Play a Leading Role in SUNY Cortland's Future

11/20/2012 

Supporters of the performing arts at SUNY Cortland can become a permanent part of the renovated Ruth E. Dowd Fine Arts Theatre through the College’s recently launched “Take a Seat” program.

Whether they’re fans of modern Broadway musicals like “Rent” or enjoy classic dramatic productions such as “A Doll’s House,” fans have an opportunity to become key contributors to the theatre’s future by naming one of its new seats.

In thanks for a tax-deductible gift of $1,000 to the Ruth E. Dowd Fine Arts Center Theatre Campaign, the College will affix an engraved nameplate to any seat selected by the donor. The nameplate will bear an inscription of a donor’s choosing.

Supporters can honor a student, a family member, a favorite production; whatever is meaningful to them. Every donor’s name will also be listed on a commemorative plaque in the theatre and in the performance programs.

The “Take a Seat” campaign will help build a fund to bring nationally respected performing arts instructors to campus. It will enhance SUNY Cortland productions and provide scholarships for talented and deserving students. The fund will support performance ensembles and new, high-profile concerts and will allow more members of the community to experience SUNY Cortland’s talent.

For decades, the SUNY Cortland Performing Arts Department and the Dowd Fine Arts Center Theatre have served as both a training ground for eager young talent and as a popular cultural venue in Central New York. Every year, thousands of people pass through its doors to enjoy musical theatre productions, dramatic works, original plays and a variety of concerts.

Approximately 40 recitals, concerts, plays and other events take place in the theatre annually, making it the most visible — and prestigious — performing arts venue for the campus community. SUNY Cortland’s performing arts program helps students discover themselves, their talent and the world of entertainment and production beyond campus.

This year, the College began an ambitious renovation of the Dowd Fine Arts Center that includes a beautifully upgraded theater and 440 new seats. It is scheduled to open by December 2013.

For more information write, call or email:

Cortland College Foundation
P.O. Box 2000
Cortland, NY 13045
(607) 753-5744

cortlandcollegefoundation@cortland.edu