Stevie Eller Dance Theatre

Nestled within the vibrant arts scene of Tucson, Arizona, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre stands as a beacon of excellence in the performing arts, specifically dedicated to the art of dance. This award-winning facility is the proud home of the University of Arizona Dance Ensemble, a nationally and internationally recognized program that consistently delivers breathtaking performances. More than just a stage, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre is a state-of-the-art complex designed with dance in mind, offering a truly immersive experience for both performers and audiences. It represents a significant commitment to dance education and presentation in Arizona, providing a crucial platform for student artists to hone their craft and for established and emerging choreographers to showcase their work. For anyone in Arizona passionate about the beauty, athleticism, and emotional depth of dance, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre is an essential destination.

The Stevie Eller Dance Theatre is conveniently located at 1737 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA, on the campus of the University of Arizona. This central location in Tucson makes it easily reachable for residents across the city and surrounding areas. As part of a university campus, it benefits from various transportation options and is a well-known landmark. However, visitors, especially those with mobility concerns, should be aware that parking on a university campus can sometimes be challenging. While accessible seating is generally available within the theatre itself, the journey to and from parking facilities can vary. It is highly recommended that patrons, particularly those with disabilities or in wheelchairs, contact the venue or the University of Arizona's athletics/arts accessibility services in advance to confirm the most convenient parking and access routes for their specific needs. This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this magnificent theatre.

• Live Dance Performances: The primary service of the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre is to host a robust season of live dance performances by the University of Arizona Dance Ensemble, featuring a diverse range of styles including classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop.
• Student Showcases: It serves as the main venue for student recitals and showcases, allowing dance majors to perform in a professional setting.
• Guest Artist Engagements: The theatre frequently welcomes renowned guest artists and dance companies, enriching Tucson's cultural landscape with national and international talent.
• Workshops and Masterclasses: While primarily a performance venue, it may occasionally host public workshops or masterclasses related to its dance programming, often associated with the University of Arizona School of Dance.
• Educational Resource: As an integral part of the University of Arizona's School of Dance, the theatre is a vital educational resource, providing students with hands-on experience in performance, stagecraft, and production.
• Venue Rental (Limited): While primarily used by the University of Arizona, the theatre's state-of-the-art facilities may sometimes be available for rent by external groups for dance-related events, subject to university scheduling and policies.
• Ticketing Services: Easy online and box office ticketing is available for all performances, allowing locals to secure their seats for upcoming shows.

• Award-Winning Architecture: Designed by Gould Evans Associates, the 29,000-square-foot complex is an architectural marvel. Its design was inspired by dance notation (Labanotation), particularly George Balanchine's "Serenade," creating a space where the building itself choreographs movement. It has received multiple awards from the American Institute of Architects.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: The theatre boasts a 300-seat auditorium with excellent sightlines, ensuring a clear view of the stage from every seat. It features a spacious stage, a full-fly system for elaborate scenic changes, and a full orchestra pit, making it versatile for various productions.
• Sprung Dance Floor: The stage features a high-quality sprung dance floor by L'Air International, covered with Harlequin dance floor material, which is crucial for dancer safety and performance quality.
• Intimate Audience-Performer Relationship: Designed without a traditional proscenium frame, the house walls seamlessly transition into the stage walls, creating a remarkably intimate connection between the audience and the performers, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
• Comprehensive Support Facilities: The complex includes dedicated costume and scene shops, a Pilates studio, and ample dressing rooms, providing comprehensive support for the dance program and its numerous performances (approximately 50 per year).
• Home of UA Dance Ensemble: As the official home of the University of Arizona Dance Ensemble, the theatre showcases the talent of a highly acclaimed program that has performed globally, including at prestigious venues like the Joyce Theater in NYC and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
• Accessible Seating Options: The theatre provides accessible seating for patrons with mobility needs, including wheelchair spaces and companion seats, ensuring inclusivity for all audience members.

Address: 1737 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

Phone: (520) 621-1162

Mobile Phone: +1 520-621-1162

For specific inquiries regarding accessibility or performance schedules, checking the official University of Arizona School of Dance website is highly recommended.

For residents of Arizona, particularly those in the Tucson area, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre stands as an invaluable cultural asset, perfectly suited for locals seeking high-quality performing arts experiences. Its suitability for the local community stems from several key aspects that resonate with the interests and needs of Arizonans.

Firstly, as the home of the renowned University of Arizona Dance Ensemble, the theatre consistently presents a rich and diverse season of dance performances. This means locals don't need to travel far to witness world-class dance; it's available right here in Tucson. From the athleticism of contemporary works to the grace of classical ballet, the variety of performances ensures there's something to captivate every taste, making it an excellent option for a date night, a family outing, or a solo cultural excursion. Supporting these performances also means supporting the development of the next generation of dance professionals, many of whom are students from Arizona and beyond.

Secondly, beyond the captivating performances, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre offers a unique opportunity to experience an architecturally significant building. Its innovative design, inspired by dance itself, is a testament to artistic and structural brilliance, earning it accolades as one of Arizona's "Architectural Achievements." Visiting the theatre is not just about watching a show; it's about being in a space that celebrates art from its very foundation.

However, it is crucial to address the accessibility concerns raised by some patrons. While the theatre itself offers accessible seating, navigating the wider university campus for parking and entry can pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. It is highly advisable for local patrons with specific accessibility needs to plan their visit carefully and contact the venue ahead of time to confirm the best parking options and accessible routes. This proactive step can significantly enhance the experience, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the performances without undue stress. Despite this, the theatre remains committed to providing accessible seating options within its performance space.

In conclusion, the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre enriches the cultural fabric of Arizona by offering exceptional dance performances in an inspiring setting. Its role as a vital educational institution and a hub for artistic expression makes it a truly suitable and significant destination for locals eager to engage with the vibrant world of performing arts. With a little planning for accessibility, it promises a memorable and enriching experience for all.

Stevie Eller Dance Theatre

1737 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA