The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center — Attraction in College Park

A Local Cultural Cornerstone — The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Shines

As a frequent patron of The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park, MD, I keep discovering new reasons this venue feels like a cultural home. It’s more than a performance space; it’s a vibrant hub for creativity, community, and immersive experiences that keep me coming back season after season.

What makes it feel like home Warm, welcoming atmosphere: From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by professional staff and a sense of anticipation. The lobby spaces invite conversation, with comfortable seating and artful details that set the tone for any show. Diverse, high-caliber programming: The lineup spans intimate recital moments to bold contemporary performances, showcasing world-class artists alongside emerging talents. There’s something for every mood and curiosity, and the programming thread often feels thoughtful and cohesive. Engaged artistic community: You can feel the center’s commitment to collaboration—between visiting artists, faculty, and students—creating a dynamic ecosystem that thrives on shared exploration and creativity.

Facilities and comfort Thoughtful design and acoustics: The performance spaces are well-proportioned with excellent acoustics, clear sightlines, and flexible seating that adapts to a range of performances from dance to music to theater. Convenience and accessibility: Easy parking, accessible entrances, and intuitive wayfinding make attending a breeze, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time supporter. Supportive staff: The front-of-house team is knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic about helping you have the best possible experience, from ticketing to post-show info.

Programs I love Student and faculty showcases: The center offers opportunities to witness the next generation of artists alongside established performers. Interdisciplinary collaborations: Performances that blend music, dance, theater, and new media create fresh, thought-provoking evenings. Community engagement: Outreach events, talks, and pre/post-show discussions deepen the experience and invite active participation.

Tips for fellow culture lovers Check the season schedule in advance and book early for limited seating events. Arrive early for talks or pre-show receptions to soak in the atmosphere and meet artists. Explore the campus arts ecosystem—The Clarice often intersects with UMD student performances and lectures, making for a full evening of learning and entertainment. Bring a friend or make it a date night—there’s a range of programming that’s perfect for shared experiences and conversation afterward.

Bottom line The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center is a premier cultural beacon in College Park—curating ambitious, thoughtful, and beautifully executed performances. It’s a standout destination for locals and visitors who crave enriching arts experiences, community connection, and a place that continuously nurtures creativity. Highly recommended for students, families, professionals, and anyone who believes in the transformative power of the...

It's an interesting place. Students who are new to this building may get thoroughly lost first day, as I did. The building is really two buildings (the music dpt and the theatre dpt) wedded into one building by a hallway.

That being said, the theatre dpt (main room) is nice, large, and modern, and it also includes a coffee shop. There are several large classrooms in the building designed for performance based arts. The music section has more classrooms that are smaller than the theatre ones, which is useful for music students that need practice rooms, but confusing for...

I really enjoyed the performance especially that they incorporated the students and other staff into the performance in the end. The theater was intimate yet spacious at the same time. Parking is straight across from the building which was convenient. The only problem I had was finding the building to begin with, especially since it was my first time on the campus. I wish they promoted the event a but more for people to know where they were going. We bumped into a student studying science and even...