20 Best College Theaters

“Majestic” is the only word to describe this grand, old theater. Designed by the renowned John Galen Howard, this Beaux-Arts jewel is a sight to behold. The lobby greets you with elegant marble floors and a majestic staircase leading to the balcony. setting the tone for an experience of timeless elegance.

Built in 1903, the Cutler Majestic Theater is not only one of Boston’s oldest theaters but also a cherished landmark.  It underwent a significant transformation in 2003, thanks to the generosity of Ted Cutler.  The renovations earned it accolades for its architectural restoration. This theater, spanning 198,000 square feet and seating 1,186 guests, hosts over 100 performances annually. It draws crowds of over 100,000, so tickets are often snapped up quickly!

The theater’s interior is a visual feast. It is adorned with intricate wood carvings and bathed in a palette of gold and red. It is reminiscent of its origins as an old opera house and movie theater. Over the years, the stage has welcomed legendary stars. These include:

• Duke Ellington
• Jerry Seinfeld
• Fred Astaire
• Charlie Chaplin
• Liza Minnelli
• Joan Rivers
• Gloria Steinem

Emerson College alumni Jay Leno and Dennis Leary have returned for stand-up comedy shows.

The Cutler Majestic Theater has been a venue for significant historical events. It has hosted speeches by Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Barack Obama. and serving as the site for the 2004 Democratic National Committee Presidential debates. The theater is a dynamic performance space for Emerson College’s student ensembles.  The Emerson College Orchestra, Emerson Stage, and Emerson Dance Company call the theater home.

The Hylton Performing Arts Center is a beacon of artistic excellence for the university. Opened in 2010, this modern performance venue honors the legacy of local philanthropist Cecil D. Hylton.  a business leader whose passion for the arts greatly impacted the community. His vision gave birth to a center serving as a cultural hub in Northern Virginia.

Spanning 85,000 square feet, the Hylton Center was designed by the celebrated Hanbury, Evans, Wright, Vlattas & Company.  It boasts a striking exterior of glass and steel.  The oval-shaped theater merges the warmth of wood with vibrant red accents, creating an inviting atmosphere. The architectural design is not just about aesthetics.  It enhances the acoustics, making every performance a memorable experience. With multiple balconies and elegant wooden arches, the center’s design is as functional as it is beautiful.

At the heart of the Hylton Center is Merchant Hall, a grand performance space with a capacity of 1,111. Additionally, the Gregory Family Theater and the Didlake Grand Foyer offer more intimate settings for smaller events. They hold 242 and 200 people, respectively. This versatility allows the center to host an array of events.  Classical concerts, jazz shows, theatrical productions, and dance performances thrill audiences. Over 200 events light up the stage each year, drawing over 75,000 visitors from around the globe.

The Hylton Performing Arts Center is not only a stage for world-famous artists like:

• Joshua Bell
• Branford Marsalis
• Annette Bening

It is also a home for George Mason University’s own talented ensembles. These include the Mason Symphony Orchestra and the Mason Dance Company. The center’s commitment to community engagement shines through in its Hylton Family Series and Hylton Presents series.  They offer family-friendly events and showcase global talent. As a cherished cultural landmark, the Hylton Center continues to inspire and enrich the lives of everyone who steps through its doors.

Marjorie Walter Goodhart Hall is a stunning example of classical and Georgian Revival architecture. Designed by the esteemed H. Louis Duhring Jr. & Bro., this architectural marvel was completed in 1928.  It quickly became a cornerstone of cultural and academic life at the college. Its inaugural event was the 1928 graduation ceremony.  One senior awarded their diploma that day was future Hollywood legend, Katharine Hepburn.

The hall owes its existence to the generosity of Marjorie Walter Goodhart.  This alumna and patron of the arts donated to the construction of the hall.  This grand structure features a spacious auditorium with a proscenium stage accommodating 975 guests. Additionally, it houses the more intimate McPherson Auditorium and Hepburn Teaching Theater. The Goodhart Gallery is also housed here.  It regularly displays contemporary art exhibitions.

Goodhart Hall is a hub of artistic expression and creativity.  It hosts an array of performances that captivate audiences.  Annually, over 10,000 people are enchanted by the diverse performances held in this historic venue.

