The University of South Florida is taking steps to increase opportunities for students, faculty, staff and the general public to engage with the arts. Effective immediately, USF’s College of The Arts will now offer tickets to all of its events free of charge. In addition, the college will begin to schedule some weekday matinees to provide options for individuals who may not be able to attend evening or weekend performances.
Both changes reflect USF’s commitment to community engagement and will be implemented with the goal of making performances more accessible and equitable.
“The arts are integral in our lives — and part of our responsibility is to invite the public onto our campuses to join our arts communities,” USF College of the Arts Dean Chris Garvin said. “Providing easy access and making everyone feel welcome is a part of our mission going forward.”
This initiative aligns with the university’s Strategic Plan, In Pursuit of Excellence, which includes a focus on Design, Arts and Performance. USF recognizes and celebrates how creativity and exposure to the richness of the arts are essential elements to the educational experience and the value of that exposure for the overall community.
The College of The Arts is the creative center of the university for students in the fields of music, theater, art, dance and architecture. A wide variety of concerts, exhibitions, lectures, recitals, plays and performances featuring students, faculty and guest artists are presented on the Tampa campus throughout the academic year. Some signature events include the Steinway Piano Series, the Fall Dance Concert and performances from the USF Symphony Orchestra.
“Engaging with every generation, from children to retirees, is an important part of how we build community for the arts in Tampa Bay,” Garvin added.
Although tickets are free, registration for music, dance and theater performances is required to accommodate seating. For more information, visit the College of The Arts events page.