Wild Space Dance Co: Milwaukee’s Premier Site-Specific Dance Company

Wild Space Dance Co Introduce

Hello, Wisconsin! If you’re a local arts enthusiast or a family looking for a truly unique and engaging cultural experience, you need to know about Wild Space Dance Co. This is not your typical dance studio or performance group. Based in Milwaukee, Wild Space Dance Co is an innovative and experimental dance company that has been enriching our community for decades. They are renowned for their "site-specific" performances, which means they create and perform dances in unconventional and often overlooked locations throughout our state. From public parks and bridges to museums and historic buildings, they use movement to bring these spaces to life and offer a fresh perspective on the world around us. This article will provide a comprehensive look at what makes Wild Space Dance Co a beloved part of our community, highlighting its unique artistic approach, its educational programs, and the overall enriching experience it provides to audiences and participants alike.

In a state that values creativity and a connection to our surroundings, Wild Space Dance Co embodies both. Founded in 1986 by Founding Director Debra Loewen, and now under the direction of Dan Schuchart, the company has a long history of pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance. They are known for their collaborative spirit, working with other artists, historians, and local organizations to infuse their work with rich contextual details like local stories and oral histories. Their mission is to "explore diverse cultural landscapes to create provocative new choreography, site-based performances, and educational opportunities." One of the most common remarks from audience members is that after a Wild Space performance, they will "now return to these places" that they had previously driven by without a second thought. This speaks directly to the company's ability to create a deeper connection between people and their environment. Their work is a testament to the power of art to not only entertain but also to educate and inspire. A simple, yet powerful review of their work states, "It is fun to go to space," which perfectly captures the sense of adventure and discovery that their performances provide.

Wild Space Dance Co is located at 820 E Knapp St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA. While the company's primary address serves as its base of operations, its true location is all over Wisconsin. Known for its site-specific works, Wild Space takes its performances to unique places, from public parks to historical buildings. This nomadic nature is a core part of their identity, inviting audiences on an adventure through built and natural landscapes. The physical office location is centrally located in Milwaukee, making it easily accessible for administrative purposes. The company's unique approach to location is a major part of what makes it so special. Instead of a single, fixed location, their "venue" changes with each performance, offering a new and exciting experience every time. The company's commitment to creating engaging art that is accessible to all is further reflected in their collaborative nature and community-focused projects. While the company's performances may be in different locations, their spirit and mission remain constant, serving the entire Wisconsin community with their innovative art.

The company's presence across the state is a significant feature. It means that communities outside of Milwaukee have the opportunity to experience high-quality, innovative dance right in their own neighborhoods. This unique accessibility makes Wild Space a truly state-wide cultural asset. They have a history of performing in various venues, from the Mitchell Park Domes to Forest Home Cemetery, and even on college campuses like Lawrence University. This approach makes their art incredibly engaging and interactive, as audiences are often asked to move through the space to witness different events. This creates a more personal and immersive experience than a traditional theater setting. The company's willingness to perform in diverse locations and to collaborate with different communities is a testament to their dedication to making dance accessible and relevant to everyone.

Wild Space Dance Co offers a variety of services that extend beyond its renowned performances. The company is deeply committed to community engagement, education, and artistic collaboration. Their mission is not just to create art but to share it and to provide opportunities for others to create as well. While they do not operate as a traditional dance school with a fixed schedule of classes, their services are integral to the local arts community. The services provided by Wild Space Dance Co include:

Site-specific dance performances that activate unique locations and spaces throughout Wisconsin.
Educational programming, including residencies in schools and workshops for aspiring dancers and choreographers.
Creative projects and series, such as the "Choreo Kitchen," which provides opportunities for new works to be created and performed.
Community outreach and collaborative programs, designed to engage with diverse neighborhoods and tell their stories through movement.
Mentorship and support for emerging dancers and choreographers, fostering the next generation of artists.
Full-season events that include both site-specific works and more traditional theater performances.
Artistic collaborations with historians, visual artists, and musicians to create multi-disciplinary works.

The company’s focus on these types of services highlights its role as a key contributor to the cultural landscape of Wisconsin. They provide a platform for new voices and a space for unique artistic expression. Their educational programs are particularly important, as they allow young people and emerging artists to learn from professionals and to be a part of an innovative creative process. The company's commitment to paying artists equitably also sets a high standard for the local arts community, ensuring that the people who create the work are fairly compensated for their labor. This ethical and community-minded approach is what makes Wild Space Dance Co so highly regarded.

What truly makes Wild Space Dance Co a standout choice for residents of Wisconsin are its key features and highlights. These are the qualities that consistently earn the company praise and recognition from its audiences and peers. They are a testament to the company's artistic vision and its commitment to the community.

A unique focus on site-specific dance, which transforms familiar locations into a canvas for creative expression.
A long-standing history of innovation and artistic excellence, having been a part of the Milwaukee community for over three decades.
An emphasis on collaborative art, working with a wide range of artists, historians, and community members.
A reputation for creating "provocative" and "inventive" performances that engage and challenge audiences.
A commitment to being "Good for kids" and providing educational opportunities that are accessible and inspiring.
The ability to pay with credit cards, making ticket purchases for performances convenient.
A wry sense of humor and clever choreography that makes their work both emotionally charged and fun to watch.

The company's unique approach to performance and education has garnered it support from a wide range of organizations, including the Wisconsin Arts Board and the National Endowment for the Arts. Their work is often reviewed positively for its ability to create a "poetic dialogue between body and space" and for bringing "new life" into old buildings. These testimonials and grants are a clear indicator of the company’s artistic merit and its value to our state’s cultural heritage. The company’s ability to turn a simple review like "It is fun to go to space" into a profound statement about the magic of their performances is what makes them truly special.

For those interested in experiencing the magic of Wild Space Dance Co, here is the essential contact information. The team is always happy to provide details on upcoming performances, workshops, and educational programs. Reaching out is the first step toward becoming a part of this inspiring community.

Address: 820 E Knapp St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

Phone: (414) 271-0307

So, what is worth choosing about Wild Space Dance Co here in Wisconsin? It’s the unique and powerful combination of artistic innovation, community engagement, and a deep respect for our state's landscapes and history. This is a company that doesn't just perform for an audience; it invites the audience to be a part of the creative process. By transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary stages, Wild Space makes dance accessible and relevant to everyone, regardless of their background or previous exposure to the arts. For local residents, choosing to attend a Wild Space performance or support their programs means choosing to invest in a cultural experience that is deeply rooted in our community. It’s an opportunity to see familiar places in a new light and to connect with the art of dance in a way you've never experienced before. It’s an investment in a local organization that truly embodies the spirit of Wisconsin—creative, collaborative, and deeply connected to its home.