The legacy of Marjorie Walter Goodhart Hall extends beyond its physical beauty. It has been a stage for renowned artists and speakers such as Sutton Foster, Maya Angelou, and John Oliver. The hall also houses several university ensembles, including:

• The Bryn Mawr and Haverford College Orchestra
• The Bryn Mawr College Chorale
• The Bi-College Dance Program

This hall not only celebrates the past but continues to inspire future generations of artists and thinkers.

The Elliot Music Hall has been a treasured landmark of Purdue University since 1940.  It stands as a testament to the university’s rich cultural heritage. This historic venue is named in honor of Edward C. Elliott, Purdue’s transformative president from 1922 to 1945.  It has long been the heart of the university’s musical and theatrical life. Elliott’s vision and dedication were crucial in elevating Purdue to its status as a distinguished institution.

Designed by architect Walter Scholer, the Elliot Music Hall beautifully blends Art Deco and Classical styles. With a seating capacity of 1,000, this grand venue hosts more than 200 events each year. Every seat in the hall is designed to ensure an outstanding view of the stage.  Over the years, the stage has been graced by legendary artists like violinist Itzhak Perlman and the iconic Ray Charles.

Elliot Music Hall has played a role in hosting notable political figures. These include President John F. Kennedy and Vice President Hubert Humphrey. It has also been the setting for exhilarating Broadway shows such as:

• “Les Miserables”
• “The Phantom of the Opera”
• “Rent”

These shows bring a slice of New York’s famed theater district to West Lafayette.

The hall is a bustling center of artistic activity for Purdue’s student performers.  The Purdue Symphony Orchestra and the Purdue Jazz Band perform throughout the year. It’s also the proud host of annual events like the Purdue Christmas Show and the Purdue Jazz Festival.  Elliot Music Hall continues to enrich the cultural landscape of the university and the local community.

The Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts is an architectural masterpiece.  It is also the perfect showcase of artistic excellence. Opened on October 22, 2003, this striking building was designed by the legendary architect Frank Gehry.  It features a distinct brushed stainless-steel roof that mimics the motion of windblown sheets. It is named in honor of Richard B. Fisher. A dedicated businessman, philanthropist, and long-term trustee of Bard College.  The $62 million venue has become a cornerstone of the college’s cultural scene. With a seating capacity of 900, it opens its doors year-round for performances, drawing audiences from far and wide.

The Fisher Center is renowned for hosting an array of diverse events. The most notable is the Bard Music Festival, held every August. This festival celebrates the works of a selected composer annually.  The festival offers performances, insightful lectures, and discussions about their life and work. The center has become a stage for some of the world’s most renowned musicians like:

• Bruce Springsteen
• Esperanza Spalding
•  John Legend
• Paul Simon
• James Taylor

The Fisher Center also produces theatrical masterpieces, including productions such as:

• Shakespeare’s “King Lear”
• The Broadway musical “Hair”

Its versatility is further showcased through its speaker series. It featured prominent figures like Anderson Cooper and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. The center is committed to providing a rich, diverse, and educational experience.

The Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts is more than a performance venue.  It is a vibrant cultural hub that brings together music, theater, and education under one roof.

Since its start in 1966, the Yale Repertory Theatre has stood as a beacon of artistic expression and education in the arts at Yale University. Envisioned by the esteemed Robert Brustein, former Dean of the Yale School of Drama, the theater has played a pivotal role in enriching the cultural landscape of the university and the wider community. Brustein’s influence as a respected theater critic, writer, and director helped shape the theater into a celebrated institution within the world of drama.

This striking Gothic Revival building was constructed in 1846 as a church.  The theater’s interior contrasts its historical exterior with a spacious, modern design. The decor creates a welcoming atmosphere for the audience.  The theater features a main orchestra level, two mezzanine sections, and several beautifully crafted opera boxes, adding charm and grandeur.

With a seating capacity of 487, the theater is an intimate space that draws many fans. It has become a stage where legends have performed like:

• Meryl Streep
• Paul Giamatti
• Angela Bassett

The theater is renowned for its productions of popular plays, including:

• August Wilson’s “Fences”
• Tony Kushner’s “Angels in America.”

The theater not only showcases professional productions but also nurtures emerging talent. Hosting over 200 performances annually and drawing more than 50,000 theater enthusiasts each year.  The theater’s calendar is packed with diverse and engaging shows. Traditions like the No Boundaries performance series and the Dwight/Edgewood Project are popular yearly events.

The Soraya is a cultural landmark in the San Fernando Valley that it opened its doors in 2010. Named in honor of Younes and Soraya Nazarian, whose generous donation of $17 million made its construction possible.  The Soraya has since blossomed into a vibrant hub for artistic and cultural experiences.

