Interview: Van Wezel Performing Arts Executive Director Mary Bensel
by Shanti M. Kennedy - Jan 10, 2025
Van Wezel, the beloved cultural institution in Sarasota, opened last week with a bang and has been delighting audiences ever since! With a jam-packed schedule, they are forging ahead gloriously. We recently had the opportunity to chat with their dedicated Executive Director, Mary Bensel, to learn about the incredible journey they underwent to achieve their ambitious goals, following the immense challenges faced after Hurricane Milton.
Interview: Mary Bensel of THE VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL
by Shanti M. Kennedy - Nov 5, 2024
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, affectionately known as The Jewel of Sarasota, exudes an air of sophistication and class that only a waterfront location can provide. Picture yourself sipping on a glass of wine, soaking in the scenic views, all while eagerly anticipating the next act of a Broadway show that has stolen your heart.
Van Wezel Welcomes New General Manager
by Stephi Wild - Sep 14, 2022
Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, has announced Stu Klein as the new General Manager of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
New Shows Announced at The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
by Stephi Wild - Jul 11, 2022
Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, has announced ten additional shows for the upcoming season. Tickets for these shows go on sale Friday, July 15 at 10 a.m. The remainder of the 2022-2023 season will be announced at a later date.
Van Wezel Announces 2022-2023 Subscription Series
by Stephi Wild - Mar 27, 2022
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to announce the 2022-2023 Season Subscription Series, featuring a spectacular array of Broadway productions, Dance performances and Subscriber Specials.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Introduces New Marketing Team Members
by Stephi Wild - Sep 1, 2021
Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, has introduced three new members of the marketing team: Amy Tuten (Assistant Marketing Director), Ellen Dyer (Group Sales Coordinator) and Lisa Tourtchenko (Digital Media and Public Relations Associate).
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Announces 2021-2022 Season
by Stephi Wild - Aug 30, 2021
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall welcomes audiences back to the theatre for an exciting 2021-2022 season! Many fan-favorite shows have been rescheduled from the previous two seasons, and electrifying new performances have been added to the lineup.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Announces 2021-2022 Subscription Series
by Stephi Wild - May 17, 2021
The Broadway Series includes Escape to Margaritaville (October 29), Come From Away (November 23-28), Beautiful - The Carole King Musical (January 18-19), Jersey Boys (January 25-26), An American in Paris (February 2-3), Anastasia (March 18-20), An Officer and a Gentleman (April 6-7), South Pacific (April 14-15) and Fiddler on the Roof (April 19-21).
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Reflects On 2020
by A.A. Cristi - Mar 20, 2021
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall reflects on one year of operations during a pandemic by taking stock of what the Hall has done to stay connected to the community over the past year.
Van Wezel's 2020/2021 Broadway, Classical and Dance Season Postponed
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 6, 2020
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has provided an update to patrons on the status of the 2020-2021 subscription season shows. The upcoming season's Broadway, Classical and Dance shows are moving to a future season, with many Subscriber Specials moving as well.
Additional Single Tickets On Sale This Week At Van Wezel
by Stephi Wild - Sep 21, 2020
Hollywood Walk of Fame superstar Paul Anka returns to the Van Wezel in 2021, and single tickets for The Simon and Garfunkel Story become available this week! Single tickets for both shows go on sale to the public on Friday, September 25 at 10 a.m.