History & Mission
Delta State University’s Bologna Performing Arts Center, funded by the Mississippi legislature in 1994, stands as a cutting-edge facility designed to provide a vibrant array of cultural and educational programs for the entire Mississippi Delta community. Opening its doors on September 1, 1995, this multi-disciplinary venue spans 43,000 square feet and boasts a fully equipped stage, orchestra lift, and two distinct performance spaces: the 1,132-seat Delta & Pine Land Theatre and the 145-seat Recital Hall.
Recognized as a premier destination for entertainment and the arts in Mississippi and the Southeast, the Bologna Performing Arts Center has garnered accolades such as the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts. Mississippi Magazine has also named it the Best Performing Arts Venue in the state. This center consistently draws top-tier programming, outstanding artists, and compelling performances that contribute to the enrichment and entertainment of the Delta community.
The diverse cultural and educational offerings at the Bologna Performing Arts Center cater to a wide audience. Main Stage performances encompass high-profile, star-studded concerts, national Broadway tours, national tours of educational productions, and family-friendly shows. The center also hosts numerous events organized by Delta State University and local community groups each year.
Furthermore, the Bologna Performing Arts Center is deeply committed to arts education. Annually, it hosts the Janice Wyatt Mississippi Summer Arts Institute, a comprehensive, immersive arts training program covering all arts disciplines. The School-Time Matinee Series, our series of performances for school groups provides enriching learning experiences in the performing arts for K-12 students annually.
Mission
The Bologna Performing Arts Center at Delta State University brings together artists and audiences to celebrate the arts, to enrich the cultural life of the Delta community, to educate and deepen the appreciation of the arts, and to explore the richness of our world heritage through artistic expression.
Generous Support for the Bologna Performing Arts Center
Performing Arts Building
Dr. and Mrs. N.A. Bologna
Greenville, Mississippi
In memory of Nina and Sam Bologna
Dr. Nino Antony Bologna
11/29/1918 – 10/05/2008
Dr. Nino Antony Bologna, a Greenville, Mississippi dermatologist and pediatrician, helped fund Delta State University’s Bologna Performing Arts Center. He is remembered for his generosity, work ethic and love for the Delta. Lifelong friend David “Boo” Ferriss stated, “I shall never forget him talking to me about his desire to do something for the arts in the Delta. After coming to Delta State’s campus and touring the new performing arts building, he was most impressed and could visualize what this center could mean to the arts of the Delta. It was with great pleasure that he and his wife, Betty, made a major gift to the center in memory of their children, Nina and Sam. The people of the Mississippi Delta and Delta State students will continue to enjoy and benefit from their generosity for years to come.”
Main Theatre Area
Delta and Pine Land Company
Scott, Mississippi
Gallery Area
LT Corporation
Cleveland, Mississippi
In honor of Marjorie H. Tims
Lobby Area
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Ross Capwell & National Community Services, Inc.
Memphis, Tennessee
Main Theatre Stage
Mr. and Mrs. Barney Chiz & Mr. and Mrs. Larry Chiz
Shaw, Mississippi
Recital Hall Stage
Gresham Petroleum Co. & Double Quick, Inc.
Indianola, Mississippi
In memory of John Joyce McPherson and Nadine Tatum McPherson
Upper East Lobby Reception Area
Mary Jane Whittington & Mabelle Garrard White
The Garrard Lounge
Upper West Lobby Reception Area
The Jerome C. Hafter Family
Greenville, Mississippi
In memory of Mary Margaret Fugler Hafter
East Lobby Reception Area
Zulene Ryals Harris, Francis Ryals Terry, Phyllis Ryals McDaniel, Martha Ryals Matlock & Margie Ryals Gerrard
The Ryals Lounge
There are many other opportunities to support the Bologna Performing Arts Center, including:
- West Lobby Reception Area
- Conference Room
- Green Room & Dressing Room Areas
- Performance sponsorship
- Series sponsorship
Please contact the Bologna Performing Arts Center, at bolognapac@deltastate.edu or (662) 846-4626 concerning additional naming opportunities, including programming and Main Stage series support.