In addition to the Theatre, the Performing Arts Center includes a Lab Theatre for smaller productions and rehearsal space, Green Room, classrooms, dressing rooms, scene shop and costume lab.
Project Background
Vincennes University, through the financial support of the Indiana Legislature and private donations, is working to preserve and honor the memory and legacy of Red Skelton.
The site of the Performing Arts Center is within a block of Red Skelton's birthplace in Vincennes. Less than a month after his death on September 7, 1997, the Vincennes University Board of Trustees, on October 6, voted to seek funding to construct the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center.
VU and the State of Indiana believe the legacy of Red Skelton should be preserved and shared with future generations, not only because his life is a shining example of what is good about America, but also because of the opportunity this country offers to all. Red did not let abject poverty keep him from his dream to entertain and serve others, nor did he ever use it as an excuse.
Red took his God-given talent and combined it with hard work and a genuine love of others to accomplish great entertainment and humanitarian achievements that continue to benefit people of all ages today.
One of America's greatest clowns, Red was an internationally beloved entertainer and a great humanitarian with uncompromising family values. Further, he was a devoted patriot who deeply loved his country.
The Red Skelton Performing Arts Center was officially dedicated on Friday, February 24, 2006. When Vincennes University opened the doors to the Center, it opened a world of opportunity to students, visitors and fans from around the globe.
