ODC Dance's 'Turns' Blends Innovation and Connection

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  Published in House and Home on Sunday, March 22nd 2026 at 1:04 GMT by San Francisco Chronicle
      Locale: UNITED STATES

ODC Dance Continues to Push Boundaries with 'Turns': A Look at Innovation and Connection

San Francisco's ODC Dance, a company known for its adventurous spirit and collaborative approach, solidified its reputation as a vanguard of contemporary dance with the premiere of 'Turns' this past Thursday at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. More than just a performance, 'Turns' presents itself as a holistic experience, weaving together dynamic choreography, an emotionally resonant soundscape, and a palpable connection between the dancers and the musical artists involved.

'Turns' is structured as a diptych, comprising two distinct yet complementary pieces: the high-energy 'Turn Up' and the more introspective 'Turns' itself. This duality isn't a simple contrast of styles; rather, it showcases ODC's versatility and ability to navigate seamlessly between expansive, company-wide works and intimate, smaller ensemble pieces. 'Turn Up,' performed by the full 14-member company, explodes onto the stage with a controlled chaos that immediately grabs the audience's attention. Described as 'frenetic' and 'energetic,' the piece is driven by the compelling compositions of David Lang. The initial moments deliberately disorient, presenting a seemingly random flurry of movement. This isn't haphazardness, however, but a carefully constructed prelude to synchronization. As Lang's music swells, the dancers coalesce, transforming the initial impression of disorder into a powerful and unified expression.

The choreography itself is a masterclass in inventive movement. Dancers don't simply execute steps; they inhabit them, pushing the boundaries of physicality with daring leaps, intricate spins, and controlled falls. This isn't just about technical prowess, however. It's about the emotional weight carried within each movement, each transition, and each interaction. The costuming--simple black attire--serves to focus attention on the dancers' bodies and the intricacies of the choreography, avoiding any unnecessary distraction.

Following the exhilarating rush of 'Turn Up,' the performance shifts gears with 'Turns,' a piece featuring a sextet of dancers. The change in scale is immediately apparent, fostering a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lighting, transitioning to a soft, warm glow, further enhances this feeling. Set to the haunting and beautiful music of Jherek Bischoff, 'Turns' explores a more contemplative emotional landscape. The choreography here is characterized by a remarkable grace and fluidity. Movements aren't abrupt or angular but rather flow seamlessly into one another, creating a mesmerizing visual tapestry.

What truly distinguishes 'Turns' is the deeply integrated relationship between the dancers and the music. This isn't simply a case of dancers performing to music; it's a true collaboration, with performers responding to each other's cues in real-time. This synergy isn't accidental. ODC Dance has long prioritized collaborations with musicians, recognizing that music and dance are not separate entities but rather interconnected art forms that can amplify each other's impact. The result is a performance that feels not just seen, but felt.

More broadly, 'Turns' exemplifies ODC Dance's commitment to artistic risk-taking. In a dance landscape often dominated by tradition, ODC consistently challenges conventions, experimenting with new forms of movement, musical collaborations, and performance structures. This willingness to push boundaries is what sets them apart and keeps their work consistently fresh and engaging. 'Turns' is not a safe performance; it demands attention, provokes thought, and rewards open-mindedness.

The success of 'Turns' underscores ODC Dance's enduring relevance in the contemporary dance world. They aren't simply preserving a tradition; they are actively shaping the future of the art form. It's a performance that lingers in the mind long after the curtain falls, prompting reflection on the power of movement, the beauty of collaboration, and the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.