Batsheva

A slew of words collected by people who saw the show + some lingering questions:

How I would describe Batsheva’s “Decadance”: choreographically jumbled. Meaning: the piece was a compilation of Batsheva hits. The through line was the dancers’ way of moving. It was impressive and clear, but structurally it was simple and a bit clunky. One section didn’t seem to fit with the next, probably because they originally weren’t supposed to. I was craving a thematic through line, but was left with the movement ideas of changing stories, availability, power in subtlety, and satisfying stretch both inward and outward.

I am still unsure if having a clear rise and fall or through line could have benefitted the work. I am still digesting questions on ignoring the company’s political implications in Israel and overlooking the dancers’ privilege. Do you see them as incredible artists just trying to do their work in the place they call home? Do you boycott their shows because the company is funded by the Israeli government?

I decided to ask friends who saw the work to give 1-10 words on what they saw/felt from the performance. Feel free to continue the comments below!

Impressive

Technique

Specific, Privilege

Weight, fall, zest, slink, wiggle, extend, drama, challenge, stark, electrifying, odd

Prestige

Colorfully controlled writhing

Abandoned, liquid, supple

Photo belongs to Northrop publicity for Batsheva Dance Company