RAWdance

For those in San Francisco and across California who appreciate the transformative power of movement and artistic expression, RAWdance stands out as a truly exceptional "point of interest." This award-winning contemporary dance company, co-founded by Ryan T. Smith and Wendy Rein in 2004, is renowned for its ability to transform both traditional theaters and unexpected public spaces into stages for nuanced, charged, and often thought-provoking dance. RAWdance delves into deeply human interactions – our needs, desires, connections, and conflicts – revealing both our basest and most beautiful instincts through their compelling choreography.

In a city celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, RAWdance has consistently earned critical acclaim, being described by the SF Chronicle as "witty, whip-smart, and beautiful to watch," and by Critical Dance as a "rare treasure" that combines "choreographic excellence, innovative structures, groundbreaking concepts and impeccable performances." For locals in the Bay Area, experiencing a RAWdance performance is not just an evening out; it's an immersive artistic encounter. As one delighted customer reviewed, it's a "truly outstanding experience" where you can enjoy "world class modern and post-modern dance performance." This high level of artistic quality, combined with an approachable and often interactive presentation style, makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the performing arts.

Beyond its captivating performances, RAWdance is deeply committed to community engagement and expanding access to dance. They challenge conventional notions of where dance happens and who it includes, bringing their art directly into public spaces like art galleries, parks, civic areas, and even malls. This innovative approach makes contemporary dance more approachable and visible for everyday Californians, fostering new appreciation for the art form. Their dedication to supporting diverse voices within the dance field and curating opportunities for other Bay Area artists further solidifies their role as a vital cultural institution in San Francisco.

RAWdance is headquartered at 1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA. This central San Francisco location places the company within the bustling Mid-Market neighborhood, an area well-known for its accessibility and proximity to various cultural institutions and public transit hubs. While RAWdance performs in diverse venues across the city and beyond, this address serves as their administrative and creative base.

The Mid-Market district offers exceptional accessibility for individuals coming from all parts of San Francisco and the wider Bay Area. Market Street is a primary artery for MUNI bus and streetcar lines (including the F Market & Wharves, J Church, K Ingleside, L Taraval, M Ocean View, and N Judah), providing extensive public transportation options right to their doorstep. Additionally, the Civic Center/UN Plaza BART station is just a short walk away, offering quick connections from the East Bay, Peninsula, and SFO. This robust transit infrastructure means that attending a RAWdance performance or engaging with their programs is highly convenient for anyone in the California region, minimizing the need for private vehicle use.

While parking in this dense urban environment can be challenging, numerous parking garages are available in the surrounding blocks for those who choose to drive. RAWdance also prioritizes accessibility in its performance venues. For example, some of their events, like the CONCEPT series, explicitly state the availability of "All-gender, wheelchair accessible restrooms... on the 2nd floor." They are committed to creating welcoming environments for all attendees, reflecting a strong dedication to inclusivity that resonates with the diverse San Francisco community.

Services Offered (by RAWdance as a company):

• Contemporary Dance Performances: Producing and presenting original dance works in traditional theaters and site-specific public spaces.
• Curatorial Programs: Organizing and hosting events like the biannual CONCEPT series, an informal salon showcasing works by various Bay Area contemporary dance artists.
• Choreographic Commissions: Creating and setting works for other dance companies and academic institutions.
• Dance Education: Offering workshops and masterclasses at various schools and dance centers, extending their artistic reach.
• Community Engagement: Bringing dance directly to the public through performances in non-traditional venues and collaborating with diverse community partners.
• Short Dance Films: Producing and screening dance films that have garnered international recognition.
• Artistic Collaborations: Partnering with other artists, non-profit organizations, and even corporate clients for unique creative projects.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Fostering new talent and supporting diverse voices within the contemporary dance field.

Features / Highlights:

• Award-Winning Company: Recognized with numerous accolades, including multiple "Izzies" nominations and consistently voted "Best Dance Company" by local publications.
• Innovative Choreography: Known for creating nuanced, witty, and thought-provoking dances that explore human relationships and identities.
• Site-Specific Performance Experts: Renowned for transforming diverse locations into dynamic stages, increasing accessibility to dance.
• Dedicated Co-Artistic Directors: Led by co-founders Ryan T. Smith and Wendy Rein, celebrated for their genuine and thrilling partnership.
• The CONCEPT Series: A popular, intimate, and often pay-what-you-can salon showcasing new contemporary dance works, praised as the "Best Way to Sample SF's Contemporary Dance Scene."
• Community-Minded: Deeply committed to engaging diverse audiences and supporting fellow artists in the Bay Area.
• Versatile Artistry: Performs live, creates dance films, and engages in cross-disciplinary collaborations.
• Accessibility Focus: Efforts to ensure venues are welcoming and accessible to a broad audience, including those with disabilities.
• Rich Repertory: A diverse body of work that poses questions ranging from the broadly social to the intimately personal.

Contact Information:

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

Phone: (415) 729-3959

Email: raw@rawdance.org

For booking inquiries: booking@rawdance.org

For press inquiries: johnhillpr@gmail.com

For the most current performance schedules, ticket information, and details on workshops or other engagement opportunities, it is highly recommended to visit the official RAWdance website.

In conclusion, RAWdance is an indispensable "point of interest" for locals in San Francisco and across the California region, offering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating contemporary dance experience. Its commitment to artistic excellence, coupled with its innovative approach to presenting dance in diverse spaces, makes it uniquely suitable for anyone seeking to engage with cutting-edge performance art. For Bay Area residents, RAWdance provides an accessible pathway to world-class modern and postmodern dance, whether it's through a full theatrical production or an intimate salon like the CONCEPT series.

The company's dedication to challenging perceptions of where dance belongs and who it serves deeply resonates with the progressive spirit of California. As a patron noted, the experience is not just about watching; it's about being immersed in a captivating performance while enjoying thoughtful amenities, signifying a truly holistic artistic encounter. For those looking to support local artists, be inspired by incredible movement, and connect with a dynamic cultural community, RAWdance is a top-tier destination that consistently delivers unforgettable and meaningful experiences.

RAWdance

1446 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA