he department of theatre has renovated Sheehy Auditorium, restoring the 100-seat theatre in the lower level of Maltby Center to its original size. The restoration gives theatre students twice as much performance space while the University charts a long-term solution to program growth – construction of a new Performing Arts Center. Contributions will help make the state-of-the art facility a reality. “It’s wonderful that they were able to renovate Sheehy for our use, but the greater need is for a new performing arts venue,” said Laura Smiley, assistant professor of theatre. “A new Performing Arts Center would provide state-of-the-art performance and learning spaces that will enhance the possibilities of what we can achieve with our students and share with the community.” “It makes a difference for Sheehy to be restored because it allows for students to practice their craft in acting, stage designing and Theatre faculty member Laura Smiley directs acting majors Zach Nading of East Brady and Marquita Hefflin of Pittsburgh.
From the Dean: As you read this issue’s story detailing the renovation of the Sheehy space, you read a story that is but one part of a larger picture – our commitment to supplying our students and faculty with the educational and performance facilities they deserve. Slippery Rock University is one of a very small number of institutions possessing national accreditation in all four major arts disciplines, and the renovation of Sheehy, and ultimately our plans for a new Performing Arts Center, embody our commitment to maintaining such high standards. – William McKinney
College of Humanities, Fine and Performing Arts
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Theatre stages restoration of historic Sheehy Auditorium directing,” said Marquita Hefflin, a theatre and secondary education/ Spanish major from Pittsburgh. “I like to think of the theatre department as SRU’s special little secret. This department is amazing.” The Sheehy renovation was made possible when the robotics program relocated from the back of Sheehy to the University’s new Advanced Technology and Science Hall. Theatre knocked out a wall and ripped up old carpet to recapture the original stage space. Workers painted everything black and added taller risers. Sheehy, now equipped with multi-stage levels and better stage echo, is suitable for audience-participation shows, experimental theatre, as well as performance and director classes. “It’s much better for student productions, and it wouldn’t surprise me if theatre faculty start doing shows there,” said David Skeele, theatre professor. The theatre inside Maltby opened in 1938 and served at the primary space for campus productions until Miller Auditorium opened in 1958. www.SRU.edu
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