Designed by the acclaimed HGA Architects and Engineers, the Soraya’s architecture is a tribute to the natural beauty of the San Fernando Valley. It blends modern elements with the area’s scenic backdrop. The building’s exterior, a striking combination of metal and glass, exudes contemporary elegance. Inside, the warm tones and curved lines create an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. Its two mezzanine levels offer a unique vantage point of the stage.

The facility boasts a seating capacity of 1,700 and includes two main performance areas.  These are the expansive Great Hall and the more intimate black box theater. The Great Hall, known for its exceptional acoustics, is a versatile space hosting a wide range of large-scale performances.  The black box theater is more intimate and offers an intimate setting for smaller-scale productions.

The Soraya presents a wide variety of over 50 performances, attracting regional audiences. It has welcomed a plethora of renowned artists, including:

• Jazz icons Herbie Hancock and Chick Corea
• Pop sensations like Jason Mraz and Diana Ross
• Esteemed dance troupes such as the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

The Soraya has also played a significant role in hosting important events, including a presidential debate in 2012.

It is home to several university ensembles like the CSUN Symphony Orchestra and the CSUN Jazz A Band.  It hosts beloved annual events like the CSUN Jazz Festival and the Tuba Christmas.

Philadelphia is a city known for its vibrant cultural scene. The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is a cornerstone of that scene. This prestigious venue was a gift from Walter H. Annenberg. He was a renowned businessman and former ambassador to the UK.  The Annenberg Foundation’s generous donation led to the creation of this iconic building named in his honor.

With a seating capacity accommodating 1,200 guests, the Annenberg Center boasts two distinct stages. The expansive Zellerbach Theatre is for grand productions.  The more intimate Harold Prince Theatre is perfect for smaller shows and gatherings. This versatility allows the center to host a wide variety of events.

Throughout the year, the Annenberg Center’s stages come alive with over 100 performances. Its stage has been graced by renowned actors like Meryl Streep, James Earl Jones, and Kevin Spacey. While comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld and Ellen DeGeneres have filled the halls with laughter. The center also hosts world-class dance companies like:

• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
• Martha Graham Dance Company

The Annenberg Center is not only a hub for professional artists; it also nurtures budding talent from the university.

It houses university ensembles like the Penn Orchestra, the Penn Glee Club, and the Penn Singers. It provides a stage for students to hone their craft and perform.  From acclaimed Broadway shows like “Rent” and “The Lion King” to classic plays such as “Hamlet,” the Annenberg Center has become a beloved institution in Philadelphia.

The DeBartolo Performing Arts Center stands as a testament to artistic excellence. This Georgian Revival venue houses five distinct venues under one roof.  It features:

• Patricia George Decio Theatre is dedicated to theatrical performances.
• Leighton Concert Hall for music shows.
• Browning Cinema for movies and student films.
• Philbin Studio Theatre was named after notable alumnus Regis Philbin. 
• Reyes Organ and Choral Hall has a beautiful hand-crafted organ.

It is named in honor of Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., a prominent figure in real estate and former owner of the San Francisco 49ers.  This 150,000-square-foot center was designed by the acclaimed architect Robert A.M. Stern and opened its doors in 2004. The 1,800-seat DeBartolo Performing Arts Center is a cultural hub that hosts 300 performances annually.

World-class ensembles have delighted sold-out audiences like:

• The Academy of St Martin in the Fields
•  Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

It’s not just a stage for global stars.  The center is also home to the university’s own talents, including the Notre Dame Symphony Orchestra and the Notre Dame Jazz Band.

The center’s prominence extends beyond performances. It has hosted notable figures, including former President Bill Clinton, who spoke here in 2008. The DeBartolo Performing Arts Center is also the proud host of the Notre Dame Film Festival and the Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival.  These events add to the cultural richness of the university and the South Bend community.

The Historic Merle Reskin Theater is a lavish Beaux-Arts gem. Originally constructed in 1910, it was known as the Blackstone Theatre.  Marshall and Fox designed this architectural marvel.  It’s one of Chicago’s most grandiose theaters. Despite undergoing several transformations and name changes, the theater remains a cherished landmark in Chicago’s cultural landscape.

The theater is named in honor of Merle Reskin. He was a proud DePaul alumnus and a passionate supporter of the arts. It boasts a seating capacity of 1,325, with its plush red velvet seating. The balconies are adorned with gold trim and an awe-inspiring chandelier that adds to its grandeur.

