Performance Spaces

The largest performance space on campus with seating for 1,200, Finney Chapel stands at the heart of Oberlin's intellectual and musical life. When completed in 1908, the chapel became noted for its excellent acoustics. Architect Cass Gilbert's Romanesque arches and oak pews give the place a grand majesty, while a monumental C.B. Fisk pipe organ lends a genuinely soulful feel.

During the academic year, events take place at Finney nearly every night of the week. Most are free. Recent and coming highlights include concerts by Animal Collective, Bobby Conn, and Sweet Honey in the Rock; classical music performances by Apollo's Fire, violinist Midori, and tenor Juan Diego Flórez; and thought-provoking talks by composer-lyricist Stephen Sondheim, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, and Michael Pollan, author of The Omnivore's Dilemma.

Smaller plays are performed in the Hall Auditorium Annex's Little Theater, which provides a more intimate performance space. The annex also houses classrooms and faculty offices.