Location: The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, Kay Theatre
In a world of eight billion people, where every individual has their own priorities, how can a person maintain their sense of self and personal sovereignty? Is it possible to stay sane in an era of increasing chaos? And, how can people stay motivated and relevant as they age? These are among the questions British dance iconoclast Botis Seva and a cast of seven from his company Far From The Norm address in the Olivier-award-winning and cutting-edge BLKDOG. Commissioned by London’s legendary Sadler’s Wells Theatre, BLKDOG pairs the hyper-energetic ideas of hip-hop with the fluidity of contemporary dance. It is as electrifying to witness as it is compelling to ponder. BLKDOG is a staggeringly physical reflection of our modern mental turmoil.
After a period making hip-hop music in London, Seva emerged with Far From The Norm a decade ago, intent on shattering conceptions of dance. In works that explore topics ranging from the reemergence of nationalism to the soccer field as a reflection of social disorder, Seva has doggedly explored the individual psyche and the sociopolitical soul, trying to understand what humans do to persevere. In BLKDOG, he takes on God and psychosis, and isolation and friendship, aiming to detangle the webs these create in our busy minds.
The Clarice's Visiting Artist Series is committed to providing extensive campus and community engagement opportunities that extend academic learning and cultural opportunities. During the 2020–21 season, Far From The Norm, with producing director Lee Griffths, created an arc of virtual activities for School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies (TDPS) students, including an ACTnow conversation, visits to dance classes and an artist talk about their new work. During the company’s visit this season, members of Far From The Norm will teach TDPS dance classes.
Presented by Clarice Presents. This performance is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council and The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation.