News

On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, Delegate Kathy Tran presented Mason Community Arts Academy Executive Director Mary Lechter with House Resolution 804, in honor of Acting for Young People’s (AFYP) 25th anniversary in 2022. AFYP is a partner program within Mason Community Arts Academy (MCAA) the community arts education division of Mason’s College of Visual and Performing Arts.

George Mason University student researchers were among those that gathered on the Fairfax Campus in March for the Access to Research and Inclusive Excellence (ARIE) National Conference. In addition to speakers and breakout sessions on various topics, the two-day conference opened with a poster session with 49 groups presenting their research.

Prof. Andy Yoder is featured in a new exhibition on April 6, 2024 called 'Strata of Synthesis' at Mono Practice in Baltimore, MD. The work in the exhibition examines the natural world as a fantastical state and proposes connections in historical and contemporary crises relating to intricate layers of domestic and societal narratives.

Despite pursuing different degrees within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, each of these alumni found transformative connections during their Mason experience, impacting their outlook on the world as well as their creative futures.

At George Mason University Dewberry School of Music, the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, directed by Dr. Darden Purcell, has notably marked the past year with accolades that spotlight not just their musical aptitude but the inclusive spirit that defines the university.

On February 17, A.I.M by Kyle Abraham presented a thrilling collection of works by acclaimed choreographers, including its artistic director and MacArthur Genius Award-winning choreographer Kyle Abraham. As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, members of A.I.M by Kyle Abraham worked with Mason as well as communities within Manassas, Washington, D.C., and local communities in a variety of activities ranging from classroom visits to A.I.M Movement Workshops that brought participants up on their feet.

The Philadelphia Dance Company, better known as PHILADANCO!, is widely recognized for its artistic integrity, superbly trained dancers, and electrifying performances. On March 15, PHILADANCO! will perform a dynamic program at the Hylton Performing Arts Center and, as a Hylton Center Artist-in-Residence, members of the company and artistic staff will also work with the community through classes, workshops, and discussions surrounding their performance.

George Mason University’s School of Dance presents the 2024 Mason School of Dance Gala Concert on March 22 and 23, celebrating a rich array of diverse choreographic voices that span from the early days of modern dance to the freshest perspectives of today.

The world premiere of Twelve Ophelias from Mason's School of Theater and the Mason Players is being performed in TheatreSpace on Mason's Fairfax campus from February 22-25, 2024.

Mason alum Jada Salter has created a feature-length documentary about her grandfather, award-winning composer and songwriter William (Bill) Salter. The film is called "Just the Two of Us" after his Grammy Award-winning hit song.

George Mason University School of Dance professor Lawrence Jackson and students attended the International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance in January 2024.

Two-time Mason alum Jamie VanValkenburg directed the Oakton High School Marching Band to victory in the inaugural Metallica marching band competition “For Whom the Band Tolls!”