Holding Space Dance Collective Presents The Burning Times

The Burning Times- presented by Holding Space Dance Collective (formerly ChinaCat Dance), October 16, 17, 23, & 24 at 8:00 pm at Frenetic Theater.

Through the combination of dance, theater, and fire performance follow the journey of one innocent woman accused of witchcraft and consumed by flame.

The Burning Times focuses on a period in history from approximately 1480-1750 when 40,000-60,000 people, mainly women, were tried and persecuted as witches throughout Europe. Over the centuries much lore has grown up around the witch craze, and although the events happened over 250 years ago the pattern of fear and fanaticism working together to fuel ordinary people’s willingness to demonize others is an issue that occurs time and time again. What drives people to the point where they condemn others on perceptions rather than realities? How do the irrational fears of one person grow until they infest large populations? The topic speaks to feminism, religious belief and fervor, mob mentality, misunderstanding, ethnocentrism, and humanity in general. These issues are still prevalent in modern society, and it is easy to point to examples of fanaticism flaring up into outbreaks of moral panic.

The Burning Times features choreography by artistic director Maggie Lasher, with substantial contributions from Carlos Guzman and the cast. The show takes place both indoors and out, but will be presented rain or shine. Audience members are advised to bring a jacket if it is cold as about 20 minutes of the performance takes place outside.

The Burning Times runs October 16, 17, 23 & 24 at 8:00 at Frenetic Theater, 5102 Navigation Blvd. Tickets are $15/door, $12/presale, & $10/students, children, & seniors. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased at holdingspacedance.com/ chinacatdance.com/ & www.freneticore.net/