BARE Dance Company was established in 2005 by Mike Esperanza with the help of Dance/ USA and the Irvine Foundation. The company is known for its bold, athletic movement and theatricality, and has been described as "smart, effective, technically accomplished work" by critics. With a versatile approach to movement, BARE has produced acclaimed productions in the Southern California area and has headlined events for several non-profit organizations. The company has also received numerous nominations and awards for its productions, including the Lester Horton awards and the paid engagement award at the 2011 Dance Under the Stars festival. Today, BARE still actively produces work in New York City, having relocated there in 2012.