Latest NEWS

JMU Announces Performing Arts Center Seat Naming Campaign (March 20, 2008) — JMU donors may now enhance the transformation of Madison's performing arts programs by underwriting seats in two premier venues in the new performing arts center. ... (MORE) 

JMU Welcomes Largest-Ever Gift (March 14, 2008) — Longtime JMU supporters Bruce and Lois Forbes have given the university the largest gift in the institution's 100-year history. Their gift will name the Performing Arts Center. At the same luncheon where the Forbes' gift was recognized, a generous gift from Dick and Shirley Hanson Roberts was announced, also for the Performing Arts Center. ... (MORE)

Web cam offers real-time views of construction (Feb. 18, 2008) — A live Web-enabled camera will offer Internet users round-the-clock views of the construction site of JMU's new Performing Arts Center ... (MORE)

Rain falls, spirits soar at PAC groundbreaking (Oct. 26, 2007) — JMU President Linwood H. Rose and Dr. Marilou M. Johnson ('80), interim dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, joined major supporters in the groundbreaking to celebrate the center and ... (MORE)

How you can get involved

Generous donors have already contributed significantly to the Performing Arts Center, and giving and naming opportunities remain as the project moves forward.

Performing Arts Center video
View "A Time for the Arts"

To learn more about the Performing Arts Center, download the brochure (PDF file).

Facts about the Fine and Performing Arts at JMU

  • One of the largest programs on the East Coast
  • Programs include Music, theater, dance, art and art history
  • Majors number more than 1,000
  • School of Music considered the best in Virginia
  • School of Theatre and Dance twice chosen to perform at the Kennedy Center by the American College Theatre Festival
  • Dancers invited to perform at the National American College Dance Festival