When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Danspace Project Inc
Why Danspace Project Inc is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Danspace Project Inc is a distinguished nonprofit dedicated to supporting and showcasing contemporary dance artists in New York City. Established in 1974 and nestled in the historic St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, it has become a unique venue where art, community, and innovation intersect. This organization is more than just a performance space; it is a vibrant cultural center that fosters experimentation, creativity, and artistic exchange in the realm of dance. The facility’s shared location with other artistic entities such as The Poetry Project and New York Theatre Ballet enhances its collaborative and interdisciplinary atmosphere, making it an inspiring spot for both artists and audiences alike. Danspace Project is especially known for its Commissioning Initiative which has commissioned over 570 new dance works since 1994, highlighting its strong commitment to nurturing new choreographic talent. Its diverse programming includes performances, platforms for emerging choreographers, research, public engagement, and community service that invite audiences to deeply engage with contemporary dance. The organization also embraces values such as equity, adaptability, and active listening, which contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment. For friends and dance enthusiasts looking to meet up, Danspace Project offers a dynamic cultural experience immersed in innovation, dialogue, and artistic exploration.
Here's what people think of Danspace Project Inc
As of recent, Danspace Project Inc holds a 4.4-star rating based on 34 reviews.
User reviews of Danspace Project Inc average around 4.4 stars based on approximately 34 reviews, reflecting a generally positive reception. Many reviewers praise the venue’s intimate atmosphere, which allows for a close and immersive experience with cutting-edge dance performances. Positive feedback commonly highlights the organization's commitment to experimental and diverse dance works, its support of emerging choreographers, and the warmth and inclusivity felt by attendees. Visitors appreciate the unique setting within St. Mark’s Church, noting that it adds historical and aesthetic value to events. The program’s focus on innovation and community engagement also resonates strongly with the audience. On the negative side, some reviewers have noted occasional issues such as limited seating capacity or accessibility challenges that can impact comfort or convenience during events. A few have mentioned that the avant-garde nature of some performances may not appeal to all tastes, potentially making it a niche experience. Despite these critiques, the consensus suggests that Danspace Project Inc serves as a vital and inspiring hub for contemporary dance lovers and artists. Its strong artistic vision and inclusive values make it a meaningful place for people to gather, connect, and appreciate innovative dance performances.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Caroline Rothrock
Wonderful church with lots of great history, it's definitely worth a visit. And, the ghost tour app we had said the courtyard is haunted by a peg leg ghost. Cool!
Nic Thibodeaux
Beautiful church, with historic burial sites and a really authentic untouched atmosphere
Rob Smith
Low budget but high energy productions. Very impressive.
ej shortell
Beautiful church with a lot of history. It has been in existance for more than 300 hundred years. Check the schedule before going and then enjoy a day of history and possible events. The church has a schedule of events. Find something you like and go. Have fun.
Eric Dahl
Great organization that produces beautiful dance performances chiefly at Saint Mark's Church
How to reach Danspace Project Inc
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Why Danspace Project Inc may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Danspace Project Inc with your friends?
Choosing Danspace Project Inc as the venue to gather with your friends is a brilliant idea for a truly enriching and memorable experience. This acclaimed dance and performance arts space boasts a stellar rating of 4.4 from 34 reviews, which speaks to the quality and appeal it offers as a cultural hub. Unlike typical meetup spots, Danspace invites you and your group into an environment infused with artistic innovation, creative energy, and a welcoming atmosphere where every event feels curated to spark connection and inspiration. Situated within St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, the space combines the historic charm of its setting with cutting-edge contemporary dance performances, making it unique compared to other conventional venues. Whether you and your friends are dance aficionados, art lovers, or simply looking to try something new together, Danspace presents an opportunity to engage—not just spectate—with live art that stimulates dialogue and communal enjoyment. The intimacy of the space encourages interaction among attendees, allowing for a shared experience that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. In sum, Danspace Project Inc is not just a meetup spot; it’s a creative gathering place that fosters community through artistic expression, ideal for friends seeking a meaningful and culturally rich outing.
What kind of activities can a group enjoy at Danspace Project Inc?
Danspace Project Inc hosts a dynamic spectrum of activities centered around contemporary dance, performance art, and community engagement, creating a diverse agenda perfect for any group meetup. The core offering is its series of live dance performances, often presented as multi-week “Platforms” curated by invited artists. These series showcase premieres, ongoing projects, and experimental works from a broad range of choreographers, blending dance with music, text, and multimedia to create immersive experiences. Besides public performances, Danspace occasionally offers workshops and classes tailored to the interests of the artists involved, providing hands-on opportunities for friends to explore movement, creativity, and artistic collaboration together. The venue also supports community through public engagement initiatives, which encourage dialogue and participation, deepening the group’s connection to the work being shown. For those interested in deeper involvement, special events like gala evenings, artist talks, and after-parties serve as great extensions of the visit, facilitating socialization within a vibrant arts community. Furthermore, Danspace’s “Off-Season” rental program means that friends can even book the space for private artistic or social events, adding flexibility and exclusivity to any group gathering. Overall, each activity at Danspace is designed not only to entertain but to provoke thought and connection, making it a perfect destination for groups who want more than a passive evening out.
Why is Danspace Project Inc ideal for group meetups and gatherings?
