RAWdance

- 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102

In the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area's dynamic arts scene, RAWdance has established itself as a truly exceptional and award-winning contemporary dance company. Since its founding in 2004, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of modern and postmodern dance, earning a reputation for its nuanced, charged, and often witty performances. RAWdance is not just a group of performers; it is a creative force that transforms both traditional theaters and non-traditional public spaces, making high-quality dance accessible to a wider audience. The company’s work is deeply rooted in human interactions, exploring themes ranging from the intimately personal to the broadly social, and they are celebrated for their ability to tell compelling stories through movement. What makes RAWdance a standout in the local community is its dedication to not only creating stunning art but also to fostering an intimate connection with its audience, creating an experience that is both world-class and deeply personal.

RAWdance is celebrated for its unique approach to performance. A review from a real customer highlights the immersive and friendly atmosphere of their shows, where audience members can enjoy popcorn, cookies, and beverages brought to them by the very dancers who are about to take the stage. This commitment to breaking down the formal barriers of the theater and creating a "living room vibe" is a hallmark of their curatorial projects, such as the acclaimed CONCEPT series. This biannual salon offers a fresh and intimate look at new work by Bay Area artists. RAWdance is a rare treasure in the San Francisco arts scene, combining choreographic excellence with a sense of humor and a deep commitment to its community. Their dedication to transforming different spaces into stages—from art galleries and parks to libraries and malls—is a testament to their innovative spirit and desire to bring dance to where people are, rather than expecting them to come to the theater.

The organizational heart of RAWdance is located at 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102. This central location in a vibrant area of the city makes it easily accessible for the company's dancers, collaborators, and staff. While the company's performances and events often take place at various venues—such as Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, ODC Theater, and even outdoor public spaces—the Market Street address serves as a central point for administrative functions and communication. The decentralized nature of their work means that Bay Area residents can often experience their art in unexpected places, bringing dance directly into their neighborhoods and daily lives. The company’s innovative use of different venues for site-specific works and public performances is a key part of their mission to increase access to the art form. This approach ensures that whether you are in the heart of the city or a different part of the Bay, you have a chance to engage with their work.

While RAWdance is primarily a contemporary dance company focused on creation and performance, it also serves the community through a variety of related services and programs. Their work extends beyond the stage to include curation, collaboration, and education. The company's projects are built on a foundation of artistic integrity and a commitment to supporting the Bay Area dance ecosystem. They offer opportunities for other artists through their curatorial projects and have a mission to support diverse voices in the field. The organization's programs are designed to be adventurous, thoughtful, and welcoming, challenging conventional ideas about what contemporary dance is and who it's for. Their work is a blend of artistic excellence and community engagement, making them a significant resource for both artists and audiences.

Services Offered:

• Performance: The creation and staging of world-class modern and postmodern dance performances.
• Curation: Organizing and presenting events, such as the acclaimed CONCEPT series and Yerba Buena Gardens ChoreoFest, to showcase the work of other Bay Area artists.
• Collaboration: Partnering with other artists, organizations, and businesses on new projects and performances.
• Education: Teaching master classes and workshops at various schools and dance centers.
• Community Engagement: Bringing dance to public and non-traditional spaces to increase accessibility.
• Dance Films: Creating short dance films that have been screened internationally.
• Artistic Residencies: Providing residency opportunities for artists to develop new work.

RAWdance has garnered significant praise and numerous accolades over the years, solidifying its position as a leading force in the Bay Area's dance world. The company is a perennial "Best Dance Company" award winner and has received prestigious honors such as the Sustained Achievement Izzie Award. These recognitions speak to the company's consistent quality and its lasting impact on the local arts scene. A key highlight is the CONCEPT series, which has been hailed as the "Best Way to Sample SF's Contemporary Dance Scene" by SF Weekly. This intimate salon-style event offers audiences an up-close and personal viewing experience, fostering a genuine connection between performers and spectators. Furthermore, RAWdance is known for its site-specific works that transform public spaces, making dance an integral part of the urban environment. The company's creative use of venues like art galleries and public parks is a testament to its innovation. The review highlighting the dancers' friendly engagement with the audience and the provision of popcorn and cookies at performances underscores their unique and welcoming approach. The company is also noted as being "good for kids," ensuring that younger audiences can be introduced to contemporary dance in a fun and accessible way.

Features and Highlights:

• Recipient of numerous awards, including the Sustained Achievement Izzie Award and multiple "Best Dance Company" titles.
• Known for transforming theaters and public spaces through performance and collaboration.
• Curates the popular biannual CONCEPT series, an intimate salon showcasing new work by Bay Area artists.
• Committed to community engagement and increasing access to dance.
• Produces short dance films that have been screened internationally.
• Known for a friendly and welcoming atmosphere at performances, where dancers engage directly with the audience.
• Offers programming that is "good for kids," making it a family-friendly cultural option.
• Partners with major local organizations and festivals, such as Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, on curatorial projects.

For those looking to engage with RAWdance, whether as a patron, a collaborator, or for general inquiries, the company provides clear contact information. While performances are announced on their website and through other channels, their central office serves as the main point of contact for administrative and general questions. For booking, press inquiries, or other specific needs, they provide dedicated email addresses, ensuring that your request reaches the right person. Their phone number is another way to get in touch with the team. Staying connected with RAWdance is the best way to keep up to date with their performance calendar, community events, and other exciting projects. Their team is dedicated to providing a high level of service and is happy to help with any questions you may have.

Contact Information:

• Address: 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
• Phone: (415) 729-3959

What makes RAWdance an exceptional choice is its unparalleled commitment to artistic innovation and audience engagement. It's not just about watching a dance performance; it's about being a part of a unique and memorable experience. The company’s ability to create beautiful, thought-provoking work and then present it in a way that feels intimate and accessible is truly special. The customer review highlighting the dancers’ active role in serving the audience, coupled with the mention of the enjoyable "rest stop at Blackbird bar," speaks to the comprehensive and friendly experience they provide. For locals in the Bay Area, choosing to see a RAWdance performance means supporting a company that is at the forefront of contemporary dance, a group that is deeply invested in its community and consistently challenges what dance can be. The fact that their events are often free and open to the public underscores their commitment to making art for everyone. RAWdance is a beacon of creativity and connection, offering a way for residents to experience the best of the local arts scene in a way that is both meaningful and fun.

RAWdance

1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA