A Place to Perform: Designing Spaces for Student Artists Through Event Planning

Authors

• Ava R. Jacobsen, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Dr. Kristin Malek

Date of this Version

Spring 3-30-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Jacobsen, A. 2026. A Place to Perform: Designing Spaces for Student Artists Through Event Planning. Undergraduate Honors Thesis, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2026.

Comments

Copyright Ava Jacobsen 2026.

Abstract

This thesis examines the creation of accessible performance spaces for student artists not enrolled in formal music programs. To address this gap, two First Friday events were hosted at The Gathering Grove in Lincoln, Nebraska, providing platforms for local student performers and engaging the community in live art experiences. The first event, an open mic night, highlighted the challenges of spontaneous performances, while the second, featuring designated performers, tested more structured event planning strategies.

Both events emphasized the importance of marketing, venue layout, audience engagement, and operational organization. Key lessons included the need for contingency planning, multi-channel promotion, and clearly assigned roles to ensure efficiency. While neither event generated profit, both met primary goals by creating welcoming spaces for performers, attracting attendees from the broader community, and supporting student artistic expression.

This project demonstrates how principles of hospitality and event management can be applied to community arts initiatives, offering guidance for designing inclusive, engaging, and operationally effective performance events.