When the State of Minds campaign wrapped up on Dec. 31, 2017, more than $1 billion had been raised thanks to the incredibly giving and dedicated West Virginia University family.

The College of Creative Arts raised approximately $23 million during the 10-year campaign which created more than 50 new scholarships, built and opened the Art Museum of WVU, launched four new programs and many new majors in the college and started an extensive study abroad program in the School of Art & Design.

Artistic Director Jerry McGonigle was drawn to the show because of its universal appeal saying, "as a father of four ̶  and a grandfather of an ever-expanding number ̶  I am committed to making sure that there is always quality, professional entertainment in West Virginia that can be enjoyed by the whole family." 

Director Lee Blair adds, "There is a timelessness to it. We all still have that child within us that wants to be loved and have fun and have adventures. This tale continues that longing to never grow up."

Senior BFA Acting and Musical Theatre students in the School of Theatre & Dance at West Virginia University are taking part in one last learning experience before receiving their diploma.

The Class of 2018 will be in New York City May 7-8 for a series of events including a night of performance at Birdland, the famous jazz club.  

Students in the West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance Master’s of Fine Art Acting Class of 2018 are completing three years of intensive study and will soon begin their careers as professional actors.

The culmination of their years of study includes a MFA Actor Showcase, to be presented to invited industry professionals and guests in New York City. There will be two performances of the showcase at the Roy Arias 777 Theatre in New York on April 30, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The Spring Student Dance Showcase in the West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance will be held on April 26 and 27, with showings at 7 and 9 pm. It will take place in the Falbo Theatre at the WVU Creative Arts Center.

The performance will present choreographic works of students in the WVU Dance Program. The event is produced and directed by this year’s graduating dance majors as part of their Capstone assignment. 

In partnership with the Office of the President, the West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance on Friday, April 20, will perform a play to raise awareness for gun safety and violence.

NATURAL SHOCKS will be performed at 7:30 p.m. in G21 Ming Hsieh Hall. The story takes place on the 19th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting and the day Parkland, Florida students are organizing a national school walkout.