Access to the Arts
“Being able to attend events at The Soraya has been amazing and surreal. I have felt more seen as a student and realize that I belong in these types of spaces as well!”
– Esmeralda de la Rosa, Ballet Folklorico Aztlan de CSUN – President
Your donation of $50 could change someone’s life
“Attending events at the Soraya allowed me to feel more connected to not only my campus, but my community as well. The pre and post-show events were just as exciting and enjoyable as the actual shows themselves. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to enjoy the amazing productions the Soraya has put on!”
– Katelyn Casas, Ballet Folklorico Aztlan de CSUN Public Relations
“When I first came [to CSUN],
As a first-generation student,
I’ve been immensely grateful for the opportunityto attend numerous events at the Soraya! It’s inspiring to see Hispanics,
like myself, take the stage and perform for the community.”
– Jazmin Garcia, Ballet Folklorico Aztlan de CSUN-Historian
Engaging the CSUN Community
Juliana AlvarezThe Soraya’s Campus Engagement Associate
Juliana is a proud CSUN Alumna, Latina leader, and advocate of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. As Chair of The Soraya’s DEI Task Force, she is dedicated to creating safe spaces that provide opportunities for growth, inclusion, and transparency. Her mission is to turn everyday moments into acts of activism by amplifying the voices of underserved populations and unlocking access to higher education and the arts for ALL humans.
“Growing up, I was an outsider. I rarely had an opportunity to attend an art event or be part of the arts. I now have the privilege to make a difference for students like me, and for the greater CSUN community—by showing them that The Soraya isn’t just a venue, it is a fountain of opportunity. But more than that, this is a place where all can belong. Where all can be surrounded and supported by amazing, caring people who celebrate all who walk through the doors for exactly who they are.”
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM
Students from all walks of life have a place at The Soraya. Sharing their collective shared histories and cultures while expressing their individuality – The Soraya brings the world to CSUN where students see themselves and each other onstage.
“Our experience with the Soraya has been amazing, not only have you given our mariachi the opportunity to showcase the group but also giving us the opportunity to learn from some of our idols like Aida Cuevas. I along with the other members of Mariachi Aztlan Nueva Generación de Chicano Studies de CSUN are grateful for what you and the Soraya have done for us”
– Valentina Flores, Mariachi Aztlan de CSUN Nueva Generacion
The Soraya is determined to change lives with the power of live performance, and we’re dedicated to building our audiences for the future.
Ballet Folklorico Aztlán de CSUN
Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication
Located on the vibrant campus of California State University Northridge (CSUN), The Soraya and the Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication share an integral link that enhances student access and opportunities in the arts and performing arts. A $5 million contribution from record producer and former California Lieutenant Governor Mike Curb was pivotal in ensuring the completion and opening of The Soraya in 2011. For his founding support and in acknowledgment of the integral relationship between the Mike Curb College and The Soraya, Mike Curb is recognized as one of The Soraya’s Cornerstone Benefactors. This partnership fosters academic and artistic excellence, elevating the talents and the future growth of CSUN’s students through master classes, student tickets, concerts of student ensembles, and students appearing alongside renowned artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Aida Cuevas, and Martha Graham Dance Company.
