Peterson Fine Arts is home to the Music Department, housing Ramsey Theatre and the Black Box Theatre, both used frequently for music concerts and theatre performances. Classrooms and practice rooms are also available throughout the building.
Peterson brings culture to the campus, community, and region. With programming that includes performances in theatre, music, and dance by national touring companies, regional artists, and our own faculty and students, Wayne State College provides more than 100 annual performances free of charge to our faculty, staff, students, and surrounding communities.
The Peterson Fine Arts Building was constructed in 1963, and the Lied addition for the theatre program was added in 2001. The renovation was completed in 2023. Before renovation, the infrastructure of the building remained relatively unchanged, despite standards for acoustics and accessibility changing significantly. The improvements in the $13 million renovation and addition are expected to attract high-quality student and professional artists and make it possible for our performing arts programs to meet current industry standards for acoustics and accessibility.
Facility upgrades include:
- New rehearsal spaces for the bands and choirs with ample space, professional acoustics, natural light, and easily accessible on the main level
- Improved acoustics in all practice rooms and teaching studios, making them safer for performers
- Upgrades to Ramsey Theatre to support larger acts and productions
- Improved accessibility with a new central elevator, a ramp to the Ramsey stage, a family restroom, and additional seating for spectators with mobility limitations
- Ample student work, study, and practice space for collaboration and conversation
- An expanded atrium for receptions and public gatherings
