Articles

Co-founder Deborah Vaughan has used her artistic leadership to make DDT a leading company in the dance world. Combining traditional and contemporary styles, DDT has created a unique and inclusive repertoire that has earned it national and international acclaim. Under Vaughan’s direction, the company has traveled to various countries, including Nigeria, Jordan, Germany, Zimbabwe, and Cuba, and performed throughout the United States. In an effort to further the African American dance form, DDT has collaborated with many influential musicians, singers and composers. Names like Hugh Masekela, the Edwin Hawkins Singers, Cab Calloway, Omar Sosa and Anthony Brown are just a few of the artists that have worked with DDT to further advance the African American dance art form. With such a unique and dynamic presence, it’s no wonder DDT is one of the most recognized dance companies in the world.

The Oakland Symphony is comprised of the professional orchestra, the Oakland Symphony Chorus, and the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra. Additionally, a staff of volunteers, board members, and community supporters help promote symphonic music in the East Bay. The organization has roots that can be traced back to 1933, when the original Oakland Symphony was founded. After its closure in 1986, the Chorus and Youth Orchestra split into two independent organizations. In 2010, the three ensembles reunited under the name of Oakland East Bay Symphony, and in 2020 reclaimed its original name, Oakland Symphony. All of these components united under one organization are working hard to keep classical and symphonic music alive in Oakland.

At the Academy of Hawaiian Arts, hula classes are designed to help haumāna (students) to master their skills. While it takes dedication and time to become proficient in hula, the physical discipline of the dance is often overlooked. For those who are interested in learning hula, it is recommended to understand the basics first. Students enrolled in classes at the Academy of Hawaiian Arts are able to learn at a much faster rate than those who have never taken classes before. Regardless of experience level, everyone is invited to come and learn hula. The Academy of Hawaiian Arts offers an exceptional hula program with classes designed to help students hone their skills. The physical demands of hula are often disregarded when first starting, but with dedication and time, the dancer can become proficient. For those who are looking to start learning, it is best to have a basic understanding of hula before beginning. At the Academy of Hawaiian Arts, students who have taken classes or are currently enrolled are able to learn two times faster than those who have not taken classes. Everyone is welcomed to join the program regardless of experience level.

Established in 2007, Musically Minded Academy is a non-profit corporation offering a unique music education program and an empowering environment for students and teachers to connect. At Musically Minded Academy, we strive to provide students with the best music education possible, giving them the tools to not only master their instrument but also to express themselves and build self-confidence. Our unique programs are designed to create a stimulating learning environment with close student-teacher relationships. Our mission is to foster creativity and build community through performance based music education. We believe in fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for our students, so they can experience success every day. This is why Musically Minded Academy has become a respected and admired institution, providing excellent music education programs and a close-knit community for all our students.

Danspace was founded in 1979 by Beth Hoge, a professional dancer in New York with a vision for a school that would offer classical ballet training without the strain on the body. The school opened with adult ballet and pre-ballet for six year olds, with a children's division and creative movement added shortly after. In 1985, Danspace moved to its current location in Oakland's Rockridge neighborhood. Danspace continues to offer an enjoyable learning experience in a supportive environment, with a focus on the individual. The school's teaching staff are committed to providing a safe and encouraging environment for progress. All classes are based on the Corvino approach, with an emphasis on technique, musicality, artistry, and the development of strength and flexibility. Click here to download our brochure about Beth and learn more about her approach.

Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp is the perfect place for rising 1st-8th graders to express their creative side. Our camp is led by professional artists and educators who provide a safe, open, and creative environment for campers to take risks and explore. Campers will have the opportunity to try their hand at a variety of arts and science activities, such as carpentry, game design, comics, and more. They'll be able to express themselves through art and science while having fun in the process. At Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp, we offer full day, arts-integrated engagements for young artists, makers, and thinkers. Our campers will be able to explore their creativity and learn to take risks in a safe and encouraging atmosphere. Professional artists and educators provide an open space for campers to engage in activities such as carpentry, game design, comics, and much more. Campers are able to have fun and express themselves through a variety of mediums. Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camp is the perfect place for rising 1st-8th graders who want to explore their creative side. Our campers will be able to take risks and try their hand at a wide variety of arts and science activities in a safe and open environment. Professional artists and educators are on hand to provide guidance and inspiration. Campers will have the opportunity to engage in activities such as carpentry, game design, comics, and more, allowing them to have fun and explore their creativity.

