12 must-see student showcases coming to CSULB this spring

Published April 16, 2025
By Wendy Thomas Russell Celebrated Reputation

As the semester winds down, CSULB students are stepping out of the classroom and into the spotlight. From building robots and launching startups to directing films and designing dresses, thousands of undergrads are putting the finishing touches on work that is months — even years — in the making. Lucky for us, much of this creativity and skill will be on full display and open to the public this spring. Here are 12 performances, exhibitions and showcases to check out before the year ends:

1. RSCA Week

April 14–18 
Various campus locations

Presenter gestures toward a research poster as a crowd listens and observes

Now in its fifth year, the Week of RSCA celebrates the diverse work of CSULB students, staff and faculty across myriad disciplines. Events and sessions highlight research and creative projects both on campus and in the broader community. Attendees can participate in discussions and network with members from different fields. For updates and details, visit the RSCA Week event website.

3. Sunstone Innovation Challenge 

April 22 at 4 p.m. 
The Pointe at The Walter Pyramid 

Two people pose with an oversized $15,000 first place check against a blue wall.

The Sunstone Innovation Challenge is an annual campus-wide business plan competition that encourages diverse teams to develop and launch business ideas. The final pitch event showcases top teams presenting their business plans to a panel of judges, competing for seed funding. For details, visit the Sunstone event page. 

5. Contemporary Dance Concert 

April 24–26 
Carpenter Performing Arts Center 

Dancers in a studio move expressively across a hardwood floor during rehearsal.

This annual spring concert from the Department of Dance features original choreography and performance by students and faculty across a range of contemporary styles. The program includes four 90-minute performances: evening shows on April 24-26 , plus a Saturday matinee. A livestream will be available for remote audiences. Tickets are $25 general admission and $16 for faculty, staff and students. For details, visit the Contemporary Dance Concert website. 

7. ‘Celebrating Music’ Concert 

May 3 at 7:30 p.m. 
Carpenter Performing Arts Center 

Orchestra and choir in formal attire pose onstage for a group photo

Showcasing the talent and dedication of student musicians, the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music's annual “Celebrating Music" concert will feature performances by the symphony orchestra, wind symphony, university and chamber choirs, vocal and instrumental jazz ensembles and more. Other, smaller recitals are scheduled throughout the fall. Tickets range from $5 to $20 and can be purchased at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center ticketing page.  

9. Animation Showcase

May 10 at 12 p.m.
South Park Center, Los Angeles 

Large group poses in front of a glittery backdrop wearing event badges and smiling.

Animation students from CSULB’s School of Art will present "Double Exposure," a year-end industry showcase held in partnership with NewFilmmakers LA. This curated screening offers a first look at original student films, ranging from experimental shorts to character-driven narratives, and is designed to connect emerging animators with film and television professionals. The event includes a pre-reception at 12 p.m., the screening and Q&A from 12:30 to 2 p.m., and a post-reception until 2:45 p.m. Purchase tickets at NFLA event page, and get a 25% discount by using the code CSUlb2025 at checkout 

11. Big West Championships

May 16–17 
Jack Rose Track 

Athlete in midair clears a hurdle during a track and field race.

CSULB hosts the 2025 Big West Track and Field Championships at Jack Rose Track, where Beach students-athletes will compete against other top athletes from across the conference for titles in sprints, distance events, jumps and throws. This two-day event marks the culmination of the outdoor season and a key qualifier for NCAA postseason competition. For tickets and full event details, visit the Big West Championships page. 

2. Green Generation Showcase

April 17 at 4 p.m.
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden 

On the right, the Japanese Gardens; on the left, a fashion student working on a skirt in a workroom

Held in celebration of Earth Month at The Beach, this free annual event features booths from student organizations, community partners and green businesses, but the main draw is an assortment of student-led research, creative work and technical projects. This year, those projects will include original, upcycled garments made by fashion students. Reserve a seat at eventbrite.com. 

4. Alice in Slasherland 

April 24–26 and April 29–May 3 
Studio Theater 

Performer holding flowers stands center stage smiling as audience members applaud.

The Theatre Arts Department presents its final production of the school year, “Alice in Slasherland,” a horror-comedy by Qui Nguyen. This production blends high school drama with horror elements, featuring prom dresses, chainsaws and an unforgettable teddy bear. For times and tickets, visit the Theatre Arts Department ticket page. 

6. Campus Couture Fashion Show 

April 27 at 6 p.m.
Carpenter Performing Arts Center 

Model in a long white gown walks a lit runway before a seated audience.

Fashion students from the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences showcase their boldest work at this annual runway event. Themed "Amphibious Exploration," the show features garments that blend technical mastery with diverse aesthetics from conceptual couture to ready-to-wear statements. Hosted by student-led Campus Couture, this high-energy event is a celebration of style and creativity. For details, visit the Spring Fashion Show events page. 

8. Engineering Expo 

May 8 
The Walter Pyramid 

Three people examine a project with colorful wiring on a clear plastic base.

College of Engineering students present their senior projects at the annual Engineering Expo, held inside the Walter Pyramid. The event features a range of innovations, from robotics and green technology to mechanical designs, highlighting the practical applications of students' problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. Judged by industry leaders and tech experts, the showcase continues to expand in scope. For more information, visit the Expo event page. 

10. INSIGHTS Art Exhibition 

May 11–18 
Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum 

Art gallery wall displays vibrant paintings and sculptures on white pedestals.

INSIGHTS is the annual juried exhibition showcasing student work from across the School of Art. The exhibition opens May 11 with a scholarship ceremony from 4 to 5 p.m., followed by an opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 12 to 5 p.m. Select works will remain on view at the Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum through July 27. The School of Art also features a five-gallery exhibition space dedicated to student work, with openings typically held Sundays from 5 to 7 p.m. For updates, visit the School of Art news page. 

12. 'Full Spectrum' Film Festival 

May 17 at 12 p.m.
Carpenter Performing Arts Center

Two people stand onstage speaking in front of a projected filmstrip display.

Senior film students from the Department of Cinematic Arts premiere their final projects at a film festival called "Full Spectrum." Each short film is an original work developed over a year, showcasing the talent of CSULB’s emerging filmmakers. intermediate and advanced documentary films will be screened from noon to 2:30 p.m., and advanced scripted shorts will be screened from 2:30 to 5 p.m. For more information, follow @csulbfilm on Instagram.