Belly of the Whale: The Fourth Stomach Chamber

Embodiment Project and Dance Mission Theater present the return of Belly of the Whale Jan-Feb 2027

Embodiment Project (EP), the award-winning Bay Area dance theater company founded and led by Artistic Director Nicole Klaymoon, returns to Dance Mission Theater with its acclaimed multidisciplinary production Belly of the Whale.

Belly of the Whale: The Fourth Stomach Chamber, an original work of dance theater choreographed and directed by Nicole Klaymoon, with musical direction by Amikaeyla Gaston returns by popular demand. Set as a live podcast recording, this provocative hip-hop theater remix of the ancient biblical story of Jonah and the Whale blends dance, spoken word, comedy, live music, documentary theater, mask art, interactive media, and butoh to unpack the contradictions of cancel culture and disposability politics. What does it mean to embody radical “Revolutionary Love" in this time of profound polarization? With a cast of 13 virtuosic and acclaimed dancers, vocalists, and actors Belly of the Whale masterfully points us to the way.

Embodiment Project is an award winning dance theater company that has been producing and touring cutting-edge original dance theater for 18 years.

Intended for mature audiences and includes stories involving incarceration, childhood sexual abuse, and homicide.

WEEKEND 1

Friday, January 29

Show 8pm

Saturday, January 30

Show and Tiny Fest Dance Party 8pm

Sunday, January 31

Show 4pm - RJ circle to follow*

WEEKEND 2

Friday, February 5

Show 8pm

Saturday, February 6

Benefit Celebration & Show 7pm

The February 6 Benefit Celebration pairs this immersive performance with a special evening to gather, celebrate, and support the artists and work of Embodiment Project. Be part of a night that invites us to laugh, move, reflect, and imagine what becomes possible when we choose connection with one another.

Sunday, February 7

Show 4pm- RJ circle to follow*

Doors open 30 minutes before each show.

*Restorative Justice Circles: Select performances will be followed by facilitated restorative circles with Oakland-based community leaders. These gatherings offer audiences an opportunity to process the themes of the work, connect with one another, and continue the conversation beyond the theater.