Everyone is raving about the new DeBartolo Performing Arts Center. I can't blame them; it's quite impressive in size and décor. After taking a look at the stage in the DPAC, I became very excited about the possibility of the newly founded Dance Company of Notre Dame performing at such a great venue.
But I've come to find out only students from registered Notre Dame classes are permitted to use the stage. Therefore, Professor James McKenna's tap class could use the facility for its show this past semester, but the Dance Company of Notre Dame, a registered club, cannot. I understand there is an overwhelming amount of interest in the space and that the University might find itself with "suggestions" from benefactors as to what the DPAC should be used for, but I believe students should be included. There are dancers' parents who have donated money to the construction of the DPAC whose daughters cannot dance on the stage they helped finance.
Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled the Philharmonic is coming (not so thrilled I couldn't get a ticket, though) and the University should continue to bring such accredited performing groups. Just give the students a chance, too.
Ashley Lucchese
Dance Company of Notre Dame, President
Jan. 31
