Vision

To uplift the human spirit and shatter preconceptions of ballet through innovative artistry and exceptional quality.

Mission

Smuin Contemporary Ballet thrives on diverse views and dance styles to create art that is original, evocative, and entertaining. By creating a platform for artists to flourish, we foster innovation. By embracing bold ideals and ideas, we unleash the limitless power of dance. We are committed to sharing our passion for dance through performances, classes, and community engagement.

Michael Smuin’s Legacy

Michael Smuin was a visionary who rewrote the choreographer’s rule book. While his art was rooted in classical ballet, he was also inspired by pop culture and contemporary dance styles. With a belief that ballet is for everyone, his resulting works spoke to contemporary sensibilities. He inspired dancers and choreographers to innovate and experiment, to think outside the box and cultivate their creativity. Michael’s ethos is very much alive today at Smuin Contemporary Ballet.

History

Debuting in San Francisco in 1994, Smuin immediately established itself as one of the Bay Area’s most eagerly watched performing arts companies of international acclaim, performing to sold-out houses on U.S. and European tours. Michael Smuin’s singular philosophy to create pieces which merge the diverse vocabularies of classical ballet and contemporary dance has served as the Company’s touchstone since its inception.

From 2007-2024, Artistic Director Emerita Celia Fushille envisioned sustaining and increasing the Company’s reputation by presenting compelling and innovative repertoire. The Company continues to showcase Michael Smuin’s work while enriching its impressive repertoire with contemporary choreographic voices, commissioning world premieres, and collaborating with inventive choreographers worldwide.

Former Choreographer in Residence and Artistic Associate Amy Seiwert took the helm as Artistic Director with the start of Smuin’s 24/25 season.

More than 30,000 people enjoy Smuin performances each season, performing more than 60 shows during its regular season in San Francisco, Walnut Creek, Mountain View, and Carmel. Smuin is one of Northern California’s leading nonprofit dance companies, cementing its place at the forefront of the Bay Area arts scene.

 

Smuin Contemporary Ballet is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

Tax ID Number: 94-3197247

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