Music Performance Theater

Your support of the Music Performance Theater will set the stage for the future of RIT’s performing arts program and help us reach our goal to be the leading program in the nation for non-performing arts majors. Read more about the Music Performance Theater and Performing Arts Scholars.

Naming Opportunities

Gift Area Gift Level Named By Availability
Music Performance Theater $5,000,000 Available 1/1
Amphitheater (with projection) $1,500,000 Available 1/1
Two-Story Atrium $1,000,000 Available 1/1
Mezzanine $350,000 Available 1/1
Rehearsal Room $300,000 Available 1/1
Balcony/Upper Mezzanine $250,000 Available 1/1
Green Room $250,000 Available 1/1
Refreshment Bar $250,000 Available 1/1
Scene Shop $200,000 Available 1/1
Costume Shop $150,000 Available 1/1
Multipurpose Room $150,000 Available 1/1
Box Office $100,000 Available 1/1
Orchestra Pit $100,000 Available 1/1
Dressing Room $50,000 Available 3/3
Control Booth $25,000 Named by a Generous Donor 0/1
Follow Spot Room $25,000 Available 1/1

Explore The Theater

A Unique Design Addition to Campus

RIT has partnered with Los Angeles-based Michael Maltzan Architecture, Inc. and SWBR of Rochester to design a contemporary theater located in the northwest quadrant of the Henrietta campus between Institute Hall and Sustainability Institute Hall.

Spectacular Nighttime Views

The 50,000+-square-foot, 750-seat theater will accommodate music, dance, and musical theater performances. This new building will attract members of the RIT community and wider Rochester area to campus for performances and events in a modern, state-of-the-art facility.

A Functional Work of Art

The thoughtful design of the building's base features bold interior colors, visible from the outside through large glass windows, which will add visual interest to campus during the day and at night.

Outdoor Amphitheater

A large amphitheater facing Institute Hall will provide a unique outdoor performance space.

Amphitheater Gathering Spots

The amphitheater will provide additional outdoor gathering spots as well.

Amphitheater with Projection

With donor support the amphitheater can feature exterior projection, adding a dynamic visual backdrop to nighttime activities.

Two-Story Atrium

The two-story atrium includes several guest services and a grand staircase that takes visitors to the mezzanine level.

Mezzanine-Level Lobby

The mezzanine-level lobby features strategically-placed skylights that showcase the building's striking façade.

Balcony-Level Lobby

The balcony-level lobby includes magnificent architectural features that greet guests on their way to balcony seating.

State-of-the-Art Theater

The distinctive three-story theater is planned to include seating for 750, an orchestra pit with full orchestra accommodation, mezzanine and balcony, as well as a historic, restored theater pipe organ. It will provide an exciting venue for solo and ensemble music, dance, and musical theater performances. 

View from Mezzanine

The mezzanine will provide seating for approximately 150 and include a flexible lighting configuration for the ability to blackout the level when not in use.

Orchestra-Level View of Balcony

The balcony will accommodate about 95 audience members and also include a flexible lighting configuration for the ability to blackout the level when not in use.

Rehearsal Room

The base of the building provides key collaboration spaces, including a large rehearsal room for solo and ensemble use and a large multi-purpose room, that address the growing needs of the performing arts program.

Scene Shop

The Music Performance Theater co-locates well-equipped costume and scene shops on site - an essential convenience for productions. 

Guest Amenities and Services

Amenities and services include a central box office, refreshment bar, and coat check to enhance guests' theater experience.

Michael Maltzan, Design Architect, discusses the Music Performance Theater at RIT