The Performance Garage is a unique space dedicated to the art of dance.
MISSION
As catalyst for creativity, it is the mission of the Performance Garage to create an environment that nurtures dance artists and facilitates the building of a broader audience for dance in Philadelphia.
VISION
It is the vision of the Performance Garage to be a nationally-recognized dance organization, creating a sustainable home for artistic excellence and providing diverse programming for Philadelphia audiences.
VALUES
In executing its mission and in pursuit of its vision, the Performance Garage believes that
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Dance artists require access to affordable and professional spaces
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Dance artists need additional support and resources to create work
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Dance artists deserve an affirming, inclusive, and nurturing space to explore their practices
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Dance audiences should have access to dance performances and dance programs throughout the year
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The dance community will be strengthened through a robust and well-funded home for dance in Philadelphia
OUR STORY
In 2000, an historic 19th century building in Philadelphia was purchased by Jeanne Ruddy and Victor Keen out of a need for rehearsal space for the newly begun JeanneRuddy Dance, a non-profit modern dance company under the artistic leadership of former Martha Graham Company Principal Dancer Jeanne Ruddy. It was originally a horse stable (1865) and later converted into an auto repair garage (1950s), that had been shuttered and neglected for ten years. It was a blight in the neighborhood. With state, city, and private support, three multi-year renovation phases have followed to transform the space into a professionally accommodating center for dance development with two versatile dance studios, administration offices, and a 105-seat theater designed specifically for dance.
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The final season for Jeanne Ruddy Dance was held in 2012, launching a Legacy Plan to preserve the company’s repertory. Ms. Ruddy shifted her focus to keep the Performance Garage open for the needs of the Philadelphia dance community and to ensure its role as a catalyst for creativity. Current programs include DanceSpace, DanceVisions Artist Residency, YouthMoves Community Engagement, DanceFilms, HubChats Panel/Community Discussions, and ongoing performances of local dance companies and schools. Unique to the Philadelphia landscape, the Performance Garage is a distinctive dance hub that, in addition to our programs, offers studio and production rental space to artists at subsidized, nonunion rates, and is a home to choreographers, dancers, and educators at all stages of their careers.
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The Performance Garage is a 501(c)(3) organization located at 1515 Brandywine Street in the Spring Garden neighborhood, near Fairmount, and is an official part of Avenue of the Arts North.
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Read more about the Performance Garage in John Timpane's article for the Philadelphia Inquirer.