Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts
Cornell's premier performing arts hub, showcasing diverse student and professional theater, dance, music, and film.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak performance season
Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts
Best Time
Peak performance season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cornell's premier performing arts hub, showcasing diverse student and professional theater, dance, music, and film.
"The space was phenomenal! We really enjoyed the acoustics and the lighting was quite professional."
💧 Best Water Fountain
The water fountains in the Schwartz Center are surprisingly good!
🎟️ Secure Your Seats
Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular shows.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Student Productions
Kiplinger Theatre
Experience the vibrant talent of Cornell and Ithaca College students in theater, dance, and musical productions.
Dance Performances
Various stages
Witness captivating contemporary and classical dance from visiting companies and university ensembles.
Film Screenings
Film Forum
Catch independent films and documentaries, often with insightful Q&A sessions.
Musical Concerts
Various stages
Enjoy orchestral and choral performances, including major works like Beethoven's Ninth Symphony.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Performance Schedules
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Best Water Fountain
The water fountains in the Schwartz Center are surprisingly good!
🎟️ Secure Your Seats
Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular shows.
🎶 Check the Schedule
Variety of performances: dance, theater, film, music.
🎭 Behind-the-Scenes
Look for student-led productions and rehearsals.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Best Water Fountain
The water fountains in the Schwartz Center are surprisingly good!
🎟️ Secure Your Seats
Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular shows.
🎶 Check the Schedule
Variety of performances: dance, theater, film, music.
🎭 Behind-the-Scenes
Look for student-led productions and rehearsals.
💡 Professional Lighting
Appreciate the high-quality lighting and acoustics. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Schwartz Center for its phenomenal acoustics, professional lighting, and the impressive resources available at Cornell. The venue is lauded as a beautiful place for both classes and performances, with many highlighting the incredible talent showcased in student and professional productions. While some reviews mention specific shows, the overall sentiment points to a high-quality performing arts experience.
"My friends and I attended the Pandora Dance Troupe Performance and the space was phenomenal! We really enjoyed the acoustics and the lighting was quite professional. It's amazing the resources that an ivy league school like Cornell has comparatively! We will definitely attend another performance here! And hopefully it's for Pandora!! Loved every minute!"
Alyce Geanopulos
"Beautiful theater! We went to catch a show of—Hamilton. Great location in Tampa, FL by the river to walk around the center too!"
Aarathi Sharma
"I saw SPILL by Leigh Fondakowski, and it was truly an incredible experience. Props to everyone on the stage and behind the scenes. If it was any indication of their production quality, I doubt you'll be disappointed."
Kevin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Schwartz Center is located on the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, NY. Visitors can typically reach it by car, with parking available nearby, or via local public transportation. Check Cornell's transportation website for the most current parking and transit information.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak performance times. It's advisable to check Cornell University's parking services website for the latest information on visitor parking lots and rates.
The Schwartz Center is situated on the Cornell campus, which is a significant distance from downtown Ithaca. While walkable for some, it's a considerable hike. Public transport or a short drive is generally recommended.
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) buses serve the Cornell University campus, with routes that likely stop near the Schwartz Center. Consult the TCAT website for specific route information and schedules.
The Schwartz Center is generally accessible, with accommodations for patrons with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the venue directly or check their accessibility page for specific details regarding ramps, elevators, and seating.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Cornell Performing Arts & Sciences website, or at the Schwartz Center box office. Some events may also have tickets available through Ithaca College's ticketing portal.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performance, whether it's a student production or a professional touring company. Student tickets are often discounted. Check the specific event listing for pricing details.
While some tickets may be available at the box office on the day of the performance, it's highly recommended to purchase them in advance, as many shows sell out.
Box office hours can vary. It's best to check the Cornell Performing Arts & Sciences website or call the venue directly for the most accurate information on box office operating hours.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and Cornell affiliates. Some performances might also offer group rates. Inquire at the box office or check the event details online for potential discounts.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Schwartz Center hosts a diverse range of performances, including theater, dance, musical theater, concerts, film screenings, and lectures. It's a hub for both student and professional artistic endeavors.
