SARASOTA, Fla. – The Van Wezel has long been Sarasota’s centerpiece to the arts, attracting some Broadway shows and big names since it opened in 1970. But as the decades have passed, performances and even crowds have outgrown the space.
Last May, the city approved a $36.9 million contract with a world-renowned architecture firm, and their contract includes multiple design concepts. Residents got a first look at what may become the new Sarasota Performing Arts Center, viewing early conceptual designs on Wednesday.
“For this project to be successful, we feel it really has to engage all three of these elements,” said Kerry Joyce with Renzo Piano Building’s workshop team. “It has to engage the city, the water and the park.”…