Danspace Project Inc excels as a group meetup venue due to its intimate yet inspiring setting, enabling friends and family to experience something culturally distinctive together. Located inside St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, the space offers wheelchair-accessible historic architecture combined with modern amenities, ensuring comfort and inclusivity for all attendees. The relatively small capacity of the sanctuary promotes a cozy environment where groups can sit close to the performers and one another, enhancing the shared experience of live art. Beyond physical space, Danspace’s programming is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a broad audience while maintaining artistic depth, making it engaging for both newcomers and seasoned arts enthusiasts. The venue also offers various ticketing options to accommodate different budgets, including sliding scale prices and member discounts, which helps make group attendance accessible and flexible. Social events such as garden receptions and after-parties complement the performances by providing informal settings for conversation and celebration, ideal for groups looking to extend their outing beyond the show itself. Additionally, Danspace’s partnerships with major cultural institutions and its commitment to supporting diverse choreographers ensure that each visit is culturally relevant, fresh, and intellectually stimulating—qualities that distinguish a group meetup here as both entertaining and meaningful.
How does Danspace Project support artistic experimentation and community connection?
Danspace Project Inc stands apart by acting not only as a performance venue but also as a vital incubator for artistic experimentation and community engagement. Its core mission supports diverse choreographers, encouraging them to explore and develop new work that pushes the boundaries of dance and performance art. This commitment to innovation means that visitors often encounter works that are fresh, challenging, and deeply thought-provoking, providing an exhilarating and sometimes transformative experience for groups. Moreover, Danspace’s integration with public engagement programs ensures that the audience is not a passive recipient but an active participant in the unfolding artistic dialogue. Through artist talks, panel discussions, and invited conversations, groups can deepen their understanding of the piece and relate it to contemporary cultural themes, fostering connection both among themselves and with the artistic community. The project’s collaborations with a wide array of notable arts organizations enhance its reach and dynamism, creating a mosaic of artistic voices that enrich the programming roster and provide a variety of perspectives for audience members. By combining the pursuit of high-caliber choreographic innovation with a desire to connect people across backgrounds, Danspace Project offers a unique cultural ecosystem that nurtures both creation and community, making any group gathering here a culturally and intellectually rewarding occasion.
What are the accessibility features and visitor amenities that make Danspace Project Inc a comfortable meetup location?
Danspace Project prioritizes accessibility and visitor comfort, ensuring that groups of friends or family feel welcome and cared for during their visit. The main entrance at St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery is fully wheelchair accessible via a ramp, making the venue inclusive for attendees with mobility challenges. Additionally, the historic church setting provides spacious areas like the Parish Hall and Church Gardens that are perfect for socializing before or after events, adding a pleasant outdoor option. The venue keeps safety a paramount concern with up-to-date COVID-19 protocols implemented to protect visitors during in-person gatherings. Ticketing is designed to be user-friendly, with options ranging from regular admission prices to sliding scale and membership rates, accommodating different group budgets and preferences. For those planning larger meetups or private celebrations, Danspace offers an “Off-Season” rental program, allowing groups to book the space outside of scheduled performances, thereby providing a unique and flexible event setting. Staff are responsive and professional, available to assist with any special needs or questions, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Collectively, these features make Danspace Project not only a culturally stimulating venue but also a welcoming and comfortable place for groups to meet, celebrate, and connect.
Which notable events should a group plan to attend at Danspace Project Inc?
Danspace Project regularly curates a compelling calendar of performances and special events that make excellent focal points for group outings. Their flagship event series, the “Platforms,” spans multiple weeks and features premieres and new works curated by leading choreographers, providing audiences with access to cutting-edge dance and multimedia performances. Special gala celebrations honor influential artists and often include receptions with wine and savories in the inviting church gardens and parish hall, offering an elegant social setting ideal for groups. Recent events like “Conversations Without Walls” invite audiences to participate in cross-disciplinary dialogues, adding an interactive edge to the experience. The “Shared Evenings” series, featuring artists such as Vinson Fraley and Bebe Miller Company, are particularly notable for their blend of dance, music, and ritualistic themes that invite deeper reflection among attendees. Prices vary, but the sliding scale and membership discounts make it financially feasible for groups to attend these remarkable showcases. Planning a visit around such highlighted events ensures a memorable experience infused with vibrant artistic expression and meaningful connection, perfect for groups looking to immerse themselves in New York’s contemporary dance scene.
How can groups make the most out of their experience at Danspace Project Inc?
To maximize enjoyment and cultural enrichment, groups should consider planning ahead by reviewing the current season’s calendar to select events that best fit their collective interests and schedules. Purchasing tickets early is advised, especially for popular multi-week series and gala events which can reach capacity quickly. Arriving early to enjoy the church gardens or parish hall allows time to socialize in a serene setting before performances, enhancing the communal feel of the outing. Engaging with the public programs or artist talks related to the performances can deepen appreciation and provide fascinating context, turning a night out into a learning experience. Taking advantage of the accessible features and communicating any special needs to staff ahead of time ensures a smooth and inclusive visit for all group members. For those interested in a more private or custom experience, exploring the “Off-Season” rental option can turn Danspace Project into a tailor-made venue for group celebrations or creative projects. Overall, openness to the novel art forms presented and participation in supplementary events enriches the group’s connection to each other and to the vibrant dance community that Danspace fosters.
In summary, Danspace Project Inc stands out as a versatile, culturally rich, and accessible venue ideal for hosting group meetups. With its commitment to innovative contemporary dance, supportive atmosphere, variety of engaging activities, and visitor-first amenities, it offers a unique blend of entertainment and artistic engagement. Whether you are seeking a thought-provoking performance, interactive workshops, or a beautiful space to celebrate with friends, Danspace provides an unforgettable setting that balances artistic excellence with genuine community spirit.