Columbia University Players

The Columbia University Players (CUP) is Columbia University’s premier theatre group specializing in productions of classic and contemporary plays. Founded in 1906, CU Players was originally formed as a theatre group tasked with producing The University’s annual Varsity Show. Since then, CU Players has been producing quality student theatre — and most recently, straight plays — for the greater Columbia University community.

As an organization, CU Players aims to produce plays that create meaningful theatre experiences for cast, crew, and audience alike. In addition to two full length shows each semester, CUP also holds regular play readings, workshops, and social events to bring together the larger theatre community.

All of the Columbia University Players’ work is guided by our core principles of community, inclusivity, and mentorship. We continually strive to foster environments that champion the voices of our artists while providing them the space to grow as theatre-makers. Regardless of experience level, we foster a learning environment for anyone interested in using theatre as a tool for social change.