Mark Stefanos
Two of Los Angeles’ most prominent contemporary dance voices came together for the first time last weekend, Aug. 29 and 30. Ate9, led by choreographer Danielle Agami, and Jacob Jonas The Company presented FOG, a double bill featuring two world premiere works at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City.
Agami’s premiere, Soon After, was performed with dancers Billy Barry, Gianni Notarnicole, Omri Drumlevich, and Agami herself, set to an original score by composer Yuka Honda. The piece explored themes of humanity, family, and resilience as characters arrived on a new planet.
Jonas’ new work, Grip, featured dancers Alexa Donnelly, Paulina Donnelly, and Jarrett Yeary, with assistant choreography by Emma Rosenzweig-Bock and live music by the duo Live Footage. The trio-based performance examined pressure, protection, and hidden emotional systems.
“Danielle’s work has always moved me. Her voice is rooted in something deeper — like soil that remembers everything,” Jonas said ahead of the performance in a release. “In our recent conversations, we spoke about what it means to return. What it means to find home again — or to ask whether the places we once felt safe still hold us.”
Agami added, “For many years I have watched Jacob’s passion, talents, and integrity growing and flourishing. I appreciate his invitation to collaborate and his hospitality and commitment to keeping the arts in Los Angeles meaningful and alive.”