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Arkansas may be known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history, but it also boasts a vibrant arts scene, particularly in its colleges and universities. College towns in Arkansas bring a unique perspective with local access to art and cultural experiences that many believe only exist in larger cities outside our state. The performing arts centers in Arkansas are not just venues; they are vital spaces for creativity, cultural exchange, community engagement and local entertainment.
The following Arkansas College performing arts centers have upcoming fall and Christmas productions.
Jones Performing Arts Center
Ouachita Baptist University | Arkadelphia
The Jones Performing Arts Center (JPAC) is a state-of-the-art performing arts facility located on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University. With a seating capacity of over 1,200, the JPAC hosts a variety of performances, including Tiger Tunes, operas, vocal and instrumental concerts, dance productions and worship opportunities.
JPAC’s commitment to providing high-quality performing arts experiences to students and the surrounding community makes it unique. The Ouachita School of Fine Arts uses JPAC as a practitioner space for music, theater and art degree programs. This integration of education and performance allows students to gain hands-on experience in all aspects of the performing arts.
- Dec. 6-7 | Festival of Christmas | Tickets
- Dec. 9 | Lessons and Carols | open
- Calendar of other events
Windgate Performing Arts Center
University of Central Arkansas | Conway
The Windgate Performing Arts Center at the University of Central Arkansas is a state-of-the-art facility that promotes the arts and provides high-quality performances to students and the community, all under one roof. What sets Wingate apart is its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students from various artistic disciplines to collaborate on creative projects. This unique approach fosters a dynamic, innovative environment that encourages artistic exploration and experimentation.
- Nov. 10 | Percussion Ensemble Concert
- Nov. 13 | BearBones Concert
- Nov. 20 | UCA Jazz Ensemble Concert
- Nov. 24 | Choir Concert and Chamber Singers
- Dec. 15 | Wind Ensemble/Band Concert
Reynolds Performing Arts Center
University of Central Arkansas | Conway
The Reynolds Performing Arts Center (RPAC) in Conway is a state-of-the-art facility known for its diverse programming and commitment to providing high-quality performing arts experiences to students and the community. What makes RPAC unique is its focus on presenting a wide range of performances, from Broadway musicals and classical concerts to dance productions and comedy shows. The center’s intimate setting and excellent acoustics create an immersive and engaging atmosphere for audiences. RPAC also offers educational outreach programs and workshops, fostering artistic appreciation and creativity in the region.
- Nov. 1 | Straight No Chaser
- Nov. 8 | Charlotte’s Web
- Nov. 14 | Larry Fleet
- Nov. 21 | Goodnight Moon
- Nov. 24 | Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Musical
- Dec. 7 | Sleigh Bells at the Symphony
- Dec. 14 | Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas
Ed Coulter Performing Arts Center at The Sheid
ASU Mountain Home | Mountain Home
The Coulter Performing Arts Center in Mountain Home, Arkansas, is a dynamic venue known for its diverse programming and commitment to providing exceptional performing arts experiences to the community. What sets the Coulter Performing Arts Center apart is its emphasis on presenting various performances, using the school’s and surrounding community’s talent. The center’s intimate setting and excellent acoustics create an immersive and engaging atmosphere for audiences, making it a beloved destination for regional arts enthusiasts.
- Nov. 3 | Arrival from Sweden – Music from Abba
- Dec. 14 | Grand Ol’ ChristmasÂ
Ulrey Performing Arts Center
Harding University | Searcy
The Ulrey Performing Arts Center at Harding University promotes the performing arts and enriches the university’s and the surrounding community’s cultural life. The Ulrey Performing Arts Center is also home to the Harding University Department of Music and Theatre, providing students with hands-on experience in all aspects of the performing arts.
- Dec. 5-7 | Taming of the Shrew
Berry Performing Arts Center
John Brown University | Siloam Springs
The Berry Performing Arts Center at John Brown University is a vibrant hub for performing arts in Siloam Springs. The center’s state-of-the-art facilities and intimate setting create an immersive and engaging atmosphere for audiences to experience the transformative power of the arts. The Berry Performing Arts Center is dedicated to fostering creativity, promoting artistic excellence, and inspiring lifelong engagement with the arts in the community.
- Nov. 1-2 | Fables & Fairytales
- Dec. 12-14 | Candlelight in the Cathedral
SEARK Concert Center
University of Arkansas Monticello | Monticello
The SEARK Concert Center in Monticello, Arkansas, is a state-of-the-art performing arts facility known for its stunning architecture and commitment to providing high-quality performances to the community. What makes SEARK Concert Center unique is its focus on presenting a wide range of programming, often incorporating educational outreach programs with local schools and involving local and regional artists in productions. The center’s intimate setting and excellent acoustics create an immersive and engaging atmosphere for audiences.
- Nov. 17 | How Sweet the Sound
Harton Theater
Southern Arkansas University | Magnolia
Harton Theatre at Southern Arkansas University is a key venue for performing arts on campus. This intimate theater hosts student productions, guest performances and community events, providing a platform for artistic expression and collaboration. The theater program at SAU encourages students to explore their creativity while gaining valuable skills in performance and production.
- Nov. 21-24 | Much Ado About Nothing
- Dec. 5-7 | A Christmas Carol
- Dec. 6 | Sounds of the Season | 7:00 p.m.
ArcBest Performing Arts Center
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith
The ArcBest Performing Arts Center promotes the performing arts and enriches the region’s cultural life, making it a community-neutral site for local and traveling performers. The ArcBest Performing Arts Center is also a hub for arts education, offering classes, workshops, and outreach programs to students of all ages.
- Nov. 10 | Joe Gatto
- Dec. 6 | Christmas Honors: Wreath Workshop
- Dec. 7 | Fort Smith Symphony: Holiday Cheer
- Dec. 21-22 | Nutcracker
EACC Fine Arts Center
East Arkansas Community College | Forrest City
The EACC Fine Arts Center in Forrest City is a vibrant hub for the arts dedicated to enriching the community’s cultural landscape through diverse programming, including art exhibitions, live performances, educational workshops and community outreach initiatives.
- Nov. 9 | The Issacs | Tickets
- Nov. 22 | The Pout Pout Fish | Educator Info
Fowler Center
Arkansas State University | Jonesboro
The Fowler Center in Jonesboro is known for its exceptional acoustics and elegant design. Whether sitting in the roomy auditorium or performing onstage, participants often mention that “it comes alive when sounds emerge.” The diverse types of productions hold it as a cultural center of Northeast Arkansas.
- Nov. 7 | Game Night – Magic at the Museum
- Nov. 15-17, 22-24 | Ride the Cyclone
The Windgate Performing Arts Center staff provided the cover image.
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