Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
We invite you to experience the magic of the holiday season with the world?s best-selling soprano, Sarah Brightman, as she brings her critically acclaimed "A Christmas Symphony" tour to Sarasota. Scheduled for December 12 through December 15, 2025, this engagement at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall promises an evening of breathtaking vocals and festive grandeur. As experts in premium live entertainment, we recognize this event not merely as a concert, but as an orchestral masterpiece featuring a choir and orchestra, distinguishing it from standard pop performances.
While the setlist for the 2025 tour will be finalized closer to the date, we anticipate a repertoire that seamlessly blends her signature classical crossover hits with holiday favorites. Attendees should prepare for emotional renditions of "Time to Say Goodbye" and "The Phantom of the Opera," interwoven with seasonal classics such as "Silent Night," "Ave Maria," and "Pie Jesu." Unlike traditional rock concerts, there is typically no opening act; instead, the performance is an immersive two-act show, often accompanied by special guest performers or a tenor, adding to the theatrical depth of the evening.
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is renowned for its Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation-inspired architecture and superior acoustics, making it an ideal venue for a vocalist of Brightman's caliber. We strongly recommend securing seats in the Orchestra sections for the most immersive audio experience, though the Grand Foyer and mezzanine levels offer excellent sightlines due to the hall's intimate design. Ticket prices for this high-demand event fluctuate based on market demand and seating location; we estimate a range starting from approximately $95 rising significantly for premium front-row packages. We advise monitoring our inventory closely as availability for this holiday tradition changes rapidly.
Expert Venue Tips: The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located directly on Sarasota Bay. We suggest arriving at least 45 minutes prior to curtain, as traffic along North Tamiami Trail (US 41) can be heavy during peak season. Pre-paid parking is highly recommended to expedite your arrival. For a complete evening, consider dining in the nearby Rosemary District before making the short drive to the venue. Secure your tickets now through our platform to guarantee your place at this spectacular holiday event.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the specific tour name for this event? Sarah Brightman is expected to perform her "A Christmas Symphony" show, a holiday-themed orchestral performance that has become an annual tradition, featuring both classical hits and festive songs.
- How can we secure tickets for this high-demand concert? We provide a secure marketplace for purchasing tickets. We strongly recommend booking through our platform, ticketssarasota.org, to ensure verified entry. Please note that inventory is dynamic and prices are subject to change.
- Is there an opening act? Sarah Brightman typically does not utilize a traditional opening act. The performance usually features a full orchestra and choir from the start, occasionally joined by special guest vocalists or a duet partner during the main set.
- What is the dress code for the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall? While there is no strict dress code, Sarah Brightman concerts are elegant affairs. We suggest business casual or cocktail attire to match the sophistication of the performance and the venue atmosphere.
- What time should we arrive? Doors generally open 60 minutes prior to the performance. We recommend being in your seat 15 minutes before the scheduled start time, as late seating may be restricted during the first song or movement.
- Are professional cameras allowed? No. The venue and tour management strictly prohibit professional photography and video recording equipment to preserve the experience for all guests and the artists. Mobile phones are usually permitted but should be silenced.
- How do ticket prices work for this event? As a specialized ticket broker, our prices reflect the secondary market value. While prices may be higher or lower than face value depending on demand, we ensure access to premium seating that may otherwise be unavailable.
- Is the venue accessible? Yes, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is fully accessible. However, we recommend reviewing specific seating charts on our site to select designated accessible areas if required.
Sarah Brightman Unable to Continue Performances Due to COVID-19
Sarah Brightman announced via social media that she has contracted COVID-19 and will be unable to perform as Norma Desmond in the production of Sunset Boulevard in Taipei. The show was scheduled to run until 10 August as part of its Asian tour. Brightman expressed her heartbreak over the situation, noting her disappointment in not being able to finish the performances, which she enjoyed immensely. She thanked the Taipei audiences for their warmth and support, expressing hope to return in the future.
In her absence, Samantha Morley will take over the role of Norma Desmond. The production, based on the classic film by Paramount Pictures, features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and tells the poignant story of a faded movie star's desperate desire to reclaim her past glory. The show's captivating sets and costumes reflect the opulence of Hollywood's Golden Age, enhancing its powerful narrative of ambition and lost dreams.


