Santa Monica College Emeritus Program Expands Access with Virtual Theater Showcase
The Santa Monica College (SMC) Emeritus program is hosting a free virtual production titled “Conversations: Scenes from Film and Theater,” scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26, at 1 p.m. This showcase features the work of the Emeritus Acting Troupe, providing a platform for older adults to engage in performance arts through a digital format. The event is open to the public and accessible via the [official Santa Monica College website](https://www.smc.edu/community/emeritus/index.php).
About the SMC Emeritus Program
Santa Monica College’s [Emeritus program](https://www.smc.edu/community/emeritus/) is a noncredit educational initiative specifically designed for older adults in the community. Since its inception in 1975, the program has offered a wide range of courses, including fine arts, humanities, and physical fitness, aimed at fostering lifelong learning and social connection. The Acting Troupe is one of the program’s most active performance-based groups, allowing students to refine their craft under the guidance of experienced instructors. By shifting to virtual showcases, the program ensures that its performances remain accessible to a wider audience, including those who may have difficulty attending in-person events at the college’s various locations.
Event Details and Accessibility
The “Conversations” production highlights the versatility of the Acting Troupe as they present a collection of scenes adapted from both classic theater and cinema. The virtual format utilizes digital conferencing tools to maintain the interactivity of live performance while removing geographic barriers for viewers.
* Date: Saturday, Oct. 26
* Time: 1 p.m.
* Cost: Free
* Platform: Virtual/Online
Participants and audience members interested in the performance can find the access link through the [SMC Emeritus events calendar](https://www.smc.edu/community/emeritus/events.php). The production serves as a testament to the college’s commitment to providing high-quality arts programming that caters to the specific needs and interests of the senior demographic in Santa Monica and beyond.
Impact of Virtual Theater on Community Engagement
The transition to virtual showcases has become a significant trend in community college arts programming. According to recent institutional updates from [Santa Monica College](https://www.smc.edu/), these digital presentations allow for greater inclusivity, particularly for students and community members who might be homebound or live outside the immediate Santa Monica area. By leveraging technology to broadcast student performances, the Emeritus program continues to fulfill its mission of promoting cognitive health and social engagement among older adults. This upcoming performance follows a series of successful digital initiatives that have allowed the Acting Troupe to reach a broader, more diverse audience than traditional campus-based theater typically permits.