Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all New York City places

New York City, New York / Class

Movement Research

A pioneering nonprofit laboratory for experimental dance and movement, providing subsidized rehearsal spaces, workshops, and residencies for artists at the 122 Cultural Center in New York City.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Movement Research
movementresearch.org, og_image_movementresearch.org

What is Movement Research known for?

Movement Research is a New York City-based nonprofit and leading laboratory for the investigation of dance and movement-based forms. It offers dance classes, workshops, residencies, and performance opportunities, and is dedicated to supporting experimental dancers.

Where is it located?

Movement Research is located at the 122 Cultural Center at 150 First Avenue in New York City.

What are the hours for the studios?

The MR Studios at the 122 Cultural Center are available for rehearsal reservations daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm, Monday through Sunday.

Does it offer affordable space for artists?

Yes, Movement Research provides subsidized rehearsal space at a low cost for dance and movement-based artists at the 122 Cultural Center.

What is the history of Movement Research?

Founded in 1978 by a collective of artists as The School for Movement Research & Construction, the organization began hosting workshops and performances in 1979 and was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1980.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Founded in 1978 as The School for Movement Research & Construction by a collective of artists, Movement Research has evolved into a leading laboratory for the investigation of dance and movement-based forms. The organization began hosting workshops and performances in 1979 before officially incorporating as a nonprofit in 1980. It focuses on valuing the individual artist and their creative process, striving to reflect the cultural, political, and economic diversity of the moving community. For four decades, the organization operated out of temporary locations across lower Manhattan. This changed in January 2019 when Movement Research moved into the 122 Cultural Center at 150 First Avenue, marking its first long-term home. This facility is dedicated to supporting experimental artists and serves as a permanent hub for the dance community in New York City. Beyond physical space, the organization fosters intellectual discourse through its own Performance Journal, which acts as a forum for the creative exploration of performance politics. It also hosts the Movement Research Festival, a major event that returned in 2024 for the first time since 2019, featuring events spread over two weeks in February and March. To support the local arts scene, Movement Research provides subsidized rehearsal space at a low cost. These MR Studios at the 122 Cultural Center are available for reservations daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm, Monday through Sunday, ensuring that movement-based artists have affordable access to professional environments.

Visitor tips

  • Check the schedule for the Movement Research Festival, typically held in late February and early March.
  • Artists looking for rehearsal space can reserve MR Studios between 9:00am and 10:00pm daily.
  • Inquire via email if you are interested in print subscriptions to the Performance Journal.

Nearby context

Located at 150 First Avenue, Movement Research is anchored within the 122 Cultural Center, contributing to the artistic vibrancy of the lower Manhattan area where it has operated for decades.

Sources

Evidence and links