Unveiling “Battleground”: A Dance Performance that Confronts the Nature of Conflict

The anticipation is palpable as the Black Label Movement prepares to unveil their groundbreaking performance, “Battleground,” at the American Dance Festival in North Carolina. Following a series of open rehearsals held outside the University of Minnesota’s Northrop Auditorium, the dancers are ready to captivate audiences with a piece that delves deep into the complexities of war and violence.

What to Expect from “Battleground”

“Battleground” is not just a dance; it’s an exploration of how the ever-present state of military vigilance and conflict manifests within the human body. Artistic Director Carl Flink emphasizes the physicality of the performance, stating:

“Rather than simply describing conflict, we’ve created specific tasks that embody those themes. Some moments involve aggressive actions in the dirt, while others may reflect recognizable dance movements.”

Redefining Movement in Dance

In this unique ensemble, members consciously choose to identify as “movers” rather than traditional dancers. Flink explains:

• “Everyone in the company is a dance artist, trained in various forms of movement.”
• “We embrace all types of movement, whether it’s athletic, labor, or dance.”

This philosophy allows for a rich tapestry of expression that transcends conventional boundaries within the art of dance.

The Science Behind the Movement

“Battleground” integrates a fascinating concept known as Bodystorming, developed through collaboration between Flink and biomedical engineer David Odde. This innovative technique uses human movement to simulate biological behaviors, providing a deeper understanding of conflict in both scientific and artistic contexts. Odde remarks:

“There is a very violent, collisional nature to the interior of the cell. Carl has effectively conveyed this through choreography.”

Impact and Athleticism in Performance

The choreography showcases a level of impact akin to contact sports, emphasizing the raw energy of human interaction. Flink describes how these elements contribute to a broader narrative:

• “Each moment captures the peaks and valleys of human conflict.”
• “We explore themes of violence without glorifying it, prompting audiences to reflect on their perceptions.”

Engaging with Themes of Violence

Rather than portraying soldiers or fighters, the performers invite the audience to consider how they engage with concepts of violence. Flink states:

“This piece doesn’t ignore crucial conflicts. Instead, it offers a fresh perspective on our participation in that world.”

Your Take on “Battleground”

As the premiere approaches, “Battleground” promises to be a thought-provoking experience that challenges our understanding of conflict and engagement. The upcoming performance is set to not only entertain but also provoke meaningful dialogue about the nature of violence in our lives.

What do you think?

• Can art truly capture the essence of conflict, or is it merely a representation?
• Do you believe performances like “Battleground” can change perceptions about violence?
• How should artists navigate the portrayal of sensitive topics like war in their work?
• Is there a fine line between artistic expression and glorifying violence?

Your thoughts are valuable! Join the conversation and share your perspective on this compelling performance.