Review: Batsheva Dance Company at the Music Center

Photo courtesy of the Music Center.

On February 14th, 2025, I had the pleasure of attending Batsheva Dance Company's performance of "MOMO" at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles with my wife. Pre-show, we enjoyed dinner from Au Lac. We’re big fans of Lincoln Lawyer and we always get a kick out of the LADWP building across from the Music Center - for those that know their LA landmarks. This marked the Batsheva’s debut at The Music Center, presenting the U.S. premiere of their latest evening-length work choreographed by the renowned Ohad Naharin.

Naharin, an Israeli choreographer, dancer, and artistic director known for his groundbreaking work in contemporary dance with Gaga, a unique movement language that emphasizes sensory awareness, fluidity, and improvisation.

This year, we opted for the Founder’s Circle tickets. The seats are much more plush and comfy, plus there’s a beautiful bar located outside the seating area. The decor might just be the most beautiful, but I was mesmerized by my date’s beauty and in the mood for fearless dancing!

And this show came with a not-so subtle warning: not appropriate for kids

Music: 3.8/5

The performance featured what sounded like a prerecorded soundtrack, predominantly from Laurie Anderson and Kronos Quartet's "Landfall," with additional compositions by Philip Glass, Arca, and Maxim Waratt. While the music was evocative and complemented the choreography, the absence of live instrumentation was noticeable. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion's acoustics are optimized for live performances, and the prerecorded sound didn't fully harness the venue's potential. Either the way, sounds of barefoot tap dancing and grunts of soldiers carried the music for this performance.

Choreography: 4.7/5

Ohad Naharin's choreography in "MOMO" was both innovative and invigorating. The piece delved into themes of masculinity, vulnerability, and identity, presenting a duality that intertwined raw, archetypal masculinity with a quest for individual expression. A few grunts here and there reminded me that this was not your typical night-showing at the ballet.

The movements were fresh and modern, breathing new life into the contemporary dance scene and challenging traditional perceptions of ballet.

Cultural Diversity: 4/5

The ensemble showcased a commendable diversity, featuring dancers of various backgrounds and body types. This inclusivity not only reflected a broad spectrum of human experiences but also enriched the performance's depth and relatability. As they say, it feels good to be seen and it felt like watching my very own daughter dancing on that stage!

Overall Impression: 4/5

Attending "MOMO" was a delightful experience. A refreshing alternative to the usual, Valentines dinner date. The audience size was comfortable, allowing for an intimate yet communal atmosphere. We even made friends with a sweet and artsy couple. It's worth noting that the Music Center offers $25 rush tickets for college students and patrons aged 65 and above, available two hours prior to each performance.

This initiative makes such high-caliber performances more accessible to a broader audience. I would certainly attend another Batsheva Dance Company performance in the future. At just under 70 minutes with no intermission, this ballet felt like a short film.

Batsheva Dance Company's "MOMO" is a compelling blend of profound themes, dynamic choreography, and a commitments to diversity. It's a testament to the evolving landscape of contemporary dance and a must-see for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Special thanks to A TMC Arts Program: Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center for providing refreshed cultural experiences.