Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall - Sarasota, Florida, USA.
N 27° 20.569 W 082° 32.990
17R E 346691 N 3025358
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Opened in 1969 The architectural design was by William Wesley Peters, of Taliesin Architects, who used two seashells as an inspiration for the design. Located alongside the Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida.
Waymark Code: WMMYGA
Location: Florida, United States
Date Posted: 11/24/2014
Views: 2
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall seats nearly 1800 people in its massive theater hall.
The 1968-69 construction based on two sea shells was partly funded by a bequest from local residents Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel.
The purple and lavender color scheme was suggested by Frank Lloyd Wright's widow, Olgivanna Lloyd Wright.
Located alongside the Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Florida.
The 'Applause' an imposing abstract sculpture stands over 30 feet tall, in pride of place at the entrance to the impressive Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
The three columns represent Drama, Music, & Dance, rising like giant arms, with cupped hands, raised to the sky in applause, but only if you have a vivid imagination.
From the Van Wezel web site:
"An architectural landmark and a cultural treasure, the Van Wezel for more than 37 years has brought to Sarasota and all of Southwest Florida a world of great arts. Built in 1968 and 1969 with monies from a city of Sarasota bond referendum and a bequest from local philanthropists Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel, the Hall is a true pioneer in the cultural development of Florida." Text Source: (
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William Wesely Peters.
"Renowned for his innovative organic structures, Van Wezel architect William Wesley Peters holds a vital place in the history of 20th Century American architecture.
A chief architect at Taliesin Associated Architects of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Peters collaborated with Wright for more than a quarter century on projects including Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum.
While Wright’s widow, Olgivanna, selected the Van Wezel’s trademark lavender and purple color scheme, Peters envisioned the structure’s seashell form as it related to its function and waterfront locale." source: (
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