Black Label Movement (BLaM) is a dynamic movement theater company based in the Twin Cities, renowned for its commitment to creating art that is wildly physical, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally resonant. Under the visionary leadership of Carl Flink, BLaM explores the depths of the human experience through contemporary concert dance, pushing the boundaries of what dance can convey. The company is dedicated to examining the human condition, using movement as a vital language that helps individuals understand themselves and the world around them.
At the heart of BLaM’s mission is the belief that art should be daring and accessible, capable of challenging both the creators and the communities they engage. The company creates intensely physical and socially critical performances that invite audiences to reflect on complex themes and “Big Ideas.” By fostering collaborations with unexpected partners—from scientists to traditional performing arts institutions—BLaM expands the conversation around dance and its relevance in various contexts. By creating movement-centered experiences that resonate with both seasoned art enthusiasts and newcomers, Black Label Movement aims to inspire vivid lives filled with curiosity and understanding.
BLaM’s team represents a range of cultures, with individuals from various movement backgrounds, including breaking, ballet, modern, and competitive athletics. The diverse range of its community is essential to Black Label’s vision for art-making.
Black Label Movement is a regional Emmy Award winner and multiple Minneapolis Sage Award winner, has received the title “Dance Company of the Year” from the Minneapolis Star Tribune and “Artist of the Year” from City Pages, has been commissioned twice by the American Dance Festival, and has toured or offered workshops and residencies in Florida (University of Florida), Washington D.C. (Kennedy Center), Brussels (Belgium), California, Martha’s Vineyard, Bangalore (India), Bates Dance Festival, Guthrie Theater (Minneapolis), Duluth (Minnesota), Chicago, Texas (University of North Texas), and New York City.
Battleground was commissioned by ADF with support from the Doris Duke/SHS Foundations Award for New Works. This program is supported, in part, by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.
ADF’s performances of Battleground are made possible with major support from the Nathan M. Clark Foundation.
Additional support was provided by the SHS Foundation, William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust, North Carolina Arts Council, The Shubert Foundation, City of Durham, The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, and The Forest at Duke.