South Basement Rehearsal Spaces

The SPACE Committee has worked with Oberlin College to renovate two rooms in the basement of South dormitory into beautiful rehearsal spaces. Groups such as the Oberlin Student Theater Association, the Gilbert and Sullivan Players, and the Musical Theater Association, improv troupes and impromptu theater and dance projects will receive priority over curricular or faculty-organized work. With more and more student performances on campus each year, these spaces are a vital addition to the performing arts at Oberlin, and will continue to be in use long after the Arts Center – our ultimate goal – is built.

These new spaces are spacious and well-lit, complete with rehearsal furniture and sprung floors that are necessary for the safety of dancers and performers. They provide student directors, choreographers, stage managers and performers a necessary alternative to late night slots in Warner Center or empty rooms in residence halls or the Student Union that are by no means equipped for rehearsal.

South is also a necessary step in the journey towards the Arts Center, offering students management and organizational experience that will be invaluable with the continued growth of student theater.

The renovation of South Dining Hall involved significant resources for Oberlin College, and the students are doing our part to pitch in by fundraising for the sprung floor. We’re looking to raise another $34,000 this year from alumni, family, and friends. With hundreds of alumni and parents being contacted over the year, every donation helps us reach our goal. The rehearsal spaces on their own are a huge benefit to the performers on campus; the sprung floor makes them that much better. This project will have a lasting impact on the arts at Oberlin – everyone currently on campus can take advantage, and underclassmen will get to use the spaces for years to come. Please consider making a gift today.