Asolo Repertory Theatre

Asolo Repertory Theatre, located at 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243, offers a unique and culturally rich setting for meetings, conferences, and events. The theatre is housed in the Florida State University Center for the Performing Arts, which includes two main performance spaces: the Mertz Theatre and the Cook Theatre.

Meeting and Event Facilities

• Mertz Theatre

• Capacity: 530 seats
• Description: The Mertz Theatre is the main performance space for Asolo Repertory Theatre. Originally built in 1903 as an opera house in Dunfermline, Scotland, it has been beautifully restored and modernized. The theatre features comfortable seating, improved sightline clarity, and increased ADA seating at various price points.
• Services:
• Hearing Loop System: Assists patrons with hearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with telecoils (T-Coil).
• Complimentary Hearing Amplification Headsets: Available for patrons without T-Coil systems.
• Wheelchair Seating: Available in all theatres and must be requested in advance.

• Cook Theatre

• Capacity: 161 seats
• Description: The Cook Theatre is an intimate and contemporary space that occasionally hosts performances by Asolo Rep and the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training.
• Services:
• Assistive Listening Devices: Available in the lobby for patrons with hearing impairments.

Function Rooms and Services

While Asolo Repertory Theatre primarily focuses on theatrical performances, it also offers various amenities that can be utilized for meetings and events:

• Lobby Bar

• Capacity: Varies depending on the event setup
• Description: The lobby bar offers refreshments such as drinks and light snacks available for purchase with card or Apple Pay. This area can be used for pre-event gatherings or receptions.

• Theatre Lobby

• Capacity: Varies depending on the event setup
• Description: The theatre lobby is a spacious area that can be used for registration, networking, or pre-show activities. It features assistive listening devices and complimentary hearing amplification headsets for patrons with hearing impairments.

• Outdoor Spaces

• Capacity: Varies depending on the event setup (e.g., 250 seats for outdoor stage)
• Description: Asolo Rep occasionally hosts events in outdoor spaces, which can be used for smaller gatherings or receptions. These areas often include blanket seating in the grassy areas near the parking lot, where patrons must bring their own blankets[5].

Accessibility and Amenities

• Parking: Free parking is available in front of the theatre, with accessible parking on the front and east sides. Ramp access to the lobby ensures easy entry for patrons with disabilities.

• Refreshments: Drinks and light snacks are available for purchase in the lobby bar, but no food is allowed inside the seating area.

• Assistive Services: The theatre offers a hearing loop system, complimentary hearing amplification headsets, and assistive listening devices to ensure inclusivity for all patrons.

Asolo Repertory Theatre provides a unique blend of cultural richness and modern amenities, making it an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, and events that require a sophisticated and accessible environment.