Texas Performing Arts

Texas Performing Arts is a premier institution for the performing arts located at The University of Texas at Austin. It was established on March 6, 1981, with its inaugural performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the newly built Bass Concert Hall. This venue, which cost $44 million to construct, was at the time the university's most ambitious construction project. The organization encompasses several venues, including the Bates Recital Hall, McCullough Theatre, Payne Theatre, and Brockett Theatre. Over the years, Texas Performing Arts has become a pivotal cultural entity in Central Texas, offering a diverse array of performances that span music, theater, dance, and conversation. Throughout its history spanning over three decades, Texas Performing Arts has hosted an impressive roster of world-class artists and ensembles. These include the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Victor Borge, Nina Simone, Ornette Coleman, Merce Cunningham Dance Company, Van Morrison, Philip Glass, Ella Fitzgerald, and The English National Opera. Additionally, it serves as the proud home of Broadway In Austin, having presented the city's premieres of blockbuster shows such as "Hamilton," "The Lion King," "Wicked," "Jersey Boys," "Cats," and "The Phantom of the Opera." Prior to 2007, Bass Concert Hall also served as the home venue for Ballet Austin, the Austin Symphony Orchestra, and Austin Lyric Opera. The growth and success of Texas Performing Arts have been significantly bolstered by the generous support of donors and sponsors. Their contributions have facilitated not only the renovation of Bass Concert Hall in 2007 but also the funding of initiatives such as the Campus and Community Engagement programs and the Student Ticket Fund. This fund enables students of all ages to access performances at a reduced rate of $10 per ticket. As it looks ahead to the next 40 years, Texas Performing Arts aims to enhance its world-class programming and further solidify its connection with the community, fostering an environment where everyone is encouraged to experience, engage with, and learn from the performing arts. [[Category:University of Texas at Austin]] [[Category:Performing arts centers in Texas]]