The Performance and Exhibition Section of the Penn State Altoona Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Fair is designed for undergraduate students for whom performing or exhibiting their work (music, theatre, dance, visual arts, poetry, creative writing, etc.) is a scholarly endeavor. Solo and small ensemble entries are acceptable. However, participants in a winning ensemble performance must split the prize money.
- Each performance must be no longer than fifteen minutes (at least twelve minutes). The performance should be prefaced or followed with an explanation of its creation or selection (see ideas requested of abstract).
- Students can perform one or more complete works or excerpts from one or more works.
- Each presenter should be prepared to discuss and answer questions about their presentation.
- Limited time will be available between performances for stage preparation.
- An easel, a/v supplies, piano, music stands, and chairs can be supplied. Please indicate your needs on the entry form.
- Performers are required to provide their own accompanists, other instruments, props, etc.
Each performance or exhibition entry must include a 250-word abstract or description. This abstract will be made available to the judges before the performance or exhibit and will function during the performance in the place of program notes for judges. The following points should be included:
- Why the work(s) was chosen and/or created; this discussion should show knowledge of the art form created or performed, such as its history in terms of the artistic tradition into which it fits. This discussion could also delve into the traditions and/or figures that influenced the creation of this work.
- The challenges to the performer(s)/exhibitors in presenting and/or creating the work(s); explanations of the process of creation would be appropriate as well.