Johan Inger’s ‘Walking Mad’ Makes St. Louis Debut in STLDT’s Winter Series
Our take
As the Saint Louis Dance Theatre (STLDT) prepares to debut Johan Inger’s acclaimed work, *Walking Mad*, in St. Louis, it marks a significant milestone for the local dance community. Running from February 27 to March 1, 2026, at COCA’s Catherine B. Berges Theatre, this performance captures the essence of contemporary dance and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. Inger’s choreography, set to the mesmerizing strains of Maurice Ravel’s *Boléro* and the evocative sounds of Arvo Pärt, has established itself as a landmark in the dance world. This performance is not just a celebration of dance; it is an opportunity for the St. Louis audience to engage with a piece that has resonated globally, performed by prestigious companies such as Ballet BC and Compañía Nacional de Danza.
The significance of *Walking Mad* extends beyond its artistic merit; it serves as a pivotal moment for the STLDT, showcasing the company’s commitment to bringing innovative and renowned works to local audiences. Dance enthusiasts will find parallels in other noteworthy events, such as the recognition of actress Katie Holmes at the ABT’s 2026 Spring Gala, which also highlights the intersection of art and celebrity in the dance community. Similarly, the upcoming Lincoln Center’s ‘Summer for the City’ program, which promises to put dance at the forefront of cultural experiences, emphasizes how these artistic expressions enrich our societal fabric. By attending performances like *Walking Mad*, audiences are not only witnessing a dance but also participating in a broader dialogue about the evolution of art in our lives.
Inger’s *Walking Mad* is particularly essential in today’s cultural landscape, where the exploration of human emotions and relationships is more pertinent than ever. The work’s themes resonate deeply with audiences, reflecting a shared human experience that transcends language and geography. In an era where body positivity and self-acceptance are gaining momentum, dance acts as a vital medium for expressing these ideals. As a fitness enthusiast who believes in the transformative power of movement—whether through pole dancing or contemporary choreography—I see this performance as an invitation for everyone to embrace their bodies and appreciate the beauty of movement in all its forms.
As we look forward to the debut of *Walking Mad*, it’s crucial to consider how such performances can inspire local communities. Dance has the unique ability to foster connection, breaking down barriers and creating a platform for voices that may otherwise go unheard. The engagement with contemporary works like Inger’s not only enriches our cultural landscape but also encourages individuals to find their own expressions of art, whether through dance, fitness, or any other creative outlet. How might the exposure to such groundbreaking works influence the next generation of dancers and artists in St. Louis?
In conclusion, the STLDT’s presentation of *Walking Mad* is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of the power of dance and its ability to unite us in our shared humanity. As we anticipate this momentous occasion, let us reflect on the importance of art in our lives and the role it plays in shaping our understanding of ourselves and each other. The countdown to February 27, 2026, begins, and we should all be ready to embrace the magic of contemporary dance.
Saint Louis Dance Theatre (STLDT) brings one of contemporary dance’s most celebrated works to St. Louis for the first time with Johan Inger’s Walking Mad, the centerpiece of the company’s Winter Series running Feb. 27-March 1, 2026, at COCA’s Catherine B. Berges Theatre.
Swedish choreographer Inger, recipient of the prestigious Benois de la Danse—often called the “Oscar of Dance”—created Walking Mad in 2001 for Nederlands Dans Theater. Set to Maurice Ravel’s hypnotic Boléro and music by Arvo Pärt, the work has since become a 21st-century milestone, performed by leading companies worldwide including Ballet BC (Canada), Cullberg Ballet (Sweden) and Compañía Nacional de Danza (Spain). STLDT marks the first St. Louis company to present this theatrical tour de force.
“Walking Mad speaks directly to the heart of our Love Languages season—exploring how we move with one another through barriers and boundaries,” said Kirven Douthit-Boyd, STLDT’s artistic director and former principal dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. “Dance is the physical manifestation of emotions, and Inger’s choreography transforms these emotions into refined storytelling. The wall that divides the stage becomes a powerful metaphor for how we build and break connections, creating an interplay of understanding that transcends words.”
The production features a moveable wall that dancers push, climb and manipulate throughout the performance, creating constantly shifting perspectives on relationships, desire and the journey from sanity to madness. Critics have praised the work as “playful, theatrical and full of life,” noting how Inger blends physical comedy with emotional depth.
“Bringing Johan Inger’s choreography to St. Louis extends our vision of dance excellence in St. Louis,” said Erin Warner Prange, STLDT’s executive director. “This is the international work you’d expect to see in megacities, and we’re thrilled to share it with St. Louis audiences who deserve access to the very best in contemporary concert dance.”
The Winter Series showcases masterworks and contemporary voices alongside Walking Mad, including pieces by Jamar Roberts, José Limón, Jiří Kylián, Norbert De La Cruz III, Robert Battle and Kirven Douthit-Boyd.
Program A features Unyielded by Kirven Douthit-Boyd; Chaconne by José Limón; Unfold by Robert Battle; Facing Shores by Kirven Douthit-Boyd; and Walking Mad by Johan Inger. It will be performed February 27-28 at 7:30 pm.
Program B features Good Grief by Jamar Roberts; Facing Shores by Kirven Douthit-Boyd; Walking Mad by Johan Inger; and Sechs Tänze by Jiří Kylián. It will be performed March 1 at 2 pm & 7:30 pm.
All performances take place at COCA’s Catherine B. Berges Theatre, 6880 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63130.
Tickets start at $25 (student) and are available at stldancetheatre.org.
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