2026 Vail Dance Festival Program Book

LET’S TAKE CENTER STAGE

The Vail Valley Foundation is the nonprofit behind events including the Vail Dance Festival and our vision is to create an extraordinary mountain community with quality of life for all. Get to know everything the VVF does to empower possibility and how YOU can be a part of all we do at vvf.org.

WHAT WE DO

Amp Summer Concerts | Après at The Amp | Stifel Birds of Prey | Community Supports

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater | Bulleit Hot Summer Nights | Lettuce Patch Early Learning Center

GoPro Mountain Games | Town of Eagle ShowDown Town presented by Alpine Bank

STARS (Support The Arts Reaching Students) | Vail Dance Festival

Vilar Performing Arts Center | Youth Power

Takumi Miyake performing Le Corsaire Pas de Deux at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Artful Sol Gallery

Dancer: Catherine Hurlin

Photo: Ru Kotryna

A crudely carved antler prong set in 18k, 22k, & 24k gold, hung from multiple strands of Sleeping Beauty turquoise beads.

From left to right: Emiko Nakagawa, Herman Cornejo, Naomi Corti, Unity Phelan & Calvin Royal III,

50 Dancing in the Park Thursday // August 6 // 5:30pm

52 International Evenings of Dance I Friday // August 7 // 7:00pm

54 International Evenings of Dance II Saturday // August 8 // 5:00pm

56 International Evenings of Dance III Saturday // August 8 // 8:00pm

58 Colorado Dances featuring Colorado Ballet & Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Sunday // August 9 // 6:00pm

60

India Bradley, Lil Buck, Lauren Lovette.

MISSION STATEMENT

To provide leadership in arts, athletics, and education, and address community needs to enhance our Valley as a place to live, work, and visit.

VAIL VALLEY FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

VAIL VALLEY FOUNDATION LIFE TRUSTEES

Adam

Judy

Bjorn

IN MEMORIAM

Get to know everything the Vail Valley Foundation does to Empower Possibility in our Valley:

Amp Summer Concerts | Apres at The Amp Stifel | Birds of Prey

Community Supports | Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater | Bulleit Hot Summer Nights

Lettuce Patch Early Learning Center | GoPro Mountain Games

Town of Eagle ShowDown Town presented by Alpine Bank STARS (Support The Arts Reaching Students) | Vail Dance Festival Vilar Performing Arts Center | Youth Power

Learn more at vvf.org

MANAGING EDITOR

Shannon Thornburg

SENIOR EDITOR

Joel Solari

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Wren Bova

SALES MANAGERS

Sandie Aveil

Mark Bricklin

CONTENT & DIRECTION

Harper Addison

Martha Brassel

Kate Penner

Gabe Shalley

Damian Woetzel

CONTRIBUTORS

Julie Block

Sarah Silverblatt

Joel Solari

Lauren Warnecke

FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christopher Duggan

Chris Kendig

Brian Maloney

DESIGN

Shannon Muench, Open Mind Studios

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

David Hakes

PROGRAM COVER Illustration by Andrea Selby

VAIL DAILY PUBLISHER

Zach DuFresne

All programs and artists are subject to change.

The Vail Daily is a wholly owned subsidiary of Swift Communications, LLC. 200 Lindbergh Dr, Gypsum, CO 81637 970-328-6333

Copyright ©2025

WELCOME

For 37 years, the Vail Dance Festival has brought together extraordinary artists, bold ideas, and the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains to create something truly unforgettable. This year, we are more inspired than ever to share it with you.

Over the past two decades, we have worked to evolve our Festival into a creative laboratory unlike any other, commissioning more than 145 new works and bringing together dancers, musicians, and choreographers from around the world to collaborate, experiment, and inspire.

Our 2026 season continues in that spirit of innovation built on a foundation of excellence. From July 31 through August 10, audiences will experience 13 exciting performances and more than 30 events at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and across the Vail Valley, featuring an extraordinary range of artists and styles. Highlights include headlining performances by Martha Graham Dance Company as part of the company’s centennial celebration; Philadelphia’s Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater in its Festival debut; and Cleo Parker Robinson Dance along with Colorado Ballet, representing the dynamism of dance in Colorado today.

