Houston, TX (Sept. 4, 2025) — Lone Star College–University Park is kicking off the fall semester with a full schedule of events that invite the community to connect through music, theater and the visual arts.
“These events are more than just a way to showcase our students’ talents, they highlight the energy and creativity that defines LSC-University Park,” said Adam Key, Ph.D., dean of Arts & Humanities. “We’re excited to welcome students and the community to be a part of something truly inspiring this semester.”
The Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) building will host a full season of programming — from main stage productions to student and faculty art exhibitions — with something for every artistic interest.
“Jacq Garcia, Fatty!” Art Exhibit
Among the early highlights of the season is the ‘Jacq Garcia, Fatty!’ art exhibition on view Sept. 17 through Nov. 6 at the VPA Art Gallery. The showcase presents a bold creative vision centered on themes of fatphobia, using primarily sculptural works to invite viewers to engage with a fresh artistic perspective. An opening reception and artist talk will take place Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 12:30 to 2 p.m., offering attendees a chance to hear directly from Garcia and gain deeper insight into the concepts and motivations behind the work.
“Rent”
The LSC-University Park Drama Department brings Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking rock musical “Rent” to life on the VPA main stage for two weekends, Oct. 24-26 and Oct. 30-Nov. 2, infusing the Broadway classic with fresh energy and heart. Set in New York City’s East Village, “Rent” explores the lives of a group of young artists navigating through loss, love and hope. This season, students can experience live theatre and support the arts on campus for just $1.
“Dietz and Mak Recital”
Renowned performers and longtime collaborators, cellist David Dietz and pianist Jonathan Mak, will present a faculty recital on Nov. 5 at the VPA Main Stage Theatre. Dietz, a faculty member at LSC–University Park, will be joined by Mak for a program that blends classical masterpieces with contemporary works, offering audiences a rich musical experience that spans eras.
“A Christmas Carol: The Radio Play”
Wrapping up the semester is A Christmas Carol: The Radio Play, a 1940s-style live radio performance that brings Charles Dickens’ timeless tale to life with vintage microphones, live sound effects, period music and era-inspired commercials. This annual favorite will be performed Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and supports the campus Care Center through collected donations.
For a full lineup of events and ticket information visit, Lone Star College UP Events Page.
About LSC-University Park
LSC-University Park offers more than 70 programs of study, including credit and non-credit courses, workforce training, and continuing education classes. Classes are available during the day, evenings, and weekends in traditional, online, and hybrid formats. For more information about LSC-University Park classes or to register online, visit www.lonestar.edu/upstudentsupport, call 281-290-2600, or email UPAdvising@LoneStar.edu.
Established in 2012, Lone Star College-University Park has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing and most innovative higher education institutions in the country. The college, led by President Matthew Dempsey, Ed.D., is devoted to impacting the community's prosperity and upward mobility through student success. LSC-University Park’s expert and compassionate faculty and staff provide students with holistic and immersive education and training in disciplines and industries that meet current and future workforce needs.
Located on the grounds of the former Compaq Computer Corporation and Hewlett Packard's world headquarters, LSC-University Park's facilities include the Visual and Performing Arts Building, the Center for Science & Innovation, the Energy & Manufacturing Institute, Learning Innovation Labs, and the Geology Rock Wall. It is also home to the University of Houston-NW Downtown, Lone Star Corporate College, and iSchool.
About Lone Star College System
Lone Star College System enrolls over 90,000 students each semester, providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSCS is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSCS, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area. LSCS has been named a 2024 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education. LSCS consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.