Brooks Center among “25 Most Amazing University Performing Arts Centers”
The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts at Clemson University was recently listed as one of the “25 Most Amazing University Performing Arts Centers” by bestvalueschools.com. It was listed eighth overall, in the company of the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts (New York University), the Lied Center for the Performing Arts (University of Nebraska), and the Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts (University of Florida).
The Brooks Center’s entry states: “[The state of] South Carolina’s Brooks Center for the Performing Arts was dedicated in 1994 with the help of a $2.5 million gift from Clemson alumni Robert Howell Brooks. With over 90,000 square feet of performance space, and a 1,000-seat theater, the center is also the home of a Black Box Theatre and a recital hall. With modern lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system, the facility boasts nearly 75 productions yearly including Broadway productions of Hairspray and Avenue Q. The Lillian and Robert Utsey Music Series has offered nearly 135 free performance in 28 years, and students are given opportunities to work with artists through various workshops, including Dr. Paul Buyer’s Steel Drum Workshop.”
“This is great news for the Brooks Center,” says Director Lillian U. Harder. “So much of what we have accomplished is due to the loyal patrons who believe in the importance of the arts, and the hard work of our faculty, students, staff, and crew. This accolade belongs to everyone who supports the arts in Clemson.”
Dean Richard Goodstein of the College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities echoes these sentiments. “Clemson’s formula for success with the Brooks Center is straightforward; we put our students first, always,” he says. “We give them the venues, the mentoring and the tools to explore and develop their art, the time and tolerance to test their limits, and the warm support of an engaged community. In return, they’ve opened our eyes, lifted our spirits and brought us to our feet. We’re at number eight because of our students, and we never forget that.”
The 2014-2015 season will mark the Brooks Center’s 21st year.
Via: The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts