Business Details
39 Years
experience
Redefining Dance and Disability Through Artistry
AXIS Dance has been redefining dance and disability since 1987 through innovative artistry, inclusive education, and transformative advocacy. Our mission centers on creating world-class productions that challenge perceptions by integrating disabled, non-disabled, d/Deaf, and neurodiverse artists. With a vision for a radically inclusive dance sector, we remove barriers through three pillars: Artistry, Engagement, and Advocacy. Our collaborations with renowned choreographers have resulted in impactful works that bridge contemporary dance, integrated dance, and disability culture.Through pre-professional training programs and community outreach, we serve diverse audiences across 100+ cities globally. Recognized with nine Isadora Duncan Dance Awards, our Bay Area-based company continues to pioneer accessibility standards while expanding international opportunities for disabled artists. Led by Artistic Director Nadia Adame and Executive Director Danae Rees, we maintain a legacy of innovation that began with founding member Judith Smith, who shaped the field through over 35 commissioned works and groundbreaking educational initiatives.
Services
Integrated dance performances
Youth dance education
Accessibility consulting
Community dance classes
Artist mentorship programs
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We've created 35+ commissioned works with renowned international choreographers since 1997
- Our artists have performed in 100+ cities across six continents
- We maintain nine Isadora Duncan Dance Awards for artistic excellence
- Our educational programs serve all ages and abilities with specialized dance training
- We pioneered the first National Convening on Physically Integrated Dance in 2016
Services
Integrated dance performances
AXIS creates groundbreaking dance productions that integrate disabled, non-disabled, d/Deaf, and neurodiverse artists. Our performances challenge traditional dance norms through innovative choreography that celebrates diverse movement vocabularies. These productions have been presented in over 100 cities worldwide, featuring collaborations with renowned international choreographers.
Youth dance education
Our educational programs provide dance training for youth of all abilities, including specialized instruction for disabled dancers. The Summer Intensive program offers professional development opportunities, while school programs introduce integrated dance concepts to younger audiences through in-school assemblies and workshops.
Accessibility consulting
AXIS offers accessibility expertise through our Access Guide for Performing Arts, helping venues implement inclusive practices. We provide consultation on physical access, sensory accommodations, and disability-inclusive programming for performing arts organizations and presenters.
Community dance classes
We offer community-based dance classes like the AXIS for ALL program, designed for participants of all abilities. These classes focus on creative movement exploration and provide accessible dance experiences through adaptive teaching methods and inclusive environments.
Artist mentorship programs
Our mentorship initiatives support emerging disabled artists through apprenticeships and training programs. These opportunities include technical skill development, choreographic mentorship, and career guidance to help dancers transition into professional integrated dance careers.
People
Nadia Adame
Artistic Director
Internationally recognized disabled artist with 20+ years in dance and disability field. Leads company's artistic vision, expanding global presence and commissioning works by disabled choreographers.
Danae Rees
Executive Director
Manages organizational operations and strategic growth. Brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience to support AXIS's mission of dance and disability integration.
Judith Smith
Artistic Director Emerita
Founding member and former Artistic Director who shaped the field of integrated dance. Developed educational programs and commissioned 35+ works during her 20-year tenure.
Marc Brew
Former Artistic Director
Internationally acclaimed disabled choreographer who directed the company from 2017-2021. Created four signature works and expanded international touring initiatives.
Bonnie Lewkowicz
Founding Artist
Original company member instrumental in developing physically integrated dance techniques. Contributed to the company's early artistic direction and community engagement strategies.
Questions
What is AXIS Dance Company's primary mission?
We challenge perceptions of dance and disability through integrated performances that unite disabled, non-disabled, d/Deaf, and neurodiverse artists in innovative productions.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide pre-professional training, youth programs, community classes, and mentorship opportunities for dancers of all abilities through our Engagement pillar.
How does AXIS promote accessibility in dance?
We develop accessibility standards through our Advocacy pillar, including the Access Guide for Performing Arts and disability inclusion initiatives in dance education.
Can I donate to support your programs?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on donations to sustain our performances, educational programs, and global accessibility initiatives.
What recognition has the company received?
We've earned nine Isadora Duncan Dance Awards and pioneered the first National Convening on Physically Integrated Dance in 2016.
How can venues collaborate with AXIS?
Venues can partner through our touring programs, access consulting services, or co-commission new integrated dance works with our artists.
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