Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center
Located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
Our Concert hall
We proudly partner with the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown to use their beautiful concert hall, the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center, where the arts come ALIVE!
Known locally as the PPAC, the center opened in September 1991 thanks to a multi-million dollar gift from Frank Pasquerilla, chairman of Crown American. After operating without a dedicated performance space since relocating to a new campus in 1967, the university was finally able to offer a state-of-the-art facility featuring a 1,000-seat concert hall, a 200-seat black box theater, and dedicated office space.
The PPAC is celebrated for its exceptional, customizable acoustics, made possible by adjustable motorized panels. Its stage can be transformed to create an orchestra pit when needed, and it also includes a “sprung floor” that absorbs impact—making it especially ideal for dance performances.
❋ ADDRESS FOR YOUR GPS: Kunks Drive & Picking Drive, Johnstown, PA 15904
Things to know about the PPAC:Where should I park?
Because the PPAC is located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, there is ample (FREE!) parking adjacent to the concert hall. Take note of the Blue “P’s” in the map image above for help with locating the 4 lots near the PPAC!
Is the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center handicap accessible?
Absolutely! The Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center is fully accessible and features automated doors, an elevator to the second (balcony) level, and 10 designated wheelchair-accessible seating areas.
Please note: If you or a guest have mobility concerns, we recommend using the Governor’s Circle-style driveway in front of the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center for drop-off. Your guest may then proceed to park the vehicle.
Policies and Procedures at the PPAC
As partners with the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, we follow the university’s policies and procedures regarding food and beverage in the concert hall, evacuation protocols, and other venue guidelines. For more information about the concert hall, please click here.
Who else performs at the PPAC other than the JSO?
In addition to our concerts, the Pasquerilla Performing Arts Center hosts a wide variety of performances throughout the year, including university productions, touring artists, dance companies, theater performances, and special community events. For the full schedule of what’s to come at the PPAC, click here.
FIND YOUR SEAT!
“We are so lucky to have PPAC as the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra’s home. The hall has remarkable acoustics – clear, but warm; responsive, but not overly resonant. We find we can play into the hall with our full sound, but we can also play as softly as we need to, and still hear a pin drop on stage. I also love how it brings out the best in our guest artists, who consistently compliment the sound and feel and professionalism of the venue. Most importantly, it feels intimate, even while being a 1,000 seat hall, and I celebrate how in every concert we perform, I feel the connection to the audience when I’m on stage.”