In 1988, Jill Vialet and Mary Marx co-founded MOCHA, an organization that brings innovative arts education programs to East Bay schools and communities. Through their work, MOCHA has been able to reach children in vulnerable communities, in public and private schools, in libraries, and at the Oakland-based studios and gallery. MOCHA works with artists, educators, parents, and students to use the power of art as a learning tool. Arts education is essential for young people’s social, emotional, and cultural growth. In the years since its inception, MOCHA has provided hands-on art learning experiences to nearly one million children. Through its programs, MOCHA has seen the positive effects art can have on children’s creativity, cognitive development, and sense of community.

At UAC, we believe that summer camp should be a meaningful and unique experience. Children are free to explore and discover in a safe and stimulating environment. Our programs take children on educational field trips to the best museums, science centers and parks in the Bay Area. Qualified instructors with subject knowledge and experience working with children lead our programs, providing an in-depth source of information for students. We strive to create a summer camp experience that will be both fun and educational, giving your child an opportunity to follow their own interests and discover new ones.

Rock Paper Scissors Collective is a unique nonprofit organization that encourages creativity and collaboration to help strengthen local communities. Through workshops, events, exhibitions, and retail of independently produced goods, RPSC promotes the sharing of ideas, skills, and resources. The organization also works to explore alternative models through non-hierarchical, consensus-based organizing. All activities are led by members and volunteers, and the organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. RPSC's mission is to celebrate art, craft, education, and performance by offering low-cost creative workshops and a variety of community events. These activities are designed to engage and empower youth in the community, as well as encourage sustainable creative practices. Rock Paper Scissors Collective provides an invaluable service to local communities. It's an organization that brings together members and volunteers to foster creativity and collaboration. Through their unique approach to non-hierarchical, consensus-based organizing, they are able to provide a safe and inspiring space for people to share ideas, skills, and resources. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, RPSC is dedicated to encouraging sustainable creative practices and exploring alternative models.

KinderGuitar can provide your child with the opportunity to experience the joy of making music. The guitar is an ideal instrument to begin a journey of music appreciation and exploration. With its global popularity, flexibility, affordability and portability, the guitar provides endless possibilities for your child to learn how to play and to develop an appreciation for music. With the help of KinderGuitar’s curriculum, your child can explore the world of music and gain an appreciation for music, and the enrichment it provides to their life and the lives of those around them.

It is with this spirit that Temple Beth Abraham (TBA) is proud to endorse the Committee on Jewish Laws and Standards’ December 6, 2006 decision to permit Conservative rabbis to perform commitment ceremonies and allow the ordination of gays and lesbians. We also enthusiastically support the USCJ’s decision to revise its hiring policies and consider applicants for United Synagogue jobs regardless of sexual orientation. At TBA, we strive to create a synagogue community in which all members and visitors feel welcome and included. We are dedicated to providing an environment where everyone can come together in prayer and study, in celebration and grief, in joy and in sorrow. We look forward to continuing to provide this welcoming atmosphere for all of our members and visitors.

Our specially designed Gymboree Play & Music classes are the perfect way to give your little one the best start in life. Combining new technology with classic learning techniques, our classes are designed to engage young minds and promote physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development. With an extensive range of options to choose from, there’s something for babies and toddlers up to 5 years of age. For over 40 years, Gymboree Play & Music has been the global leader in early childhood development programs. Our unique curriculum is designed to foster creativity and confidence in young children, with a focus on social/emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Get your little one off to the best possible start with our specially designed classes, which use a mix of new technology and classic learning techniques to keep their interest and promote their growth. With classes suitable for babies and toddlers up to 5 years old, Gymboree Play & Music has something for everyone.

At Mr. D’s Music Club, kids of all ages have the opportunity to explore music and creativity in a safe and inspiring environment. What started as a one-week summer camp in 2011 has blossomed into a full-fledged after school program and summer camp that serves hundreds of kids each year. The club is owned and operated by Stephen Duffy, an award-winning singer and songwriter with over two decades in the music industry. Stephen has produced and composed over a hundred albums and has been commissioned to compose for theater, dance, and video. He is currently the music director at Glenwood School in San Rafael, California, and is dedicated to helping children discover the joy of music. Mr. D's Music Club is widely recognized for its quality programs and the inspiration it brings to young kids. With the guidance of Stephen Duffy and his team of passionate instructors, kids of all ages can explore music and creativity in a safe and inspiring environment.

At East Bay Dance Center, parents and visitors can find a spacious and comfortable studio for their children to learn the art of dance. Our studio features hardwood floors, air-conditioning, a stage and a lobby for parents and visitors to relax in. Located in the Glenview District of Oakland, just off Park Boulevard, the studio is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops and businesses for everyone’s enjoyment and convenience. Our experienced staff offers professional and warm dance instruction for children of all ages. We are proud to offer classes that will help children to learn, grow and express themselves through dance. Contact us today to inquire about a trial class and learn more about the East Bay difference!