The University of Illinois Springfield Theatre Program has been listed as one of 40 finalists for the inaugural Performing Arts Technologies Lab by the Doris Duke Foundation.

Selected from a pool of 745 applications across 43 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, this recognition highlights UIS Theatre's innovative approach to integrating digital technologies in the performing arts.

“We’re delighted by the recognition of our hardworking tiny theatre program, which does amazing work with students, alumni and community members—first this year’s Telly Awards for their collaboration with the UIS Office of Electronic Media), and now this,” said Miriam Wallace, dean of the UIS College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. “It’s an impressive group of finalists and it’s so special to be part of an inaugural cohort of arts organizations on the cutting edge of where performing arts is going.”

The lab will provide funding for prototyping and feasibility testing, access to production advisors and opportunities for knowledge and network-building.

“It is evident that there is growing interest throughout the industry to experiment with the ways the performing arts can harness the power of technology,” said Ashley Ferro-Murray, arts program director at the Doris Duke Foundation. “Consistent with our mission, we are excited to engage with the field through every step of this process to explore how we might advance artistic development, both for those who work in the creative industries and for audiences.”

The 40 finalists will advance to the next phase, where a cohort of grantees will be selected to join a five-month exploratory period focusing on their innovative projects. The final list of lab grantees will be announced in September 2024.