Performing Arts at Drexel University
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Drexel University is host to a variety of performing arts groups, including musical groups and theater.
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[edit] Facilities
The two prominent performing stages at Drexel University are the Mandell Theater and the Main Auditorium. The Main Auditorium dates back to the founding of Drexel and construction of its main hall. It features over 1000 seats, and a 1928 pipe organ. The pipe organ was purchased by Saturday Evening Post publisher Cyrus H. K. Curtis after he had donated a similar organ , the Curtis Organ, to nearby University of Pennsylvania and it was suggested that he do the same for Drexel.[1]
The 424-seat Mandell Theater was built in 1973 and features a more performance-oriented stage, including a full fly system, modern stage lighting facilities, stadium seating, and accommodations for wheelchairs. It is used for the semiannual spring musical, as well as various plays and many events.[2]
The Mandell Theater is a department of the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design.
[edit] University-run choral groups
- Chamber Singers
- Gospel Choir
- Naturally Sharp (vocal jazz ensemble)
- University Chorus
[edit] University-run instrumental groups
- Drexel Guitar Ensemble
- Concert Band
- Drexel Fusion Band
- Drexel String Ensemble
- Jazz Orchestra
- Jazztet
- Keyboard Ensemble
- Pep Band
- Percussion and Mediterranean Ensemble
- Saxtet
[edit] Student-run organizations
In addition to the officially sponsored groups above, Drexel allows students to form student organizations for almost any purpose, including performing arts. Major student groups include:
- The Drexel Football Team Comedy Improv
- They perform improvisational sketches along the vein of "Whose Line is it Anyway?".
- 8 to the Bar
- 8 to the bar is an all-male a cappella group founded in 1997. Generally having between 7 and 11 members, the group performs contemporary music including pieces by Guster, U2, and a variety of other recent artists. Their free concerts occur several times a year, and frequently include newly practiced pieces, as well as recurring group favorites such as Good Old Acapella. 8ttb is a frequent host of the local International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella competitions.
- Drexel Players
- The theater group at Drexel puts on regular plays and events, as well as a biennial Spring Musical.
- Pi Nu Epsilon, Beta Chapter
- Pi Nu Epsilon is an honor society for university students in musical performing arts organizations. The Beta Chapter of Pi Nu Epsilon was founded at Drexel University in 1947. Members of Pi Nu Epsilon volunteer their time to usher at campus musical events, perform community service activities, and organize trips to local musical venues.
- TrebleMakers
- Founded in 2001 shortly after the founding of 8 to the Bar, the TrebleMakers are the all-female group and perform a similar selection of contemporary songs. They have an a capella "Fest" every year in March where they invite groups from other schools to come sing with them. The TrebleMakers are also hosting Philacapella for the first time in 2007. PhilAcapella is going to be a charity concert featuring other a capella groups from the Philadelphia area and will benefit PhilAbundance. They hope to make this a yearly event.
