Walking down Locust, it seems like there are a countless number of a cappella groups, theater troupes and other indistinguishable singing, dancing and comedy groups, all crazily promoting their respective shows. But there's more to it than that.
The actual number of performing arts groups currently recognized by Penn is 45. If you include non-University recognized groups -- the Shabbatones and the Underground Shakespeare Company are two examples -- there are closer to 50. But before you think, "I knew it. There are too many groups," take a closer look at what each offers, and you just may see how they all contribute very differently to the arts community on campus.
As the outgoing community outreach chair of the Performing Arts Council, I have heard both the good and the bad, and observed both criticism and appreciation for student performing arts. While both perspectives are valid, I feel that most people are not aware of just how unique and diverse Penn's student performing arts groups are.
For example, the Glee Club is one of the oldest musical performing arts group in the country. Penn Masala is the nation's first Hindi a cappella group. Bloomers is the nation's first -- and only -- all-female sketch comedy troupe. Both Off the Beat and Chord on Blues have been featured on Fox News Channel's morning show.
The problems associated with having such a large number of groups, such as a lack of space and resources, are secondary to growth and improvement of performing arts. As a result, the rules and requirements for PAC membership are stringent -- but every group that is part of the organization deserves to be. And despite the fact that PAC passes legislation every year to make application more difficult, nearly a quarter of all current PAC groups were first admitted in the last five years.
We have brought in groups such as Y'alla, a Middle Eastern and belly dance troupe, which are unlike any other existing group. And while the number of shows may seem overwhelming, there is a strong student demand and support for it. We estimate that performing arts shows sell over 30,000 tickets a year, with most groups selling out one or more their shows; on the other end, over 1,200 students participate in performing arts groups.
Beyond the individual shows, PAC groups also provide free entertainment to many other organizations' events at Penn, whether on College Green or for fundraising coffeehouses. They are involved in the West Philadelphia community as well, through teaching classes in West Philly schools, donating tickets to their shows and performing at local events. And as I stood in the wings and watched all the groups perform at Freshman Performing Arts Night this past year, I felt a strong sense of school pride.
Our groups are excellent. They work unbelievably hard and put on affordable, quality shows for their fellow students to attend. And whether it's Chinese a cappella, African dance or experimental theater, each group is unique in purpose and performance.
So, next time you walk down Locust Walk, grab a flyer. And then go to a show. Trust me, you'll enjoy it.
