Theories of Time | ODC/Dance

Choreography: Mia J. Chong
Dancers + Co-creators (10 dancers): Jaime Garcia Castilla, Rachel Furst, Colton Wall, Jenna Marie, Christian Squires, Addie Norman, Jeremy Bannon Neches, Katie Lake, Ryan Rouland Smith, Joanne Kim
Music composed by Henrik Schwarz & Pascal Schumacher
Music performed live by Andy Meyerson & Travis Andrews
Costumes: Christian Squires
Full length: 21 minutes

Theories of Time traces the mysterious nature of time — how it rushes forward, halts in moments of intensity, or slips quietly through memory. Inspired by the science and sensation of time perception, this work abstractly explores time as both fixed and fluid — not merely something we measure, but something we shape.

The piece premiered on July 17, 2025 at ODC Theater as part of ODC’s Summer Sampler.

From SF Chronicle: “This “sampler” begins with an impressively crafted work by a rising choreographer, Mia J. Chong…oh the intensity of connection that supercharges every duet, and oh how beautifully Chong swirls groups around a stage, arranges architecturally satisfying levels, and layers counterpoints.”

From Jen Norris Dance Reviews: “Mia J. Chong’s Theories of Time (2025) looks amazing in this restaging on the large proscenium stage at YBCA…There is a refreshing boldness in how Chong and her artistic team deploy their ideas. As a former company member, she knows her cast well, and adeptly uses their strengths to craft rapturous solos for each. Weaving the individual dances throughout the piece allows us time to narrow our focus before the large ensemble plunges in from the edges once more, with gusto and zest…If the quality of this work, and her astute choices of top-notch collaborators, is a gauge of what we can expect from Chong, as she steps more fully into her artistic leadership role, ODC/Dance and San Francisco audiences are in good hands for many years to come.”