“The Box The Library Came In”. That’s what Northwestern students playfully call the Theater and Interpretation Center. Today we’re exploring this hub of performing arts.
The Theater and Interpretation Center stands as a key part of Northwestern University’s arts scene. It is officially known as the Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts since 2015. The center is responsible for managing and funding theater, music theater, and dance productions.
Built in 1980, the center offers a variety of performance spaces. The Ethel M Barber Theater features 450 seats and a thrust stage. The Josephine Louis Theater offers a proscenium setup with 350 seats. Additionally, there are two black box theaters and a dance performance area. These spaces provide diverse options for different types of productions.
Interestingly, the center’s architecture contrasts sharply with the nearby University Library. Its plain white exterior and boxy shape led to its nickname. Despite its simple exterior, the Theater and Interpretation Center is a vibrant place.
Each year, the Wirtz Center stages around forty productions. Eight of these are main stage shows in the Barber and Louis Theaters. Faculty, MFA students, and guest artists direct these productions. These include classic and contemporary plays, dance shows, and musicals.
The Wirtz Center is also home to the annual Waa-Mu Show. This is an original musical written and performed by students. In the summer, the center hosts Summerfest. This includes a series of two to three plays.
The center offers season subscriptions for both the regular season and Summerfest. Over fifteen hundred subscribers enjoy these packages. These patrons come from both the university and neighboring communities.
The Northwestern University Theater and Interpretation Center plays a vital role in the region. It enriches both the university and the Chicago metropolitan area. This is done through diverse performing arts programs. It supports the academic mission and educational priorities. It also provides entertainment and cultural enrichment.
So, as you explore the Theater and Interpretation Center, remember its nickname. “The Box The Library Came In” may seem simple, but it houses a world of creativity. It’s a place where students and professionals bring stories to life on stage.