USF School of Theatre and Dance

- 3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620

For those in the Tampa, Florida, region seeking a vibrant and diverse performing arts experience, the USF School of Theatre and Dance stands as a premier destination. This institution is more than just a school; it is a creative hub where emerging and established talent come together to produce a wide range of theatrical and dance performances. It serves as a vital part of the local arts scene, providing the community with access to innovative and high-quality productions. From classic plays to modern, experimental works, the school’s productions showcase the talent and dedication of its students and faculty, offering a rich cultural experience for all attendees.

The quality of the performances is often a major draw for the local community. As one satisfied customer noted, there is "A lot of great talent" to be found here. This is a testament to the rigorous training and artistic development that the students undergo. While the mission is primarily educational, the productions are of a caliber that rivals professional theaters, providing audiences with an excellent value. A review also praised the auditorium, stating, "I love the auditorium, because there's not a bad seat in the house." This intimate setting allows the audience to feel a close connection to the performers, enhancing the overall experience and making every seat a prime location.

While some productions may push creative boundaries, as seen in a review of an unconventional take on a classic play, this is part of what makes the school so interesting. It's a place where artists can experiment and take risks, which often leads to memorable and thought-provoking work. The school's commitment to artistic exploration ensures that the local community has access to a diverse and ever-changing array of shows. The performing arts are meant to challenge and inspire, and the USF School of Theatre and Dance excels at providing just such an environment. It’s a space where the next generation of performers and designers hone their craft, and the community gets to witness their artistic journey firsthand.

The USF School of Theatre and Dance is located at 3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA. This address places it within the sprawling campus of the University of South Florida, a central and well-known part of the Tampa landscape. The campus environment makes the school easily accessible for students and community members alike, with clear signs and well-maintained roads leading to the various buildings.

Accessibility is a key advantage of the location. Being on a university campus means there are numerous parking options available, though it is always wise to check for specific event parking instructions to ensure a smooth visit. The campus is well-served by public transportation in the Tampa area, providing an alternative for those who prefer not to drive. The proximity to major roads and highways also makes it a convenient destination for theatergoers coming from all parts of the Tampa Bay region, from downtown Tampa to surrounding suburbs. The presence of the school on a major university campus also lends it a professional and established feel, assuring visitors of the quality of the productions and the facilities.

Services Offered

• Live Theatre Productions: A full season of plays, including classic dramas, comedies, musicals, and new, original works. These productions provide students with real-world experience and offer the community a chance to see diverse and exciting shows.
• Dance Performances: Regular showcases and concerts featuring a wide range of dance styles, from contemporary and ballet to modern and world dance. These performances highlight the technical skill and artistry of the dance students.
• Ticketed Events: The school provides tickets for its various productions, allowing the public to support the arts and enjoy high-quality entertainment at an affordable price.
• Educational Workshops and Lectures: As a school, it occasionally hosts public lectures, workshops, and masterclasses, providing opportunities for the community to learn from professional artists and scholars.
• Auditorium and Performance Spaces: The school operates a main auditorium and other performance spaces designed for an intimate and engaging viewing experience.
• Community Engagement: The school serves as a cultural resource for the local community, offering a professional setting for artistic expression and a place for the public to engage with the performing arts.

Features and Highlights

• Exceptional Talent: The school is a training ground for future professional actors, dancers, and designers. Audiences get to witness "A lot of great talent" at the beginning of their careers.
• Intimate Auditorium: The theater space is designed to ensure there is "not a bad seat in the house," providing a close-up and immersive experience for every audience member.
• Diverse Repertoire: The performance season includes a variety of productions, from beloved classics to avant-garde and experimental pieces, catering to a wide range of artistic tastes.
• Professional Standards: Despite being a student-led institution, the productions are held to professional standards in terms of acting, dance, set design, lighting, and sound, thanks to the guidance of expert faculty.
• Affordable Arts Experience: Attending a production at the USF School of Theatre and Dance is an accessible way to enjoy high-quality live performance at a fraction of the cost of a large commercial theater.
• Academic and Artistic Excellence: The school is a part of a major university, ensuring that its programs and productions are grounded in both artistic practice and academic rigor.

Contact Information

Address: 3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA

Phone: (813) 974-3867

What is worth choosing

For residents in the Florida area, the USF School of Theatre and Dance is a truly worthwhile choice for several compelling reasons. The most significant benefit is the opportunity to see incredible talent at work. While the performers may be students, their dedication and passion often translate into powerful and moving performances. As one review notes, the level of talent is high, and audiences can feel the energy and commitment of the actors. This provides a dynamic and authentic experience that can sometimes be lost in more commercial productions. The intimate nature of the venue also enhances this experience, ensuring that every audience member feels a part of the action.

Furthermore, choosing to attend a production here is a wonderful way to support the local arts community and the next generation of artists. Your ticket purchase directly contributes to the education and professional development of aspiring actors, dancers, and designers. This makes attending a show here not just a night of entertainment but a meaningful act of patronage. The range of productions, from classic to contemporary, means there is always something new and interesting to see, catering to a wide variety of tastes.

Finally, the combination of professional quality and affordable pricing makes live theater accessible to everyone. The USF School of Theatre and Dance offers a fantastic value proposition, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality cultural experience without the high cost typically associated with professional theater. It's a place where you can be both a patron and a participant in the growth of the arts in Tampa. For anyone in the Florida region who loves theater and dance, or who is looking for a new and enriching cultural experience, the USF School of Theatre and Dance is an excellent choice and a true local treasure.

USF School of Theatre and Dance

3837 USF Holly Drive TAR 230, Tampa, FL 33620, USA