USF School of Theatre and Dance

For residents of Florida, especially those in the culturally rich Tampa Bay area, seeking high-quality performing arts experiences, the USF School of Theatre and Dance stands as a prominent and dynamic destination. More than just an academic institution, it is a vibrant center where creativity flourishes, talent is honed, and captivating performances are brought to life by dedicated students, accomplished faculty, and renowned guest artists. As a vital part of the University of South Florida, this school serves as a significant cultural asset, offering the public diverse opportunities to engage with the transformative power of live theatre and dance.

The USF School of Theatre and Dance is committed to "facilitating creative and academic artists and scholars through rigorous training in the studio, the classroom, and performance." This mission translates into a rich calendar of events that are open to the university and the wider Tampa Bay community. From dramatic plays and comedic productions to breathtaking dance concerts showcasing a variety of styles, the school consistently delivers productions that aim to engage, challenge, and entertain its audience. While the artistic interpretations can sometimes be unconventional, pushing boundaries and fostering innovative thought are central to its educational philosophy, encouraging both performers and viewers to think beyond traditional expectations.

Attending a performance at the USF School of Theatre and Dance offers a unique window into the future of performing arts, showcasing the raw talent and dedication of emerging artists right here in Florida. It's a chance to witness the evolution of theatrical and dance forms, often with modern interpretations and collaborative efforts that spark discussion and new perspectives. The school’s dedication to student growth and artistic exploration makes every visit an opportunity to be inspired and entertained by fresh, passionate voices in the arts.

Whether you are a long-time patron of the arts or simply curious about discovering new local talent, the USF School of Theatre and Dance provides an accessible and enriching experience, reflecting the creative pulse of Tampa and the broader Florida community.

The USF School of Theatre and Dance is located at 3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA. This address places it squarely within the sprawling campus of the University of South Florida in Tampa, making it a central and easily identifiable hub for performing arts within the city. For residents across the Tampa Bay area and surrounding regions of Florida, navigating to the campus is straightforward via major roadways.

Being part of a large university campus, the school benefits from well-established infrastructure and signage, guiding visitors to its specific buildings. The primary theatre facilities, including performance spaces like the Presentation Theater (though currently under renovation) and the versatile black box theatres within the Theatre Arts Rehearsal (TAR) building, are integral to the campus's layout. The Dance Center (FAD building), home to dedicated dance studios, is located nearby at 3825 USF Holly Drive, making it a cohesive arts precinct.

For visitors attending performances or workshops, ample daily visitor parking is typically available for purchase in designated USF lots, such as 3B, 3C, and 3D. While it is always advisable to check the USF parking map or event-specific details for the most current information, the university's commitment to accessibility for its events ensures that parking options are provided. The campus environment is generally pedestrian-friendly once you've parked, allowing for easy movement between different arts venues.

The location within the university allows for convenient access for students, faculty, and community members alike, fostering a strong connection between academic excellence and public engagement in the arts. This integration within a major educational institution makes the USF School of Theatre and Dance a unique and accessible point of interest for Floridians interested in the performing arts.

The USF School of Theatre and Dance, as a comprehensive academic and creative institution, offers a wide range of services and opportunities, both to its students and to the broader community. These include:

• Public Performances: Regularly scheduled theatre productions (including plays, musicals, and devised works) and dance concerts (featuring ballet, contemporary, and original student/faculty/guest artist choreography) open to the public. These performances showcase the talents of students and faculty.
• Academic Programs: Rigorous undergraduate degree programs in Theatre (Bachelor of Arts with concentrations in Performance, Design, and Theatre Arts) and Dance (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with concentrations in Ballet or Contemporary Dance, and Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies).
• Minors and Certificates: Opportunities for non-majors to pursue a Minor in Dance or Theatre, or an Undergraduate Certificate in Advanced Dance Studies, allowing broader university participation in the arts.
• Studio and Rehearsal Space Rental: While primarily for academic use, specific dance studios and black box theatres may be available for rental to external groups or events, providing valuable resources to the Tampa Bay arts community (inquire through the USF College of The Arts Events and Production Services office).
• Professional Development Opportunities: Students benefit from working with nationally and internationally recognized faculty and acclaimed guest artists (e.g., from British International Theatre Program, Holloway Endowment) who offer masterclasses, workshops, and direct creative collaborations.
• Playwriting Program: The Lily Dishman Playwriting Program offers classes, readings of new works, and opportunities to participate in new play festivals.
• Student Production Boards: Support for student-run organizations like the Student Theatre Production Board and Student Dance Production Board, which produce their own fully realized shows and concerts, offering extensive hands-on experience.
• Community Engagement: As part of the College of Design, Art & Performance, the school contributes to local community engagement through various performances and potentially outreach programs, embedding new and existing arts programming in the region.
• Auditorium Access: The university's performance venues, including the Presentation Theater (when available) and others, offer "not a bad seat in the house," providing excellent viewing experiences for the public.

