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News & Stories

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The Artist's Vision — The Tide

In this behind-the-scenes look, student filmmakers share how they brought "The Tide," a psychological horror film set at the end of World War II, to life, transforming a single train car into a world of memory, fear and haunting beauty.

UNCSA students to join Dance Theatre of Harlem’s iconic “Firebird” on international tour
UNCSA students to join Dance Theatre of Harlem's iconic "Firebird" on international tour

Thirty-two students from the School of Dance at UNCSA have been cast in the corps de ballet of Dance Theatre of Harlem's revitalized production of Stravinsky's "Firebird'" which will tour to cities across the United States and abroad this fall and spring, including performances in Detroit; Paris; Norfolk, VA; and New York.

arts impact
Kenan Arts helps bring community arts stories to life nationwide

The Kenan Institute for the Arts partners with the Arts Impact Collaborative on a national documentary series exploring how art drives identity, belonging and creative connection in U.S. communities.

  • Chelsea Rose
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  • Joe Mantello
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  • Carl Forsman
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Scene Stealers

At UNCSA’s School of Drama, we’re more than actors — we’re artists, collaborators and changemakers bringing powerful stories to life. With creativity and craft, our students, faculty and alumni ignite the stage and screen, defining what it means to perform with purpose and passion.

Chelsea Rose
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Chelsea Gabrielle Rose

Acting

From isolation to inspiration, Drama alum Chelsea Gabrielle Rose found music in the silence. Amid the stillness of 2020, she sat at her out-of-tune piano in Durham, N.C., unknowingly beginning a creative journey that would define her final years at UNCSA. What started as quiet reflection became “Loving This Year,” an original musical born from resilience — a story of hope, healing and finding light in life’s hardest moments.

Read Chelsea's Story
Joe Mantello
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Joe Mantello

B.F.A. Drama '84

From his earliest days performing on UNCSA’s stages to directing some of Broadway’s most celebrated productions, Joe Mantello has spent a lifetime shaping stories that move and inspire. The two-time Tony Award winner and acclaimed actor-director has built a career grounded in curiosity, collaboration and courage — reminding us that the heart of great theater lies in its humanity.

Explore Joe's Journey
Carl Forsman
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Carl Forsman

Acting and Directing Faculty

From mentoring UNCSA Drama students to directing Hamlet under open skies, Carl Forsman’s love of theater is rooted in community. As co-artistic director of Piedmont Shakespeare Company, he’s helping launch a new tradition of accessible, high-caliber performance in the Piedmont Triad — proving that the magic of Shakespeare still belongs to everyone.

Inside Carl's Vision
The Nutcracker

Make “The Nutcracker” part of your holiday plans

The sweetest holiday tradition returns to the Piedmont Triad for the 60th consecutive year as UNCSA brings “The Nutcracker” to the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. Create unforgettable memories with family and friends as you celebrate the season with wonder, whimsy and dance!

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Alumni Success

From backstage to the limelight, discover how UNCSA alumni are making their mark in the world.