Marketing Broadway in Sarasota: Muffy Lavens on the Van Wezel’s New Season

Discover the dynamic world of Sarasota’s arts scene in this inspiring episode featuring Muffy Lavens, Public Relations Director at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. From insider details on upcoming Broadway hits like MJ and The Book of Mormon, to stories of how live theater impacts local students, Muffy shares what makes the Van Wezel a cultural cornerstone. Plus, hear about her unexpected journey from competitive ice skating to roller derby and arts marketing. Whether you're a theater lover, arts supporter, or just curious about Sarasota’s creative pulse, this episode offers a fun, behind-the-scenes look you won’t want to miss.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Muffy Lavens, Public Relations Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 

(01:20) Van Wezel history and mission

(04:00) Van Wezel’s unique seating

(06:50) Overcoming the hurricane in 2024

(09:30) Future of the Van Wezel

(11:20) Muffy’s work history and living in Sarasota

(13:45) Satchel’s Last Resort

(15:05) Van Wezel’s new website

(17:20) What Muffy does for fun on our Cultural Coast

(19:30) Van Wezel 2025-2026 Season

(22:30) Student education at Van Wezel

(24:30) Technical Theatre Camp

For more information and to listen to all the episodes, go to sarasotapodcast.com