Basement Arts

Basement Arts is a student theatre group housed within and subsidized by the University of Michigan Department of Theatre and Drama. Our goal is to produce high-quality, free theatre for the U-M and Ann Arbor communities. We strive to present not only plays but all types of performances free of charge. 

Basement Arts is student-run theatre organization that has given the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor community FREE theatre for over 20 years! From classic dramas to contemporary farces, original musicals and late night events, there's something for everyone at Basement Arts.

Called “Ann Arbor’s best kept secret” by the Ann Arbor News, Basement Arts produces a different show almost every weekend of the school year (about 6-8 shows a year). Basement Arts has been a training ground for hundreds of aspiring actors, writers, directors, and designers. Our alum include Lucy Liu (Ally McBeal), Matt Letscher (Mask of Zorro), Jessica Cauffiel (Legally Blonde), Miriam Shor (Hedwig and the Angry Inch), and Tony Nominee Ceilia Keenan-Bolger (The Putnam County Spelling Bee).

All shows are directed, designed, and performed by students, allowing them to experiment and explore all aspects of theatre. Basement Arts continues to be a playground for artists, and the premiere venue for diverse and adventurous productions.