Walk into Haugh Performing Arts Center on the campus of Citrus College and you’ll see one word repeated on signs throughout the facility: community.

The Haugh, it’s more than just a buzzword – it’s a vision for the future. Community means creating a welcoming environment where people can connect, come together and find an artistic home.

That vision is woven throughout the theater’s 2026-2027 season in new and meaningful ways. From more accessible ticket prices to pre-show events, the Haugh is looking beyond the stage to create a richer experience for audiences.

“My role is to create a culture where different productions support and celebrate one another,” said Gilles Chiasson, director of the Haugh Performing Arts Center. “We created a brochure that presents all shows as equals, and we encourage audiences to explore the larger season through three different package options, or a ‘Create Your Own Package’ discount.”

That approach brings together productions selected by the Haugh, the college’s visual and performing arts faculty, and outside producers. The result is a season that reflects many artistic voices, from theater and musical theater to concerts, tributes, magic and family entertainment. Audiences can move from “Sweeney Todd” and “Little Shop of Horrors” to a Michael Jackson tribute, the Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show, a stage production of “Sense and Sensibility,” an ABBA tribute and “Dream Like Taylor,” a celebration of Taylor Swift.

“By bringing together the college’s academic performing arts programs with professional touring performances, we can create a dynamic, year-round theatrical experience for students and the community,” said Amberly Chamberlain, dean of visual and performing arts at Citrus College. “A combined season would give audiences more opportunities to experience exceptional live performances, while introducing new audiences to the talent and creativity of our students and faculty.”

With so many different shows on the calendar, there are plenty of ways for people to find something that speaks to them. And, for the Haugh, creating a welcoming community means making sure everyone has the chance to be part of the experience.

The new Haugh for ALL Fund provides free tickets to individuals and families who might otherwise be unable to attend because of financial barriers. Supported by charitable contributions, the fund helps make the theater accessible to every member of our community.

The Haugh is also creating more reasons to gather before the curtain rises, with community celebrations on the patio before every “Haugh Presents” performance. Each celebration will connect to the show that follows, from a free Cumbia dance class before a Selena tribute by the Anything For Salinas Band to close-up magic before Reza’s latest show, “Edge of Illusion.”

“My sincere hope is that our community will come to consider the Haugh a vibrant gathering place where something is always happening,” Chiasson said. “It’s a place with engaging, thought-provoking entertainment; a place to come together with old friends and new where, thanks to these new initiatives, everyone who wishes to join us is welcome.”

To view the full calendar of upcoming performances and to purchase tickets, visit www.haughpac.com.