Experience Global Culture at the International Dance Festival at Collins Center for the Arts

The International Dance Festival at the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine is a vibrant celebration of global cultures through music, dance, and stunning costumes. This highly anticipated annual event, entirely organized by students, has grown into a cornerstone of the UMaine and Bangor community calendars since its inception in 2005. Get ready to be transported around the world without leaving Orono!

This year’s International Dance Festival promises two captivating performances showcasing the diverse talents and traditions of UMaine’s international student body. Mark your calendars for February 22, 2025, with showtimes at 2 PM and 7 PM. Doors will open one hour prior to each performance, allowing you to settle in and soak up the pre-show atmosphere. Best of all, admission to the International Dance Festival is free for everyone! This incredible event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Office of International Programs and the International Student Association.

For any inquiries about the International Dance Festival, please don’t hesitate to contact the Office of International Programs at 207-581-3437.

International Dance Festival: Your Quick Guide

Date:	February 22, 2025
Time:	2:00 PM & 7:00 PM (Doors open 1 hour prior)
Admission:	Free
Seating:	General Admission
Venue:	Collins Center for the Arts (CCA), University of Maine
Address:	2 Flagstaff Rd., Orono, ME 04469
Information:	207-581-3437

Getting to the Collins Center for the Arts

The Collins Center for the Arts is conveniently located on the University of Maine campus in Orono. Here are directions to guide you:

Directions from the South (I-95):

Take Exit 191 (Kelly Road) off I-95 and turn right onto Kelly Road.
Continue for 1 mile until the traffic light.
Turn left onto Route 2 and proceed through downtown Orono.
Cross the river and then bear right onto Park Street.
Drive for 0.5 miles until you see a University of Maine sign and a Bangor Savings Bank branch on your left.
Turn left onto campus (Rangeley Road).
At the fork, bear left. You’ll see two large parking lots. The Collins Center for the Arts (a brick and glass building) will be there.

Directions from the North (I-95):

Take Exit 193 (Stillwater Avenue) off I-95 and turn left onto Stillwater Avenue.
Drive straight for one mile and turn right onto College Avenue.
Continue for one mile and turn left onto the UMaine campus (Long Road).
Follow the winding road for 0.5 miles, then turn right onto Flagstaff Road.
The Collins Center for the Arts (CCA) will be directly ahead on the right after 0.2 miles. Parking is available in front of the building on the left.

Parking Information

Parking is always free for events at the Collins Center for the Arts. Please utilize the Belgrade and CCA parking lots, situated at the front of the building for easy access.

Accessibility for All

The Collins Center for the Arts is committed to ensuring all guests have an enjoyable experience. A range of accessibility services are available:

Assistive Listening Devices: Amplification headsets are available at all events. Inquire with staff upon arrival.
Curb to Seat Service: Wheelchair pick-up at the main entrance is offered for most performances. Request this service in advance by calling the box office at 207.581.1755.
Accessible Restrooms: Wheelchair accessible restrooms are located on all floors, with companion care restrooms on the ground floor.
Seating Accommodations: Wheelchair platform seating, companion seating, and seating without stairs are available upon request when purchasing tickets (though tickets are not required for this free event, staff can assist upon arrival).
Elevator Access: Elevators serve all levels, though stairs may be necessary to reach specific seats.
Handicap Parking: Available in the CCA and Belgrade lots with proper placards or plates.
Drop-off Location: Patrons can be dropped off at the front entrance on Flagstaff Road.

For any other accessibility needs, please contact the Collins Center at 581-1755.

Frequently Asked Questions about the International Dance Festival

Where is the best place to park? The Belgrade and CCA lots, in front of the Collins Center, are the most convenient options.
Are food and drinks available? Can I bring them to my seat? Yes, food and beverages are typically available at Collins Center events, and you are welcome to enjoy them at your seat. Miller’s Café in the lobby offers refreshments. Beer and wine are also often available (ID required).
Can I take photos during the performance? Yes, photography is permitted, but please refrain from using flash. Remember to silence all electronic devices and avoid text messaging during the show to respect fellow audience members and performers.
Are hearing assistance devices available? Absolutely! Hearing devices are available for all Collins Center events. Simply ask a staff member upon arrival.
Is smoking permitted? The University of Maine is a smoke-free campus. Tobacco use, including electronic devices, is prohibited anywhere at the Collins Center for the Arts.
Is there a coat check? Coat check is often provided at CCA events by UMaine student organizations, with donations supporting their activities.
Are children welcome at the International Dance Festival? Yes, the festival is a family-friendly event and children are encouraged to attend!
Is it possible to meet the performers? Meet-and-greets are at the discretion of the artists and may occur in the lobby. Backstage access is not permitted without prior artist management approval.
Will weather conditions cause a cancellation? Event cancellations due to weather are rare but can occur in extreme situations. Check the Collins Center website and social media for updates in case of inclement weather.
Can my group sit together? Yes! Arrive early to secure seats together, as the Dance Festival offers general admission seating.
What accessibility services are provided? The Collins Center is dedicated to accessibility. Wheelchair seating, hearing assistance, and accessible parking are available. Contact the box office at 207.581.1755 for specific needs.