Performing Arts

Bales Organ Recital Hall
The Dane and Polly Bales Organ Recital Hall at the Lied Center is recognized as one of the finest facilities in the country. Every facet of the building, from its thick concrete walls to special hardwood veneers on the seats, provides optimum acoustical balance for the 35-foot-tall organ, built by Wolff and Associes-Ltee. of Laval, Quebec.

Lied Center
For more than 10 years, the Lied Center, west of 15th and Iowa streets, has presented performances by world-class artists in music, dance and theater and educational programs for children and adults. Its concert hall, which seats 2,000, also is home to University lectures and performances.

Recital Series
Faculty musicians, visiting artists and students give frequent recitals in Swarthout Recital Hall in Murphy Hall. Chamber music and solo and ensemble performances also are presented in this intimate setting.

University Theatre
As part of its training of actors, directors and designers, the University Theatre program presents comedies, tragedies and musicals in the large Crafton-Preyer Theatre and the small Inge Theatre. In 2004, the program celebrated the 50th anniversary of its KU Theatre for Young People with a special production of "Amber Waves" by alumnus James Still.