Supporting the Next Generation of Theater Artists

Steven M. Sorenson, M.D., on two seasons of sponsoring UCI Drama and the power of live theater

Steven M. Sorenson, M.D., is a radiologist and longtime champion of the arts whose support covers some of Orange County's most celebrated cultural institutions. He serves as a member of the Dean’s Arts Board at UC Irvine Claire Trevor School of the Arts, the Claire Trevor Society, the Medici Circle Scholarship Program and is co-chair of the UCI Arts Scholarship Committee. For the past two seasons, Dr. Sorenson has brought that same passion for the arts to the UC Irvine Department of Drama as a production sponsor, helping bring student performances to the stage.

Question (Q): What first drew you to sponsor a UCI Drama production? 

Steven Sorenson (SS): What first drew me to sponsor a UCI Drama production was the joy of seeing students bring works of art to life. I’ve always appreciated live theater and the tremendous effort that goes into making a production happen. Supporting these performances felt like a natural way to promote and invest in creative and artistic endeavors that are more important than ever in our community. 

Q: Once you became involved, what made the experience meaningful for you — especially as you’ve now sponsored productions for two years? 

What has made the experience truly meaningful is witnessing firsthand the incredible artistry and dedication of both the students and faculty. From set design to costumes, makeup and music, every detail reflects an impressive level of care and professionalism. It’s especially rewarding to see the joy and sense of accomplishment that comes from bringing each production to life. Being part of something so meaningful to those involved has made continuing my support an easy and fulfilling decision. 

Q: Was there a moment during the process or performance that has stayed with you?

SS: Each production has been memorable in its own way, but one moment that really stands out for me was sponsoring 9 to 5: The Musical. The original film, starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, was an iconic part of my youth, so I already had a strong personal connection to it. Seeing those characters come to life on stage through the work of UC Irvine students was unbelievably special and rewarding.
I remember sitting in the audience and feeling both nostalgic and extremely impressed by the students’ performances. They brought their own perspective and creativity to the story, which made it feel fresh while still honoring what made it so meaningful to me in the first place.

Supporting the production of 9 to 5: The Musical was such an honor; it wasn’t just about watching the performance, but feeling connected to the entire creative process. It was definitely an experience that will continue to stay with me.

Q: What would you share with someone who is considering underwriting a UCI Drama production?

SS: I would highly recommend supporting a UCI Drama production! It’s an incredibly rewarding experience to be part of something that nurtures the next generation of artists and creatives. These students bring passion, talent, and fresh perspectives to every performance, and supporting them helps advance their dreams while allowing them to grow, explore and expand their skills. There is truly nothing like live theater — especially when it’s brought to life by such dedicated and talented students.

To learn more about underwriting opportunities at UCI Arts, contact Fatima Rizvi-Flores, senior associate director of development, at (949) 824-8750 or fatima.r@uci.edu.

For ways to make a gift directly to the Department of Drama, visit UC Irvine Secure Giving.