Emerson College owns more performance space than any other institution in Boston. The performance and production spaces utilized by the Department of Performing Arts include the recently renovated Paramount Center, the Cutler Majestic Theatre, and the Tufte Performance and Production Center. 

Cutler Majestic Theatre

Emerson’s largest theater seats nearly 1,200 and is beautifully appointed in the beaux-arts style. The Culter Majestic Theatre is a Broadway-style proscenium stage theater and was built in 1903.

Robert J. Orchard Stage

Originally a movie palace, the Paramount first opened in 1932. It was renovated by Emerson College to include two performance venues among many other features. The new Paramount Center honors the glory of the original art deco designs within the building. The largest performance venue, the Robert J. Orchard Stage, seats 590.

Semel Theater

The Semel Theater, located in the Tufte Performance and Production Center (PPC) is a thrust stage with seating for 216. If features a tension-wire grid overhead and a trapped stage underfoot.

Student Performance Center

The Student Performance Center is the largest student event and production space on campus with a capacity of 200. Use the space as you wish, with rows of chairs for your audience or completely open for rehearsals or performances. It's up to you!

Design and Technology Studio

The primary classroom, laboratory, and meeting place for Theatre Design/Technology students is located in the Tufte PPC. The main studio includes a drafting and rendering area, CAD lab, sound station, and craft space. Additionally, a 400-square foot light lab sits adjacent to the main studio for lighting design instruction and the testing of designs.

Scene Shop

The scene shop is housed in the Paramount Center and includes instruction and work space for scenic construction, prop construction and stagecraft, and scenic painting.

Costume Shop

The costume shop is located in the Tufte PPC and boasts more than 10,000 costume pieces. The shop is fully equipped for the training of costume designers and craftspeople. The space includes three cutting tables, eight domestic and four industrial sewing machines, an industrial leather machine, two industrial sergers, and an ironing station. There is a separate fitting room for actors, a dye and craft room, and a large room for costume storage.

Bobbi Brown and Steven Plofker Design Technology and Makeup Suite

The Bobbi Brown and Steven Plofker Design Technology and Makeup Suite is located in the Tufte PPC and includes instruction space for makeup courses and two large dressing rooms.

Rehearsal Studios and Practice Rooms

Nine rehearsal studios are located in the Paramount Center. The studios are used as class and rehearsal space. An additional five practice rooms equipped with pianos are located near the rehearsal studios.