Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance

Nestled within the vibrant campus of the University of New Mexico (UNM), the Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance stands as a cornerstone of performance and dance education in Albuquerque. For locals passionate about the arts, aspiring dancers, or anyone simply looking for an engaging cultural experience, this venue offers a consistent stream of captivating performances and serves as a vital training ground for the next generation of movement artists. It's a place where creativity takes center stage, fostering both artistic development and public appreciation for the diverse world of dance.

The Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance is more than just a stage; it's an integral part of UNM's Department of Theatre and Dance, playing a crucial role in the academic and artistic lives of its students. This connection ensures a high standard of performance and a commitment to exploring various dance forms, from classical ballet and contemporary to jazz and hip-hop. Whether you're witnessing a polished student production, an innovative faculty showcase, or a guest artist's compelling performance, the Center provides a unique opportunity to experience the dynamic energy of live dance right here in New Mexico. It's a testament to Albuquerque's rich cultural landscape and its dedication to the performing arts.

The Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance is conveniently situated at 301 Yale Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA. Its location on the University of New Mexico campus places it in a central and easily identifiable part of the city. Being part of UNM's facilities means it benefits from the university's infrastructure, which includes various transportation options and straightforward access.

For those driving, the Yale Blvd NE address makes it simple to navigate to from major Albuquerque thoroughfares, including Central Avenue and I-25. Parking on the UNM campus typically involves designated parking structures or lots, with information often available on the UNM parking website or through event-specific guidance. Public transportation, including Albuquerque's bus system, also serves the university area, providing an alternative for visitors. The Center itself is designed to be accessible, reflecting UNM's commitment to accommodating all patrons. This includes considerations for those with mobility needs, such as wheelchair-accessible seating options, as indicated by UNM Ticketing Services for their venues. Its position on campus means it's often close to other university amenities, making it convenient for those attending events or classes.

As a core component of the University of New Mexico's College of Fine Arts and Department of Theatre and Dance, the Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance offers a variety of services, primarily centered around dance education and performance.

• Dance Education and Training: The center serves as a primary facility for UNM's dance programs, offering classes and training across various disciplines, including ballet, contemporary dance, jazz, and hip hop, for students enrolled in their pre-professional and academic programs.
• Student Choreography Concerts: The venue frequently hosts student choreography concerts, such as "Risky Moves," where UNM dance students showcase their original works and gain experience in performance production, including lighting design and marketing.
• Faculty and Guest Artist Performances: The center is a platform for UNM dance faculty to present their artistic works and for renowned guest artists and dance companies to perform, bringing a diverse range of professional dance to the Albuquerque community.
• Public Performances and Events: Beyond university-specific shows, the center may host various public dance performances and cultural events, occasionally including external dance groups or collaborative artistic endeavors.
• Technical Facilities: The venue is equipped with professional lighting and sound equipment necessary for high-quality dance productions, supporting both student learning and professional performances.
• Venue for Arts Events: While primarily for dance, as a university venue, it may occasionally host other performing arts events or presentations related to the College of Fine Arts curriculum.

The Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance stands out for several key features and highlights that enhance the experience for both performers and audience members in Albuquerque.

• Dedicated Dance Performance Space: As a venue specifically designed for dance, it offers optimal sightlines and stage dimensions for various dance forms, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the intricacies of movement. It is described as a "180-seat theatre designed for dance performances."
• Quality Technical Aspects: Reviewers note that the "sound, lighting ok," indicating a functional and generally effective technical setup that supports professional and student productions. This ensures that the visual and auditory elements of a performance are well-presented.
• Student Showcase Opportunities: It's a crucial venue for UNM's Department of Theatre and Dance, providing students with invaluable opportunities to perform, choreograph, and gain hands-on experience in all aspects of dance production. This directly contributes to the development of local talent.
• Connection to University of New Mexico: Being part of UNM means it benefits from a vibrant academic and artistic environment. This connection often brings diverse and high-caliber dance programming to the community, including academic research in dance.
• Accessibility: The venue is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring that a broader audience can enjoy performances comfortably. This commitment to inclusivity enhances the experience for all patrons.
• Comfortable Seating (Generally): While one review mentioned "limited seating space" and that it "was very hot inside" on one occasion, another reviewer noted "Chairs fairly comfortable." This suggests that seating comfort is generally adequate, although environmental controls might vary.
• Registered National Historic Place: The University's Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance is registered as a National Historic Place, adding a layer of historical significance and cultural importance to the venue within the Albuquerque landscape.
• Variety of Dance Styles: From classical ballet to contemporary and student experimental works, the performances cover a broad spectrum of dance genres, appealing to diverse artistic tastes within the community.

For information regarding upcoming performances, tickets, or general inquiries about the Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance, you can reach out through the University of New Mexico's Department of Theatre and Dance or UNM Ticketing Services.

Address: 301 Yale Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

While a direct phone number for the Center itself is not widely publicized for general inquiries, specific event tickets can often be purchased through UNM Ticketing Services, which can be reached at (505) 277-4569. For departmental inquiries or detailed information about dance programs, it's best to consult the University of New Mexico's official Department of Theatre and Dance website.

For residents of Albuquerque, the Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance is more than just a building; it's a dynamic cultural asset that brings the art of dance to life. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that make it a valuable resource within our community.

Firstly, it provides consistent access to high-quality dance performances, often at accessible price points, featuring both emerging student talent and seasoned professionals. This offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty and power of live dance without having to travel far from home. Supporting this venue means supporting local artists, fostering the growth of the performing arts in New Mexico, and contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of Albuquerque.

Secondly, for families with budding dancers or individuals interested in pursuing dance education, the Center is a direct link to the rigorous training programs offered by the University of New Mexico. Attending performances here can inspire young minds and provide a glimpse into the possibilities of a dance career.

Lastly, its convenient location on the UNM campus, coupled with efforts towards accessibility, makes it a welcoming destination for all members of the community. While past reviews note occasional issues with heat or seating space, the overall quality of sound and lighting, and the primary purpose as a dedicated dance space, underscore its value. The Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance serves as a vital artery for dance in our city, allowing New Mexicans to engage with the art form, support local talent, and enjoy world-class performances right in their backyard. It's a place where you can feel the energy of movement and be part of Albuquerque's thriving arts scene.

Elizabeth Waters Center for Dance

301 Yale Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA