Exclusive insight into ‘100 Seconds to Midnight’: Blue13 Dance Company’s groundbreaking performance

The Blue13 Dance Company is set to debut its latest contemporary dance project, 100 Seconds to Midnight, choreographed by the visionary Achinta S. McDaniel. This performance, scheduled for September 28, 2024, at The Ford in Hollywood, California, promises to be a profound exploration of the human experience, particularly through the lens of South Asian communities.

Exploring the Doomsday Clock Metaphor

100 Seconds to Midnight draws its inspiration from the infamous Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of how close humanity is to global catastrophe. This clock, made famous by J. Robert Oppenheimer, Albert Einstein, and other concerned scientists, marks the proximity to midnight, symbolizing impending doom. McDaniel ingeniously turns this metaphor inward to examine the notion of “doom” as experienced by South Asian communities. These communities, often erased but resilient, grapple with cyclical trauma and the unrelenting anxiety of impending loss.

Through a triptych of movements, 100 Seconds to Midnight confronts misogyny, unpacks the generational effects of colonization, and scrutinizes the expectations placed upon women regarding duty, tradition, and assimilation. This performance is not just a dance; it is a narrative that challenges perceptions and invites the audience to delve deep into the complexities of the human experience.

The Visionary Behind the Performance

Achinta S. McDaniel, the artistic director of Blue13 Dance Company, is a first-generation South Asian American whose work is as rebellious and unconventional as its architect. McDaniel’s choreography is a fusion of diverse techniques, including ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip hop, Bhangra, Kathak, and Bollywood. Her powerful and fresh style draws from these diverse techniques to create spectacular and theatrical dance.

McDaniel is known for her experimentation with international styles and for the inventive staging of her signature contemporary Indian forms. Her choreography is highly dramatic and a real reflection of her upbringing: Eastern and Western, exotic, mysterious, wild, rebellious, and unconventional. McDaniel’s work is fearless and inventive, ever exploring the boundaries of contemporary dance as a first-generation Indian woman. She is also a Professor at the Glorya Kaufman School of Dance at the University of Southern California.

About The Ford

The Ford, one of the oldest performing arts venues in Los Angeles, boasts an outdoor 1,200-seat amphitheater and a rich history dating back to 1920. Situated in a 32-acre park and under the stewardship of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association and Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation, The Ford presents an eclectic summer season of music, dance, film, and family events that reflect the diverse communities of Los Angeles.

The performance of 100 Seconds to Midnight will take place at The Ford, located at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood, CA 90068, just off the 101, between Hollywood and Universal Studios in the Cahuenga Pass. Tickets range from $10 to $65, and reserved seating is available. For group discounts, call 323-850-2050 or visit theford.com.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to attend the performance, we recommend arriving early to take advantage of the free shuttle service to The Ford, which picks up at Hollywood & Highland from Orange Court and the Universal City/Studio City Metro Station. The shuttle service starts two hours before showtime and runs approximately every 20 minutes, ending once the show begins. Dress warmly for outdoor seating, as the evening can get chilly.

For occasional travelers, attending a performance at The Ford is a unique way to experience the cultural richness of Los Angeles. The venue itself, with its historical significance and beautiful outdoor setting, adds an extra layer of charm to any event. For expert travelers, consider exploring the surrounding areas of Hollywood and Universal Studios before or after the performance. These iconic locations offer a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options that can enhance your visit.

In conclusion, 100 Seconds to Midnight by Blue13 Dance Company is more than just a dance performance; it is a profound exploration of cultural identity, resilience, and the human experience. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this event at The Ford promises to be an unforgettable experience that challenges perceptions and invites deep reflection.