SomArt provides essential rehearsal and performance space for performing artists in Somerville, uniquely bridging long-standing gaps in the city’s arts infrastructure. Launched in 2021, the municipally run program supports artists from ideation through performance by offering professional, movement-safe spaces designed for a wide range of creative practices.

SomArt comprises four dedicated spaces across the city, including three locations at the Armory (191 Highland Ave.) and a large-format performance space at the Hive (561 Windsor St.). Together, these spaces function as a flexible rehearsal and performance network/ecosystem — allowing artists to rehearse in one location and present work in another, depending on scale and need.

All SomArt spaces feature movement-safe flooring, including wood subfloors or sprung dance floors with marley — a critical and often inaccessible requirement for dance and theater artists.

Program Reach (Recent Month Snapshot)

• Lead artists served: 50+
• Additional participating artists: Each lead artist brought 1–30 collaborators
• Hours of space used: 585+ hours in a single month
• Disciplines represented: Dance, theater, and trans/interdisciplinary performance, music education, community music social, 

Why SomArt Matters

• First-of-its-kind program in Somerville: For many years, local artists struggled to find accessible, professional-quality rehearsal space. SomArt was created to meet this need.
• Removes barriers to access: By situating professional rehearsal and performance infrastructure within the city, SomArt expands opportunity for local artists and stabilizes creative practice.
• Supports the full creative process: From early ideation to final performance, spaces are tailored to the real workflows of performing artists.
• Professional and safe environments: Open rehearsal space with appropriate flooring and high ceiling heights is rare and expensive to retrofit; SomArt makes this infrastructure accessible and affordable.

Impact Summary

SomArt is more than a rental program — it is a community incubator for creative work. By prioritizing access, safety, and stability, SomArt ensures that Somerville’s performing arts ecosystem continues to grow, thrive, and remain rooted in the city.

Check out profiles of SomArt Artists: https://somartspace.spaces.nexudus.com/directory?&v=latest&tab=Members&page=1

Interested in learning more? Https://www.somartspace.org