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Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Gala Raises Nearly $1.4 Million for Arts Education
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s 24th Annual Gala, held March 6, raised nearly $1.4 million in support of the Foundation’s education and community engagement programs, which reach more than 40,000 students, educators, and families each year.
Performing Arts Center Renderings Unveiled
We’re pleased to share the latest renderings for Concept 2.0 for the Sarasota Performing Arts Center project. The updated concept presents a refined, financially sustainable, and unified design shaped by community and City Commission feedback while preserving the project’s original vision.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Announces 2026 Appleton Award Recipients
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Appleton Awards, recognizing educators in the Gulf Coast region who integrate the arts into their classrooms to deepen learning and strengthen community. The winners will be recognized at the Foundation’s Annual Gala on March 6, 2026.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Recognizes Jim and Susan Travers with Patron of the Arts Award
The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation has named Jim and Susan Travers as the recipients of the 2026 Patron of the Arts Award, honoring their extraordinary leadership, generosity, and enduring commitment to expanding access to the arts across the Sarasota community. The award will be presented on Friday, March 6, during the Foundation’s annual gala at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Names John Shumaker Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation has named John Shumaker chief financial officer and chief operating officer as the organization advances plans for a world-class Performing Arts Center and continues its mission to expand access, education, and impact through the arts.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Seeks Nominations for Appleton Awards
Nominations now open for Appleton Awards!
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Welcomes Multidisciplinary Artist Paige Hernandez as Artist in Residence
Foundation offers FREE public performances with Fall Artist in Residence, Paige Hernandez
Idina Menzel Brings Her Iconic Voice to Sarasota’s Van Wezel
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation are thrilled to welcome Idina Menzel to Sarasota on Friday, March 6 at 8:30 p.m. Menzel is a Tony Award-winning, powerhouse multi-hyphenate: a singer, an actress in film and TV, a songwriter, a Broadway star, and a philanthropist. She will bring her talents to the Van Wezel stage as part of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation Gala.