University of Utah
PTC + U of U
World Class Theatre at the U
Pioneer Theatre Company at the University of Utah: A Lasting Partnership
Since its founding in 1962, Pioneer Theatre Company has proudly sat in residence as a professional arts affiliate at the University of Utah. Over the years, PTC has not only served as a destination for the community to experience the best theatre in Utah, but also as an incubator for new works. Through new play programming, such as PTC’s Play-by-Play series, cutting-edge works have debuted as in-progress, and later, enjoyed productions across the nation. PTC has also served as the home to many world premieres, including Ass by Ellen Simon, A Distinct Society by Kareem Fahmy, and Alabama Story by Kenneth Jones. Perhaps most notably, the world premiere, pre-Broadway engagement of the 9-time Tony-nominated musical Shucked (book by Robert Horn; music and lyrics by Brandy Clark & Shane McAnally) happened at PTC in 2022.
In spring 2024, PTC deepened its relationship with the University of Utah by opening the Meldrum Theatre at the Einar Nielsen Field House. The historic field house—nearly a century old—is an iconic fixture on the U’s campus, but one that had fallen out of practical use for the community. Housed within the historic structure, the Meldrum Theatre, named after PTC benefactor, The Meldrum Foundation, is a state-of-the-art theatre space that allows for PTC to bring its audiences a more intimate experience for select works. Additionally, the Meldrum Theatre will allow future generations of theatre professionals to hone their craft through its use by the University of Utah’s Department of Theatre.
Our Arts Affiliates
University of Utah Arts Affiliate Network
Pioneer Theatre Company is part of a vibrant cohort of arts organizations—each of them also in residence at the University of Utah. Whether it be standing in awe of the natural wonders of the Utah, celebrating the unique talents of Utah artists, or providing platforms for artists from around the world, this network of arts affiliates is one of which the University and community-at-large can be proud.
"NHMU's mission is to illuminate the natural world and the place of humans within it. This mission is integral to our strategic plan, which focuses on expanding our reach and impact by advancing cutting-edge research and science education, developing innovative exhibits, and engaging with communities near and far."
"Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West and together with the University of Utah, is the State Arboretum of Utah. We are located on 100 acres in the foothills on the eastern edge of the University of Utah campus. The Garden has welcomed guests since 1985 and consists of over 21 acres of developed gardens and five miles of hiking trails winding through an extensive Natural Area. The Garden; which is community-funded; is renowned for its numerous plant collections, display gardens, 560,000 springtime blooming bulbs; including a vast collection of daffodils; gorgeous private event spaces, a world-class outdoor concert series, and award-winning horticulture-based educational programs."
"Virginia Tanner created the Tanner Dance Program in 1949, and today the program continues to nurture an appreciation of dance, music, literature, theater and visual arts in a beautiful home, the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts and Education Complex. The program reaches over 40,000 children and adults throughout Utah each year through Children’s Dance Theatre, the Virginia Tanner Creative Dance and Studio Program with classes on the University of Utah campus and in satellite locations throughout Utah, the Arts in Education Program, the Fine Arts Preschool and French Immersion Preschool, and Dancers with Disabilities programs for children and adults. Tanner Dance is an arts auxiliary of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Utah and is dedicated to the University’s mission of teaching, research, and service."
"The Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) at the University of Utah is your destination for global visual arts. From ancient objects to the latest contemporary works, the UMFA galleries showcase the breadth and depth of human history and creativity. The Museum’s collection of nearly 20,000 original works of art is the most dynamic in the region. As the fine arts museum for both the state and the University, the UMFA is a vibrant hub for cultural exchange among campus and community audiences."
"UtahPresents, a multi-disciplinary presenter at the University of Utah, brings diverse artistic and cultural experiences to campus and the region, exploring and enriching the human experience through the lens of creativity and the arts. As stewards of the iconic Kingsbury Hall, we provide a valuable gathering space for community events and campus partners. Through a breadth of collaborations, UtahPresents encourages curiosity, enhances cultural vibrancy, and creates connections beyond the stage ."
Upcoming Events
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University of Utah Discounts
For Students (University of Utah Arts Pass)
Current University of Utah students are eligible for two $5 tickets (per valid UCard) to any PTC production. To take advantage of this offer, made possible through the College of Fine Arts Arts Pass program, students may visit the PTC Box Office (located in the Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre) and show their UCard to purchase. Please note: this offer is even valid for multiple viewings of the same production.
For Staff and Faculty
Pioneer Theatre Company is proud to offer all University of Utah employees (faculty and staff—including U Health) a 50% discount on ALL tickets purchased. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the PTC Box Office (located in the Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre) by showing a valid UCard.
