Clemson University Choral Ensembles
December 1st, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Department of Performing Arts introduces its new choral director, Justin Durham, in a program of Learn More...
Clemson University Symphony Orchestra
December 3rd, 2009 at 8:00 pm - Popular orchestral hits fill this winter program, from the “Waltz” and “Polonaise” of Tchaikovsky’s Learn More...
The Spirit of Christmas
December 8th, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Spirit of Christmas takes you on a magical journey to a winter wonderland of fun and festive che Learn More...
Tony DeSare, vocalist
January 14th, 2010 at 8:00 pm - Singer, pianist, and songwriter Tony DeSare has earned critical acclaim for his performances at the Learn More...
Die Fledermaus
January 21st, 2010 at 8:00 pm - Strauss’ opera "Die Fledermaus" is produced by Teatro Lirico D’Europa which presented "Tosca" during Learn More...
History of Performing Arts at Clemson
The inception of the performing arts at Clemson University can be traced back to the early part of the 19th century. At that time, individual faculty and students organized bands, choral groups and other musical and theatrical activities -- often by forming clubs.
The music department gained its first official director in 1947, when Hugh McGarity took the helm of the Clemson Ba
nd and Men's Glee Club. The band's second director was Robert E. Lovett. In the early 1950s, all band activity was organized within the Department of Bands, administered by the Office of Student Affairs. During this period, the marching band became known as the Tiger Band, the Clemson College Concert Band began to present regular concerts and the Women's Glee Club was created.
Throughout Clemson's history, c
ommunity members and students have presented theatre. In fact, the history of the Clemson Little Theatre closely parallels theatre activity on campus. In 1964, a group of students interested in performing plays formed the Clemson Players, a recognized student organization advised by Professor of English Arthur Fear.
In 1987, the Department of Performing Arts was formed, combining the areas of music and drama. The department moved to the Brooks Center in 1993, and in 2002, the department initiated the Bachelor of Arts in Production Studies in Performing Arts.
