Urban jazz Dance Company

- 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Welcome to Urban Jazz Dance Company, a pioneering dance school and a professional dance company located in the vibrant city of San Francisco, California. More than just a place to learn dance steps, we are a unique and essential platform for the Black Deaf, Deaf People of Color, and general Deaf communities. Founded in 2007 by the visionary Deaf dancer and choreographer, Antoine Hunter, our company is a collective of professional Deaf and hearing dancers who work together to create and perform. Our mission is to provide opportunities for Deaf and disabled artists to contribute to the arts and larger society, using the power of the performing arts to increase awareness around Deaf issues and celebrate Deaf culture. We believe that dance is a universal language, capable of connecting people of all races, ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Urban Jazz Dance Company is at the forefront of a movement that views deafness as a human experience with its own values, principles, and cultural norms, rather than a disability. This perspective informs all of our work, from our professional performances to our educational programs for students of all ages. We embrace the syncopation of urban jazz rhythms and the importance of play and performance in bridging cultures. Our work is not only artistically powerful but also socially conscious. We create art that reflects lived experiences, addresses social justice issues, and promotes healing. Our productions and workshops are designed to be accessible to both Deaf and hearing audiences, utilizing American Sign Language (ASL) and English voicing to ensure an inclusive experience.

Urban Jazz Dance Company is located at 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA. Situated in a central part of the city, our location provides convenient access for residents from all over the Bay Area. While specific on-site accessibility information is not publicly available for this address, the company is deeply committed to accessibility and often partners with venues that are wheelchair-accessible and provide ASL interpreters and other services for their events. For instance, the company has partnered with venues like Z Space and Dance Mission Theater for performances and festivals, which are known for their accessibility features. It is recommended to check the specific venue information for individual classes, performances, or workshops. The company also offers virtual programs, providing an alternative way for people to access their dance education and artistic content from anywhere.

Urban Jazz Dance Company offers a variety of services and programs for both aspiring dancers and the community at large. Our offerings include:

• Dance Classes: We provide dance education and training that incorporates various styles, including Ballet, African Dancing, and Jazz Dance. Our classes are designed to be good for kids, with a mix of movement classes for a range of ages and skill levels.

• Master Classes & Workshops: We offer specialized master classes that provide advanced training and unique insights into our distinctive style of dance.

• Training Programs: We have training programs for company dancers and teachers, helping to develop the next generation of professional artists and educators.

• Summer Dance Camps: Our summer camps are a fun and engaging way for kids to immerse themselves in dance during the summer months.

• African & Drum Classes: We offer African dancing and drumming classes, which provide a rich and rhythmic experience that is foundational to many of our performances.

• Acting Training & Movement Classes: Our curriculum goes beyond just dance, with classes in acting and general movement to help students become well-rounded performers.

• Virtual Programs: For those who cannot attend in person, we offer virtual programs and workshops, making our training accessible to a wider audience.

Urban Jazz Dance Company is distinguished by its unique mission and exceptional features. Here are some of our key highlights:

• Deaf-Led & Inclusive: As a Deaf-led business, we provide a vital platform for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and disabled artists. This commitment to inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do, from our professional company to our educational outreach.

• Social Justice through Art: Our performances and projects are often focused on social justice issues, such as Deaf rights, women's rights, and disability rights. We use dance as a powerful tool for advocacy, awareness, and healing.

• Internationally Recognized: The company performs all over the Bay Area and beyond, including at prestigious venues like the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and festivals like the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival.

• Producer of the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival: We are the proud producers of this annual festival, which showcases the artistry of Deaf and Hard of Hearing artists from around the world.

• Educational and Uplifting: As noted in a review from an elementary school, our performances are "educational, uplifting and fun," and our staff is "patient and gracious." We are committed to providing a positive and enriching experience for all.

• Connecting Diverse Communities: Our work actively seeks to connect different communities, fostering understanding between Deaf and hearing audiences and celebrating the diversity of human experience.

For all inquiries, registration information, or to learn more about our upcoming performances and classes, you can contact Urban Jazz Dance Company at the following details:

Address: 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA

Phone: (510) 575-9711

What is worth choosing Urban Jazz Dance Company? The answer lies in our unique and powerful mission to use dance as a vehicle for social change and cultural celebration. A review from a school assembly perfectly captures the essence of our work, highlighting its "phenomenal" quality and educational impact. Another review praises the "engaging, connective, and such a joy" that Mx. Antoine Hunter brings to their work, noting how students from various diverse backgrounds connected with their story. This is a testament to our core belief that art can build bridges and foster understanding.

We offer more than just dance training; we offer a chance to be part of a meaningful movement. Our programs provide an opportunity for students to not only develop their skills in ballet, jazz, and African dance but also to gain a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and lived experiences. By choosing Urban Jazz Dance Company, you are supporting a Deaf-led business that is actively working to create a more inclusive and equitable world. Our reputation for excellence, our commitment to accessibility, and our powerful mission make us a truly exceptional choice. We invite you to join our community and experience the joy, education, and empowerment that comes from dance with a purpose.

Urban jazz Dance Company

1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA