The Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, located on Northwestern University’s flagship campus in Evanston, stands as a vibrant hub for theatre, music theatre, and dance on Chicago’s North Shore. Each year, the Wirtz Center produces more than 40 diverse performances, making it a cornerstone of Evanston’s cultural landscape and a significant part of Northwestern’s commitment to the arts.

The center provides a platform for both undergraduate and graduate students, allowing actors, stage managers, playwrights, designers, directors, and dramaturgs to collaborate on a dynamic array of productions. Audiences can experience everything from classic masterpieces to bold contemporary works, offering something for all ages and artistic tastes.

Performances take place in several versatile venues within the Wirtz Center, including the 439-seat Ethel M. Barber Theater, the 288-seat Josephine Louis Theater, the 100-seat Hal and Martha Hyer Wallis Theater, the 100-seat Mussetter-Struble Theater, and two flexible black box spaces ideal for experimental and intimate performances. Additionally, larger productions are staged in the historic 1,000-seat Cahn Auditorium, providing a grand setting for major events and musicals.

Beyond its productions, the Wirtz Center fosters a thriving artistic community, inviting local residents, students, and visitors to engage with innovative storytelling and exceptional performances. As a premier destination for performing arts in Evanston, the Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center continues to inspire and connect audiences through its dedication to creativity, collaboration, and the transformative power of live theatre, dance, and music theatre.