Stewart/Owen Dance

- 18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

For residents and visitors of Western North Carolina seeking a vibrant and inspiring artistic experience, Stewart/Owen Dance stands out as a true gem in the Asheville community. This professional contemporary dance company, led by the husband and wife duo Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen, is more than just a performing troupe; it is a creative force and an educational hub dedicated to enriching the local arts scene. Stewart/Owen Dance is celebrated for its inventive, elegant, and often humorous choreography that captivates audiences and pushes the boundaries of storytelling through movement.

Since making North Carolina their home base in 2017, Gavin and Vanessa have worked tirelessly to build a sustainable ecosystem where professional dance artists can thrive right here in Western North Carolina. Their mission is to provide inclusive classes, excellent artistic programming, and create access points to the arts for people of all ages and backgrounds. They believe that dance has a unique ability to inspire, connect, and heal, and they are committed to sharing this gift with their community. As the resident dance company of Asheville's beloved Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, Stewart/Owen Dance has a strong local presence and is deeply woven into the fabric of the city's cultural landscape.

What makes this company particularly special is its dual focus on performance and education. They are known for their captivating live shows, which often take place in both traditional theater spaces and non-traditional venues, but they also maintain a strong commitment to teaching and community outreach. This allows them to engage with a diverse audience, from seasoned art patrons to families introducing their children to dance for the first time. Their work has been recognized on a national and international level, but their heart and focus remain firmly in Asheville, making them an incredible asset to the local community and a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary dance.

Stewart/Owen Dance is strategically located at 18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA. This address places them at the heart of downtown Asheville, a hub for arts, culture, dining, and entertainment. The central location makes the company's performances and classes easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. The surrounding area is bustling with activity, providing a perfect backdrop for the dynamic and creative energy that Stewart/Owen Dance brings to the city.

Accessibility is a key part of the company's ethos, and this is reflected in their facilities. The presence of a wheelchair-accessible car park is a notable feature, ensuring that individuals with mobility needs can attend events and classes with greater ease. While located in a bustling downtown area, this specific provision demonstrates a thoughtful consideration for audience members and students. The accessibility of their physical space complements their mission of providing access to the arts for a broad and diverse community, making it a welcoming and inclusive destination for everyone who wants to experience the power of dance.

Stewart/Owen Dance offers a variety of services, catering to both the aspiring dancer and the avid arts spectator.

• Professional Performances: The company presents a year-round schedule of live performances, showcasing their bespoke repertoire of contemporary choreography. Their works are known for being elegant, inventive, and deeply moving.
• Community Dance Classes: They offer ongoing open-level classes for adults of all backgrounds and experience levels. These classes provide a safe and inclusive environment for people to reconnect with their bodies and experience the freedom of movement.
• Educational Outreach: Stewart/Owen Dance provides educational programming and performances for public schools, YMCAs, and other community organizations, bringing the arts directly to young people in Western North Carolina.
• Collaborative Projects: The company frequently collaborates with other artists, including musicians like Moses Sumney and Sylvan Esso, to create unique, cross-genre performances and music videos.
• Workshops and Intensives: From time to time, they host specialized workshops and intensives, such as the "S/OURCE" winter intensive, which provides professional development and training for dancers.

The company's commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement is highlighted by several key features and accomplishments.

• Award-Winning Choreography: The work of co-directors Gavin Stewart and Vanessa Owen has received national attention, earning them accolades such as the Audience Choice Award at the NYC Dance Gallery Festival and commissions from prestigious institutions like the American Dance Festival.
• Resident Company Status: Stewart/Owen Dance is the resident dance company of the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, a testament to their professional standing and importance to the local arts scene.
• Site-Specific Works: Known for their innovative approach, the company has created and performed work in non-traditional spaces, including a sold-out "drive-up" performance at the Asheville Outlet Mall and walk-along dance exhibits.
• Community Focus: The company's mission is centered on building a sustainable arts ecosystem in Western North Carolina and making dance accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background. Their programs are specifically noted as being "Good for kids."
• Internationally Experienced Directors: Gavin and Vanessa have extensive professional experience, having toured globally as Cultural Ambassadors with the U.S. State Department, bringing a wealth of knowledge and international perspective to Asheville.

For those interested in experiencing the artistry of Stewart/Owen Dance or participating in their community classes, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Phone: (828) 257-4530

Mobile Phone: +1 828-257-4530

What makes Stewart/Owen Dance a truly exceptional choice for the Asheville community and beyond is its unique combination of professional artistic rigor and deep-rooted community engagement. Unlike many dance companies that operate solely as a performance entity, Stewart/Owen Dance is equally committed to education and accessibility. This is a rare find in the arts world, and it means that whether you are a dance enthusiast, a curious newcomer, or a parent looking for a creative outlet for your child, there is a place for you. The company’s innovative approach to choreography, which often takes dance outside of traditional venues, makes their work accessible and engaging for a wider audience. The accolades and commissions they have received from national organizations speak to their high level of artistry, while their local partnerships and inclusive classes demonstrate their dedication to serving the very community they call home. By choosing to support or participate in Stewart/Owen Dance, you are not just enjoying a performance or taking a class; you are contributing to a flourishing arts ecosystem in Western North Carolina. Their mission to build a sustainable home for professional dancers in the region is a noble one, and every performance attended or class taken helps them achieve this goal. Their work embodies the spirit of Asheville itself—creative, collaborative, and deeply connected to its people and place.

Stewart/Owen Dance

18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, USA