Brown University Ashamu Dance Studio

- 83 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02912

Nestled on the historic campus of Brown University in Providence, the Ashamu Dance Studio is more than just a dance space; it is a central pillar of the Department of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies (TAPS). This well-equipped facility serves as the home for the university's dance program, a place where students and faculty engage in the intellectual, historical, and practical exploration of movement. While its primary function is academic, the studio also plays a significant role in the local Rhode Island arts scene, hosting a variety of dance concerts, events, and performances that are open to the public. It's a space where a passion for dance is nurtured through rigorous training and a deep understanding of the art form's historical and cultural significance.

The dance program at Brown University is unique in its integration of theory and practice. Students not only take classes in various dance techniques but also study the history and philosophy behind them. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education, with courses ranging from beginner levels to advanced. The Ashamu Dance Studio itself is a state-of-the-art facility, specifically designed for performance with sprung floors, mirrors, and professional lighting and sound systems. This technical infrastructure supports a wide array of activities, from daily classes to full-scale productions, making it a dynamic hub for both learning and creativity. The studio's role within a renowned academic institution allows it to attract talented faculty and guest artists, ensuring a high level of instruction and a broad range of artistic perspectives.

The Ashamu Dance Studio is located at 83 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02912, within Lyman Hall on the Brown University campus. Its position in the heart of the city's East Side makes it a convenient and well-known landmark. The campus is accessible by public transportation and is a central point for those traveling from different parts of Providence and the surrounding areas of Rhode Island.

While the studio is primarily used for university-affiliated activities, its location within a larger campus complex offers certain advantages. Visitors can expect to find the space within a vibrant academic and artistic environment. The Department of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies, which oversees the studio, also utilizes nearby venues like Leeds Theatre and Stuart Theatre for its larger productions. Information about parking and specific accessibility details may be found by contacting the university's facilities management or the TAPS department directly.

• Academic Dance Courses: The studio hosts a wide range of dance courses offered through Brown's Department of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of dance.
• Technique Classes: Classes in various styles, including Modern Dance, Contemporary Dance, and Advanced Ballet, are offered for students to hone their skills.
• Training Programs: The studio is a central location for the university’s dance program and other training programs, providing a space for dedicated practice and rehearsal.
• Dance Performances and Concerts: The space is transformed into a performance venue for student and faculty-led dance concerts, which are often open to the public.
• Performing Arts Events: The studio hosts a variety of special events and performances related to dance and broader theatre arts, showcasing the work of students and guest artists.

• State-of-the-Art Facility: The studio measures approximately 30x80 feet and is equipped with a sprung floor, mirrors, lights, and a professional sound system, creating an ideal environment for both training and performance.
• Integral Part of Brown University: As the home of the TAPS dance program, the studio benefits from the resources and prestige of a top-tier university, attracting a high caliber of faculty and students.
• Student-Driven Artistry: Many of the performances and projects hosted at the studio are student-driven, encouraging a spirit of collaboration and creativity among a diverse group of emerging artists.
• Connection to the Broader Arts Community: The studio's affiliation with the university and the Department of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies connects it to a network of local arts organizations and professionals, including the acclaimed Trinity Repertory Company.
• Focus on a Holistic Approach: The curriculum emphasizes not only technical skills but also the history and theory of dance, providing a well-rounded education.
• Good for Kids: While part of a university, the studio and its related programs are often "good for kids," particularly through events, youth programs, and performances that are suitable for all ages.

Address: 83 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02912, USA

The Brown University Ashamu Dance Studio represents a unique opportunity for both students and the public to engage with the performing arts in Rhode Island. What makes this space particularly noteworthy is its dual role as a high-level academic facility and a performance venue that contributes to the wider Providence arts community. For those seeking a rigorous and intellectually-stimulating dance education, the studio's connection to the Department of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies is a major draw. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering everything from the mechanics of movement to the historical context of dance forms. This holistic approach ensures that students are not just dancers but also informed artists and scholars. The studio also serves as a vital resource for Brown's talented student body, allowing them to showcase their work in a professional setting. The annual "Festival of Dance," for instance, is a highly anticipated event that features new work by students and faculty, offering a glimpse into the cutting edge of contemporary choreography.

For members of the Rhode Island community, attending a performance at the Ashamu Dance Studio is an opportunity to witness world-class artistry in an intimate and innovative space. The studio's commitment to hosting a variety of events, from formal concerts to informal workshops, creates a dynamic and ever-evolving artistic environment. The facility's sprung floor and professional lighting make for an exceptional viewing experience, and its function as a research and performance lab ensures that the work presented is often experimental and thought-provoking. While its primary focus is on the university community, the studio's open-door policy for public events makes it an accessible and valuable part of Providence’s cultural landscape. This integration of academic rigor, artistic innovation, and community engagement makes the Ashamu Dance Studio a truly worthwhile and enriching place to visit and experience.

Brown University Ashamu Dance Studio

83 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02912, USA