Posted 3:25 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025
Step into one of the most vibrant and creative spaces on the UW–La Crosse campus — the School of Visual & Performing Arts (VPA). From early morning rehearsals to late-night set builds, the VPA is alive with music, theatre, dance, visual art, collaboration and community. Students describe it as the “New York City” of campus — a place constantly in motion and full of possibility.
In this video, Paige Verbsky, ’25, an arts administration major, takes you on a tour of what makes UWL one of the best performing arts colleges in the region. Discover how students in visual arts, music, theatre and dance are empowered to pursue their creative passions both in and outside the classroom.
With over 60 music performances annually, students like Colin Miller, music education major, share how leadership opportunities begin in their very first year — no seniority required. “There are people in the musicals and plays here — it could be their first time trying out and they get a lead role,” says Miller.
Meanwhile, the Theatre & Dance Department, nationally-awarded and industry-connected, prepares students for success on stage, backstage and even in prime-time television.
Across every discipline, students say it’s the faculty that make the difference.
“Having professors be so supportive in my UWL journey as a freshman has been phenomenal,” shares Matthew Tollefson, music theatre major.
Learn more about our programs in visual arts, music, theatre and dance on the UWL Visual & Performing Arts webpage.