LoneTree Live presents DANCE NATION by Clare Barron

DANCE NATION, a finalist for the 2019 Pulitzer Prize for Drama is a bold, funny, and deeply moving exploration of ambition, self-discovery, and the fierce world of competitive pre-teen dance. 

The drama/comedy by Clare Barron is the story of a middle school dance team, played by a multigenerational cast, that is clawing its way to victory. If their new routine is good enough, they’ll make it to Nationals. As the team’s dreams collide with the raw reality of adolescence, this fearless production shines a light on the triumphs, heartbreaks, and inner power of young people navigating the complexities of growing up. With a masterful blend of humor and poignancy, Barron’s work has been hailed as a “gut-punching, gleefully subversive” exploration of youth and identity.

"This play is a celebration of pre-teen girlhood, in all its awkward, feral, and bloody glory," said director Jamie Boller-Raup. "It's also a really moving piece about growing up and how our bodies and dreams change over time. Above all, Dance Nation is about how freaking phenomenal it feels to groove to a really sick beat. I love this weird script so much and am so thrilled to share it with Memphis audiences!"

DANCE NATION is shocking, tender, empowering. It will make you laugh and maybe make you cry.

Dance Nation is recommended for mature audiences because of strong language and themes.

Showtimes are March 14-23, 2025
Thurs./Fri./Sat./Mon. 7:30 p.m. & Sun. 2:30 p.m.