
The McCullough Theatre is a performing arts venue located on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin in Austin, Texas. It is named after a former university president, Harry Ransom, who helped establish the university’s fine arts program. The venue hosts a variety of performing arts events throughout the year, including musical performances, dance productions, and theatrical shows.
The McCullough Theatre was built in 1980 as part of the Butler School of Music complex on the University of Texas campus. It was designed by the architectural firm of Kallman, McKinnell & Wood and featured a modernist design with clean lines, large windows, and a spacious lobby area. The 400-seat theatre has a thrust stage, which allows the audience to sit on three sides of the performance space, giving them an intimate view of the performers.
One of the unique features of the McCullough Theatre is its acoustics. The venue is renowned for its excellent sound quality, which is achieved through a combination of architectural design and advanced sound technology. The theatre has adjustable acoustic curtains, which can be used to fine-tune the sound for different types of performances. In addition, the theatre has state-of-the-art sound equipment, including a surround sound system and a digital mixing console.
The theatre hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including performances by the university’s music, dance, and theatre departments, as well as touring productions and concerts. The venue is particularly well-known for its annual Texas Performing Arts season, which features world-class musicians, dancers, and theatre companies from around the globe.
In addition to its performances, the McCullough Theatre also serves as a teaching and learning resource for the University of Texas community. The venue is used for rehearsals, master classes, and workshops, providing students with hands-on experience in the performing arts. The theatre also houses a recording studio, which is used for music production and audio engineering classes.
Visitors to the McCullough Theatre can expect a world-class performing arts experience in a beautiful and modern venue. The theatre’s intimate seating arrangement and exceptional acoustics make it an ideal location for both small and large-scale performances. The theatre also offers a range of amenities, including a spacious lobby, a concessions area, and wheelchair-accessible seating.
If you’re planning to attend a performance at the McCullough Theatre, it’s recommended that you arrive early to allow time to park and find your seat. Parking is available in nearby garages, and the theatre is easily accessible by public transportation. It’s also a good idea to check the theatre’s website for information about upcoming performances and to purchase tickets in advance.
What Activities Can You Enjoy There?

The McCullough Theatre offers a variety of performing arts events throughout the year, providing a range of entertainment options for visitors. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy at the theatre:
- Music Performances: The McCullough Theatre hosts a range of musical performances, including classical, jazz, world, and contemporary music. The venue is particularly well-known for its annual Texas Performing Arts season, which features world-class musicians and ensembles from around the globe. Visitors can enjoy everything from solo recitals to large-scale orchestral performances.
- Dance Performances: The theatre is also a popular venue for dance productions, featuring a range of styles from classical ballet to contemporary dance. The venue hosts performances by the university’s dance department, as well as touring companies from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dance styles and techniques performed by talented dancers and choreographers.
- Theatre Productions: The McCullough Theatre is home to the University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Theatre and Dance and regularly hosts theatrical productions throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy everything from classic plays to modern productions featuring talented actors and directors. The theatre also hosts visiting theatre companies, providing audiences with a diverse range of performances.
- Master Classes and Workshops: In addition to performances, the McCullough Theatre serves as a teaching and learning resource for the University of Texas community. The venue hosts master classes and workshops for students and the public, providing opportunities to learn from professional performers and instructors. Visitors can participate in classes and workshops covering a range of topics, from music and dance to acting and directing.
- Recording Studio: The theatre also houses a recording studio, which is used for music production and audio engineering classes. Visitors can enjoy tours of the studio and learn about the recording process, as well as attend recording sessions and live performances.
Visitors to the McCullough Theatre can enjoy a range of performing arts activities, from classical music to contemporary theatre. The venue’s versatile performance space and exceptional acoustics make it a popular location for a variety of events, and visitors can experience world-class performances in a beautiful and modern setting.
In conclusion, the McCullough Theatre is an important part of the performing arts scene in Austin, Texas, offering a unique and high-quality experience for both performers and audiences. Its excellent acoustics, modern design, and versatile performance space make it a valuable resource for the University of Texas and the wider community.
Important Information Need to Know
- Address: 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712, United States
- Website: http://texasperformingarts.org/
- Contact: +15124711444
- Open Hours: N/A