School of the Arts

The School of the Arts offers developing visual and performing artists and arts managers access to the highest level of professional training. Students will graduate equipped with the tools and inspiration for engaged, innovative, and socially impactful careers.

Prestigious faculty in the Arts Management and Entrepreneurship Program, the Conservatories of Dance, Music, and Theatre Arts, and the School of Art+Design cultivate, nurture, and prepare students for entry into their fields through rigorous and comprehensive studio practice, fortified by theoretical, conceptual, and historical study.

Vibrant performance and studio-based degree programs challenge students to interrogate, articulate, produce, and innovate. Students learn entrepreneurial skills within a thriving intellectual culture, informed by the School of the Arts’ uniquely synergistic relationship with the broader college community.

Artist Brian Kavanaugh ’05 Earns Fulbright Award

He helps people with disabilities express their creativity and produce art.
From Purchase to Zombie Apocalypse: Colby Hollman ’19

The recent acting graduate earned a role on AMC’s Fear the Walking Dead.
The New York Times Highlights Insta by Purchase Dancers

Issa Dance Look, founded by Joy Marie Thompson ’18 and co-curated by Dava Huesca ’19, features the fashion of dancers in the studio and on the street.
Michael Rakowitz ’95 Recipient of the Nasher Prize

Congratulations to Michael Rakowitz ’95, who was just named by The Nasher Sculpture Center as the recipient of its fifth Nasher Prize.
Professor Kamala Sankaram’s Techno-Infused Opera

Composition Professor Kamala Sankaram looks to expand opera audiences through the use of techno music and familiar language.
Theatre and Performance Students Take in Romeo and Juliet

Lenka Pichlikova, visiting assistant professor of theatre and performance, brings students to theatre festival.
Tailor to the Stars Introduces Her Own Collection

Christy Rilling ’01 (theatre design/technology) helps A-listers look fabulous.
Jay O’Sanders ’76 Wins a Drama Desk Award

And congratulations to all the Purchase alumni and faculty who earned nominations this Broadway award season.
Samara McLendon ’21 is a Finalist for the SASSY Award

She’s one of five finalists to compete for the top prize in The Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition.
Must-Read Profile: Mitski ’13

The New Yorker’s Margaret Talbot went On the Road with Mitski.
New Work by Keerati Jinakunwiphat ’16

Big Rings for Abraham.In.Motion to premiere at the Joyce Theater.
Two Alumni Star in Operas by Purchase Faculty Member

Lydia Adelle Brown ’19 and Jorell Williams ’06 star in two different NYC productions of Laura Kaminsky operas.
Faculty Publication: “In the Long Run” Examines Broadway’s Most Popular Plays

Routledge publishes new book by Jordan Schildcrout, Associate Professor of Theatre & Performance