Past
Events
Past Events
RAM DASS: FIERCE GRACE Film Screening
RAM DASS FIERCE GRACE focuses on how Ram Dass deals with the effects of his own stroke, suffering, and alleviation of suffering.
Friday, August 21st** – 7:30 PM – SMALL THEATER**
**RAM DASS, FIERCE GRACE (2001, Lemle Pictures, 93 min.) Dir. Mickey Lemle.
RAM DASS, FIERCE GRACE is a feature-length documentary that shows the wisdom of Ram Dass aka Richard Alpert (1931-2019), the man who’d been at the forefront of studies in consciousness for over 55 years, as he uses his own practices to deal with the effects of a massive stroke he suffered in 1997. While at Harvard, Alpert’s explorations of human consciousness led him, in collaboration with Timothy Leary, Ralph, Metzner, Aldous Huxley, Allen Ginsberg, and others, to pursue intensive research with LSD and other psychedelics. Out of this research he co-authored two well-known books: The Psychedelic Experiences and LSD, but because of the controversial nature of the research, Alpert was dismissed from Harvard in 1963 and forced to continue his research under the auspices of a private foundation. He did this until 1967 when he traveled to India and met his Guru Neem Karoli Baba, affectionately called Maharaj ji, who gave him the name Ram Dass, which means “Servant of God”. From that point on, his exploration of consciousness transformed and grew with a spiritual practice of yoga and meditation.
Ram Dass wrote many transformational books over his career including: Be Here Now, Journey to Awakening, Compassion in Action: Setting Out on the Path of Service, Still Here: Embracing Aging, Changing and Dying, Grist for the Mill, How Can I Help, and The Only Dance There Is.
RAM DASS, FIERCE GRACE focuses on how Ram Dass deals with the effects of his own stroke, suffering, and alleviation of suffering. Named by Newsweek as one of the five best non-fiction films of 2002.
“Equals any transcendent moment you’re likely to find in a fiction film, a novel, or a ‘manual for conscious being.’” — Michael Almereyda, The New York Times
“Heartbreaking and inspiring. Counterculture mavens will doubtlessly flip…but even mainstream audiences may find themselves nourished by this generous reflection on a life well lived.” — Stephen Garrett, Time Out New York
Ticket Price: $10 advance / $15 at the door.
Last Event
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Motion Pacific: Adult Int. Modern
In this class, movers will wake up the senses through somatic and improvisational practices. Full bodied warm ups will use both standing combinations and floor work with an emphasis on alignment, breath, strength, and efficient movement. This class will also include across the floor combinations and accumulative phrase work. Throughout, dancers will use the expressive and creative body as a medium to practice internal and anatomical awareness. Some Dance Experience Required
Last Event
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
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Congolese Dancing with Vivien Bassouamina
Come experience the fast paced energy of Congolese Dancing with experianced teacher Vivien Bassouamina! $20 suggested Donation.
Connect with the rich traditions of Central Africa in this Congolese dance class led by instructor Vivien. Accompanied by the grounding energy of live drumming, this class is open to all movement levels from absolute beginners to experienced dancers. Vivien will guide you through traditional footwork and polyrhythms that celebrate community, history, and rhythm. Presented as a Co-Production with The 418 Project, this partnership brings dynamic cultural arts programming directly to the local community. Hosted in our safe and welcoming space, it’s a great opportunity to move your body, de-stress, and connect with others. Grab your water bottle and join us on the dance floor!
Free - Donations Accepted
Motion Pacific: Melissa Contemp. Jazz
Melissa Wiley started dancing at the age of four and is classically trained in tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop and contemporary dance. She competed for several years with Dance Magic Studio, based in Lancaster, CA. She began teaching at her studio through the competition team assistant's program and has been teaching tap, jazz, ballet and hip hop consistently for over 10 years. She loves working and interacting with students of all ages. Currently, she is also working with Cid Pearlman Performance Projects and has been a guest choreographer for Cabrillo College dance concerts.Melissa is also experienced in burlesque dancing, which has taken her to Portugal, Las Vegas and other venues throughout the bay area. She occasionally teaches burlesque workshops for adults and is always excited to perform and become involved with new challenges and projects.
