At Cal Poly Arts, we believe the arts belong to everyone. Since 2022, Passport to the Arts has grown into a powerful bridge - connecting historically underserved communities with free access to live performance. Beyond the stage, we partner with local organizations to bring artists into community spaces, sparking dialogue, creativity, and connection.

For students, deeply subsidized tickets make it possible to experience the energy of live performance, often for the first time, turning curiosity into lifelong engagement with the arts.

“Artistry and expression with great teaching.”
— Community Member, Ballet Hispánico Masterclass

Passport to the Arts provides: 

  • A “passport” to select, public, ticketed Cal Poly Arts events for low-income residents* to attend free-of-cost, with additional pre- and post-event activities (meet and greets with artists, exclusive receptions, creative workshops, etc.) to create a welcoming experience

  • Free performing arts workshops to the community both on and off Cal Poly’s campus

  • Subsidized student ticket prices for Cal Poly Students or anyone with a student ID in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties

  • Artist residency activities on location in underrepresented communities at no cost to the participants, while also removing any transportation barrier

*in partnership with the Housing Authority San Luis Obispo and other community nonprofits

“I learned how important intentionality is when telling a story.”
— Cal Poly Student, Acting through Song Workshop with Kinky Boots - National Broadway Tour

Passport to the Arts Community 2025/26 Impact

  • Over 1,230 deeply discounted student tickets were distributed this season

  • Over 1,320 free tickets (valued at $67,000) were offered to 18 performances for low-income and marginalized communities

  • 17 transformative artist workshops and talks impacting over 600 students and community members ranging from dance and music masterclasses to intimate conversations with world-class artists

  • 14 local non-profits were supported through Cal Poly Arts ticket donations to aid intheir fundraising efforts (valued at $2,600)

We remain committed to bringing these experiences to students and community members in the 2026/27 season!

SPONSORED BY

ANN ROBINSON

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

If your organization would like to partner with the Passport program or if you have any questions contact Maria Taylor at mtaylo83@calpoly.edu or call (805) 756-6383.

Interested in sponsoring Passport to the Arts?
Check out our SUPPORT - SPONSORSHIP page to learn how!

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