The Historic Merle Reskin Theater has witnessed performances by some of the most iconic figures in the entertainment world. The stage has been graced by:

• Hollywood greats like Bob Hope and the Marx Brothers
• Jazz icons Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dave Brubeck

Acclaimed Broadway productions such as “Hamilton” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” The theater’s calendar is predominantly active during the academic year.  So, theatergoers have a limited time to see their favorite shows.

Beyond entertainment, the theater has served as a venue for speeches by notable politicians, including:

• Barack Obama
• Hillary Clinton
• Joe Biden

The Historic Merle Reskin Theater is home to DePaul’s student ensembles like the:

• DePaul Symphony Orchestra
• DePaul Jazz Ensemble
• DePaul Opera Theatre

This historic venue continues to enrich Chicago’s artistic community.  It bridges the past with the present through its diverse array of performances.

The Wharton Center for Performing Arts stands as a beacon of cultural excellence. Established in 1982, the center pays homage to Clifton R. Wharton, Sr.  He was the first African American to attain a high-level position in the U.S. Department of State.  He was also the father of MSU’s former president, Clifton R. Wharton, Jr.  The building is a masterpiece by architect Cesar Pelli.  It captivates with its glass facade and an expansive lobby crowned by a soaring ceiling. Inside, the facility houses a grand 2,442-seat auditorium and a versatile 600-seat black box theater.

The Wharton Center comes alive with approximately 150 performances, drawing in over 250,000 visitors. It has been a stage for some of the most prestigious names in music and dance, including:

• Virtuoso cellist Yo-Yo Ma
• Legendary dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov
• The renowned Canadian Brass
• Acclaimed opera singer Cecilia Bartoli

It also prides itself on bringing Broadway to East Lansing.  Blockbuster shows like “Hamilton,” “Les Miserables,” and “Moulin Rouge” have captivated audiences.

In addition to hosting world-class performers, the Wharton Center is connected to the university’s cultural life. It is the home for the MSU Symphony Orchestra, MSU Wind Symphony, and MSU Jazz Orchestra. Its role in American history was highlighted in 1992 when it hosted the historic final presidential debate.  It featured candidates Bill Clinton, George Bush, and Ross Perot. The Wharton Center continues to be a significant cultural landmark at MSU.

Located in the vibrant Greenwich Village, the Skirball Center of New York University is a hub of artistic and cultural activity. Opened in 2003, this modern venue bears the name of Jack H. Skirball.  He made his mark as a film and television producer and philanthropist. The center, a part of the esteemed Tisch School of the Arts, showcases a modernist architectural design by the acclaimed Kevin Roche.

With a seating capacity of 860, the Skirball Center boasts two main performance areas:

• The spacious 860-seat main theater
• The more intimate 200-seat Rosenthal Pavilion

The center is a bustling stage, hosting over 300 performances annually. It hosts performances throughout the year, including the academic periods.

Each season, the Skirball Center draws thousands to its doors.  It has offered a stage to renowned entertainers like Joan Rivers, Billy Crystal, and Steve Martin. Audiences have seen the creative genius of composer Phillip Glass and filmmaker Spike Lee.  It has even hosted speeches by notable figures like Hillary Clinton.

The center is not just a venue for celebrity appearances; it also features emerging talent. NYU’s own ensembles regularly enchant audiences here.  These include the Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Orchestra, and Percussion Ensemble.  The Skirball Center is renowned for hosting a variety of events.  Productions such as “Rent,” “The Vagina Monologues,” and “The Laramie Project” have graced its stage. The Kimmel Windows exhibit and the engaging Skirball Talks series are regular favorites. This dynamic venue continues to play a pivotal role in the cultural life of both students and visitors.

The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts was established in 1994. It was named in honor of Robert Howell Brooks, a cherished alumnus and philanthropist. The Center was brought to life by the architectural firm Stevens & Wilkinson.  It is infused with a modern flair that blends with the campus’s architecture. Its geometric shapes, clean lines, and expansive glass windows bathe the interior in natural light.

Step inside, and the Brooks Center reveals its grandeur.  It has a spacious lobby, an elegant grand staircase, and an auditorium capable of seating a thousand.  The auditorium is a marvel of cutting-edge acoustics, lighting, and sound systems.  It is perfect for everything from intimate solo performances to grand theatrical productions.

