Duke Performances

==About Duke Performances== Duke Performances is the professional performing arts presenter at Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina. As an integral part of the university, Duke Performances is committed to engaging a diverse array of virtuosic and forward-thinking artists from both the local region and across the globe. The organization's mission is to present meaningful and celebratory performances that enhance learning and research, foster community, and contribute to the advancement of new performance work. ===Mission=== The mission of Duke Performances is to offer a robust season of world-class performances that encompass a wide range of genres, including classical, new music, jazz, Americana, hip-hop, independent rock, international music, theater, and dance. By doing so, the organization seeks to serve the educational and cultural needs of both the Duke University community and the wider public in Durham. ===History=== The history of Duke Performances is deeply intertwined with the cultural life of Duke University and the City of Durham. The organization traces its roots back to the Duke Artists Series, which was founded in 1931 by J. Foster Bishop Barnes, the then Director of Chapel Music at Duke Chapel. The Artists Series aimed to bring the finest in classical music, opera, and dance to the Duke and Durham communities, a mission that was carried on by subsequent directors including William J. Griffith III and Ella Fountain Pratt. In 1982, the Duke Institute of the Arts was established under the direction of James Applewhite to present artistic programming and festivals. The Institute saw leadership from Michael Cerveris, Sr. and Kathy Silbiger, who introduced guest artists, artist-in-residence programs, and collaborative programming with other arts-related academic departments. Duke Performances emerged in 2004 from the merger of the Institute of the Arts and the Artists Series. Under the direction of Aaron Greenwald, who took over in 2007, Duke Performances has made significant strides, aligning with the university's strategic plan to make a substantial commitment to the arts. The organization has since commissioned, developed, and premiered major new works and has become a world-class university presenter with a threefold focus on artistic quality, supporting campus and academic priorities, and contributing to the cultural renaissance of Durham. ===Venues and Engagement=== Utilizing a network of over 12 venues across Duke and Durham, Duke Performances offers a full calendar of events, including artist residencies and special commissions and projects. The organization also emphasizes community engagement through various initiatives that connect artists with the local community. ===Support and Governance=== Duke Performances is supported by a dedicated staff, an advisory board, and the generosity of donors who share the organization's vision for the arts. The staff directory and board members are listed on the organization's official website, along with contact information for those interested in supporting its mission. ===Highlights and Press Releases=== Among the notable highlights of Duke Performances are the short films produced for the 2017/18 season, such as 'MONK100: A Century of Genius,' 'New Work for Goldberg Variations' by Simone Dinnerstein & Pam Tanowitz, and 'Building Bridges: Muslims in America' by Alsarah & The Nubatones. The organization regularly issues press releases detailing upcoming seasons, special events, and partnerships, such as the three-year partnership with American Ballet Theatre announced in 2018. ==External Links== * [Official Website](https://dukeperformances.duke.edu/) * [Full Calendar of Events](https://dukeperformances.duke.edu/calendar/) * [Press Releases](https://dukeperformances.duke.edu/press-releases/) [[Category:Duke University]] [[Category:Performing Arts in North Carolina]] [[Category:Arts Organizations in the United States]]