Quiet hums, flashes from digital cameras and quick footwork filled the backstage moments before dances came alive at Illuminate 2026. Dancers arrived at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo early the morning of Feb. 21 to get ready in the dressing rooms. Performers touched up their braids, put on their costumes and shared excited […]
Tag: Performing Arts Center
Behind the scenes of United Movement’s production and preparation for Illuminate 2026
It’s nearly midnight at Cal Poly, but at the Performing Arts Center (PAC) loading docks, the music hasn’t stopped. Illuminate, Cal Poly’s largest student-run dance showcase hosted by the dance team, United Movement, brings together dozens of performers representing diverse cultures for two shows on the PAC stage. While audiences see a polished production, the […]
Inside Illuminate: Cal Poly’s annual celebration of culture and dance
Illuminate returned to Cal Poly’s Performing Arts Center, bringing together cultural clubs and dance organizations from across campus to share cultural heritage and creative expression in a high-energy student-run dance showcase.
Behind the rehearsals: Ballroom Dance gets ready to dance across the stage at Illuminate
The Cal Poly Ballroom Dance Team has been preparing for their Illuminate performance for months, blending technical ballroom figures with theatrical elements to create a unique showcase.
Behind the rehearsals: Hui Haumana prepares for Illuminate
Hui Haumana is performing a hula and Tahitian dance at Cal Poly’s Illuminate Showcase to share the storytelling traditions of Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture and challenge stereotypes.
SLO Transit alerts riders of detours and delays due to Cal Poly skilled trade workers strike
Due to labor strikes, SLO Transit has alerted riders to expect detours and stop closures to Cal Poly throughout the week, leaving some students to walk to school in the rainy weather.
Preview: February’s upcoming performances at Cal Poly
Cal Poly is hosting a variety of arts events throughout February, featuring music, dance and live performances from both touring artists and campus programs.
Sal Vulcano’s comedy show at PAC sells out in one minute
Sal Vulcano’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) stand-up comedy show sold out in approximately one minute, leaving many students disappointed and wishing there was a way to sign up in advance to ensure tickets are not resold.
‘Impractical Jokers’ comedy star Sal Vulcano to perform at the PAC
“Impractical Jokers” star Sal Vulcano will perform an hour-long set on Oct. 22 in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) with free tickets available for students, following registration on Oct. 15 at noon.
Cal Poly Turning Point USA chapter and Active Church host Charlie Kirk vigil at the Performing Arts Center
Cal Poly’s TPUSA chapter and Active Church hosted a memorial service for late political activist Charlie Kirk, featuring gospel music, Bible verses, and speeches from conservative speakers, with an estimated 1,000 people in attendance.
Cal Poly adds new Mustang Shuttle route running in the opposite direction
The added Mustang Shuttle service route will run in the opposite direction of the other route, providing shorter ride times for students. This new route will also add a daytime stop at Cerro Vista, a stop that was previously not served during the day.


