Winter 2025

CSUMB Reimagines the Black Box Cabaret B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S I n the late 1990 and 2000s, Cal State Monterey Bay (CSUMB) Black Box Cabaret accommodat- ed many campus social events. Thanks to a gener- ous gift from Robert “Bob” Darwin, the university is now planning to reopen the cherished venue. Darwin, who passed away in 2023, had a multifaceted career in Hollywood production, real estate and entrepreneurship. The sale of a property he bequeathed to the university provides foundational funding for a revamped indoor and outdoor event venue. Plans call for a hydraulically operated stage and design features that maximize sound quality. CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones calls the Robert Darwin Black Box Cabaret project (the new name pending California State University Board of Trustee’s approval) “a testament to what is possible when vision, generosity and purpose align.” “The reimagined Black Box Cabaret embod- ies Cal State Monterey Bay’s commitment to innovation, creativity and community connec- tion. We are creating a space where students, faculty, artists and neighbors can come together to celebrate the arts in ways that enrich both our campus and region,” she says. Once completed, the facility will host student showcases, musical and theater performances, ½PQ JIWXMZEPW ERH QSVI “For our students, the performing arts space offers a vibrant hub for expression, discovery and engagement,” says Ben Corpus, CSUMB vice president for enrollment management and student affairs. For project updates, visit www.csumb.edu. SHORT CUTS COMMUNITY Robert Darwin passed away in 2023, leaving an incredibly generous estate gift to CSUMB that will pave the way to reopening the Black Box Cabaret. 82 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 5 Photo: Randy Tunnell