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SCF Performing Arts Department offers many wonderful concerts, productions and plays at affordable prices and invites the community to join us for these events.
SCF Box OfficeSCF Performing Arts
Welcome to the SCF Performing Arts Department!
Your passion for expression takes center stage in the arts capital of Florida. With distinguished faculty, state of the art facilities, performance opportunities along with interaction and internships with world class performing arts professionals, the Performing Arts Department Programs guide and develop the artistic, intellectual, and professional growth of its students in music, music production, and theatre.
Within the Performing Arts department, students can choose from the following Programs.
Music Program
Many are working toward their A.A. degree, with transfer plans in place, while others continue to hone their musical talents by taking classes for personal enrichment. Whatever your reason may be, our program has the courses and the instructors to help you achieve your academic and personal goals.
Music Production Program
The A.S. in Music Production will provide a degree pathway for students toward careers in the contemporary music industry, including the areas of studio recording, concert sound and stage reinforcement, music production, and music business. Students will learn technical recording skills and foundational skills in musicianship towards a well-rounded degree in both the art and science of music production in many genres.
Theatre Program
Our program emphasizes theatrical production by stressing hands-on experience in stage design and lighting, play production and stagecraft in addition to traditional acting classes. Whether pursing a two-year degree or planning to enter the profession, our theater program is a popular choice among students and community members.
Our Venues
Neel Performing Arts Center
Since 1966, the SCF Neel Performing Arts Center has served as a cultural center for Manatee and Sarasota counties hosting both College and community-sponsored events. The main performance hall remodeled in 1999 features a 65 x 40 foot stage, seating for 830 patrons, as well as wheelchair accessible seating and restrooms. The magnificent Elizabeth M. Eaton Memorial Pipe Organ, a 50-rank, 3-manual instrument built by master craftsman Charles McManis, was rededicated in October 2000.
David S. and Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre
Located on the west side of the building is the David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre, home of SCF Theatre Program productions. The SCF Theatre program is under the direction of faculty and staff technical director who work with students to produce 4 to 5 main stage productions each year.
Studio for the Performing Arts Recital Hall
A few steps further to the east is the Studio for the Performing Arts Recital Hall which opened in 2021. The 150-seat, acoustically designed, state-of-the-art performance space is perfect for smaller recitals, lectures and College presentations.
26 West Creative Studio
The facility boasts a cutting-edge media production studio, equipped to professional standards. Featuring a stage set, cameras, control room, audience seating, and additional amenities, this space is perfect for renting for various media endeavors, such as filming commercials and videos.
Movement Studio
Located in Building 14, the Movement Studio is equipped with Marley© flooring, ballet bars and mirrored walls.
Support the SCF Performing Arts
You can play a part in transforming the lives of our talented students through scholarships and academic program initiatives. Your donation to the SCF Foundation Performing Arts Programs, ensures that the State College of Florida be a vital source in enriching the lives of students and the community through the performing arts.
Support the Performing ArtsStudent Scholarships
Each year, the State College of Florida Performing Arts Department Programs and the SCF Foundation award over $200,000 in scholarships to students who participate in our department activities.
Ensemble scholarships provide opportunities to both music majors and non-majors alike. Not only does this provide well-rounded opportunities for students in any discipline, but also allows the department to remain a large music and education force in the region.
Koenig Scholarships help cover costs of applied lessons for music majors. Because music majors have higher costs for some classes, these scholarships assist students in covering those costs. Additionally, the requirements to maintain these scholarships provide incentive for students to pursue higher standards in their music education.
Presidential Ensemble Scholarships are awarded by audition and place higher incentives on these students to achieve. They perform in small ensembles throughout the year and act as ambassadors for the SCF Music program.
Theatre Scholarships are given for production and technology involvement.
More detailed information is displayed for registered students. If you have questions, contact the Performing Arts Department office or the SCF Foundation.