Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Transforming Lives Through Performing Arts Education
East Bay Center for the Performing Arts has been dedicated to nurturing young artists and fostering community transformation through rigorous training in performing arts since 1968. Our mission centers on empowering youth and young adults to imagine and create new worlds through music, dance, theater, and media arts. With over 50 years of experience, we provide accessible, high-quality arts education to students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing cultural traditions and social justice. Our faculty comprises world-class artists committed to personalized instruction, ensuring students develop technical skills and creative confidence. We offer free group classes, intensive diploma programs, and private lessons tailored to individual growth.Our community partnerships extend our impact to schools and neighborhoods, promoting equitable access to the arts. The Centers newly renovated facility hosts performances, rentals, and collaborative projects that celebrate global artistic heritage. We prioritize holistic development, preparing students for college and careers while strengthening community bonds. Our alumni network spans 50,000+ individuals, with a goal to reach 75,000 more in the coming decades. As a leader in arts education, we remain steadfast in our commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and transformative learning experiences.
Services
Music Classes
Dance Programs
Theater Training
Youth Artist Diploma
Private Lessons
School Partnerships
Facility Rentals
Summer Intensives
Community Performances
Online Assemblies
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We offer free group classes and tuition-free diploma programs for underserved youth.
- Our faculty includes world-class artists with expertise in global performance traditions.
- We emphasize social justice and community impact through arts education.
- Our alumni network supports college and career readiness in the arts.
- We provide personalized private lessons and intensive summer programs.
What people say
Confidence growth
Cultural connection
Supportive community
College preparation
Free access
Services
Music Classes
We offer free music classes in genres like West African, classical, jazz, and regional Mexican traditions. Students learn instruments, vocal techniques, and ensemble performance. Our programs cater to ages 3 to 18, fostering technical skill and cultural appreciation. Private lessons and group sessions are available.
Dance Programs
Our dance classes include West African, ballet, hip-hop, and Mexican folkloric styles. Students develop physical discipline, creativity, and cultural awareness. Programs range from beginner to advanced levels, with performance opportunities and summer intensives for dedicated learners.
Theater Training
Theater programs focus on acting, stage combat, and physical theater. Students explore classical and contemporary works, gaining confidence and collaborative skills. Youth participate in productions and film projects, guided by professional instructors and guest artists.
Youth Artist Diploma
This six-year tuition-free program provides advanced training in music, dance, and theater. Students receive college prep support, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. Participants engage in community projects and perform in annual showcases, building portfolios for future careers.
School Partnerships
We collaborate with local schools to deliver music and dance curricula, assemblies, and after-school programs. Our initiatives address educational equity, offering hands-on arts experiences to 3,500+ students annually. Programs align with academic standards and school development goals.
People
Ruthie Dineen
Executive Director
A licensed clinical social worker and pianist, Ruthie leads with expertise in arts administration and community initiatives. She holds degrees in music, history, and social work, and performs with ensembles like Negative Press Project. Ruthie champions the Centers mission to transform lives through the arts.
Andrea Landin
Senior Director of Programs
A cellist and educator, Andrea oversees program development with a focus on youth growth. She earned a masters in policy leadership from Stanford and has led youth arts initiatives nationally. Her background includes directing the New West Symphony Harmony Project.
Kwesi Anku
Director of Student Development
Kwesi specializes in West African music and dance, with a masters in social work. He trains students in drumming and choreography, drawing on experience from Ghanas University of Legon. He also performs with CK Ladzekpos ensemble and supports youth mentorship.
Lolis Garcia
Associate Director of Student Development
A Bay Area native, Lolis teaches Mexican music and dance with 21 years of experience. She holds a BA in Psychology and leads programs like Tarmiba, focusing on Son Jarocho. Lolis mentors students in cultural traditions and community engagement.
Bryan Alvarez
Director of School Partnerships
Bryan, a PhD in Psychology, designs school programs integrating arts and education. A trombonist and researcher, he founded music initiatives in Oakland schools. His work bridges cognitive science and arts outreach to support underserved youth.
Questions
Are classes at East Bay Center free?
All group classes and lessons are free, though private lessons have fees starting at $27.00 per session.
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 through high school students, with adult community classes also available.
How can I apply for the diploma program?
Applications are open to students aged 12-18. Submit an online form and secure a nomination from a teacher or mentor.
Do you offer college preparation support?
Yes, we provide college counseling, scholarship guidance, and portfolio development for diploma program participants.
Can I rent your facility for events?
Our renovated building hosts theaters and meeting spaces available for rental. Contact us for availability and bookings.
What performing arts styles are taught?
We offer training in West African, classical, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, Mexican folkloric, and contemporary theater traditions.
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