At the heart of this season are visionary artists shaping the future. We are honored to welcome acclaimed choreographer Alexei Ratmansky as Artist-In-Residence and to celebrate the continued creative presence of Pulitzer Prize–winning Composer-In-Residence Caroline Shaw in her 10th anniversary season. Together, alongside so many others, they help make the Festival a place where new work is born and artistic boundaries are continually reimagined. What makes the Vail Dance Festival truly special is not only what happens on stage, but also what happens between artists and audiences. Here, dancers from the world’s leading companies share the stage, collaborate across disciplines, and invite audiences into the creative process through conversations, classes, and community events. It is a place where lifelong dance lovers and first-time attendees alike can discover something new—together.

As you join us this season, we invite you to experience the energy, intimacy, and sense of connection that define this Festival. Whether you are here for a single performance or the entire journey, you are an essential part of what makes this community so vibrant. Thank you for being here and for helping us celebrate the power and collective joy of dance.

VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

Susan Campbell Chair

Jill Plancher

Vice-Chair

Judy Berkowitz*

Priscilla Brewster

Jeffrey Byrne

Sara Friedle

Stacey Gillett

Lisa Goldman

Sheika Gramshammer

John Harrison

Sally Hybl

Alexia Jurschak

Jonna Mackin

Jane Netzorg

Fred Tresca

Betsy Wiegers

Tina Wilson

Damian Woetzel

Artistic Director

*Committee Chair

1998-2018

Damian Woetzel

Artistic Director, Vail Dance Festival

Susan Campbell Committee Chair, Vail Dance Festival

Photo by Christpher Duggan.

SUPPORT THE VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL

Throughout its 37-year history, the Vail Dance Festival has provided an inspiring environment in which diverse dancers, choreographers, and musicians share creative time and space, fuel each other artistically, and present work that challenges and showcases their talent. None of this would be possible without the support of our dedicated donors.

Ticket sales only cover 28% of our operating expenses and 51% of funding comes from individual donations. Annual gifts are vital to our success and ability to produce the Festival each year.

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO SUPPORT THE FESTIVAL

Make an Annual Gift

Support one of our endowments: Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet or the Vail Dance Festival

Artistic Direction Endowment

See page 19 for more information

Underwrite a performance, artist, or new work and make a direct impact on the Vail Dance Festival

Support Celebrate the Beat

Make a gift to our Costume Fund

Sara Mearns and Robbie Fairchild perform an excerpt from LA SONNAMBULA

Choreography by George Balanchine

©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Whether you are a current donor or are interested in becoming a donor, our philanthropy team is here to help.

Peter Barclay

Vice President of Philanthropy pbarclay@vvf.org

Martha Brassel

Senior Director of Philanthropy mbrassel@vvf.org

HOW TO GIVE

Bailey Nelson Philanthropy Manager bnelson@vvf.org

CHECK OR ONLINE // Make a donation by mailing a check to the Vail Dance Festival at P.O. Box 6550, Avon, CO, 81620 or online at vaildance.org/support

MONEY WIRE OR STOCK TRANSFER // To make a donation via wire transfer, please contact the Vail Dance Festival at 970.777.2015.

MORE WAYS TO GIVE // Donor Advised Funds (DAF), IRA Charitable Rollover or QCD, and Estate Gifts.*

*Gifts made through a donor advised fund, qualified charitable distributions, private foundations, charitable trusts, or matching gifts may be restricted from receiving benefits. Please contact your tax advisor with questions.

2026 VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL

& BENEFITS

Access to Borgen Family Patrons Plaza & May Gallery Patrons Lounge

Parking Pass (Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater)

*Bronze Dress Circle receives two complimentary tickets to Dance for $20.26.

Michelle Dorrance, Lil Buck and musician Jason Moran perform their own Carolina Shout at International Evenings of Dance I of the 2019 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

CREATE YOUR LEGACY THROUGH GIVING

Thoughtful planning can transform your charitable giving into a powerful win-win. The right gift strategy not only advances our mission—it can also provide you with valuable tax benefits, income opportunities, and the satisfaction of making a lasting difference. Whether you’re looking to support us today or leave a legacy for tomorrow, these giving options offer flexible ways to maximize your impact while meeting your financial goals.

“I have always loved ballet and dance since I was a child. As my husband and I planned our trust it was important to me that we included the Vail Dance Festival in our plan. This event is the highlight of my year! I hope others will consider a gift to the Vail Dance Festival. The gift that keeps on giving!”—Jannice Alvaney

Contact a member of the Vail Valley Foundation Development Team 970.777.2015 // connect@vvf.org

GIFTS THAT HELP NOW

• Outright Gifts

• IRA Charitable Rollover or QCD

• Donor Advised Funds (DAF)

• Gifts of Appreciated Stock

GIFTS THAT HELP LATER

• Bequest in Will or Trust

• Retirement Plan Beneficiary

• Life Insurance Beneficiary

Always consult with a tax professional to identify what strategy is most effective for you.

