Dance Nation

Clare Barron’s play dives into the chaotic and transformative experience of adolescence, following a group of middle schoolers on a competitive dance team striving for national glory. Beneath the surface of sequins and routines lies a raw, visceral exploration of identity, ambition, and the messy reality of growing up. With dark humor and surrealism, it unpacks the intensity of puberty—shame, joy, rage, and self-discovery—while challenging societal expectations, especially for young girls. The characters’ experiences blur the line between childhood and adulthood, embodying the awkward, monstrous beauty of transformation. It’s a celebration of resilience, vulnerability, and the unbridled power of youth.