Weidner Center for the Performing Arts

The Cofrin Family Hall is a magnificent 2000 seat theatre that serves as both an academic space for the University and a nationally acclaimed touring house for theatre, music, dance and solo performance. The benefits gained by our Performing Arts programs since the Weidner Center’s 1993 opening have been immeasurable.

Performance
The Cofrin Theatre in the Weidner Center is the locale for our Music Ensembles Performances and has been used several times by the University Theatre for the performance of major musicals. Ft. Howard Hall, a more intimate space, is used for some smaller ensembles, recitals, and cabaret-style entertainment. The Jean Weidner Theatre serves as an additional performance space for student recitals and theatrical productions.

Classroom
Studio One and Ft. Howard Hall have been the site for numerous masterclasses and workshops. The Jean Weidner Theatre was designed for use solely by the University Performing Arts. Uses include the teaching of performance, directing and lighting classes and the production of Mainstage and Studio plays.

Audience
An essential element in Arts Education is exposure to quality performances. The Weidner Center provides our students with numerous opportunities to attend performances by national touring companies and acts which are rarely so accessible to a university. Student rush tickets are available, for any performance not sold, out at drastically reduced prices. Students can check on availability and purchase rush tickets at the Weidner Center Box Office on the day of performance.

Workshops and Master Classes
Visiting company members frequently make themselves available to our students for workshops in rigging, management, costuming, performance, voice and dance. These sessions have ranged from hands-on activities, to informal discussions and tours. Workshop information is posted throughout the theatre as it is scheduled.

Work Opportunities and Internships
We have been able to schedule highly specialized internships for advanced students in Arts Management and Technical Theatre. The opportunity to train in this state-of-the-art facility has led to full-time employment in regional theatres and production houses. The Weidner Center regularly puts out work calls for paid help in technical areas and load-in/load out. If you are interested in working at the Weidner Center, speak to the University Theatre Technical Director.