BANDALOOP

BANDALOOP

An innovator in vertical dance combining climbing technology and dance to re-imagine what is possible

A trusted innovator in vertical performance, BANDALOOP seamlessly weaves dynamic physicality, intricate choreography and climbing technology to turn the dance floor on its side. Founded by Amelia Rudolph in 1991 and now under the artistic direction of Melecio Estrella, BANDALOOP re-imagines dance, activates public spaces, and inspires wonder and imagination in audiences around the world. The company trains dancers and youth at home and on tour, and has performed for millions of people in over 300 cities in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia, and on screens in films and digital media.

Recent BANDALOOP premieres include Momentum Curve (2022) with BMW in Munich Germany, Bird Strike (2023) at Santiago A Mil in Santiago, Chile, LOOM:FIELD (2021-2023) international tour, Resurgam (2023) at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, Vertical Choreography for Tina Landau and Idina Menzel’s new musical Redwood (La Jolla Playhouse 2024, Broadway 2025), and Bird Strike (2024) at the Santiago Calatrava Sundial Bridge in Redding CA. The upcoming work FLOCK brings together vertical dance, multilingual music, and stunning visuals into an a one-of-a-kind, site-responsive live performance experience in honor of migrating children and families. 

Based in West Oakland, CA at BANDALOOP Studios, the company incubates and produces work for its local audiences and for touring performances presented around the globe. Education and outreach are an intrinsic part of the company’s mission. BANDALOOP offers regular classes, camps, and intensives for youth and adults at its home studios and in the mountains, and team building programs for executives.