CLARA Studios / E. Claire Raley Studios for the Performing Arts

- 2420 N St #110, Sacramento, CA 95816

In the heart of Midtown Sacramento stands a beautifully renovated historical building that serves as a vibrant hub for the arts community: CLARA Studios, officially known as the E. Claire Raley Studios for the Performing Arts. This unique event venue and cultural center is much more than just a space for performances; it is a dedicated nonprofit organization with a mission to foster creative collaboration, provide arts education, and support local arts organizations. Housed in the former Fremont School, a building with a rich history dating back to 1921, CLARA has been meticulously restored to provide state-of-the-art facilities for a new generation of artists and audiences. For anyone in California looking to engage with the creative and cultural life of Sacramento, CLARA is an essential destination.

CLARA's vision is rooted in the belief that the arts are a critical component of a thriving community. It operates on an innovative model that provides below-market-rate rent to various performing arts groups, including the esteemed Sacramento Ballet, in exchange for their participation in arts education programs for local schools. This unique partnership not only supports the financial stability of the arts in Sacramento but also ensures that high-quality arts education is accessible to a wider audience, especially students in low-income areas. As a result, when you attend an event or a class at CLARA, you are directly contributing to the growth and vitality of the local arts economy.

The versatility of the space is one of its most impressive features. The historic auditorium, in particular, has captivated many visitors with its beauty and charm, serving as a perfect setting for everything from breakfast speaker series and workshops to full-scale dance circles and performances. Beyond the main auditorium, the building houses rehearsal studios, classrooms, and administrative spaces for its resident arts groups. This concentration of creative energy under one roof fosters a collaborative environment where artists can connect, share ideas, and create unique new works.

CLARA is truly a place for everyone. The presence of a charming on-site café, Season's Coffee Roasters, adds to the welcoming atmosphere, offering a perfect spot to grab a delicious coffee or tea before a show, during an intermission, or just to hang out and absorb the creative energy of the building. The studio's commitment to being a safe and inclusive space is also a key highlight, with the venue identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. This dedication to diversity and inclusion ensures that all members of the community can feel comfortable and welcomed.

CLARA Studios is conveniently located in Sacramento's vibrant Midtown neighborhood at 2420 N St #110, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA. The building occupies the block between 24th and 25th streets, making it an easy-to-find destination within a bustling and creative area. Parking is stress-free, with options for free street parking, free on-site parking, and a free parking lot located behind the building. This convenience ensures that guests can arrive with ease, ready to enjoy their experience.

The venue is committed to providing a fully accessible experience for all its visitors. Key accessibility features include a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. The studio is also kid-friendly and has changing tables, making it a comfortable destination for families with young children. This attention to detail and a commitment to inclusivity ensure that CLARA is a welcoming space for the entire community.

• Performance Events: The venue hosts a wide range of live arts and performance events, including dance circles, plays, and musical showcases.
• Summer Camp Programs: A variety of performing arts camps for children, offering hands-on experience in dance, music, and theater.
• Private Lessons: Many of the resident arts organizations offer private lessons for students of all ages.
• School Classes: Through its nonprofit mission, CLARA provides arts education to local schools with low arts access, bringing the arts directly to students.
• Workshops and Creative Series: The venue hosts various workshops, creative speaker series, and luncheons for the public.
• Event Venue Rental: CLARA's historic and beautiful spaces are available to rent for community arts groups and private events.
• On-site Café: The presence of Season's Coffee Roasters provides a convenient and friendly spot for refreshments and meals.

• Historic and Beautiful Building: Housed in the renovated Fremont School, the venue features a stunning auditorium and well-designed studio spaces.
• Central Location in Midtown: Its prime location makes it a cultural hub that is easily accessible to all.
• Home to Resident Arts Groups: The studio provides a home for multiple organizations, including the Sacramento Ballet, fostering a collaborative and vibrant environment.
• Inclusive and Welcoming: The venue is an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, with amenities for children and full accessibility for those with mobility needs.
• On-Site Café: The presence of Season's Coffee Roasters adds to the convenience and charm of the venue, providing a great place to meet and relax.
• Nonprofit Mission: The organization's mission to provide arts education and support to the community is a key highlight, making it a socially conscious choice for a venue.
• Flexible and Versatile Spaces: The studios and auditorium are suitable for a wide variety of events, from formal performances to informal workshops.

Address: 2420 N St #110, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Phone: (916) 794-2787

Choosing CLARA Studios for an event or to engage with the arts is an excellent decision for anyone in California, and the reasons are abundant. The most compelling factor is the studio's dual role as a high-quality event venue and a mission-driven cultural organization. As one reviewer eloquently stated, the venue is a place where you can "fall in love with the auditorium space" while also appreciating its broader mission of supporting arts education and cultural programming. By choosing CLARA, you are not just attending a show; you are contributing to a cause that brings arts access to a wide range of people, including low-income students. This gives your patronage a deeper meaning and value.

Furthermore, the atmosphere at CLARA is uniquely welcoming. The renovation of the historic Fremont School has resulted in a space that feels both grand and intimate, creating an ideal setting for both large-scale performances and smaller, more personal workshops. The on-site cafe, as highlighted in a review, adds to this friendly and accessible feel, providing a convenient and delicious option for attendees. The space’s commitment to being a safe and inclusive environment for all, including being an LGBTQ+ friendly space, makes it a comfortable and welcoming choice for a diverse community.

Finally, the sheer variety of activities and services offered makes CLARA a versatile destination. Whether you're interested in attending a performance, taking a class, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, there is a reason to visit. The presence of resident arts groups like the Sacramento Ballet means that there is always something new and exciting happening. For anyone in California who values the arts, history, and community, CLARA Studios is an exceptional venue that promises a rich and rewarding experience.

CLARA Studios / E. Claire Raley Studios for the Performing Arts

2420 N St #110, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA