The Arts
Explore the Arts at UNI
A place to inspire, and be inspired. Our campus is a vibrant hub of culture, art and expression.
Here, you don't need to be an artist to enjoy the arts. In fact, we believe the arts are an enriching experience for everyone – that’s why the majority of the concerts, shows and arts-related events on campus are free to our students and open to the public to enjoy.
Whether it’s visiting the Gallery of Art, catching a production at the Strayer-Wood Theatre, attending a concert by the School of Music or taking in a broadway show at the acclaimed Gallagher Bluedorn – there’s always something new to experience.
Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
World-class entertainment, right here in the Cedar Valley. The Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center hosts more than 400 events each year, ranging from Broadway musicals, to UNI School of Music concerts, cultural and comedy shows, and even our Kaleidoscope Series, which welcomes thousands of children to our Great Hall. UNI students get a few free tickets every semester.
TheatreUNI
Catch a live TheatreUNI performance at one of our two performance spaces in Strayer-Wood Theatre. TheatreUNI offers four mainstage productions each season, and several smaller performances throughout the year. Productions are integral to the Department of Theatre as our students perform, build, costume and plan each show. As a bonus, TheatreUNI offers free tickets for current students.
Interpreters Theatre
The UNI Interpreters Theatre hosts several staged shows each year, which blend performance and literature into one unique arts experience. Shows are free and open to the public.
School of Music
Hosting a variety of concerts, events and festivals throughout the year, the UNI School of Music offers both students – and the wider community – an opportunity to indulge in live music. Whether it’s an opera, symphony orchestra, jazz concert or more, there’s something for everyone.
Gallery of Art
The UNI Gallery of Art is home to a 4,000-item permanent collection, featuring modern and historic artworks on display. In addition, the gallery hosts a diverse range of exhibitions throughout the year, offering innovative programming for students, and the wider Cedar Valley community.
UNI Museum
With collections spanning everything from ancient fossils, to Native American artifacts and even historical fashion displays – the UNI Museum encourages discovery and engagement through unique collections, and rotating exhibits. Additionally, the museum employs students to help with creating and maintaining exhibits.
Showcasing the Arts
Public Art on Campus
From the large sculptures found across the grounds, to murals and other artwork inside our buildings, the UNI campus is home to a large collection of public art – on display year round for all to enjoy.
Permanent Art Collection
Home to more than 4,000 pieces of artwork, the Permanent Art Collection features paintings, etchings, drawings, lithographs and other artistic modi spanning hundreds of years. Our collection even includes masterworks from famous artists such as Rembrandt and Dali.
Public Art Incubator
The only program of its kind in the nation, the Public Art Incubator enlists students to fabricate and erect large-scale public art pieces commissioned and paid for by artists around the country. The work it produces can be seen on campus, in downtown Cedar Falls and peppered throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Want to get involved?
Want to get involved in the arts at UNI? Explore our arts and design related majors – and find your perfect fit.