Visit here for updates on the SAC’s Taza Space project and to signup to become part of the design process
THE SPACE
651 Windsor Street Suite 301, Somerville (in the “Taza” building) 3,000 sf mostly open space with 4-5 support columns offset to the right. The space has 14’ ceilings, natural light/windows along the far wall, elevator access, bathrooms and showers, and potential for a common area. The building is directly across the street from the Union Square T stop (Green line). Parking is limited, but public transportation is readily available.
The space will be built-out to support movement-centered activities with amenities such as a sprung floor, theatrical lighting, sound system, video/projection system, and an observation area for guests.
VISION
The Taza space project supports artists with programming that supports the excellence of creation, education, and experimentation in creating new work in performance with a priority in movement-focused modalities.
MISSION
To this end, this project’s foundation is built upon equity, diversity, and inclusion in its ethos, designing and incorporating a balance of best practices in developing frameworks and curation which dissolve barriers of access while maintaining excellence in artistry and craft.
HISTORY/CONTEXT
In the greater metro Boston area many movement and dance studios have been closed over the last 5+ years. During COVID (2019-2020) 6 dance-enabled spaces dwindled down to only 2. In the community there has been a voiced need to build more space to accommodate the recent influx of funding for process and production. Many times existing spaces are competing with general public fitness classes and recreational dance classes that appeal to more of a broad demographic due to the days/times that are in the most demand (in general). Peak time for any general purpose movement space is the hours of 5:30pm – 9:00pm M-F, Sat and Sunday 10am – 9pm. This is also true for specialty dance space.
The Taza space is envisioned to support professional working performing artists for use of rehearsal, professional-level classes, laboratories, performances, showings, community gatherings, and professional development opportunities. Focusing on a very specialized artist population allows for prosperity for that population to create their work, which ultimately serves a larger population through public performances and community workshops. This strategic investment in Somerville’s cultural capital has a ripple effect throughout the surrounding communities, spanning across demographics and sectors. This will also create a balance in the ecosystem of the neighborhood, Union Square, Somerville, and in the region.
HOW CAN YOU BE INVOLVED?
In the building of the space, we are closely listening to artists who are deeply invested in creating spaces to support their work/practice. We are looking for artists who fit the following criteria:
- Identify as a practicing performing movement-based artist who is involved in creating new work (as a performer, creator, teacher, or curator)
- Live/work within the metro Somerville-area as defined within the I-95 belt
- Can contribute feedback averaging 30 min a week for 10-12 weeks via email and online forms
- Is knowledgeable about dance/movement space criteria either as a practitioner who has used spaces in the past, or currently using space as a movement-based artist
By signing up to be in our “BETA” program you agree to receive an email once every two weeks with a specific task which asks you for targeted feedback in the following areas:
- Policy – including scheduling, RFP/selection processes, booking mechanisms, etc.
- Space (physical) – including needed technologies, colors, light, entering and exiting, and other accessibility considerations.
- Programming – including the balance of “successful” programming such as classes, workshops, ongoing rehearsal opportunities, etc.