San Diego State University College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts

SDSU Announces New Performing Arts District

Renovations and new Second Stage will transform the performing arts on campus

SDSU Announces New Performing Arts District

by Sofia Bert

March 5, 2020

​March 5, 2020

San Diego State University has announced that it will renovate its Main Stage theater, build a Second Stage theater, and enhance the Performing Arts District on campus.

More than $37 million dollars has been earmarked by the State of California for SDSU to make important improvements to the main stage that will make it accessible for all populations. This contribution, as well as private philanthropic support, will enable SDSU to fully develop the creative hub of SDSU’s performing arts.

The On to a New Stage multi-million dollar project is set to begin construction in 2021 under the creative oversight of HGA Architects.

“In addition to accessibility improvements, the entire area will be enhanced to create a Performing Arts District, with a new patron box office, a stand-alone, intimate and flexible second stage theater, and a world-class sound design lab,” said Dr. Peggy Shannon, Dean of the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts (PSFA). “All of these structures will be distinct, separate and accessible.”

PSFA provides a crossroads for creative and scholarly disciplines. Committed to excellence, the Schools within the College provide unique experiential programs in undergraduate and graduate studies as well as innovative learning opportunities.

The Fine Arts faculty in the Schools of Art + Design, Music & Dance, and Theatre, Television and Film have extensive professional experience and many of the instructors continue to work, and maintain close relationships in the cultural sector both nationally and internationally. SDSU students work with award-winning faculty, in addition to many of America’s top artists and arts managers.

Esteemed guest lecturers and artists enrich the student experience through workshops, studio training, individual coaching and mentoring. Students in all disciplines participate in full-scale performances, concerts, exhibitions, and outreach, while senior students are encouraged to produce original work in their final year.

“The Performing Arts District project will elevate performance in one of the campus’ most traveled portals and place them prominently with other disciplines at the heart of the SDSU student experience,” said Shannon.

If you are interested in naming opportunities available within the new Performing Arts District, please contact Director of Development Elise Moersch at emoersch@sdsu.edu.

The content within this article has been edited by Lizbeth Persons.

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