SARASOTA — The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is raising the curtain on an unforgettable 2026-2027 season, bringing a lineup of Broadway’s biggest national tours, legendary musicians, acclaimed comedians, dazzling theatrical productions and holiday favorites to Sarasota.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is at 777 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. Tickets for shows go on sale to the public on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. For tickets and information, visit www.vanwezel.org or call 941-263-6799.
“There’s never been a more exciting time to be in Sarasota,” said Mary Bensel, executive director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. “From our rich history and scenic beaches to our thriving arts and cultural scene, the Van Wezel is proud to bring our community, which has recently been named the No. 1 town to visit by CNN Travel, the best in live entertainment.”
From Tony Award-winning musicals and iconic recording artists to family-friendly spectacles and one-of-a-kind live concert experiences, the new season celebrates the power of performance for every generation.
Broadway takes center stage this season. Audiences can experience the Sarasota premieres of “Six,” the international pop phenomenon, running March 16-21; “Hell’s Kitchen,” Alicia Keys’ Grammy and Tony Award-winning musical, running April 13-18; the Tony Award-winning comedy “Shucked,” running Feb. 8-9; the critically acclaimed “Water for Elephants,” running Feb. 12-14; “Mystic Pizza,” running Jan.6-8; and “The Bodyguard,” running Nov. 30-Dec. 2. The Broadway series also features audience favorites “The Wiz,” “Waitress,” “Legally Blonde,” and “Mamma Mia!” Broadway subscription packages remain available for guests interested in purchasing four or more shows.
Music fans can enjoy a season spanning decades and genres, beginning with Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Boz Scaggs, performing on Sunday, Oct. 11. Other highlights include Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, Air Supply, The Temptations, The Commodores, Don McLean, Chris Botti, David Foster & Katharine McPhee, and many more.
Comedy returns in full force with Emmy Award-winning comedian John Mulaney on Thursday, Dec. 10. Upcoming highlights also include Jay Leno and ventriloquist Terry Fator. “Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue” brings its adults-only comedy to the Van Wezel on Oct. 31.
Audiences looking for unique live experiences will find plenty to enjoy throughout the season, from the thrilling spectacle of The Vampire Circus on Oct. 25 to cinematic concert experiences including Ghostbusters in Concert on Oct. 29, “Rocky” in Concert on Nov. 22, and “Outlander” in Concert on Dec. 12. Spectacular productions such as Cirque Kalabanté — World of Words, Cirque Alice, and Burn the Floor presents Maks & Peta Live! add even more excitement to the lineup.
The holiday season shines with festive shows including Cirque Dreams Holidaze on Nov. 21, The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical on Nov. 23, Home for the Holidays on Nov. 27, Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour on Dec. 3, Leslie Odom Jr. on Dec. 14, Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland on Dec. 20, and more.
Additional performances and special events will be announced throughout the season.