The play "Mariposa / Butterfly," performed by CSUSB’s Department of Theatre Arts on Oct. 10 for the university's Children's Center, uses vibrant storytelling to teach children the importance of connection beyond language and borders. Directed by Johanna Smith, the production will be touring local elementary schools this fall and inspiring young audiences, continuing a legacy of children’s theater that began at CSUSB in 1965.
The CSUSB Department of Theatre Arts announces its 2024-25 season, featuring a blend of classic and contemporary productions, and prepares for the grand opening of the new Performing Arts Center in spring 2025.
Johanna Smith (theatre arts) will present “Puppets in the Mara” this weekend at CSUSB, Megan Carroll (sociology) was interviewed about new research on asexuality, Barbara Sirotnik (information and decision sciences) discussed the state of the region’s economy, and various news media interviewed Brian Levin (criminal justice, emeritus) on topics related to the latest hate crime statistics.
CSUSB Department of Theatre Arts presents “Puppets in the Mara,” which includes a retelling of “The Legend of Ngong The Giant,” a Maasai Tale, by Neil McLeod and Sue Hooper-Lawrie, adapted by Johanna Smith, CSUSB professor of theatre arts.
Johanna Smith’s book has been selected for the Nancy Straub Award for Excellence in Publication on the Art of Puppetry, which honors works that are exemplary contributions that forward the field of puppetry.
The 2021-2022 Season of Light will have a little something for everyone: a romantic comedy written by a 17th century nun, a uniquely stylized puppet show, a modern adaptation of a Shakespearean comedy, and more.