The USF School of Theatre and Dance boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a significant institution for performing arts in Florida:

• Diverse Performance Repertoire: The school presents a wide array of productions ranging from classical to contemporary theatre, including comedies, dramas, musicals, and new works, alongside diverse dance forms from ballet to modern and original choreography. This variety offers something for every artistic taste.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with modern facilities including multiple dance studios with floating wood floors (Tarkett/Harlequin Standfast), observation rooms, built-in sound, and grand pianos. Theatre facilities include a scene shop, costume shop, design studios, and versatile black box theatres.
• Talented Faculty and Guest Artists: Students and audiences benefit from the expertise of nationally and internationally recognized faculty, complemented by a roster of distinguished guest artists (including renowned choreographers and theatre professionals) who provide unique perspectives and opportunities.
• Emphasis on Student Growth and Practical Experience: A core highlight is the rigorous training and ample hands-on performance and production opportunities embedded in the curriculum. Students gain practical experience in all facets of theatre and dance, from acting and choreography to design and stage management.
• Inclusive and Collaborative Environment: The school fosters a supportive community where students design, choreograph, write, collaborate, rehearse, and perform, transforming their passions into professional skills within a close-knit environment.
• Innovation and Artistic Exploration: The school encourages the creation of new, innovative, and collaborative art, preparing students for the evolving fields of Theatre and Dance. This often results in experimental and thought-provoking productions.
• Excellent Auditorium Design: The performance venues are designed to offer great sightlines from every seat, ensuring an enjoyable viewing experience for the audience.
• Career Preparedness: Programs are designed to prepare students for successful careers in the professional world or for further graduate studies, with a focus on transferable skills applicable to many fields (communication, teamwork, discipline, leadership).

For more information about performance schedules, academic programs, or general inquiries related to the USF School of Theatre and Dance, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA (Note: Dance Center address is 3825 USF Holly Drive)
• Phone: (813) 974-3867

We encourage you to visit the official University of South Florida College of the Arts website or contact the School of Theatre and Dance directly for the most up-to-date performance schedules, ticket information, and details on their extensive educational offerings. Their team is ready to assist you in exploring the vibrant world of performing arts at USF.

For residents of Florida, particularly those residing in the dynamic and culturally conscious Tampa Bay area, the USF School of Theatre and Dance is an exceptionally suitable and enriching point of interest. It offers a unique blend of high-caliber artistic performances, educational opportunities, and a glimpse into the future of the performing arts, making it a valuable asset to the local community.

One of the primary reasons this school is so well-suited for locals is the consistent availability of diverse and engaging performances. Unlike touring shows that may visit only occasionally, the USF School of Theatre and Dance provides a regular calendar of student, faculty, and guest artist productions. This means Floridians have a continuous opportunity to experience live theatre and dance, often at more accessible price points than professional touring companies. Whether you enjoy classic dramas, modern dance, or experimental works, there's always something new and thought-provoking on the horizon.

Furthermore, supporting the USF School of Theatre and Dance means investing directly in the future of the arts in Florida. Attending these performances allows locals to witness the raw talent and burgeoning skills of the next generation of performers, choreographers, designers, and directors. This direct connection to emerging artists fosters a sense of community pride and allows audiences to feel a part of the creative journey from the ground up. It's an opportunity to see passion and dedication come to life on stage, reinforcing the value of arts education in the state.

The quality of the facilities, including auditoriums praised for their excellent sightlines, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. This commitment to production value, even in an academic setting, reflects a dedication to providing a professional environment for both performers and audience members. Moreover, the school's location within the easily accessible University of South Florida campus, with clear parking options, makes attending events convenient for residents across the Tampa Bay area.

While some productions may push artistic boundaries and challenge traditional expectations, this commitment to innovation serves to enrich the local cultural landscape. It encourages dialogue, broadens artistic horizons, and ensures that Tampa remains at the forefront of creative exploration. In essence, the USF School of Theatre and Dance is not just an educational institution; it is a vital contributor to Florida's vibrant arts scene, offering locals continuous opportunities for cultural enrichment, artistic inspiration, and community engagement.

USF School of Theatre and Dance

3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA