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Varner Lab Theatre At Oakland University Tickets

Location
Box Theater in Rochester, MI

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About Varner Lab Theatre At Oakland University

Varner Lab Theatre is a small, student-driven black-box venue housed on the first floor of Varner Hall, part of Oakland University's School of Music, Theatre and Dance (SMTD). With seating configurations that typically accommodate 65–70 guests, the Lab is ideal for intimate performances and workshop-style productions. The Lab sits alongside OU's larger spaces in Varner Hall, which has undergone renovations in the 2020s, while the Lab Theatre continues to host vibrant, student-led works throughout the academic year.

Whether you’re catching a spring directing project, a staged reading like If We Were Birds, or a production connected to OU’s theatre program (such as Facing Our Truth), Varner Lab Theatre offers an engaging, personal view into the creative process. For a fuller night at OU, explore nearby dining and stay options curated to help you plan a smooth, stress-free outing.

Parking around Varner Hall is straightforward and free in adjacent lots 36, 26, and 24, making evening arrivals quick and easy. Transit options include SMART, with the 492 Rochester route serving Oakland University and nearby stops. If you’re traveling from out of town, consider recommended partner hotels for OU events, including Courtyard by Marriott Pontiac, Marriott Auburn Hills Pontiac, and Residence Inn Pontiac. These partnerships help ensure a convenient stay near the campus. We’ve got you covered with trusted dining suggestions and clear directions to make your visit as simple as possible.

Keep an eye on Oakland University SMTD events, as Varner Lab Theatre frequently hosts performances tied to the program’s curriculum and showcases of student talent. We’ve got you with the inside track on dates, accessibility, and getting tickets—just secure your seats and enjoy the show.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Location: Varner Hall on Oakland University's campus at 371 Varner Drive, Rochester, MI 48309-4485; Lab Theatre is part of the School of Music, Theatre and Dance (SMTD).
  • Capacity: Varner Lab Theatre seats about 65–70 guests (capacity varies by configuration); Varner Studio Theatre seats 90–150 depending on production; Varner Recital Hall seats up to ~380 (some sources cite 380, others 425 for Recital Hall after renovations).
  • Venue type: Lab Theatre is a small black-box theatre used for student-driven works; Lab is mounted in Varner Hall on the first floor.
  • Parking: Free parking is available in lots adjacent to Varner Hall (lots 36, 26, and 24).
  • Transit: Nearby transit is available via SMART; the 492 Rochester route serves Oakland University (OU stops listed).
  • Nearby hotels: OU lists preferred partner hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Pontiac, Marriott Auburn Hills Pontiac, and Residence Inn Pontiac, for event stays.
  • Notable events hosted: Examples include Spring Advanced Directing Projects, staged readings like If We Were Birds, and productions tied to Oakland University’s theatre program (e.g., Facing Our Truth).
  • Renovation/renaming status: Varner Hall underwent renovations/additions in the 2020s; Lab Theatre remains in use and there has been no report of demolition or renaming of Varner Lab Theatre.