bring her back in another season.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall's 2010-2011 season features some of the most exciting and talented performers in the entertainment world from such greats as Mandy Patinkin, Michael Bolton, Dionne Warwick and Shirley MacLaine to hot favorites like Diana Krall, Clay Aiken and so many more!

Mary Bensel, Executive Director for the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is pleased to announce Robert Warren as the new Director of Education and Community Engagement. 'He has experience, expertise and a high quality of professionalism to add to this position,' said Ms. Bensel. The Education Department is funded in part through generous grants from the Van Wezel Foundation, Project Stage, Woman's Exchange, Florida Winefest & Auction, Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, Publix Supermarket Charities, and Embracing Our Differences among others.

Liza Minnelli's Mar. 17th concert at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has been canceled because of the star's recovery from knee surgery.

Following in the footsteps of Broadway in New York the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall offers 'Kids' Night on Broadway' for the opening night performance of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus' global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA!

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is offering 'Kids' Night on Broadway' for the opening night performance of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus' global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! With the purchase of one adult ticket to the 8 p.m. performance on Tuesday, Feb. 23, the buyer receives one free ticket for a patron ages 6-18.

Following in the footsteps of Broadway in New York the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall offers 'Kids' Night on Broadway' for the opening night performance of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus' global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA!

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is offering 'Kids' Night on Broadway' for the opening night performance of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus' global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! With the purchase of one adult ticket to the 8 p.m. performance on Tuesday, Feb. 23, the buyer receives one free ticket for a patron ages 6-18.

Liza Minnelli's Mar. 17th concert at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has been canceled because of the star's recovery from knee surgery.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall will literally roll out the purple carpet for their 40th Anniversary Audience to enter tomorrow night's celebration at 7:30 PM which includes special guest Mr. Tony Bennett performing Tuesday January 5th, 2010 at 8 PM.

Through team work, strong management and community support, the City of Sarasota's subsidy to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall dropped by 65% during the past fiscal year, which ended recently.

The Van Wezel's 2009-2010 40th Anniversary Season is going to be fierce! It features a lineup of the hottest stars, performers and acts for everyone.

At the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall's Annual Salute to its Volunteer Usher Dinner on May 18th, Lorraine Rusek was celebrated for her 40 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Van Wezel. Twelve other volunteers were also recognized for their many years of service ranging from 10yrs -25 yrs.

One of the greatest family musicals of all time, The Wizard Of Oz, is touching down at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for three performances: Saturday, Apr. 25 (2 p.m. and 8 p.m.) and Sunday, Apr. 26 (2 p.m.). Tickets are $45-$70.

What two things are synonymous with the Wizard of Oz, the yellow brick road and Dorothy's infamous red slippers. Over a dozen students from Ringling School of Art and Design and Florida State University volunteered their time to design and paint a yellow brick road on the promenade at the Van Wezel, adjacent to the parking lot. Once you walk down this magical road you will be transported to the wonderful world of Oz.

One of the greatest family musicals of all time, The Wizard Of Oz, is touching down at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for three performances: Saturday, Apr. 25 (2 p.m. and 8 p.m.) and Sunday, Apr. 26 (2 p.m.). Tickets are $45-$70.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is partnering with Honor Sanctuary, Sarasota, to provide pet food and other necessary supplies for dogs and cats in need of 'finding a home'. Serving Sarasota and Manatee counties, Honor Sanctuary (www.honorsanctuary.org) is a no-kill facility that provides adoptions and foster homes, low cost and free spaying and neutering, and education for all animal owners and the community.