Shaping the Future of Arts and Performance

Few endeavors reflect the beauty of the Creator as clearly as the arts. In a world seeking truth and wonder, Concordia’s musicians, performers, and artists reflect God's glory in word and song that inspire the human spirit. Our core curriculum requires engagement in the areas of music, theater, or the visual arts, ensuring that all students experience the power of creative expression rooted in faith.

“At Concordia, the arts are not peripheral—they are central to the formation of every student in mind, body, and spirit for lives of faithful service to Christ in the Church and the world.”

— Dr. Rachel Ware Carlton, Dean of Arts and Sciences

Facilities that match the caliber of talent

While our students demonstrate remarkable talent and dedication, our current facilities no longer match the caliber of their work or the depth of their calling. When we provide environments worthy of their calling, we communicate that their work matters—that their artistry is an act of worship and their creativity a gift entrusted to them by God. Through your generosity, we can create a unified center for the arts—a vibrant hub where students refine their craft while deepening their faith.

A blessing to students and the community

This center will ensure that future generations of Christian artists receive the formation they need, rather than gravitating toward institutions that do not integrate faith with excellence. It will enrich the lives of those who enter the arts as a vocation, as well as those who simply participate in the arts while at Concordia. It will also serve to bless our community with arts that live out our mission as a Lutheran university.

Rendering of the north-south hallway featuring contemporary design with geometric lighting, glass walls, modern seating areas, and entrance to the Black Box Theatre.

Rendering of CUW's new art center black box theatre with flexible seating configuration, professional stage lighting, and intimate performance space for theatre productions.

Exterior view of the new arts center from the north looking southward showcasing an expansive glass facade and wide wooden overhang, with an interior gallery space along the hall.

Spacious main lobby including the entrance to the theatre and art gallery.

The right kinds of spaces

Both students and staff employ their talents to honor God and direct others to Him. That’s what makes the arts at CUW different. So different, and so vital. Through your generosity, we can create a unified center for the arts—a vibrant hub where students refine their craft while deepening their faith.

 

The Space Includes

 


 

Acoustically engineered places for vocal and instrumental groups to rehearse.


 

Secure environment in which to store instruments.


 

Extended theatre backstage as well as a scene shop to safely build, store, and secure props.


 

A modern theatre lighting system that is easily maintained.


 

A new black box theatre providing an intimate and flexible space for a wide variety of smaller productions.


 

A dedicated gallery and additional display space in the corridor alongside the theatre.


 

An appropriate venue to present music of all genres.

Invest in our new center for the arts

In order for the arts to flourish more fully at CUW, we’re asking friends, alumni, and supporters to help us raise $14.5 million for our new Center for the Arts and Performance. Please prayerfully consider partnering with us to help ensure that our musicians, vocalists, and artists have the spaces they need to enrich their lives and the lives of those impacted by their craft. Producing music and art that glorifies God is vital for our campus and our community. If you would like to learn more about investing in this exciting project, contact:

 

Tim Brever
Interim Vice President-Advancement
262-243-2130 or tim.brever@cuw.edu