• Charitable Gift Annuity

• Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust

P. Richard Bauer^

Margo & Roger Behler

Helen & David Burton

Ann Smead & Michael Byram

Susan & Jeff Campbell

Jennifer & George Coloney

Holly & Tim Finchem

Ceil & Steve Folz

Susan & Harry Frampton

Linda & John Galvin^

Greer & Jack Gardner

Cheryl & Robert Gary

Anne & Donald Graubart^

Neal Groff Family

Jeanne & James Gustafson

Robert Hernreich

Clairee & Bob Hirsch^

Loyal & Jill Huddleston

Jannice Alvaney & Paul Johl

Elaine & Arthur Kelton

Patricia & Peter Kitchak

Marlene & Ben Krell

Vicki & Kent Logan

Dora Beatty & Peter Macdonald

Lori Bender-Mankowitz & Barry Mankowitz, M.D.

DeAnn & Dan Maurer

Sherry Middlemas

Elizabeth G. Chambers & Ron Mooney

Ed O’Brien

Marlys & Ralph Palumbo

Martha & Terry Allen Perl

Doug Rippeto

Teri Ross

Jean Graham-Smith & Phil Smith^

Margery Pabst Steinmetz & Charles Steinmetz

Martin Waldbaum

Mary Webster ^Deceased

VAIL VISIONARY CIRCLE

Caroline Fisher & Bob Knous^

Renée Okubo

TRANSFORMING ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet

The Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet ensures classical ballet remains a permanent part of the Vail Dance Festival— honoring Carol’s vision and legacy.

With a $4 million goal, this endowment is critical to sustaining classical ballet as costs rise, preserving it as a cornerstone of the Festival and its tradition of cultural exchange.

Vail Dance Festival Artistic Direction Endowment Led today by Artistic Director Damian Woetzel, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer and current President of The Juilliard School, this endowment supports world-class artistic direction for the future.

Catherine Hurlin and Roman Mejia perform Don Quixote Pas de Deux at the 2023 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Master Classes // $30

Friday, July 31–Monday, August 10

9:00am–10:20am

Vail Mountain School Gym

Advanced-level dance students may take advantage of classes with some of the world’s leading dancers. This summer’s Master Class series offers an array of classes taught by Festival artists in ballet, contemporary, modern, street dance, and more.

Friday, July 31

Martha Graham Dance Company

NEW THIS YEAR:

Yoga with Tiffany Fraser 10:30am–11:30am

Saturday, August 1

Ballet with India Bradley

Sunday, August 2

Ballet with Chun Wai Chan

Monday, August 3

Street Dance with Rennie Harris Puremovement

Tuesday, August 4

Ballet with Unity Phelan

Wednesday, August 5

Ballet with Tiler Peck

Thursday, August 6

Ballet with Chloe Misseldine

Friday, August 7

Contemporary with Larry Keigwin & Daisy Jacobson

Saturday, August 8

Ballet with Margaret Tracey

Sunday, August 9

Ballet with Mira Nadon

Monday, August 10

Ballet and Repertory with Carla Körbes

Conversations on Dance // $25

Saturday, August 1–Sunday, August 9 10:30am–11:30am

Vail Mountain School Theater

Conversations on Dance hosts Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden welcome a small audience to enjoy interviews with Festival artists as part of their popular podcast series. Presented by Discover Vail. Generously Underwritten by the Town of Vail.

Saturday, August 1

Martha Graham Dance Company

Sunday, August 2

Herman Cornejo

Monday, August 3

Michelle Dorrance & Trinity Irish Dance Company

Tuesday, August 4

Ballet and Beyond with Robbie Fairchild, Lauren Lovette & Unity Phelan

Wednesday, August 5

Leonard Berstein

Composer-In-Residence

Caroline Shaw

SPECIAL TIME & LOCATION:

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Social Courtyard // 1:00pm–2:00pm

Thursday, August 6

Ryan Tomash

Friday, August 7

Artist-In-Residence

Alexei Ratmansky

Saturday, August 8

Shaping the Stage: How Dance Educators Prepare the Next Generation with Nikolaj Hubbe, Margaret Tracey, Carla Körbes, Melissa Toogood

Sunday, August 9

Career Pathways with Savannah Green, Kayla Mak, Brooks Landegger, Philip Duclos

Pianists of the Vail Dance Festival

Michael Scales, Derek Wang, Tony Yun, Joel Wenhardt

EXTENDED TIME: 9:00am–10:30am

Returning for the 2026 season, lululemon and the Vail Dance Festival have teamed up to elevate your Festival experience. Attend Conversations on Dance and Master Classes sessions to earn stamps and increase your chances of taking home a lululemon item. Join the energy, connect with artists, and celebrate movement, creativity, and community. Winners will be announced Saturday, August 8 with up to 10 epic prizes available!

