Opened in fall 2010, the Gaertner Performing Arts Center is a showcase for artistic talent and creative works, serving the community and the region. It serves as a world-class academic facility for students in the College of Arts & Media.
Features:
- 800-seat concert hall (right, top)
- 175-seat Recital hall (right, middle)
- 150-seat dance theatre (right, bottom)
- Outdoor performance space
- Dance studios
- Practice rooms
- Dressing rooms
- Audition areas
- Scene shop for set construction
- Costume shop
- More than 90,000 square feet of total space
Putting the Art in the James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center
The marriage of art and architecture elevates Sam Houston State University’s, 100,000 square foot James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center to a rare space on campus. WHR Architects, along with a University art committee, chose Art + Artisans, a Texas art consulting firm, to help commission the public art for the space.
Eight major works comprise the heart of the original collection. Most prominent is a 16-foot wood and steel installation, "Around the Flower Wall" by internationally known sculptor James Surls, a University Alumnus and former art professor.
Work by photographer Joe Aker, glass artists Kathleen Ash and Jason Lawson, renowned SHSU former professor emeritus of art Charles Pebworth, kinetic sculptor Tim Prentice and sculptor Hoss Haley are all represented within the facility.
On permanent loan is another major sculpture by Texas artist Jesus Moroles.
Upcoming Events
To view the extensive events calendar for this spectacular performance space and for the College of Arts & Media in general, click here.
Department of Dance
815 17th Street, Suite 150, Huntsville, TX 77340
Phone: (936) 294-3342 or (936) 294-1875 | E-mail: shsudance@shsu.edu
Support the Future of Creativity
At Sam Houston State University’s College of Arts & Media, students don’t just study the arts—they live them. Every day, they grow as creators, storytellers, performers, and visionaries, shaping the world around them through their work.
Your gift helps provide the tools, experiences, and mentorship that fuel their transformation. Whether it’s a scholarship, a spotlight on stage, or access to industry-leading resources, your support makes a lasting impact.
Ways to Make a Difference
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Scholarships
Contribute to the College of Arts & Media Scholarship Fund and help talented students overcome financial barriers as they pursue degrees in the arts, media, and communication. Your support helps us recruit, retain, and empower the next generation of creative leaders. -
Enrichment Fund
A gift to the College of Arts & Media Enrichment Fund gives the Dean the flexibility to support student research, fund travel to performances and conferences, and launch creative initiatives where they’re needed most. -
Department and Program Support
Donors may also choose to support a specific academic department or school—directly impacting the students, faculty, and programs they’re most passionate about. -
Legacy Gifts
Interested in establishing a named fund or making a planned gift? Contact the CAM Dean’s Office or the SHSU University Advancement team to explore long-term giving options.
Join Us in Shaping the Arts
Every contribution—big or small—nurtures the next generation of creative minds. Thank you for believing in the power of the arts and in the students who are ready to make their mark.
Make your gift today and help us fuel the future of creativity.