After calling Water Street home for over 25 years, Danceworks announced it will be moving from its Downtown studio to the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center. All classes, rehearsals and performances that were held in the longtime space will make the move.
The final classes at 1661 N. Water St. will be next week, from Sept. 22-27, with $10 adult drop-ins. The transition is expected to be completed by early October.
“Our studios have been the backdrop for countless classes, rehearsals, and performances. Within these walls, students discovered their love of dance and artists deepened their craft,” said board president Renee Griswold in the announcement. “We treasure the history made here, while embracing this new chapter as a timely opportunity to strengthen and expand our mission.”
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The announcement cited a number of challenges that catalyzed the decision to move: the ongoing impact of COVID-19, flood damage, declining arts funding and rising inflation and rent costs. MYAC offers reduced rates for local arts groups to use its spaces. Danceworks also noted the potential for resource sharing and new collaborations.
MYAC opened in 2005 as the home for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra and First Stage. The building holds a studio theater, six performance and rehearsal halls, 14 classrooms, eight small-group instruction studios, office spaces and more. Other arts groups, such as Bel Canto Chorus, Festival City Symphony and Frankly Music, also use the space. This May, Danceworks performed its season closer “Fables From the Wide Sky” at one of MYAC’s performance halls.
“We are excited to begin this next chapter,” said Danceworks executive director Julieane Cook in the announcement. “Our new home will allow us to expand access to dance, deepen our community impact, and work alongside outstanding partners in Milwaukee’s arts ecosystem. The spirit of Danceworks is not tied to a building – it lives in our people, our artistry, and our community. As dancers, we know that continuing to move and stretch helps us to grow stronger, both physically and mentally. We are beyond excited for the possibilities.”
Danceworks’ first classes at MYAC will start Oct. 6. There will be a studio moving sale from Sept. 22-27, selling Danceworks merch, art supplies, furniture and more.
More information is available on Danceworks’ FAQ page.