The Brooks Center has become a beacon for arts and culture, attracting some of the most illustrious names in the entertainment world. Renowned artists like soprano Renée Fleming, pianist Lang Lang, actor Tony Randall, and comedian Kevin James have graced its stage.  The Martha Graham Dance Company and Pilobolus performed to enthusiastic crowds. The Center has also been the venue for beloved Broadway hits, including:

• “Chicago”
• “Rent”
• “The Lion King”
• “Les Misérables”
• “The Phantom of the Opera”

The Brooks Center is home to Clemson University’s own musical and theatrical talents like:

• Clemson University Symphony Orchestra
• Clemson University Singers
• Clemson Players

The Center has also played a significant role in national discourse. It has hosted events such as the South Carolina Republican Presidential Primary Debate in 2016. The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts continues to be a jewel in Clemson University’s crown.

The Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center is a cultural icon of the Midwest.  This modern architectural marvel opened in 2003.  It is named in honor of Blanche M. Touhill, a former chancellor of the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She is known for her groundbreaking work in education and her dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion.

Architect Robert G. Lipscomb designed this striking contemporary building.  The exterior is a harmonious blend of glass and steel. The interior boasts a spacious seating area and two large balconies flanking the stage. The design creates an elegent and modern theater experience.

The Center offers two distinct performance spaces to accommodate a variety of events. The Anheuser-Busch Performance Hall, with a seating capacity of 1,625, is for major productions.  The intimate Lee Theater is for lectures and recitals and offers a more personal setting.

Annually, over 100,000 arts enthusiasts flock to the Touhill Center. They are drawn by a lineup of over 350 performances.  These include everything from musicals and plays like “The Wizard of Oz” and “The Diary of Anne Frank.”  Legendary comedian George Carlin performed to a sold-out audience.  The center also hosts world-class ensembles such as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the Missouri Ballet Theatre. It is also home to the talented student ensembles from the university.

The Touhill Center hosts longstanding traditions such as:

• Dance St. Louis Spring to Dance Celebration
• Greater St. Louis Jazz Festival

Both events have been delighting audiences for over four decades. The Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center continues to bring world-class performances to the Midwest.

Kodak Hall at Eastman Theater is a celebrated jewel in Rochester, New York.  It is a testament to the legacy of George Eastman. He was a renowned pioneer of photography and a generous philanthropist. He wanted to establish a prestigious music school at the University of Rochester.

The theater is a fusion of Greek Revival and Art Deco styles. Claude Bragdon designed it and first opened its doors in 1922. The theater was later rejuvenated by major renovations in 2009.

As you approach Kodak Hall, you’re greeted by its majestic limestone exterior and grand entrance. This leads into a lobby that’s spacious and elegantly appointed. The beautiful interior is adorned with gold leaf, marble, and mosaics on the walls. Dominating the space is a magnificent chandelier, casting a warm glow over the 2,326 seats.

Kodak Hall is a magnet for over 200 performances, drawing in a crowd of more than 250,000 patrons. It’s a stage where legends of classical and jazz have left their mark. World-renowned musicians have performed her.  Legends such as:

• Yo-Yo Ma
• Leonard Bernstein
• Sir George Solti
• Igor Stravinsky
• Sergei Rachmaninoff
• John Williams
• Bob Brookmeyer
• Stan Getz

Kodak Hall isn’t just a stage for the stars. It’s also the home of the Eastman School of Music’s world-famous ensembles. Audiences enjoy regular performances by:

• The Eastman School Symphony Orchestra
• Eastman Wind Ensemble
• Eastman Philharmonia 

The faculty of the Eastman School of Music are renowned artists, too.  They regularly showcase their talent and passion for music. Kodak Hall at Eastman Theater is a monument of musical excellence.

The Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a vibrant hub for the arts in Florida. Opened on November 8, 1992, this impressive venue pays homage to its benefactor, Curtis M. Phillips. The retired surgeon and philanthropist who generously contributed $7 million towards its creation.

Spanning an impressive 170,000 square feet, the Phillips Center was designed by Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum.  This modern architectural marvel cost $30 million to build.  This resulted in a main auditorium that’s nothing short of breathtaking. The space boasts a large stage, an orchestra pit, and cutting-edge sound and lighting systems.  It accommodates an audience of 1,700.

