Buffalo State’s spring arts events amplify student voices
Buffalo State University fosters an environment in which students are encouraged to explore and express their talents. The university’s music, theater, art and design, fashion and textile technology, and writing programs—among others—enrich the campus’ cultural and diverse landscape and offer students an array of applied learning opportunities.
As part of preparation for careers dedicated to practical application of craft, student work is showcased across campus, providing opportunity for both celebration and networking.
Here are five student-driven arts events to check out this spring:
Women in Music Festival, presented by the Buffalo State Music Department in collaboration with The Nazareth University School of Music
March 5–9
Ciminelli Recital Hall, Rockwell Hall
Free
Buffalo State hosts the third annual Women in Music Festival, complete with panel discussions and concerts honoring often-overlooked female composers. The concert series begins on Thursday, March 6 at 12:15 p.m. with a performance by Buffalo State students.
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Ride the Cyclone, presented by the Buffalo State Theater Department and Casting Hall Productions
March 12–16
Flexible Theatre, Donald Savage Theater and Communication Building
Tickets: $9 to $23.50; student and faculty/staff pricing available at the box office (purchase online or with card at box office)
This musical turned viral sensation follows six teenagers on a heart-pounding, darkly comedic journey as they compete for the chance to return to life after a horrific roller coaster accident. Staged in the round in Buffalo State’s newly renovated Flexible Theatre, Ride the Cyclone draws audiences in and invites them to explore the definition of a life well-lived. All cast and crew members are Buffalo State students.
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Spring Art & Design Student Exhibition, presented by the Buffalo State Arts & Design Department
April 7 –May 7; hours vary
Czurles-Nelson Gallery, Upton Hall
Free
This month-long exhibit showcases the artwork of upper-level arts and design students at Buffalo State. See ceramics, fibers, graphic design, metals/jewelry, painting, photography, sculpture, interior design, and wood/furniture work during the gallery’s public viewing hours. A reception and awards ceremony takes place on May 1 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; refreshments will be served.
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RUNWAY, presented by Buffalo State Fashion and Textile Technology, Art & Design, Africana Studies, and Theater
April 26
Buffalo State Sports Arena
Tickets: $20 general, $100 VIP; early bird ticket pricing available through March 8
The Fashion and Textile Technology Department’s annual year-end showcase of student creation is an unforgettable night of couture. This year’s theme, “Intersectional Identity,” invites students to challenge convention as they display multifaceted senses of self that highlight the ways in which our differences unite us.
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Portrait Literary Magazine Launch, presented by the Buffalo State English Department
May 6
12:15-1:30 p.m.
Ketchum Hall (exact location TBD)
Free
Buffalo State’s student-run and edited literary magazine publishes student works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, artwork, and photography every semester with a print edition in the spring. The Portrait launch reveals a snapshot of campus culture with readings by student authors and artists; refreshments are provided.
This list is not comprehensive; Buffalo State offers a plethora of events throughout the year. Visit the website to learn more.
Photos by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.
