SARASOTA, Fla. — As much as 4 feet of storm surge rushed into parts of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall when Hurricane Milton came through. Because of this "significant water intrusion," all shows at the Van Wezel will be canceled through the end of 2024, officials said.
According to the performing arts center, the orchestra pit, kitchen, dressing rooms and production offices were all impacted by floodwaters from Hurricane Milton. Also, the roof was damaged and is being patched. Additionally, surrounding areas including the docks and sidewalks were also impacted by the hurricane.
The Van Wezel anticipates reopening on Jan. 1, 2025.
“I’m heartbroken to see the damage sustained to our beautiful Van Wezel,” Mary Bensel, Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall said in a statement. “We had such a wonderful season planned and we were so excited to welcome everyone to these fabulous productions. We are already working to remove the water and repair the building. We will come back stronger, and we look forward to the day we can welcome you back to the Hall.”
What to do if you bought a ticket to a canceled show at the Van Wezel
If you have a ticket to the Van Wezel for any performance through Dec. 2024 that was canceled, officials say you will be refunded to the original point of purchase. "Please be patient as our Box Office processes the returns," the Van Wezel said.
People can start buying tickets for the remaining performances set for 2025.
If you happen to see cars or activity in the Van Wezel's parking lot, officials say it is being used as an emergency staging area for restoration crews in Sarasota.