Last Event
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Tango Class with Aaron and Yuki
Intro to Tango is a welcoming weekly class for anyone interested in exploring the beauty, connection, and artistry of Argentine Tango. Whether you're stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking to strengthen your fundamentals, this class offers a supportive environment to learn at your own pace. Students will develop the core principles of tango, including posture, musicality, balance, partner connection, and basic footwork, while building confidence through guided instruction and practice. No partner or previous dance experience is required just bring comfortable shoes and a willingness to learn. Tango is more than a dance; it's a conversation built on trust, presence, and movement. Join us each week and discover the joy of connecting through dance. Wednesdays | 5:30 – 7:00 PM All levels welcome • No partner required The 418 Project • 155 River St. S., Santa Cruz
Free - Donations Accepted
Cielito Lindo Tango Practica
with Israel Bibriesca
Wednesdays 7-10pm Drop-in $8 Beginners and all levels welcome! Come join us for a fun night of Argentine Tango Practica at The 418 Project! The dance floor we enjoy in the main lobby is large enough to be divided into two areas, one designated for learning the basics & the other for sequence practice for beginners. This offering requires proof of vaccination, the use of a mask during class is optional.
Baby Dance Jam
With Jeff Stasi
Jeff Stasi returns with Baby Jam! A joyful, interactive gathering for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers. Baby Jam with Jeff Stasi Weekly on Wednesdays- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Nearly 25 years after first bringing families together through music and movement, Jeff Stasi returns with Baby Jam—a joyful, interactive gathering for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers.
The morning begins with everyone gathering in a welcoming circle before Jeff leads the group into a playful musical journey. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience creating family-centered music and movement experiences, Jeff combines live guitar, accordion, percussion instruments, and curated recorded music creating a rich and engaging environment for children and caregivers alike. Families are invited to dance, sway, spin, play, and connect as the music unfolds organically throughout the gathering. Designed for babies through approximately 2–3 years old, Baby Jam offers a relaxed environment where little ones can move freely, listen, spin, sway, and engage at their own pace. Babies are welcome on a rug in the center of the room, while caregivers participate alongside them, creating opportunities for bonding, shared discovery, and meaningful connection. Jeff is a dancer, musician, caregiver, gardener, painter, and longtime community builder whose work has helped families connect through music and movement for decades. Participants often describe Baby Jam as a special opportunity to slow down, share joy, and deepen their connection with their children. Older siblings are welcome when appropriate, but all children must remain under the supervision of their parent or caregiver at all times. This is a family participation event and not a drop-off program. This event has historically been offered as a free community gathering, with donations welcomed at the door for Jeff and/or the venue. Come sing, dance, play, and connect in a warm community space where movement, music, and family come together.
Free - Donations Accepted
Silly Sober Karaoke
Come 1st & 3rd Tuesday to hang out and rock out to your favorite hits!
Tuesday Sober Karaoke at The 418 Project
1st & 3rd Tuesdays 7-9pm By Donation
Step into the spotlight-- or just cheer from the audience-- at Tuesday Karaoke! Whether you're a seasoned performer or someone who's never held a mic, you'll find a warm, welcoming group ready to cheer you on as you belt your favorite tune. Come as you are and sing your heart out in a judgement-free and sober environment designed to support creative expression and connection. Bring a friend or come solo. It's a perfect space for letting go of the day's stress with some silliness, giving voice to your emotions, overcoming stage fright, building confidence, and laughing a lot along the way! All voices welcome.
Show up & get on our WhatsApp group for weekly themes- but you're always welcome to sing what's in your heart.
For more info, email programming@the418project.org
Free - Donations Accepted
Wahine Beginning Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Kids Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Kaika Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Wahine Advanced Class: Te Hau Nui School of Hula and Tahitian Dance
Motion Pacific: Intermediate Contemporary Jazz
Last Event
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Motion Pacific: Adult Beg. Jazz Fusion
Last Event
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
155 S. River St.
Santa Cruz CA, 95060
(831) 466-9770
community@the418project.org
Made with ❤️ by: The Electric Family