Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Built in 1968 with funds from a city bond referendum and a bequest from philanthropists Lewis and Eugenia Van Wezel, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall opened its doors in 1970. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation (in association with Taliesan Associated Architects) design actually came from two seashells from the Sea of Japan which are permanently on display in the Hall. The lavender and purple color scheme, selected by Frank Lloyd Wright's widow, Olgivanna Lloyd Wright, has helped make the iconic structure memorable and in fact is featured in the Macy's Sarasota Snow Globe. Though currently still in use, planned obsolescence of building as part of The Bay's master plan for the new bay front park create a clear danger of demolition.
Why is National Historic Designation of this iconic structure important?
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Learn why The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall was selected as one of Florida's 50 Flagship Structures.