95 Empire

95 Empire Introduce

In the heart of Rhode Island's capital, a unique and vital hub for the arts thrives, offering a platform for creativity without restriction. 95 Empire, a cornerstone of the broader AS220 non-profit arts organization, is dedicated to a singular and powerful mission: providing affordable, unjuried, and uncensored space for artists of all disciplines to create and perform. This commitment to creative freedom sets it apart, making it a truly special place in the Providence arts scene. It is a venue where experimentation is encouraged and new voices are celebrated, ensuring a constant flow of fresh and innovative work for the community.

95 Empire is comprised of multiple spaces, including the Black Box and Psychic Readings, each with its own distinct atmosphere and purpose. These venues serve as a home for a wide range of artistic expressions, from theatrical productions and dance to literary readings, film screenings, and live music. For local artists, it’s a crucial resource, offering a forum where they can share their original work without the barriers often found in traditional venues. For the audience, it’s an invitation to experience the cutting edge of the local and regional arts scene, where every visit offers a chance to see something new, raw, and authentic. 95 Empire is more than just a theater; it is a living testament to the power of community and the importance of accessible arts.

Situated at 95 Empire St, Providence, RI 02903, USA, this venue is at the epicenter of the city's downtown arts district. Its central location makes it easily accessible for anyone in the greater Providence area and beyond. The vibrant neighborhood is known for its creative energy, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and other cultural institutions within walking distance. The venue itself is part of a larger complex that contributes to the area's artistic identity.

While specific accessibility details for all of the individual performance spaces within 95 Empire are best confirmed in advance, the overarching AS220 organization is committed to providing a forum for all people. The venue includes amenities such as a toilet, which is a standard convenience for visitors. The atmosphere is generally considered "Good for kids," making it a place where families can introduce their children to live performances and artistic events in a welcoming setting.

95 Empire, as part of the AS220 organization, is a dynamic hub offering a wide array of services that extend beyond just live performances. Its mission is to support the arts community in a holistic way, and its services reflect this commitment.

Live Performances: The core offering of 95 Empire is its diverse calendar of live events, including music, theater, dance, film screenings, and literary readings.
Educational Opportunities: The venue is also a learning place, offering a variety of workshops, classes, and talk-backs aimed at developing skills and fostering creative discourse.
Rental Spaces: Artists and groups can rent the performance spaces for their own shows and events, providing a critical resource for those who need a place to rehearse or perform.
Community-Focused Events: 95 Empire is committed to supporting its local performing community, often ensuring that all show bills involve local talent.
Residential and Work Studios: As part of the larger AS220 organization, the venue is connected to a network of affordable residential and work studios for artists.

The unique identity of 95 Empire is defined by several key features and highlights that set it apart from other performing arts venues.

Live Performances: The primary highlight is the ongoing schedule of live shows, which provides a constant stream of new and exciting work for the community.
Unjuried and Uncensored: This is perhaps the most significant feature of the venue. It means that artists are given complete creative freedom, and there are no barriers to entry based on artistic merit or commercial viability. This fosters a truly diverse and experimental arts scene.
Affordable Access: The mission of the organization is to provide affordable access to arts spaces for all Rhode Islanders, making 95 Empire a place where financial limitations do not stand in the way of creative potential.
Multi-Purpose Spaces: With venues like the Black Box and Psychic Readings, the complex can host a wide range of events, from intimate performances to larger gatherings.
Good for Kids: The venue's family-friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for parents looking to expose their children to the performing arts.

For more information on upcoming events, to book a space, or to learn more about the AS220 organization, you can contact them directly.

Address: 95 Empire St, Providence, RI 02903, USA

Phone: (401) 831-9327

Why is 95 Empire a must-visit destination for anyone in the Rhode Island arts community? The reason lies in its unwavering commitment to its foundational principles. It is a venue built on the belief that art is for everyone, both to create and to experience. In a world where commercial success often dictates what is seen on stage, 95 Empire stands as a beacon of artistic freedom and expression. The unjuried and uncensored nature of the venue is its most compelling feature, creating a space where the arts are not filtered or curated for mass appeal. This results in a raw, authentic, and often surprising experience for audience members. You might see a theatrical piece, a spoken word performance, or an experimental musical act—all in the same week.

For artists, the value of this venue is immeasurable. It provides a crucial entry point for emerging talent and a safe space for established artists to take risks. For the public, it offers an opportunity to support the local arts scene directly and to witness the creative process in a truly unfiltered way. The accessible location and family-friendly atmosphere make it a perfect fit for a casual night out or an educational outing with the kids. In a state known for its artistic community, 95 Empire stands out as a unique and invaluable resource, a place that embodies the true spirit of creativity and collaboration. Choosing to attend an event at 95 Empire means supporting a mission that goes far beyond a single performance; it means investing in the future of the arts in Rhode Island.