Since 2005, the Katzen Arts Center at American University has nurtured a generation of actors and dancers, painters and sculptors, singers and songwriters, musicians and producers, arts managers and art historians. Now, this iconic AU landmark is celebrating its 20th birthday with a year of performances, exhibitions, and other special events. 

The Katzen is home to the Department of Art and Department of Performing Arts, along with the AU Museum. Students can study Studio Art, Graphic and Visual Communicaton Design, Photography, Art History, Arts Management, Audio Technology, Dance, Music, and Theatre/Musical Theatre.  

The Katzen is more than an academic home, however. It’s a place where students, faculty, and world-class artists come together to spark a vibrant culture of expression, says College of Arts and Sciences Dean Linda Aldoory. “The Katzen is the heartbeat of the arts at AU. For 20 years, it has brought together students, faculty, and world-class artists in a space where curiosity, creativity, and collaboration thrive. It represents the very best of American University and the College of Arts and Sciences—a place where bold ideas take shape, artistic talent is nurtured, and the next generation of performers, creators, and artists is inspired to make their mark on the world.” 

Where Ideas Transform into Art 

Spanning 130,000 square feet along Massachusetts Avenue (big enough to house the Washington Monument on its side), the Katzen brings together all of AU’s visual and performing arts programs under one roof. Students turn ideas into art in classrooms, studios, rehearsal rooms, and performance spaces, on stage, in galleries, and behind the scenes. The center is also home to the AU Museum, the largest university exhibition space in the Washington region, showcasing work from local, national, and international artists alongside exhibitions by AU students.

Join the Celebration 

Be on the lookout for special performances, exhibitions, and other celebrations at the Katzen Arts Center throughout the academic year and share your experiences and memories using hashtag #Katzen20. Follow AU Arts on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky or sign up for our mailing list. Help support the future of the arts at AU with a gift to the Katzen Arts Center.