www.streb.org

Led by founder and artistic visionary Elizabeth Streb, STREB is dedicated to incorporating audiences and communities into the artistic practice of the company by breaking down barriers to participation through new approaches to artistic creation, education and presentation. Many of the organization’s programs focus on engaging the public with its performances, such as the POPACTION School, an education program that includes training in circus arts, summer camp, intensive workshops, production and administration. The S.L.A.M. SHOW INCLUSIVE engages audiences with movement through post-performance classes and informal gatherings, extending the artistic experience into a more dynamic relationship with the community.

One aspect of STREB’s artistic vision is the STREB Lab for Action Mechanics (S.L.A.M.), a former garage that houses the company’s rehearsal and presenting space in Brooklyn, and where STREB offers dozens of classes and hosts nearly 300-400 students each week. S.L.A.M. offers unique opportunities for interacting with the surrounding neighborhood; at any time, strangers are welcome to come into the space and take part in any of the Extreme Action principles STREB has developed. Even if one chooses not to enter the space, the view from the sidewalk alone offers evidence of how STREB is redefining performance through its artistic practice. STREB’s approach to being influenced by the community in which it is situated has transformed its space into a vibrant community cultural center.