Cal Poly Arts: Access in Action
Cal Poly Arts is redefining what access to the arts looks like for the San Luis Obispo community. From professional musicians and Broadway actors to photojournalists and circus performers, Cal Poly Arts ensures these artists engage directly with the community. Its programs help everyone to experience world-class performances, regardless of income or background.
Poly Arts for Youth: Bringing the Stage to Students
Through the Poly Arts for Youth program, local K-12 students experience inspiring performances and hands-on workshops in their own schools, all at no cost. With support from generous donors, these events allow students to learn from globally recognized artists.
In the 2024–25 season, students across San Luis Obispo and northern Santa Barbara counties heard a talk by award-winning photojournalist Ami Vitale, juggled with the co-founders of ARC Circus and enjoyed a spirited performance of Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar.
Lightwire Theater, a company that fuses puppetry, technology and theatre for a unique storytelling experience, taught students choreography from their show “Dino Light.” “Students got the chance to imagine themselves as one of the bird characters by learning choreography from the show,” said Teri Block, a fourth-grade teacher at Los Ranchos Elementary School. Block emphasized the impact of the program: “We are fortunate to have these opportunities free of charge. The PAFY program is essential to expanding access to the arts. These experiences not only augment the curriculum but ignite a love for learning and creativity.”
Passport to the Arts: Access for All
Launched in 2022, the Passport to the Arts initiative breaks down barriers by offering free or deeply discounted tickets to low-income SLO County residents. In partnership with organizations such as Housing Authority San Luis Obispo and Court Appointed Special Advocates, Cal Poly Arts connects hundreds of community members with transformative live arts experiences.
During the 2024–25 season alone, more than 1,100 discounted student tickets were sold and over 1,480 free tickets were distributed to underserved communities. Eight artist-led workshops and talks reached more than 750 people, enriching lives through direct engagement. Cal Poly Arts also donated tickets to 15 local nonprofits to support their fundraising efforts.
Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing Ethos
Cal Poly students gain exclusive access to master classes and behind-the-scenes opportunities with visiting performers. These hands-on experiences bring the university’s Learn by Doing philosophy to life.
KCPR radio students met with “This American Life” host Ira Glass in a Zoom workshop, learning compelling storytelling techniques with Glass’ writing processes and techniques.
Theater students participated in an audition workshop with Hatty Ryan King, lead actress in the Broadway tour of “Dear Evan Hansen,” gaining valuable interview insights.
Dance students studied with performers from MOMIX, a company of dancer-illusionists, Complexions Contemporary Ballet and “Hadestown,” learning choreography from the productions.
The Cal Poly Drumline worked with The Pack Drumline, a Chicago-based percussion group known for high-energy performances, to blend movement with rhythm.
The Cal Poly Big Band participated in a Q&A with the jazz ensemble Brandee Younger Trio about the realities of life as a professional musician.
Reaching Underserved Communities
Beyond these established programs, Cal Poly Arts is always finding ways to engage more with underserved communities.
In 2025, The Pack Drumline visited youths at SLO County Juvenile Hall to teach the value of dedication and teamwork through percussion. The Pack Drumline itself began in 2014 as an after-school program for at-risk youth in Chicago.
Tap dancer and choreography Caleb Teicher led a Lindy Hop class at the Academy of Dance, followed by an open swing night at Madonna Inn, open to all.
At Pacheco Elementary, storyteller and musician David Gonzalez shared bilingual folk tales from Puerto Rico, Colombia, Africa and beyond, captivating young audiences from transitional kindergarten through sixth grade.
How to Get Involved
You can ensure these programs continue transforming lives for years to come by supporting the Cal Poly Arts endowment. Reaching the $2.5 million goal will provide $100,000 annually in stable, long-term funding.
An endowment provides a financial safety net, allowing Cal Poly Arts to weather economic uncertainties, continue attracting top-tier talent, take creative risks, innovate and evolve, ensuring the arts continue to inspire and connect our community.
“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re thinking not just about where we’ve been, but where we’re going,” said Molly Clark, Cal Poly Arts director. “The endowment is about building a legacy. It’s an investment in future generations of students, artists and audiences. Every gift brings us closer to a sustainable future where the arts are accessible to all.”
For those who believe in the power of the arts to educate, inspire and unite, this is a chance to make a lasting difference.