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Performing & Visual Arts Opportunities

Western students can enjoy performing and visual arts productions almost every night of the semester. The University Art Gallery presents up to 12 shows per year. University Theatre produces 6 mainstage shows in Hainline Theatre and Horrabin Hall Theatre and numerous studio shows in Simpkins Hall Theatre throughout the year. University Dance Theatre, a student organization, holds two major concerts per year, and often hosts visiting artists for special performances and workshops. Music faculty and students perform countless times during the semester in the College of Fine Arts and Communication Recital Hall, on the football field as the Marching Leathernecks, and on the basketball court as the University Pep Band.

The Bureau of Cultural Affairs (BCA) student organization offers students the opportunity to participate in the selection and presentation of national tours of performing arts events right here on campus—that's right, you can pick the shows and then meet the entertainers! The BCA brings in over 12 performances each year. The BCA hosts internationally known dance and ballet companies, Broadway stage productions, headlining comedians and musicians, and world-renowned orchestras and symphonies. If you prefer experiencing the arts without joining the organization, students may attend almost all of the BCA events free of charge through the Arts Fee. 

Opportunities to view and participate in the performing and visual arts are available to all Western students. Audition information is available through the School of Music, Browne Hall 122, (309) 298-1544 or the Department of Theatre & Dance, Browne Hall 101, (309) 298-1543. Information about the Bureau of Cultural Affairs is available at (309) 298-3571 or on the BCA Website. A performance calendar of the events in the College of Fine Arts and Communication Recital Hall can be viewed at COFAC Website or you may request an Arts Guide by phone at (309) 298-1618.