Smuin Ballets-Sf

Smuin Contemporary Ballet is a thriving, San Francisco-based dance organization with three primary facets: the performance season, a class program for children and adults, and studio rentals. Founded in 1994 by our namesake, Michael Smuin, and subsequently led by Artistic Director Emerita Celia Fushille and current Artistic Director Amy Seiwert, Smuin has over 32 years become one of the country’s most respected contemporary ballet institutions. Initially created as a home for Michael’s own creative output the company has, since his death in 2007, established a reputation for presenting and commissioning works by both emerging and esteemed choreographers creating in both ballet and contemporary dance idioms. Since 2019, when Smuin moved into a permanent home in the Potrero Hill neighborhood in San Francisco, the company has grown beyond its origins as an exclusively performance-based organization into a community-centered creative hub. 

Get Involved

Board of Trustees

Smuin Contemporary Ballet’s Board of Trustees stewardhe organization through regular meetings and financial vetting, with Trustees assigned to committees dedicated to development, marketing, etc.

 

Friends of Smuin

Friends of Smuin is a social club of movers and shakers who support the organization with their wisdom, expertise, and love of Smuin. In addition to participating in meetings throughout the year, the Friends of Smuin receive exclusive access to closed rehearsals and pre-show cocktail parties, as well as hosting select events, including the Friends’ signature “Smuin in Sonoma” at Roche Winery.

 

Smuin Collective

Smuin Contemporary Ballet’s Young Professionals Council offers a unique opportunity to network with other emerging leaders in the Bay Area through exclusive events and experiences offered by one of the premier dance companies based in San Francisco. Members receive exclusive access to closed rehearsals, discounted performance admissions, private events, and networking opportunities.

 

Volunteers

Although Smuin does not maintain a standing volunteer corps, volunteers do help throughout each season as greeters and ushers at the San Francisco performance venues. Occasionally, a call is put out for assistance with other projects.

 

Gala

Smuin’s annual Gala is the largest fundraising event of the year. Held each spring, the Gala includes a cocktail hour where guests can mingle with Company Artists, one-night-only performance, live auction, paddle raise, and seated catered dinner.

 

Smuin in Sonoma

The signature event of the Friends of Smuin, Smuin in Sonoma is held at Roche Winery. An al fresco performance, set against a backdrop of verdant vines, is followed by a seated catered lunch for both patrons and Company Artists.