The Performing Arts Center will launch Hook'em Arts, a new organization dedicated to promoting student involvement in the arts with its first meeting at 5 p.m. today in the Music Recital Hall.

Hook'em Arts members will be involved with upcoming PAC shows such as Damien Rice, Bright Eyes, Five for Fighting and "Mamma Mia!"

"The arts can enrich the learning experience," said Pebbles Wadsworth, Performing Arts Center director. "Our hope is that every student experiences the performing arts offered here on campus before they graduate."

The organization was founded by a group of students with a passion for the arts as a way to open access to all UT students.

"The [Performing Arts Center] has been trying to get students involved for a long time, and we think this is a great way to accomplish that goal," said Hook 'em Arts chair Mary Katherine Vigness, a theater, dance and history senior.

Hook 'em Arts offers the opportunity for students to gain experience in various aspects of the arts and production.

"It's an exciting opportunity to get people involved with the PAC," said Justin Burniske, one of the founding members.

With a mission to "educate, enlighten and entertain," the center offers hands-on experience, volunteer opportunities, $10 student tickets and a variety of performances.

"This group is important because what we offer is unique - hands-on experience with arts PR, outreach, fundraising - that's hard to come by," said Lauren Perdue, a founding member and public relations chair for the organization.

"I'm in the group, because I believe in it," said Perdue, an advertising senior. "I believe in what we can do together, but also because I believe in what we can do for student artists and what we can do for all UT students by letting them know about all these opportunities."

Hook 'em Arts' first public meeting will be held today in the Music Recital Hall (MRH) 4.116 from 5-6 p.m.

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