SPACE - Near & Arnold's School of Performing Arts & Cultural Education

- 508 W Perkins St, Ukiah, CA 95482

For residents of Ukiah and the broader Mendocino County region, SPACE, the Near & Arnold's School of Performing Arts & Cultural Education, is a central pillar of the local arts and culture community. More than just a theater, SPACE is an innovative year-round after-school performing arts program that has been a beacon for youth and their families since 1995. The organization's mission is deeply rooted in empowering young people to become creative, responsible, and compassionate individuals through effective training in dance, theater, music, and cultural education. This focus on youth development makes it a truly special place, where the stage is not just a platform for performance but a classroom for life. The performances held at the SPACE Theater are a culmination of this educational journey, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of its students. These live shows are often described as beautiful, fun, and captivating, drawing in audiences from all over the county.

The atmosphere at SPACE is one of support, encouragement, and a genuine love for the arts. This is evident from the glowing reviews of those who have experienced the theater from both sides—as performers and as audience members. A student performer's review praising the "excellent staff" and "comfy" stage speaks volumes about the welcoming and professional environment. Similarly, a parent's review about their daughter loving her dance classes and finding the shows "beautiful and fun" highlights the positive impact the school has on its students and their families. This sense of community and dedication is what sets SPACE apart. It is a place where young people not only receive exemplary training but also feel a sense of belonging. The curriculum emphasizes diversity, youth leadership, and cross-cultural arts, often addressing important social, environmental, and cultural issues. This commitment to a holistic education, which nurtures both artistic skills and personal character, is a key reason for the theater's standing as a vital cultural institution in Northern California.

SPACE is conveniently located in the heart of Ukiah, California, making it a central and accessible destination for both students and audience members. The address is 508 W Perkins St, Ukiah, CA 95482, USA. Its proximity to downtown Ukiah ensures that it is easy to find and reach. The theater is also highly committed to accessibility, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy its classes and performances. The facilities are equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, providing ease of access for those arriving by car. Furthermore, the building features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring a smooth and welcoming transition from the parking lot to the theater itself. Inside, a wheelchair-accessible toilet is also available, which is a crucial amenity for ensuring comfort and convenience for all patrons.

This thoughtful approach to accessibility is a clear reflection of the organization’s inclusive mission. It ensures that families and individuals with mobility challenges are not excluded from participating in the arts, whether as a student or a spectator. The location is also well-suited to serve the community, functioning as a central hub for various events and classes. For those looking for a family-friendly outing, the easy access and amenities contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable experience. The ability to park, enter, and navigate the space without difficulty makes attending a live performance or dropping off a child for a class a seamless process.

As a multifaceted institution, SPACE offers a diverse range of services that go beyond simply staging performances.

• Live Performances: The theater is a venue for a variety of live shows, including dance productions, theatrical plays, musicals, and music showcases, many of which feature the talented youth enrolled in their programs.
• After-School Performing Arts Programs: A comprehensive, year-round program serving youth from infancy through age 18, providing training in dance, theater, and music.
• Dance Classes: A wide array of dance classes are available, catering to various ages and skill levels, as mentioned by a parent whose daughter loves going for dance classes.
• Theatrical and Musical Productions: Students have the opportunity to participate in full-scale productions, which provides hands-on experience in all aspects of theater.
• Cultural Education: The curriculum often includes a cultural component, addressing social and environmental issues through the arts.

The combination of educational programs and high-quality performances makes SPACE a unique and valuable resource for the Ukiah community.

Several key features make SPACE a top choice for families and arts enthusiasts in the region.

• Family Friendly Environment: The theater is specifically noted for being family friendly and "good for kids," with shows and programs designed to be enjoyable for all ages.
• Live Performances: The focus on live performances provides a vital platform for young artists to showcase their skills and for the community to experience a vibrant local arts scene.
• Commitment to Accessibility: With a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, the theater is a welcoming space for all patrons, regardless of physical ability.
• Diverse Payment Options: For convenience, the theater accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and cheques.
• Youth-Focused Mission: The core mission to empower youth through the arts distinguishes SPACE as a place dedicated to not just entertainment but also personal development and education.

These highlights collectively underscore the organization’s dedication to providing an inclusive, enriching, and professional environment.

To learn more about upcoming shows, classes, or to get involved, you can contact SPACE directly.

Address: 508 W Perkins St, Ukiah, CA 95482, USA

Phone: (707) 462-9370

Mobile Phone: +1 707-462-9370

The staff is always ready to answer questions and provide information on their latest events and programs.

Choosing a performing arts theater in a local community is about more than just finding a venue; it's about finding a place that aligns with your values and provides a meaningful experience. What makes SPACE a truly worthwhile choice is its powerful dual identity as both a high-quality performing arts theater and a dedicated school for youth. The live performances are not just shows; they are the result of an after-school program that has been described as a "vital beacon" for hundreds of children and their families. This fusion of education and entertainment is rare and impactful. For families, this means that every time they attend a performance, they are not only being entertained but are also supporting the growth and development of young artists in their community. The "good for kids" and "family friendly" labels are not just marketing buzzwords; they are a fundamental part of the organization's ethos, ensuring that the content is always appropriate and engaging for all ages.

The commitment to inclusivity, highlighted by the accessible facilities, further cements SPACE’s role as a true community resource. Knowing that a venue has taken the steps to provide a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet makes it a top choice for anyone who values universal access to the arts. The positive reviews from both students and their families are a testament to the nurturing environment and the genuine connection the staff fosters with every person who walks through their doors. When you choose to support SPACE, you are contributing to a legacy of empowering youth and enriching the cultural landscape of Mendocino County. For anyone in Ukiah looking for a place to experience captivating live performances or enroll their child in a transformative arts program, SPACE is an exceptional and highly recommended destination.

SPACE - Near & Arnold's School of Performing Arts & Cultural Education

508 W Perkins St, Ukiah, CA 95482, USA