San Diego State University’s Theatre Program is 100 and hot as ever

Although theatre activities at San Diego State University date back to 1914, the program formally took shape in 1926 when Sybil Eliza Jones established a regular drama program and directed the university’s first full season of faculty-led productions. 

Over the past century, SDSU theatre has expanded from the Little Theatre, established on Montezuma Mesa in 1931, to the opening of the Dramatic Arts complex in 1967 and the Performing Arts District in 2023. The university’s theatre program has also developed a national reputation for innovation in design, technical theatre, musical theatre and theatre education.

Among its milestones, SDSU launched Theatre for Young Audiences in 1971, established the California State University system’s first Master of Fine Arts Degree in Design and Technical Theatre in 1978, and created the nation’s first and currently only Master of Fine Arts program in Musical Theatre in 1982.

SDSU’s theatre legacy can also be seen in the careers of its alumni. Notable graduates include actors: Gregory Peck, Cleavon Little, Marion Ross, Carl Weathers, Kathy Najimy and Julie Kavner. And let us not forget three-time Tony Award-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes, known for Broadway credits including Legally Blonde (2007), Kinky Boots (2013), Aladdin (2014) and the award-winning Some Like it Hot (2022).

The centennial season will take place throughout SDSU’s Performing Arts District, which includes the Main Stage Theatre, the Prebys Stage and the outdoor Lamden and Clay stages.

The season opens with Andrew LIppa’s The Wild Party, running October 16-22 at the Main Stage. Based on Joseph Moncure March’s 1928 narrative poem, the musical follows a group of guests whose decadent Manhattan party spirals into jealousy, violence and tragedy. Opening night on October 16th will serve as the 100th Season Gala event.

Jean Genet’s The Maids runs November 14-22 at the Prebys Stage. Inspired by the infamous 1933 case of the Papin Sisters, the play centers on two maids whose elaborate role-playing games blur the boundaries between fantasy and reality, resentment and desire.

In February 2027, SDSU will present a new Broadway comedy directed by Peter Cirino. The yet-to-be-revealed production will be announced in November. The production is described as a fast-paced farce filled with sharp wit, unexpected twists, and physical comedy. Performances are scheduled for February 18-28, 2027.

The Theatre for Young Audiences production of the well-known Seussical will run April 7-11, 2027. Featuring characters from the works of Dr. Seuss, including Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie La Bird and Jojo. The musical explores friendship, loyalty, family and community through a colorful adventure Theodor Seuss himself might find cliché, but contemporary audiences enjoy.

Together, the season’s productions and events present SDSU Theatre as both a historic institution and an active part of San Diego’s contemporary arts community. After 100 seasons, the program is celebrating its past while continuing to create opportunities for students, artists, audiences and local cultural organizations.

Tickets and additional information are available at ttf.sdsu.edu/calendar.