Dramatech

DramaTech Theatre Atlanta: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta on the Georgia Institute of Technology campus, DramaTech Theatre is the city’s oldest continuously operating theatre company and the Southeast’s longest-standing student-run theatre. Since its official founding in 1947—with roots tracing back to 1913—DramaTech has offered a dynamic platform for student-driven creativity, technical innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration (DramaTech History; Georgia Tech Finding Aids). Housed in the Dean James E. Dull Theatre since 1992, this black box venue reflects Georgia Tech’s fusion of technical prowess and artistic exploration.

Whether you’re a local arts devotee or a visiting traveler, this guide provides comprehensive details on DramaTech’s history, programming, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby Atlanta attractions. Discover how DramaTech continues to shape Atlanta’s cultural landscape and enrich the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Early Dramatic Roots at Georgia Tech
The Founding and Evolution of DramaTech Theatre
The Nomadic Years and Permanent Home
Artistic Growth and Innovation
Programming: Musicals, Plays, Improv, and Dance
Visiting DramaTech: Hours, Tickets, and Location
Special Events and Nearby Attractions
FAQ: Visitor Information
Educational Mission and Community Engagement
Notable Alumni and Past Productions
Visitor Tips and Essential Information
References

Early Dramatic Roots at Georgia Tech

DramaTech’s origins stretch back to 1913, when Georgia Tech students formed the Marionettes, the institution’s first drama troupe (Georgia Tech Finding Aids; Wikipedia). The Marionettes staged various productions until World War II, which interrupted campus life and led to the group’s disbandment.

The Founding and Evolution of DramaTech Theatre

After WWII, enthusiasm for campus theatre surged. In 1947, Glenn James and a group of students established the Georgia Tech Dramatic Club, soon renamed DramaTech Theatre (DramaTech History). Their inaugural performance, “The Drunkard,” was a success, leading to English department accreditation and the opportunity for students to earn academic credit for their involvement (Georgia Tech Finding Aids).

The Nomadic Years and Permanent Home

For decades, DramaTech lacked a dedicated venue, performing in a range of locations such as the YMCA, Fowler Street School Auditorium, Crenshaw Field House, and the Community Playhouse (DramaTech History). In 1992, the company moved into the Dean James E. Dull Theatre, a purpose-built black box space at the rear of the Robert Ferst Center for the Arts (DramaTech About). This move provided stability and allowed for expanded programming and technical innovation.

Dean James E. Dull Theatre at Georgia Tech Caption: The Dean James E. Dull Theatre, DramaTech’s permanent home since 1992.

Artistic Growth and Innovation

DramaTech’s history features notable artistic directors such as Zenas Sears, Mary Nell Santacroce, Gregory Abbott, and Melissa Foulger, each fostering a culture of experimentation and technical excellence (Mike Boatright Photography). The theatre is a unique incubator for emerging talent, nurturing skills in acting, directing, set design, lighting, and sound.

Programming: Musicals, Plays, Improv, and Dance

DramaTech presents a diverse annual lineup, including classics, contemporary works, musicals, and student-driven projects. The 2024–2025 season highlights the Tony Award-winning musical “Spring Awakening” (April 4–19, 2025) (DramaTech Events). Other offerings include improv comedy through “Let’s Try This!” and, more recently, tap dance performances (DramaTech Main Stage; Wikipedia). The season is typically announced in late summer or early fall, with auditions and crew calls open primarily to Georgia Tech students, and sometimes to community members.

Visiting DramaTech: Hours, Tickets, and Location

Location:
349 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30332 (inside the Robert Ferst Center for the Arts, Georgia Tech campus)
Georgia Tech Campus Map

Box Office Hours:
Open Monday–Friday, 12 PM–5 PM, and one hour before showtime.

Performance Times:
Typically Friday–Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM; weekend matinees at 2:00 PM. For exact showtimes, visit the DramaTech Theatre Schedule.

Ticket Prices:

General Admission: $10–$20
Students (with ID): $8–$12
Georgia Tech students: Free with valid Tech ID
Purchase tickets online via the DramaTech ticket portal or at the box office. Early booking is recommended for popular shows.

Accessibility:
Theatre is fully wheelchair accessible. Assistive listening devices are available upon request. Contact the box office at (404) 894-2876 or [email protected] for specific accommodations.

Guided Tours and Special Access:
While regular guided tours aren’t scheduled, backstage tours and open houses are occasionally available during special events. Contact the administrative office or check the website for details.

Special Events and Nearby Attractions

DramaTech hosts workshops, talkbacks, improv nights, and open houses for deeper audience engagement.
Nearby attractions include:

Robert Ferst Center for the Arts
Fox Theatre
High Museum of Art
Piedmont Park
(Unexpected Atlanta; Atlanta Theater Guide)

FAQ: Visitor Information

Q: What are DramaTech’s visiting hours?
A: Box office opens one hour before performances, which are typically Friday–Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Check the official website for specific show times.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online at dramatech.org/tickets or at the box office before shows.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes. Contact the box office for any special assistance.

Q: Can children attend?
A: Yes, but some productions have age recommendations. Review show details for guidance.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is permitted in public areas but not during performances.

Educational Mission and Community Engagement

DramaTech offers hands-on experience in all facets of theatre production, with workshops and masterclasses by faculty and visiting professionals. Collaborations with Georgia Tech departments and Atlanta arts organizations foster interdisciplinary projects and outreach (StageAgent).

Notable Alumni and Past Productions

DramaTech’s alumni network includes professionals in theater, film, and technology. The company has staged over 460 productions, from Shakespearean plays to original student works, reflecting its commitment to both tradition and innovation (IMDT Digital Archive; DramaTech History).

Visitor Tips and Essential Information

Parking: Use nearby campus decks or metered street parking. Arrive early for best options.
Transportation: MARTA’s North Avenue station provides easy access; rideshares are convenient for Midtown Atlanta (Unexpected Atlanta).
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer optimal weather and a rich event calendar (Best Time to Visit Atlanta).
Dining: Midtown offers diverse eateries within walking distance.
COVID-19 Policies: Refer to the DramaTech website for current guidelines.

References

Plan Your Visit

Explore DramaTech Theatre’s engaging productions and vibrant history by checking the latest schedules and securing tickets through the official DramaTech website. For additional inspiration, download the Audiala app to receive show alerts, purchase tickets, and discover more Atlanta cultural events.

Follow DramaTech on social media for the newest updates:

With its legacy of innovation, inclusive community, and prime Midtown location near Atlanta’s top attractions, DramaTech Theatre is a must-visit for both theatre lovers and cultural explorers.