You know Generic Theatre and the Department of Theatre and Dance. But what is CPAC?

CPAC stands for Creative Performing Arts Community, one of the Community Living and Learning programs for freshmen. Students interested in CPAC must apply to the program by submitting portfolios and answering a series of essay questions.

CPAC tries to embody all of the arts, said Ann Cenatiempo, the community director.

The number and type of programs CPAC decides to produce each year depends on the group of students. Actually, everything depends on the students when it comes to CPAC.

For theater performances, the students decide what show to do and buy the rights to the show. Members of CPAC decide what role they want to take, if they want to be behind the scenes, such as the director, stage manager or technical director. Then, they hold auditions for the show. Anyone, not just members of CPAC, can audition for the show. But even after all that, they are responsible for finding props and costumes and doing everything else that makes a performance succeed.

Each month the CPAC also holds an open-mic coffeehouse. Students are encouraged to read poetry, sing, play an instrument or anything else. But, the arrangements for the coffeehouse are the responsibility of the CPAC members.

Although the members of CPAC are a select group of talented students, they offer all students a chance to participate in or simply enjoy the arts.