Michigan State University’s largest presenter of performing arts, Wharton Center, has a long history of presenting quality programs since opening its doors in 1982. It encompasses four unique stages, including the Cobb Great Hall, the Pasant Theatre, MSU Concert Auditorium and Fairchild Theatre, all of which bring the world’s best shows, musicians, dance companies, and other high profile performers to mid-Michigan. During the 1970s, MSU President Clifton Wharton and his wife Dolores described the arts “as a humanizing, unifying force in our world, bringing people together across vast cultural, social, economic and geographic divisions”. Their desire to create a world-class performing arts center for the residents of Michigan became a reality in the fall of 1982. Since then Wharton Center has hosted countless Broadway blockbusters including Wicked, The Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera, and many more.
Wharton Center is much more than the performances that grace its stages; whether it’s the countless programs integrating the arts and academics or the engagement activities that take Wharton Center into the community, a key part of Wharton Center’s mission is to enrich lives and strengthen the value of the arts in everyday life.
The Ticket Office is open Monday-Friday from 10:00AM to 5:00PM and 2 hours prior to each performance. It is located inside the Main Lobby of Wharton Center on the Campus of Michigan State University at 750 E. Shaw LN, East Lansing, MI 48824.