Engage with Encore
The Encore Performing Arts Series is dedicated to providing arts experiences to Fort Hays State University and western Kansas. Each year, the series hosts Engage With Encore, a comprehensive program that engages audiences of all ages, providing a broad selection of arts experiences outside of just a typical performance. Check our website for periodic updates about opportunities to experience art in a new way.
Encore Conversations
Encore Conversations are informal pre-performance talks that inform, educate, and engage audience members before certain Encore Series events. These conversations are often hosted by Fort Hays State University faculty or other Hays experts. These talks are fun and free of charge to all ticket holders - and may even feature a guest appearance by one of the evening's performers.
Post-Performance Dialogues
Immediately following certain Encore Series events, audience members are invited to remain in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center to participate in an informal, moderated dialogue and question-and-answers session with the artists.
Community Connections
Several artists in the Encore Series offer master classes, lectures, creative residencies and other activities for schools, businesses, senior centers and other entities to connect artists to the community.
Campus Connections
Select artists presented by the Encore Series will visit campus classrooms and other locations to connect with students in an informal setting. Campus Connections encourages dialogue and extends opportunities for Fort Hays State University students to deepen learning unique to their fields or to discover issues beyond their classroom curriculum.
Free Student Matinees
Free school matinee performances provide pre-college students live arts education experiences free of charge in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. These performances are designed to nurture a lifelong appreciation of the performing arts. Teachers receive in-depth study guides that provide a curriculum context enhancing the experience.