The Schwartz Center houses multiple performance spaces, including the Kiplinger Theatre, which has a significant seating capacity. Specific capacities for each venue can be found on the Cornell Performing Arts & Sciences website.
Concessions may be available for some performances, typically offering light snacks and beverages. It's advisable to check the venue's policy or inquire at the box office regarding available concessions.
The atmosphere is generally vibrant and engaged, reflecting its role as a central performing arts venue for a major university. Audiences are often enthusiastic and appreciative of the diverse artistic offerings. [^Review]
Photography and videography are typically prohibited during performances to avoid disrupting the artists and audience. Check the venue's specific policy for each event, as some may allow photography during curtain calls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Schwartz Center itself may offer limited concessions for snacks and beverages during performances. For a full meal, you'll need to explore dining options on the Cornell campus or in the surrounding Ithaca area.
The Cornell campus and nearby Collegetown offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. Ithaca also has a diverse culinary scene just a short drive away.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the performance venues. This policy helps maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the performance spaces.
Many attendees opt to dine in Collegetown or on campus before attending a performance at the Schwartz Center. This allows ample time to enjoy a meal and still arrive for the show without feeling rushed.
Concessions typically offer standard items like popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. Specific offerings can vary, so it's best to check on the day of the performance if you have particular preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the Schwartz Center itself, especially its modern design elements, can be photogenic. The surrounding Cornell campus also offers beautiful backdrops, particularly during different seasons.
Photography is generally not permitted during performances to avoid disruption. However, you might be able to take photos of the empty theater before the show begins or during intermission, provided it doesn't interfere with staff or other patrons.
If photography is permitted (e.g., during specific press events or rehearsals), a camera with good low-light capabilities and a telephoto lens would be beneficial. However, always adhere to venue rules regarding equipment.
While general photography might be restricted during shows, sharing photos of the venue's exterior or lobby is usually fine. Always check the specific event's social media policy.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the Schwartz Center and the surrounding campus.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the center itself might not have dedicated children's play areas, the campus environment surrounding it offers space for kids to move around before or after a show. Consider checking the schedule for shorter performances or matinees that might better suit younger attention spans.
🎓 Students & Academics
Beyond attending, students can actively participate by joining theater, dance, or music groups, or by pursuing technical roles in stage management, lighting, or sound. The center provides invaluable practical experience and networking opportunities within the performing arts industry.
🎭 Arts Enthusiasts
Appreciate the venue's excellent acoustics and lighting, which elevate every performance. Keep an eye on their schedule for visiting professional companies and unique collaborations that offer a glimpse into the broader arts landscape. [^Review]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Schwartz Center's Role in University Life
Beyond formal productions, the center is a space for experimentation and learning. Students involved in stage management, lighting design, costume design, and directing gain invaluable hands-on experience here. The variety of performances, from intimate student plays to large-scale dance and musical productions, provides a rich training ground.
The center also plays a crucial role in the broader Ithaca community, offering public access to diverse artistic experiences. This includes film screenings, concerts by university ensembles like the Emory Symphony Orchestra, and professional touring companies, making it a significant cultural asset for both the university and the surrounding region.
Acoustics and Technical Excellence
The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, allowing for nuanced and impactful presentations. This technical sophistication is crucial for bringing artistic visions to life, from subtle atmospheric effects to dramatic stage lighting. The quality of these elements contributes to the overall immersive nature of the performances held within its walls. [^Review]
For students and faculty, these advanced facilities provide an unparalleled environment for honing their craft. The ability to work with and learn from such high-caliber technical infrastructure is a significant advantage, preparing them for professional careers in the performing arts.
Diverse Performance Landscape
This variety extends to the types of artists featured. Audiences can enjoy performances by Cornell University ensembles, Ithaca College students, and renowned professional dance companies like DOVA and Staibdance. This mix of academic and professional talent offers a unique perspective on the performing arts, showcasing both emerging talent and established artistry.
The inclusion of film screenings, such as documentaries on reproductive rights, further broadens the center's appeal, demonstrating its commitment to presenting a comprehensive range of cultural and artistic expressions. This commitment makes the Schwartz Center a vital cultural hub for the Ithaca community.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit