AXIS Dance Company

Nestled in the vibrant arts community of Berkeley, California, AXIS Dance Company stands as a globally recognized leader in the field of physically integrated dance. Since its inception in 1987, AXIS has consistently challenged perceptions of what dance is and who can dance, captivating audiences with breathtaking performances that showcase the immense talent and artistry of disabled and non-disabled performers alike. This groundbreaking company is a beacon of innovation, celebrated for creating virtuosic contemporary dance that redefines traditional boundaries and champions radical inclusivity within the performing arts. For locals in the California region, AXIS Dance Company offers a unique opportunity to experience world-class artistry that is not only visually stunning but also deeply impactful and thought-provoking.

AXIS Dance Company’s mission goes beyond merely performing; it is rooted in fostering a more inclusive and equitable dance sector and world. Their work is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together diverse bodies and perspectives to create a new vocabulary of movement. Through their artistry, engagement, and advocacy, AXIS pushes the boundaries of contemporary dance, building bridges between the dance world, integrated dance, and disability culture. They are at the forefront of a movement that celebrates the beauty of difference, offering a compelling vision of what is possible when creativity knows no physical limits. For residents of California, engaging with AXIS Dance Company means supporting a legacy of artistic excellence and contributing to a more accepting and diverse cultural landscape. It’s an invitation to witness performances that inspire, educate, and profoundly move, offering a fresh perspective on human potential and artistic expression.

AXIS Dance Company is strategically located at 1370 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA, sharing a space with Berkeley Ballet Theater. This location in the heart of Berkeley offers excellent accessibility for individuals throughout the East Bay and beyond. Navigating to the studio is straightforward, whether you're traveling by car, public transportation, or even on foot or by wheelchair. For those driving, street parking is generally available in the surrounding area, although it's always recommended to check local signage for any restrictions. The area is well-served by AC Transit bus lines, with stops conveniently located within a short walking or rolling distance, connecting the company to various parts of Berkeley, Oakland, and other nearby cities. The proximity to major roadways further enhances its accessibility, making it a viable destination for dancers, students, and audience members from across the broader Bay Area. The commitment to accessibility extends to their physical space, with the rehearsal studio being wheelchair accessible and equipped with accessible bathrooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. This central and accessible location underscores AXIS Dance Company's dedication to being an integral and approachable part of the local community.

AXIS Dance Company offers a robust array of services and programs that cater to diverse audiences, from aspiring dancers to seasoned educators and the general public. Their offerings reflect their multi-faceted mission of artistry, engagement, and advocacy.

• Professional Performances and Tours: Creates and performs world-class contemporary dance productions featuring integrated ensembles of disabled and non-disabled artists. The company tours nationally and internationally, bringing their innovative work to a global audience.
• Youth Engagement Programs: Provides mind-opening assembly performances and dance workshops for grades K-12. These programs showcase contemporary choreography, educate on disability awareness, and emphasize collaboration among disabled, non-disabled, and neurodiverse youth, promoting tolerance and inclusion.
• Community Dance Classes: Offers accessible dance classes, such as "AXIS in Motion," which are open to disabled and non-disabled dancers of all ages and experience levels, fostering a welcoming environment for movement exploration. These can be in-person or virtual.
• Teacher Training: Conducts specialized training programs for educators, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to teach physically integrated dance and create inclusive dance environments.
• Choreo-Lab Fellowship: An intensive program that provides an inclusive environment for established disabled and/or neurodiverse choreographers to develop new works, mentored by their peers and collaborating with integrated groups of performers.
• Summer Intensive: A multi-day program inviting disabled, non-disabled, and neurodiverse dancers and educators from around the world to engage, share, and learn from one another and the AXIS team.
• Advocacy and Resources: Actively champions access, inclusion, and equity for individuals within the disabled community within the arts sector, providing resources and tools such as their Access Guide to Presenting and Touring in the Performing Arts.
• Artistic Collaborations: Regularly commissions new works from renowned international choreographers and composers, continually pushing artistic boundaries.

AXIS Dance Company is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore its unique position in the dance world and its profound impact on both the arts and society.

• Pioneering Physically Integrated Dance: Since its founding in 1987, AXIS has been a global leader in consciously developing choreography that integrates dancers with and without physical disabilities, creating a new and influential dance vocabulary.
• World-Class Artistry: The company is renowned for its high artistic standards, creating virtuosic and innovative contemporary dance works that challenge perceptions and have received numerous accolades, including multiple Isadora Duncan Dance Awards.
• Diverse and Talented Ensemble: Features a dynamic ensemble of disabled, non-disabled, d/Deaf, and neurodiverse performers, showcasing the strength, beauty, and collaborative power of varied bodies.
• Commitment to Education and Outreach: Dedicates significant time and resources to educational programming, reaching thousands of students and educators annually through assemblies, workshops, and teacher training, promoting understanding and inclusion.
• Advocacy for Accessibility: Actively works to remove barriers and create accessible environments in the performing arts, influencing venues and institutions to be more inclusive for both audiences and performers.
• Innovative Collaborations: Regularly partners with prominent choreographers and artists from around the world, resulting in fresh, cutting-edge, and culturally significant dance pieces.
• Global Impact: With tours to over 100 cities in the US, Europe, Israel-Palestine, the UK, United Arab Emirates, and Russia, AXIS has significantly contributed to the international physically integrated dance movement.
• Community Hub: Beyond its professional performances, AXIS fosters a vibrant community through its classes and workshops, providing a welcoming space for all to explore movement and connect.

For those in the California region interested in connecting with AXIS Dance Company, here is their contact information:

Address: 1370 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA

Phone: (510) 625-0110

For general inquiries, their website indicates that email can be directed to info@axisdance.org.

AXIS Dance Company represents a profound and inspiring asset for locals in California. It is more than just a dance company; it is a movement that champions diversity, inclusion, and the transformative power of art. For residents of Berkeley and the wider Bay Area, AXIS offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness performances that are not only aesthetically captivating but also socially significant, prompting audiences to reconsider traditional notions of dance and disability. Its comprehensive educational programs, accessible classes, and advocacy initiatives provide invaluable resources for individuals of all ages and abilities, fostering a more inclusive community. By supporting AXIS Dance Company, locals directly contribute to an organization that is pushing artistic boundaries, educating future generations, and advocating for a more equitable world. It is a place where you can be truly moved, learn about diverse human experiences, and participate in a movement that celebrates the beauty inherent in every body. AXIS Dance Company is a testament to Berkeley’s spirit of innovation and inclusion, making it an ideal local gem for anyone passionate about the arts, social justice, or simply seeking an enriching and inspiring experience.

AXIS Dance Company

1370 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA