Smuin Contemporary Ballet’s recent gala at the San Francisco Design Center wasn’t just a celebration—it was a declaration. The evening marked a pivotal moment in the company’s history as Amy Seiwert officially led her first gala as Artistic Director, becoming only the third person to hold the role in Smuin’s 30-year history. Her appointment signals the beginning of an exciting new era for this trailblazing contemporary dance company.

Founded in 1994 by the late Michael Smuin, Smuin Contemporary Ballet has long been known for its unique ability to blend classical ballet technique with contemporary innovation. Michael Smuin, a former Artistic Director of San Francisco Ballet and an acclaimed Broadway choreographer, envisioned a company that would break down the barriers of traditional ballet, bringing audiences works that were as entertaining as they were artistically daring.

Over the years, Smuin has built a reputation as a company that pushes boundaries—melding ballet with theater, jazz, and popular music—earning a devoted following and a distinct place in the West Coast dance scene.

It’s only fitting, then, that Amy Seiwert was chosen to carry Smuin’s legacy forward. A former Smuin dancer for nine years and the company’s Choreographer in Residence for a decade, Seiwert has since built a distinguished career as both a choreographer and leader in the ballet world. Her work—recognized for its bold movement vocabulary and emotional depth—has been performed by companies across the country.

Deeply connected to Smuin’s DNA, Seiwert brings not only a profound understanding of its roots but also a fresh artistic vision. Her leadership continues to expand the company’s repertoire while staying true to its adventurous spirit. Her appointment as Artistic Director signals an evolution—one that honors the company’s history while embracing its boundless future.

Her perspective on the company’s direction was beautifully captured in a note shared with guests ahead of the evening:

“Proud of our past. Inspired by our present. Excited for our future. Every day at Smuin Contemporary Ballet, we pay tribute to the inspiring and innovative legacy of Michael Smuin. As the premier destination for contemporary ballet on the West Coast, we serve as a vibrant hub for pioneering works that push the boundaries of ballet. Our stage is not just a space for performances; it is a sanctuary for creativity and exploration, where artistic expression flourishes.”

This message underscored the intention behind the evening itself: to honor the legacy that built the foundation, while signaling a bold, expansive future under Amy’s leadership.

From the moment guests arrived at the gala, the energy was undeniable. The evening opened with a stylish reception, where attendees connected over cocktails and conversation. Smuin’s own dancers—impeccably dressed and effortlessly engaging—mingled with the crowd, bringing the space to life. It was a vibrant reminder of what makes this company so distinctive: bold, welcoming, and deeply connected to its audience.

Then came the unexpected twist. Instead of the traditional sequence of dinner followed by performance, Smuin reimagined the experience—integrating dance into the dining room itself. Smuin flipped the script on the typical gala format by bringing the performance into the dining space and delivering a bold, high-energy program that kept the audience captivated mid-meal.

What followed was a dynamic showcase blending Smuin’s contemporary ballet foundation with tap, theatricality, and daring innovation. The balloon-filled finale wasn’t just playful—it was electric. A joyful burst of movement and imagination that left the room buzzing and reminded us just how exciting dance can be. Together, the pieces reflected the versatility of the company and the creative momentum that’s defining this next chapter.

The excitement carried into the evening’s live auction, brilliantly led by Stefanie Resnick. In just minutes, the room came together to raise nearly $500,000 in support of Smuin’s artistic mission. From the first cocktail to the final bow, Smuin’s gala was a powerful blend of elegance, innovation, and heart—a perfect reflection of a company that continues to redefine contemporary ballet on the West Coast.

As Smuin Contemporary Ballet moves forward into a new season, one thing is certain: the company isn’t just honoring its legacy—it’s expanding it. To discover what’s next and explore upcoming performances, click HERE. You won’t want to miss what’s ahead.

Photography by Maximillian Tortoriello.