Experience Doudna

Eastern Illinois University’s Doudna Fine Arts Center is a creative hub for campus and the surrounding region. Designed by architect Antoine Predock, the building itself is a striking work of art, bringing together innovative design and purpose-built spaces for the Departments of Art + Design, Music, and Theatre.

The Doudna is alive with activity year-round, hosting performances by EIU students and faculty, regional school and community groups, and visiting artists from across the country and around the world. These artists don’t just perform, they connect, leading master classes and working directly with students and the community.

As part of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, the Doudna also creates opportunities for collaboration across disciplines, regularly partnering with Tarble Museum of Art to highlight creativity in all its forms. Signature programs like the New and Emerging Artists Series reflect a shared commitment to celebrating artistic expression and bringing people together through the arts.

Doudna Map

 

 

Concourse / Hall of Mirrors

Concourse / Hall of Mirrors

Stretching along the main concourse, the Hall of Mirrors is one of the Doudna’s most distinctive features. Reflective glass surfaces create a dynamic, light-filled environment that evolves as you move through the space. Designed to reflect both the building’s architecture and its artistic purpose, it connects classrooms, galleries, and performance venues throughout the facility.

Red Zone

Red Zone

Located on the lower level between the Music and Art wings, the Red Zone is a popular space for students to relax, study, and create. Its signature red glass walls and movable modern furniture make it easy to adapt the space for everything from sketching to group work. The Red Zone is typically open during building hours but may close during concerts or special events.

Dvorak Concert Hall

Dvorak Concert Hall

The Dvorak Concert Hall is a 568-seat venue known for its exceptional acoustics and copper-clad stage shell. As the Doudna’s primary performance space, it hosts major concerts, university events, and community performances. The hall is also available for rentals, including weddings, banquets, and special events.

The Theatre

The Theatre

This 290-seat proscenium theatre offers excellent sightlines and a versatile stage for productions of all sizes. Equipped with modern lighting and audio systems, catwalk access, and a full backstage fly system, the space supports a wide range of performances. It also connects directly to the scene shop, costume shop, and Green Room.

Black Box Theatre

Black Box Theatre

The Black Box Theatre is a flexible, multi-use performance space designed for experimentation and instruction. With no fixed seating and advanced lighting and audio systems, it can be configured for a variety of productions and typically seats around 125. It is used for theatre and music performances, classes, rehearsals, and community events.

Mellin Steps

Mellin Steps

Located on the Library Quad side of the building, the Mellin Steps serve as a central gathering space for students and visitors. Whether meeting friends, studying outdoors, or enjoying campus events, this area offers a welcoming place to connect. The steps are named in honor of supporters of the arts who contributed to EIU.