Our Vision
Once this restoration project is completed, the Matesich Theatre will offer the campus and local community access to a valuable, comfortable and state-of-the-art venue in which to learn, celebrate and be entertained.
We Need Your Help
We invite you to make a donation to support future improvements to our newly refurbished Matesich Theatre.
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Society Giving Levels for the Restoration Project
The renovation of ODU's Matesich Theatre will empower and engage student participation in campus life, the performing arts and personal development. It also will give members of our community a comfortable place to gather.
Please help us bring this gem back to its original brilliance.
Society Giving Levels |
Sr. Elizabeth Seton, O.P. Society | $50,000 and above |
The Little Theater Society | $25,000 - $49,999 |
Merry Masquers Society | $15,000 - $24,999 |
Revels Society | $10,000 - $14,999 |
Panther Players Society | $5,000 - $9,999 |
Friends of Matesich Theatre | $1,000 - $4,999 |
Patrons | $500 - $999 |
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Save Your Seat Campaign
Show your support for Ohio Dominican by participating in our "Save Your Seat" campaign. For $750, we’ll affix a brass plate with your name – or the name of someone you wish to honor – to a seat in our theater. This is a great way to support the theater’s restoration and have a lasting presence on campus for years to come.
Save Your Seat
The Matesich Theatre Throughout History
The theater has served as a valuable campus and community resource over the past 90 years. A lifetime of memories has walked across its stage: convocations and commencements; performers and presenters; community events and international luminaries. Here are some pictures taken throughout its history.
The Theatre was named after Sr. Mary Andrew Matesich, O.P. in 2005, who served as ODU’s president for 23 years.
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Legendary actress Telulah Bankhead performs in The Little Theatre in this undated photo.
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Students work backstage to build a set for an upcoming performance in The Little Theatre.
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Many students and alumni reflect fondly on their performances in The Matesich Theatre.
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The Panther Players, ODU’s student theater group, perform “Grease.”
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An undated photo from a commencement ceremony when ODU was known as the College of St. Mary of the Springs.
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Students attend the St. Thomas Aquinas Convocation in 2014.
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An undated photo from a commencement ceremony when ODU was then known as the College of St. Mary of the Springs.
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The Mission
Sr. Mary Andrew Matesich, OP stated in a speech in October of 1996, "Our life study is incomplete unless we share what we learn with others in our families, our Church, our workplaces, our local communities, and the world community."
The Matesich Theatre reflects our mission. Its restoration will symbolize our renewed commitment to this mission, and provide space for local schools and organizations in Columbus and surrounding areas.
With the newly renovated theater, we envision a dynamic relationship with local arts groups, Catholic and public schools, civic organizations, and of course our own students and faculty. Prominent speakers, conferences, and arts activities will be able to take our stage, and our stage will take us to new brand recognition and prestige in the Central Ohio community..
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