Performing Arts and Entertainment

The creative spirit thrives on the stages of SLO CAL. Whatever type of performing arts you prefer, you’ll find it here.
 
Cal Poly regularly draws acclaimed national and international performing artists to SLO CAL, presenting everything from Broadway shows and comedians to ballet and contemporary dance and more. Family-friendly events are often included in the programming schedule.
 
For a more local take on performing arts, swing by the repertory theater in San Luis Obispo, which offers a wide range of productions, including mainstage shows, staged readings, young performers shows and special events that tie into food and wine. Or head to South County for a rollicking good time at a vaudeville revue full of song, dance and comedy.
 
In March, film fans flock to the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival, a premier six-day event that showcases contemporary and classic films. Screening locations run the gamut, from San Luis Obispo’s art deco-style theatre to unexpected venues in the wine country of Paso Robles.
 
If it’s music you’re after, the community symphony boasts a nine-month-long season of concerts including classical masterworks, chamber music at intimate venues around SLO CAL and youth symphony concerts. The SLO Jazz Festival, a yearly summer jazz fiesta in San Luis Obispo’s Mission Plaza, entertains with a powerhouse lineup of jazz musicians. The annual Fall Fest brings musicians to other venues in the county, from Morro Bay to Paso Robles.
 
Not all of SLO CAL’s performing arts are found through formal events and concerts. Numerous outdoor festivals showcase neighborhood talent, or simply pop into a restaurant, brewery or winery on any given evening. You may just catch up-and-coming performance artists sharing their talents.