“Atzmi Essence of Myself” Preview

A new dance interrogates identity this weekend in Pasadena
Published on Dec 6, 2025

[photo credit: Deborah Rosen]

Deborah Rosen explores vulnerability and self-discovery through choreography that examines the fractured self.

This December, Deborah Rosen and Dancers arrives at A Room to Create with a question embedded in motion: What does it mean to know yourself? The company’s new work, part of a program titled “Atzmi Essence of Myself,” will premiere alongside a re-staging of the acclaimed piece “FRAG….mented,” offering audiences three opportunities to witness choreography that explores the fractured, evolving self.

The productions run Friday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 14 at A Room to Create (ARC), located at 1158 E. Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena. Showtimes are 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a 3 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets range from $18 to $35.

Rosen’s work has long examined themes of vulnerability and self-discovery. Her past pieces have explored Jewish rituals, dreams, immigration and assimilation, fantasy worlds, individual vulnerability, forgiveness, spirit, and hope.

The venue is supported by the City of Pasadena. For reservations or inquiries, call 626-204-0331 or visit arcpasadena.org.

“Atzmi Essence of Myself” will run on Friday, Dec. 12, Saturday, Dec. 13, and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 8 p.m., 8 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively. A Room to Create, 1158 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. For more information, call 626-204-0331 or visit https://premiereatzmi.brownpapertickets.com/. Ticket prices: $18 to $35.