University Of Florida Performing Arts Dedicates The Alan & Carol Squitieri Studio Theatre

On Saturday June 29, 2009, Michael Blachly, Director of University of Florida Performing Arts, welcomed friends and family of Alan and Carol Squitieri for the official dedication of the Alan and Carol Squitieri Studio Theatre. Alan Squitieri, who passed away in 2005, and his wife Carol have been long-time supporters of UF Performing Arts. President J. Bernard Machen presented the dedication.

Originally created as the Black Box Theatre, the 2,400 square-foot space, constructed in 1992 was primarily dedicated to rehearsals, warm-up preparation and ancillary storage for performances scheduled on the Phillips Center Main Stage.

In recent years, the theatre has also served a multitude of additional functions, including the accommodation of University of Florida Performing Arts pre- and post-performance discussions, Affiliate intermission receptions, Theatre and Dance student productions and many other special events.

"The Squitieri Studio Theatre provides a performance space that is ideal for emerging artists presented under the auspices of University of Florida Performing Arts as well as those artists and ensembles whose performances are enhanced by a more intimate setting than our larger venue," said Michael Blachly, Director of UF Performing Arts.

With seating for 180, the newly dedicated space will offer enhanced décor and lighting that will be adjusted for each performer whose work is being staged in order to maximize the experiences of the artists, and a broad and diverse community.

Web sites: University of Florida Performing Arts: www.performingarts.ufl.edu