The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami and the National YoungArts Foundation recently presented the Michael Clark Company’s performance in Miami. It was the renowned troupe’s Miami debut. Michael Clark, the Scottish dancer and choreographer, is known for his distinctive blends of technical rigor and experimental deviations drawing from the mystifying traditions of punk, rock, jazz and ballet.

The performance took place at the Young Arts Jewel Box in downtown Miami. The venue was both intimate and stark, replete with small temporary bleachers, the kind you see in Little League baseball games, and mesmerizing soundtrack that began with songs from David Bowie’s “Black Star.”

The lushful gorgeousness of the dancers was matched only by the directness of the physicality present in each movement and with each breath. This directness was greatly aided by the proximity of the audience, a grouping of about 100 people, making the whole experience feel like bearing witness to a special, secret display of ritualistic dance.

The event was part of a month-long residency by Michael Clark at ICA.