Work
GroundWorks DanceTheater
Research // Feasibility Study
The Client
By 1990 the Cleveland Ballet was the fourth-largest ballet company in the United States, and the largest one that was a co-venture between two cities (San Jose). However, in 2000, the Cleveland base of operations closed, and the ballet began operating exclusively in San Jose until its closure in 2016. For many, this ended the culture of dance in Cleveland. But not for David Shimotakahara who founded GroundWorks DanceTheater in 1999. GWDT is nationally recognized for making a unique contribution to the art form and enriching human experiences through the creation of original contemporary dance and educational programs.
The Challenge
Building on its history as a creative leader in engaging, educating and enlivening communities, GroundWorks DanceTheatre wanted to build a creative arts space with a focus on music, theater and dance in Cleveland, Ohio.
The Solution
Feasibility Study
In the fall of 2016, GroundWorks DanceTheater launched a comprehensive primary and secondary qualitative and quantity research study to explore the feasibility of a creative arts space with a focus on music, theater and dance in Cleveland, Ohio. The study investigated the extent to which a creative arts space could positively impact and support the region’s arts community.
A “creative arts space” is a studio, incubator, lab or black box where artists and enthusiasts can learn, work, create and showcase art. This is also an environment where separation between the artist and the observer can be bridged, enabling opportunities for both to experience and work with the immersive and intimate stages of the creative process from creation to finished work.
This research study was conducted and managed by shark&minnow on the behalf of GroundWorks DanceTheater.
