Performing Arts Department
At Saint Mary’s we build creative artists with strong foundational skills and adventuresome spirits.
You’ll receive conservatory-caliber training in a small classroom setting. Our world-renowned faculty of scholars and artists will equip you for graduate studies or a career in the performing arts, while developing your critical thinking and communication skills, the hallmarks of a liberal arts education.
As a Dance, Theatre, or Music student, you’ll progress through a sequence of courses that will emphasize performance practice, history and theory, and criticism and analysis. You’ll also be encouraged to explore interdisciplinary pathways through classes and performance opportunities beyond your home program.
Lights Up!: Artists to Action
Carolyn Gersten's Senior Capstone Project
In a time when the arts are underfunded and under attack, we must come together to advocate for them. Lights Up! is a trio of events self-produced by the class of ‘26 Theatre majors. The first installment, Lights Up!: Artists to Action, conceived by Carolyn Gersten, brings together over 30 performing and expressive artists from SMC for this celebration — and provocation — of the power and importance of the arts. Together, as audience and artists, we will recognize the power that the arts hold: to confront, to provoke, to resist.
Video by Bianca Langlois
Scholarships
In addition to need and merit-based scholarships, incoming students intending to major or minor in Dance, Music, or Theatre are eligible for the Performing Arts Scholarship, totaling $5,000 per year. Applications are still open until all audition slots are filled. Apply to the college first, and then apply to the first year scholarships by Jan. 1 for Performing Arts (Dance, Music, and/or Theatre). Scholarship: https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/first-year-students
Performances
The Making of a Musical
In the year 2020, when many canceled performances, the Performing Arts Department got to work creating an original musical, gather ‘round, built by students for students. Working virtually with industry professionals across the country, the team created a musical from the group up, composing music, writing the script, learning choreography, and even how to set up lighting and cameras. Watch our short video about their journey.
Program & School Information
CONTACT US:
Rogelio Lopez, Dance Program Director
Sixto F. Montesinos Jr., Head of Instrumental Studies & Assistant Professor of Performing Arts, Music
Deanna Zibello, Theatre Program Director
Tara Sundy, Performing Arts Coordinator & Events Manager/Box Office Manager