Z Space

Formalized in 2018, our Subspace program provides heavily subsidized or free space in an effort to welcome artists and communities that are new to us and would not otherwise be able to afford our already below-market rental rates. Since its inception, Z Space has provided more than 50 arts organizations or individual artists with $350,000 in total subsidies. 

While the intention of Subspace has always been to diversify the stories being told on our stage, the need for subsidies has grown post-pandemic with over 90% of our renters last year receiving some form of Subspace funding. With the recent closure of several lower cost venues in the Bay Area, arts organizations are coming to Z Space in need of an affordable performance space and we need your help to keep our space affordable. Our below-market rental rates just barely cover our operating costs and the need to subsidize that already reduced rate is only growing.

This year, Z Space has already committed to giving away $50,000 in subsidies with more and more requests for funding coming in each week, and it's only March. We anticipate that the full need for subsidies will be at least $80,000 in 2024. 

2024 Recipients
Actors Reading Collective
Austin Dean Ashford (Resident Artist)
Paul Dresher Ensemble
Liss Fain Dance
Klanghaus
San Francisco Neofuturists
Theatre Bay Area (Resident Company)
Thrillride Mechanics (Resident Company)
UNA Productions

Being able to provide our space to our arts community makes all the difference in keeping the arts ecology alive in the San Francisco Bay Area and preventing widespread displacement of artists, small organizations, and independent producers. But don’t just take our word for it! Hear from previous recipients of subspace funding below.