Curtain Call Conversations: A Van Wezel Podcast

In this episode of Curtain Call Conversations, Justin Gomlak, Director of Education, sits down with Azara Ballet company artists and teachers Baylie Dockins and Drew Travis Robinson to talk about their love of dance, the pressures and unrealistic standards of the professional dance world, and the importance of creating a more inclusive and supportive future for dancers.Founded by neurodivergent artists, Sarasota-based Azara Ballet is reimagining what ballet can be when artistic excellence and human wellbeing go hand in hand. Justin, Baylie, and Drew also discuss Azara Ballet’s partnership with the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the new All Abilities Dance Workshops, offering people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to experience the joy, connection, and community of dance.Learn More & Attend an All Abilities Dance Workshop here:https://www.vanwezel.org/all-abilities-dance-workshops

What does an airport and a performing arts hall have in common? A lot more than you might think!

Whether it's in a busy terminal before boarding a flight or a crowded lobby before opening night, both places are rethinking how to make your experience more memorable and enjoyable.

Dania Harvey, PR Director of the Van Wezel, sits down with Paul Hoback Jr., President and CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in the star dressing room to talk about his love of the arts, how he landed his new position, his future plans for SRQ, and what's on his travel playlist!

In an all-new episode of Curtain Call Conversations, Director of Education and Community Engagement Justin Gomlak sits down with Kennedy and Avery Cole, two student ushers at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.Kennedy and Avery share stories from their summer travels to London, talk about their favorite musicals, and give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it's really like to be a student usher. They also discuss how the program is helping them develop leadership skills and make an impact in their community.The episode wraps up with a lively round of "Heated or Seated," where Kennedy, Avery, and Justin weigh in on theater etiquette—from crinkly candy wrappers to phone use and everything in between.Interested in becoming a Student Usher this season? Apply today at: https://www.vanwezel.org/teen-initiatives.

In this very festive episode of Curtain Call Conversations graphic designer Thom Gravelle and general manager Kyle Turoff sit down and chat all things Christmas in July at the Van Wezel. Learn what a day in the life of a performing arts hall is like for two of the *busiest* people in showbiz!

From favorite holiday traditions, gift guides, and even playing a few "reindeer games", Thom and Kyle will get you in the spirit of Christmas.

For a list of all the holiday shows coming to the Van Wezel visit: https://www.vanwezel.org/events/christmas-in-july

Get ready for plenty of laughs in the latest Van Wezel podcast episode as Kyle, Mary, Nate and Griff dive into all things comedy! From favorite comedians and unforgettable moments on the Van Wezel stage to what makes live comedy such a one-of-a-kind experience, this episode is packed with fun stories and fast-paced laughs.

Plus, hear the team tease upcoming comedian Jay Leno coming to the Van Wezel in January 2027, take on a hilarious “Fast Five” segment, and share what makes Van Wezel comedy crowds so special. Stay tuned for our next episode focused on Christmas in July, along with more exciting show announcements coming soon!

🎭 In this engaging new podcast episode, elementary teacher Kim Hall shares the powerful impact theater education can have on young students. From sparking creativity to building lifelong appreciation for the arts, discover how live performances help shape the next generation. 🌟

Listen now and tag a teacher or arts advocate who needs to hear this!

Back again this season, we’re revisiting a fan-favorite episode! Muffy sits down with Clover and Dani, two students who share their experience from last summer’s Van Wezel Education & Community Engagement Department’s Technical Theatre Camp. From hands-on activities to behind-the-scenes insights, it’s a great look at what makes this camp so special—and a perfect preview of what’s ahead.

Beginner Camp: June 8–12, 2026 | 9AM–3PM | Ages 12–18

Advanced Camp: June 15–19, 2026 | 9AM–3PM | Ages 14–18

For more offerings from the Education & Community Engagement Department, visit https://www.vanwezel.org/education-community

Learn how children's theater engages creativity and learning. Discover insights from Caroline Saldivar on the importance of theater for kids and how it shapes their imaginations.

This episode of Curtain Call Conversations should come with a warning label.

For April Fool's Day, Griffyn and Nate from the Van Wezel technical department dream up an entire fake Van Wezel season -- and present it with just enough confidence to make you question everything you thought you knew.

• A month-run long run of The Sound of Music?
• Twins: The Musical?
• A trailer just for roller skates?

Reader, listener, viewer...none of this is real. This episode is a fully fictional, fully unserious celebration of April Fool's Day and the creativity of our tech team. Please enjoy responsibly, and do not call the Box Office asking for tickets.

However, if you'd like to buy tickets to the shows that are actually coming to the Hall, you can find those at VanWezel.org

A Season Fit for a Queen – Broadway at the Van Wezel

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to announce its upcoming Broadway season, featuring the hit musical Six the Musical along with many other Broadway favorites. In this episode of Curtain Call Conversations, hosts Justin and Kyle provide an in-depth look at the full season lineup, share details on how to subscribe, and discuss what audiences can look forward to this year.