Smuin Contemporary Ballet | Smuin Center for Dance

- 1830 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Welcome to the vibrant world of Smuin Contemporary Ballet, a cornerstone of the Bay Area's performing arts scene. Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Smuin is more than just a dance company; it’s a creative hub where athletic grace meets emotional storytelling. For residents across California and visitors alike, Smuin offers an unforgettable journey into the art of dance, blending a rich classical ballet foundation with dynamic contemporary innovation. This guide is your key to understanding why Smuin Contemporary Ballet has become a beloved institution, celebrated for its electrifying performances, community-focused approach, and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Whether you’re a lifelong ballet enthusiast or curious about experiencing dance for the first time, Smuin promises a magical and moving experience right here in our own backyard.

Founded by the late, legendary choreographer Michael Smuin, the company’s legacy is built on a philosophy of making dance accessible, engaging, and deeply resonant with audiences. Smuin’s repertoire is renowned for its diversity, ranging from breathtaking classical pieces to innovative works that explore modern themes. Their performances are known for their high energy, technical precision, and a certain playful charm that captures the hearts of all who watch. The company's home base, the Smuin Center for Dance, serves as both a rehearsal space and a community center, a place where the art form is nurtured and shared with future generations. This blend of heritage and forward-thinking creativity is what makes Smuin a unique and essential part of California’s cultural landscape.

The Smuin Center for Dance is conveniently located at 1830 17th St in San Francisco, CA 94103. Situated in a dynamic neighborhood, the center is easily accessible for those living in or visiting the city. Its central location makes it a manageable destination whether you're traveling by car or using public transportation. The surrounding area offers various parking options, and the proximity to major transit lines ensures a smooth journey for audience members coming from across the Bay Area.

One of the standout features of Smuin Contemporary Ballet's location is its commitment to accessibility. The venue proudly offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it easy for all guests to arrive and enjoy the experience. Inside, the commitment to inclusivity continues with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and dedicated wheelchair-accessible seating. This thoughtful consideration ensures that everyone can feel comfortable and fully immerse themselves in the performance without any barriers. The welcoming and inclusive environment extends to its community, as Smuin is known for being an LGBTQ+ friendly space and a transgender safespace, creating a truly welcoming atmosphere for all.

Services Offered:

• Live contemporary and classical ballet performances, showcasing a dynamic and diverse repertoire.
• Dance education and training programs for students of various ages and skill levels at the Smuin Center for Dance.
• Special holiday performances, such as the widely acclaimed Christmas ballet, which a review noted was "super magical."
• Online ticket sales for convenient and secure booking of performances.
• Community outreach programs aimed at bringing the joy of dance to a wider audience.
• Venue rentals for private events, providing a unique and artistic backdrop.

Features / Highlights:

• A diverse and innovative repertoire that fuses classical ballet technique with modern movement, keeping performances fresh and exciting for all audiences.
• Talented and passionate dancers known for their technical prowess and emotional expressiveness. As one reviewer noted, their performances were so moving they found themselves "moved to tears many times."
• Accessibility-focused facilities including wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons.
• A reputation for being a "Transgender safespace" and "LGBTQ+ friendly," highlighting the company's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Welcoming atmosphere for all ages, with a "Good for kids" rating that makes it an excellent choice for a family outing.
• Multiple touring venues across California, including the Mountain View Center for Performing Arts, making their stellar performances accessible to more communities.
• Acceptance of multiple payment methods, including major credit and debit cards, for hassle-free transactions.

Contact Information:

Address: 1830 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA

Phone: (415) 912-1899

What is worth choosing Smuin?

Choosing Smuin Contemporary Ballet is an investment in a genuinely enriching cultural experience. The company’s unique blend of classicism and innovation ensures that no two performances are alike. Their programs, like the exciting four-part show featuring Michael Smuin’s 'The Eternal Idol' and 'I Remember Now,' are a testament to their artistic depth and creativity. The audience reviews speak volumes, with patrons "highly recommend" the company and praising specific acts, such as one reviewer’s love for a program using Dave Brubeck’s music.

Smuin's performances are not just a display of technical skill; they are emotionally engaging narratives told through movement. The ability to move an audience to tears, as highlighted in a review of their Christmas ballet, is a rare and powerful quality that sets them apart. Beyond the stage, Smuin's commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone, including those with accessibility needs and members of the LGBTQ+ community, makes it a true leader in the performing arts.

Furthermore, Smuin's dedication to the community goes beyond their performances. The Smuin Center for Dance provides a nurturing environment for dancers of all ages, contributing to the cultural fabric of San Francisco and the wider Bay Area. This combination of world-class artistry, community engagement, and a commitment to accessibility makes Smuin Contemporary Ballet an unparalleled choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, memorable, and impactful performing arts experience in California. Attending a Smuin show is always a "wonderful trip to SF," as one loyal customer noted, solidifying its place as a must-see destination.

Smuin Contemporary Ballet | Smuin Center for Dance

1830 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA