CSUDH alum Jesus Trejo wears several professional hats—standup comedian, actor, writer, award-winning children’s book author. What informs all these roles and serves as the touchstone for his humor is a deep connection to community. “Comedy is being able to speak my truth in a funny way that resonates with people in my community,” says Trejo, who returned to his alma mater to screen two episodes of his new six-episode PBS docuseries Roots of Comedy. “And if you’re not in the community, you’ll get a deeper understanding of it.” The screening and subsequent panel discussion took place at the Marvin Laser Recital Hall on Oct. 15 as part of the university’s Hollywood ... Read More
Hollywood by the Horns
Passion, Drive at Heart of Women in Comedy
“Having stories to tell is your sustenance—that’s what pushes through the breaking points.” So said screenwriter, actor, and director Lake Bell, who moderated “Women in Comedy” on Oct. 7 for an audience of students, faculty, and staff. Presented by the Women’s Studies Department and Hollywood by the Horns, the event brought prominent comedy creators and performers to CSUDH to discuss their triumphs and setbacks in the entertainment industry. In addition to Bell, the panel included screenwriter and producer Nicole Jefferson Asher, comedy writer and stand-up comic Erin Foley, playwright and TV writer Janine Nabers, and actor and comedian Michaela Watkins. Among the themes discussed ... Read More
An Evening with Comedian Chris Estrada
CSUDH's Hollywood by the Horns program welcomed acclaimed comedian, actor, and writer Chris Estrada to campus on April 28 for an evening of conversation and a screening of an episode of his hit series This Fool, produced by Fred Armisen, which airs on Hulu. “Hollywood by the Horns functions in large part to create opportunities for CSUDH students to interact with professionals in film and television,” said Toddy Eames, an associate professor of Film, TV & Media who runs the program and served as coordinator for the event. Estrada appeared before a standing room only audience in Ballroom B of Locker Student Union. He has both a personal and professional connection to the ... Read More
