Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Announces 2017-18 Season

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is delighted to unveil its 2017-18 season! Our "Sensational New Season" is overflowing with award-winning Broadway shows, classical performances, dancing stars, legendary comedians, returning favorites and exciting new performances!

Executive Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Mary Bensel, weighs in on the upcoming season: "Our goal at the Van Wezel is to bring world-class entertainment to Sarasota and this year's line-up is very diverse. We have a star-studded classical schedule which I'm really looking forward to - one of the most acclaimed singers of our time, superstar Renée Fleming, will be returning along with virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell and world-renowned celloist Yo-Yo Ma. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm crazy about Broadway and I'm delighted to bring Motown The Musical to the hall for eight performances this season. The diversity flows throughout the season in so many art forms from magic to comedy to dance and so much more!"

Highlights of this year's variety season include: country royalty Willie Nelson who has brought us some of the most iconic country songs of all time! Master of comedy, particularly the Blue Collar variety, Bill Engvall will be center-stage with his brilliant stand-up. One of the most legendary bands since the dawn of rock and roll, Chicago return! Grammy Award-winning master guitarist, singer and songwriter George Benson returns with his trademark modern Jazz and soulful bluesy singing. Powerhouse artist and Broadway sensation Audra McDonald is back by popular demand. Internationally acclaimed singer and award-winning songwriter LeAnn Rimes makes her Van Wezel debut with her Today is Christmas Tour. Former singer, songwriter and bass player for the rock group Chicago, Peter Cetera, will be joined by his 7-piece electric band, The Bad Daddy's. And two of Broadway's most celebrated legends, Tommy Tune and Chita Rivera, pair together for Chita & Tune - Two for the Road. The iconic coupling is bound to dazzle!

For more information about the upcoming season, visit www.vanwezel.org. Public on-sale is September 9th at 10:00AM tickets can be purchased at the Box Office, online at www.vanwezel.org or by phone 941-953-3368.