Dr. Tom Stafford, former vice chancellor for student affairs, now retired, describes Thompson Hall as NC State’s most beautiful building. Join us for the newest tour in his notable campus buildings series and decide whether you agree. Thompson Hall was built in 1925 and once housed the university gymnasium. These days you may be more familiar with it as the location of Thompson Theater and the Craft Center. You will learn about the history of the building and receive a backstage tour of the theaters and all that goes into staging a production. See where the sets are made, where costumes are fashioned, dressing rooms, scenery props, a fabulous collection of shoes in every color and size, and much more.The second part of our visit will take us to the Crafts Center, one of the largest in the country on a university campus. You will be amazed at the number of different crafts the center can cater to, providing all the equipment, classes, and space for individuals to work on their own projects in their own time. There will be a unique opportunity at the end of the tour, but that will be a surprise!

Notes: Wear comfortable shoes as we will be walking and standing for most of the tour. Participants will be required to comply with all NC State University COVID-19 directives in place at the time of this study trip. Details will be provided via email nearer the date. If you find yourself unable to participate in this trip, please contact the office; no substitutions are permitted.  

Includes: Presentation and visit to Thompson Hall. Participants will provide their own transport to Thompson Hall, or may choose to ride NC State's free Wolfline bus from the McKimmon Center.

Meeting Time:  Front entrance of Thompson Hall at 9:45 am

End time:  Approximately 12:00 pm

Registration Deadline: September 16