#USA #Franklin #Performing Arts #Dean College #Stephen Ursprung

Dean College Unveils Its 2025-2026 Performing Arts Season

As the 2025-2026 academic year kicks off, Dean College is ready to captivate and engage audiences with its vibrant performing arts programs. This season comes with heightened enthusiasm and a refreshed lineup that aims to showcase the talents of both students and faculty.

Leadership Changes and Commitment to Excellence

With this new season, Dean College welcomes Stephen Ursprung as the new dean of the Joan Phelps Palladino School of Dance and the School of the Arts. An esteemed faculty member for many years, Ursprung brings a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to student-focused learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. His vision emphasizes not only academic excellence but also the importance of real-world preparation in the performing arts.

An Exciting Lineup of Productions

Dean College has built a reputation for its high-quality theatre and dance training, and the 2025-2026 season is no exception. The calendar is filled with an enticing variety of performances, catering to diverse artistic tastes. Here’s what to look forward to throughout the year:

• - The Wolves – October 15-19, 2025
• - Fall Dance Concert – October 31-November 1, 2025
• - Cabaret – November 12-16, 2025
• - New Dancer Showcase – November 21-22, 2025
• - New Thespian Showcase – November 22-23, 2025
• - Faculty Dance Works – December 5-6, 2025
• - Much Ado About Nothing – February 18-22, 2026
• - Choreographers' Concert – February 27-28, 2026
• - The Prom – April 8-12, 2026
• - Dance Company – April 23-26, 2026
• - Theatre Senior Showcase – April 26-27, 2026
• - Dance Senior Showcase – May 1-2, 2026

Affordable Ticketing Options

In an effort to make the arts accessible, ticket prices range from $12 to $22 per show. For those looking to make the most out of their experience, Dean College is offering full-season ticket packages at a 25% discount. The Full Season Package (covering all eight performances) is priced at $132 for the general public and $72 for seniors and non-Dean students. Additionally, all performances are available to Dean students for just $5.

Focused packages are also available:

• - Theatre Series Package (includes four productions: "The Wolves," "Cabaret," "Much Ado About Nothing," and "The Prom") at $66 for the general public, and $36 for seniors and non-students.
• - Dance Series Package (including performances: "Fall Dance Concert," "Faculty Dance Works," "Choreographers' Concert," and "Dance Company") at similar prices.

Tickets can be purchased online via www.dean.edu/performance, with individual show tickets going on sale beginning September 1, 2025.

A Celebration of Creativity

“The performing arts have the power to inspire, challenge, and unite us,” noted Dean Ursprung. “This upcoming season reflects the passion and dedication of our students and faculty, and we're honored to share their creative voices with audiences throughout the year.”
With a strong artistic vision, a dedicated faculty, and a community of emerging artists, Dean College’s performing arts programs are committed to offering exceptional productions that are both intellectually and emotionally engaging.

About Dean College

Founded over 160 years ago, Dean College is a private, residential institution located in Franklin, Massachusetts. The college prides itself on fostering an environment that supports both academic achievement and personal growth. Dean College cultivates a community where students are encouraged to become lifelong learners, embrace social responsibility, and exhibit leadership qualities, making it a distinctive place of higher education.