Performance Center
Stage
Performance Center
The USI Performance Center has been completed adjacent to the expanded University Center. A project long-awaited by the University of Southern Indiana, crews broke ground on the Performance Center in 2012. The new facility opened in the spring of 2015.
The nearly 300-seat facility replaces the 50-year-old off-campus theatre. The facility provides theatre majors with an even higher quality educational experience.
The USI Performance Center was constructed using locally-sourced and recycled materials. In addition, the theatre includes:
- Sound baffle system with acoustic panels created with donated materials
- Thrust stage with additional staging areas incorporated into the walls
- Shallow proscenium to allow for greater sightlines
- Exceptional natural acoustics
- State-of-the-art light and sound technology
The Performance Center's red sandstone exterior is an homage to the Smithsonian Institution's Castle. Built in 1855, it is the oldest building on the National Mall.
Mallette Studio Theatre
The Mallette Studio Theatre is a black box stage with space used as a classroom laboratory and for student performances. It is an intimate theatre that seats about 100. The theatre was home to all USI Theatre productions until the opening of the Performance Center in spring 2015.
The Mallette Studio Theatre is located in the lower level of the Liberal Arts Center
State of the Art Theatre Design Lab
USI's theatre design lab is equipped with 16 workstations complete with large drafting tables and Alienware PCs, high-end graphic-oriented computers. The monitors are supported by articulated arms which can be adjusted or moved out of the way to allow for use of the desk. Each of the computers has design software for each element of theatre production: lighting, costume, scenery, sound, and projection design. Specialized software includes:
- ESP Vision, a program which allows designers to pre-program lighting sequences
- Isadora, visual and audio manipulation software
A large format color printer in the back of the room allows students to print large-scale design plans up to 42 inches wide.
Students have access to the lab from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, seven days a week with their Eagle Access Cards.
The lab is located in the lower level of the Arts Center.
Student Accessible Acting and Dance Studios
The Dance studio is equipped with resilient flooring, mirrors, and both fixed and adjustable barre systems for dance and stage combat instruction.
The Acting Studio features seating on risers and practice space with a variety of standard movable props.
Students have access to the studios from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, seven days a week with their Eagle Access Cards.
Both studios are located on the lower level of the Arts Center.
Costume Shop
Theatre Support Building
Students in the theatre arts program design and make the wardrobes and sets for USI Theatre productions in the Theatre Support Building off of Bluff Lane.