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News & Stories
Two high school students at UNCSA have placed in various categories of the 2026 YoungArts National Competition, which recognizes the nation's most accomplished emerging artists in the visual, literary, design and performing arts.
UNCSA has released a new episode of its podcast, "The Arts & Everything," which explores the intersection of society and the arts. Hosted by Chancellor Brian Cole, the podcast examines timely issues shaping the arts and their future through conversations with thought leaders and arts and entertainment industry experts.
UNCSA's 2025 Year in Review highlights the university's 60th anniversary, major gifts, new programs, national rankings and achievements across campus.
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 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
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
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
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!
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