Ashkenaz Music and Dance Center - Berkeley, CA

Ashkenaz, Berkeley's home for world music and dance since 1973, is a non-profit organization that promotes peace and cultural awareness through music and dance. They present World and Roots music five to six nights a week, with an emphasis on music for dancing. Ashkenaz is looking for World and Roots music that people can dance to. Genres they feature include; African, Cajun/Zydeco, Balkan, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Highlife and Afrobeat, Ska, Brazilian, Cuban, Reggae, Beatbox, and Square Dancing.

Ashkenaz books at least two months out, sometimes longer for weekends. With a capacity of 300, they rely on bands to draw from their fanbase, and expect 100 people on weeknights, 150 on Fridays, and 200 on Saturdays. Bands playing on weekends will have either opening or support bands to perform with. Headlining bands are expected to play at least two 75-minute sets. Opening sets are 45-60 minutes long.

The standard door deal at Ashkenaz is 75% of door after expenses (of about $350 on a weeknight, $450 on a weekend). The venue has a full sound system and a backline that is also available for a fee.