Housing and Residential Life at Cornell University has closed Risley Theatre and its workshops for the Fall 2025 semester for health and safety evaluations. This decision has created challenges for the Risley community, particularly as organizations struggle to find funds and spaces to practice. A long-standing tradition, the annual Rocky Horror Picture Show, has also been affected, and the production will need to find a new venue due to these changes.
Upon returning from summer break, members of the Risley Ministry for Arts and Shops Development found signs stating that the basement workshops were closed. They were instructed to get in touch with Cornell’s Environment, Health, and Safety office for more information. These workshops serve artists, providing tools and spaces for various creative projects, including sound recording and pottery.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, access to these workshops had already been limited. According to Leah Becker, president of the Risley Ministry, the workshops only reopened in the 2024-2025 academic year, following extensive work with EHS. The abrupt notice of closure confused many members, as they had actively collaborated with EHS to ensure safety standards were met last year.
In an email on October 1, Risley residents learned that both the studios and the theatre would remain closed until at least the end of the semester for further review. While residents typically pay a program fee for community services, HRL clarified that there are no separate charges for using the Risley Shops or Theatre.
The closure has caused frustration among co-directors Rita Kelly and Riona Yu, who have had to relocate Rocky Horror Picture Show to a different venue after holding it in the Risley Dining Room for 30 years. They shared their disappointment over the lack of communication about these significant changes before the semester began.
HRL explained that the decision to restrict events in the dining area aimed to maintain the space’s safety, particularly for guests with food allergies. As a result, events unrelated to dining are not permitted in that area.
Relocating the production has introduced financial difficulties, as Kelly and Yu have encountered challenges accessing funding for costumes and props. They mentioned rumors suggesting a loss of funding due to turnover in administrative roles, leaving them unsure of how to recuperate these losses. Meanwhile, HRL confirmed that some funds are still available but noted that those designated for the Risley Shops or Theatre are currently on hold due to the closures.
As the future of these creative spaces remains unclear, community members feel increasingly unsupported. Kelly expressed concern that the community, known as a haven for artists and LGBTQ+ individuals, is being overlooked.
When prompted about these sentiments, an HRL spokesperson reassured the student body of their commitment to support and celebrate the diverse communities at Cornell. They emphasized that the evaluations are strictly about facility safety, not a reflection on resident demographics.
This situation reflects broader themes in college life today. As campuses evolve and adapt post-pandemic, students are increasingly vocal about the need for safe spaces that nurture creativity and inclusivity. A survey from the American College Health Association reports that over 70% of students value campus resources that support mental health and artistic expression. Ensuring these resources are preserved during transitions will be crucial for maintaining a vibrant student life.
Ultimately, the challenges faced by Risley residents serve as a reminder of the importance of communication and support from university systems. As the community navigates these changes, many will be watching closely to see how the university responds and adapts to ensure that all students have access to the creative spaces they cherish.
