Welcome to Wonderland Big Top in Sarasota, the climate-controlled CAC tent located in the East District of University Town Center (UTC). With a seating capacity of about 1,300, this modern performance space hosts Wonderland productions like Illuminate 2024–2025 and Believe 2025–2026 under the production team of Nik Wallenda and CAC. Known today as the Big Top in the East District at UTC, the venue offers ringside and mezzanine seating across three pricing tiers in each section. This page provides practical details to help you secure your seats with ease, from parking and transit to nearby hotels and dining options. We’ve got you covered with insider information to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Venue address: 195 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243. Free parking is available at UTC, with VIP parking near the entrance for quicker access. Public transit via SCAT Breeze routes is convenient, with the closest UTC stops on Downtown/SRQ/UTC Mall routes (Route 02 and related stops). Nearby hotels include Courtyard Sarasota at UTC, Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch, and Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch, all convenient for pre- or post-show stays. For dining, you’ll find a range of options at UTC and nearby area eateries that suit every taste and budget. We’ve highlighted affiliate partners for easy booking and trusted recommendations to help you plan your visit without hassle.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Venue type: climate-controlled Big Top tent located in the East District of UTC, Sarasota.
Address: 195 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243 (Big Top in the East District at UTC).
Capacity: about 1,300 seats (CAC tent).
Seating: Ringside and Mezzanine sections with three pricing tiers in each.
Parking: Free parking at University Town Center; VIP parking near the entrance.
Transit: Nearby public transit via SCAT Breeze routes; closest UTC stops include Downtown/SRQ/UTC Mall routes (use Route 02 and related stops).
Nearby hotels: Courtyard Sarasota at UTC; Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch; Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch.
Notable events: Wonderland productions (Illuminate 2024–2025; Believe 2025–2026) under Nik Wallenda and CAC; hosted under the Big Top at UTC.
Renamed/demolished: The venue is currently marketed as Big Top in the East District at UTC; a newer CAC tent replaced the older Ulla Searing Big Top, with no demolition of the UTC site.