The Phillips Center has earned a stellar reputation for hosting a diverse array of legendary performers and shows, including:

• Willie Nelson
• Parsons Dance Company
• Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Each year, over 100,000 patrons are treated to a wide range of performances, such as: 

• Broadway hits “Wicked” and “Cats”
• Stand-up comedians Ellen DeGeneres and Jim Gaffigan
• Dance performances by Ballet Hispanico and Pilobolus

The center houses several university ensembles, including:

• University of Florida Symphony Orchestra
• University of Florida Wind Symphony
• University of Florida Jazz Band

The Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts remains a cornerstone of Gainesville’s cultural scene.  It continually enriches the community with its diverse array of performances and events.

The Murchison Performing Arts Center houses one of the top university jazz programs not just in the United States but arguably worldwide. The Center is a stage where exceptionally gifted students showcase their talents.

Opened in 2003, the Murchison Performing Arts Center is named for longtime regent Lucille Gannon Murchison.  The main theater is an architectural marvel designed by the acclaimed Corgan Associates.  The theater is shaped like a three-dimensional pentagon, with a grand organ and an elevated choir loft.

The Center’s seating arrangement can accommodate up to 1,000 patrons. Each year, the Murchison Performing Arts Center attracts thousands to its performances. It prominently features the UNT Symphony Orchestra, the UNT Jazz Singers, and the UNT Wind Symphony.

While primarily a stage for the university’s rising stars, the Center has also welcomed renowned artists like:

• Arturo Sandoval
• David Byrne
• Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Additionally, it serves as a cultural hub for the community. It has hosted beloved musical productions such as West Side Story and A Chorus Line. The center is a cherished landmark in Denton’s vibrant arts scene.

The Center for the Performing Arts has been bringing world-class entertainment to the PSU campus since 1974. This iconic venue is named in honor of former University President Milton S. Eisenhower.  It serves as a melting pot of creativity and entertainment. Eisenhower Auditorium, the venue’s centerpiece, boasts a grand seating capacity of 2,500.  It is a magnet for high-profile performances and cultural gatherings.

Annually, the Center buzzes with over 200 diverse events.  The calendar is filled with amazing performers and artists from across the globe. Notable figures who have graced the stage include:

• Jazz great Terrance Blanchard
• Broadway productions like “Jersey Boys”
• Renowned dance troupes like the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the Martha Graham Dance Company.

The Center is not just a platform for global talents.  It is also home to university ensembles such as:

• Penn State Philharmonic Orchestra
• Penn State Centre Stage

Famous Penn State alumnus Keegan-Michael Key performed on the stage before his television and movie career.

Beyond arts and performances, the Center has hosted significant political events. President Bill Clinton and Madeleine Albright have given speeches here. The hall is also home to cherished annual events like the Penn State Jazz Festival and the Choral Collage Concert.

The state-of-the-art Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center opened in 2001.  The Center owes its name to famed American painter Clarice Smith.  She was a philanthropist who made generous donations to the University of Maryland.

The acclaimed William Rawn Associates designed the center’s modern architecture.  The beautiful interior and modern acoustics create an ideal performing experience. The Center seats 650 and hosts over 1,000 performances that span all genres. The bustling schedule draws over 200,000 throughout the year.

The Center has become a stage for world-renowned artists like:

• Yo-Yo Ma
• Wynton Marsalis
• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center is home to the Maryland Opera Studio and the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra also makes frequent stops here. It’s a place where political discourse meets art. It has hosted events like the 2008 presidential debate between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.

The Center is also known for its commitment to community engagement and cultural celebration. Events like the Maryland Day Festival and the NextNOW Fest have become annual traditions. These events highlight Maryland’s rich history and the emerging talent from the university.

Delta State University’s Bologna Performing Arts Center (BPAC) brings enrichment and artistic excellence to the Mississippi Delta.  Named in honor of Dr. Nino Antony Bologna, a local doctor who loved living in the Mississippi Delta.

The BPAC boasts a grand lobby with a sweeping staircase and a glass-walled elevator. The 1,200-seat theater is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. It provides an unmatched experience for both performers and audiences.

Throughout the year, the BPAC buzzes with a diverse array of over 50 performances. The venue has been graced by illustrious figures such as:

• Maya Angelou
• Wynton Marsalis
• B.B. King
• Tony Bennett
• Jerry Seinfeld

It serves as a home stage for Delta State University’s ensembles, including the Chorale, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble.  As a cultural beacon in the Mississippi Delta, the BPAC continues to be an integral part of Delta State University.