Welcome


Nurturing creativity and confidence through visual and performing arts.


The Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) are an integral part of the Castilleja experience, weaving together knowledge, skill development, and creative self-expression while enriching the cultural life of our community. We offer courses and extracurriculars in four disciplines: dance, music, theatre arts, and visual arts, empowering students to take risks and embrace the arts as a form of joyful exploration. The Middle School and Upper School programs offer a combination of required and elective courses, encouraging students to try new things and hone their skills and confidence in our most advanced courses.

Meet the Team

Helen Johansen

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts and Department Lead

Emily Bender

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual and Performing Arts

Tannis Hanson

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts

Karl Kuehn

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts and Class of 2028 Dean

Aya Matsutomo

Titles: Technical Theatre Director

Angélica Ortiz Anguiano

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts

Adam Sussman

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts

Josh Thurston-Milgrom

Titles: Faculty Member, Visual & Performing Arts