While the country’s theaters are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be a refreshing return to the stage with the Kaatsbaan Summer Festival, running from August 1 to September 27, in Tivoli, NY. This is the first festival in Kaatsbaan’s 30-year history, and performances will take place on weekends on an outdoor stage, just constructed over the past few weeks.
With over 40 acclaimed dance artists performing solos and socially-distanced duets/trios outside alongside art and film installations, the Summer Festival will follow social distancing and safety protocols for both artists and audience on Kaatsbaan’s expansive 153 acres.
The Summer Festival was created by former American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Principal Stella Abrera, who became Kaatsbaan’s artistic director earlier this year, and Executive Director Sonja Kostich. Coming in a time where #BlackLivesMatter and social injustice are at the forefront of our societal issues, Abrera and Kostich worked with the Festival’s Advisory Committee, comprised of Alicia Graf Mack, director of the Dance Division at Juilliard School; Lloyd Knight, dancer with the Martha Graham Dance Company; and Calvin Royal III, soloist with ABT, to curate the program.
Performing artists include ABT’s Aran Bell, Isabella Boylston, James Whiteside, Courtney Lavine and more; Tamisha Guy; Duncan Lyle Dance; Robbie Fairchild; Justin Peck; Tamar Greene; Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana; and many more, along with a special appearance by Christopher Wheeldon.
All performance tickets are free, with a request for donations to Kaatsbaan, a portion of which will be donated to the NAACP and/or to suggested organizations made by the Festival’s Advisory Committee.
Advanced registration is required to attend the Summer Festival in person, as there are a limited number of reserved spots for each performance. Seating spots will be emailed to registrants prior to attendance, along with Festival FAQs. The Summer Festival will follow all New York state safety mandates and protocols, including temperature checks, mask wearing and physical distancing.
For more information on the Kaatsbaan Summer Festival 2020, visit kaatsbaan.org/performances. To reserve a seating spot, email boxoffice@kaatsbaan.org.
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