Unity Phelan & Calvin Royal III with Rebecca King Ferraro and Michael Sean Breeden. Photo by Chris Kendig.

Tiler Peck with Master Class students. Photo by Chris Kendig.

Tiny Dancer Tea Party // $50

Saturday // August 1 // 10:00am–11:15am

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater Social Courtyard

For the littlest dancers with the biggest dreams! Join us for a magical morning of dancing, tiara decorating, treats, stories, and special meet-and-greets with Festival stars. For children ages 4–7. *Admission is for one child and one adult. Fee includes one children’s size Festival t-shirt.

Open House with Alexei Ratmansky // $30

Sunday // August 9 // 3:00pm–4:00pm Golden Peak Studio Tent

Join Artist-In-Residence Alexei Ratmansky and other Festival artists as he rehearses his new work set to debut at this season’s NOW: Premieres.

Dancing in the Streets // FREE

Interactive pop-up performances with Festival artists throughout Vail & Lionshead Villages

Martha Graham Dance Company

Thursday // July 30 // 5:30pm–6:00pm Solaris Plaza in Vail Village

Rennie Harris Puremovement

American Street Dance Theater

Sunday // August 2 // 12:00pm–12:30pm Intersection of Bridge Street & Gore Creek Drive in Vail Village

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance

Sunday // August 9 // 12:00pm–12:30pm Lionshead Village in front of Garfinkel’s Sports Bar

Tiny Dancer Tea Party at the 2024 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Brian Maloney.

2026 Artist-In-Residence Alexei Ratmansky in rehearsal. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Dancing in the Streets with Martha Graham Dance Company. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Intern & Ambassador Programs

Engaging

the next generation of arts leaders

Each year, the Festival provides impactful educational and professional development opportunities through its Intern and Ambassador Programs. Graduate and undergraduate students, young professionals, and local high school students gain hands-on experience supporting Festival operations including artist hospitality, communications, education, logistics, venue management, and community engagement. Participants work alongside Festival staff, renowned dancers, choreographers, and artistic leaders while building leadership and workplace skills, offering behind-the-scenes access to the Festival and inspiring future careers in the arts and nonprofit sectors. The 2026 Festival Intern Program is Generously Underwritten by the Michael E. McGoldrick Charitable Foundation, and the 2026 Festival Ambassador Program is Generously Underwritten by an Anonymous Donor.

Heather Watts Emerging Artist Fund

The Festival’s Scholar-In-Residence program was founded in 2014 by legendary Balanchine ballerina Heather Watts, who has always championed the next generation of dance artists. The Heather Watts Emerging Artist Fund, established in 2024, extends that legacy. We are proud to welcome Kloe Walker and Michael de la Nuez as our 2026 Festival Emerging Artists, and Amanda Treiber as our 2026 Festival Emerging Choreographer. Generously Underwritten by the Heather Watts Emerging Artist Fund.

Celebrate The Beat Pop Hop Camp

August 3–August 7, 2026

A free dance camp culminating in a performance at International Evenings of Dance I

Celebrating 20 years as an educational outreach program of the Vail Dance Festival! Eagle County youth ages 9–14 are invited to participate in the free, week-long Pop Hop Camp, a dance program that builds teamwork, creativity, and confidence. Directed by Tracy Straus, the program was introduced to Eagle County in 2007 by Heather Watts and Damian Woetzel.

Visit ctbeat.org/summer to learn more.

Major support for Celebrate the Beat provided by: Jill & Kevin Plancher

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY: Deborah & David Boillot, Martha Brassel & Chris Anderson, Susan & Jeff Campbell, Holly & William Elliott, Margery Goldman, Shelly & Chris Jarnot, Cynthia LeBreton, Kathy & Charles Maple, Renée Okubo, Ronnie Potter, Heather Watts & Damian Woetzel

Scholar-In-Residence Program

This year we welcome Audrey Tovar-Dunster as our 2026 Scholar-In-Residence

The Scholar-In-Residence program gives advanced pre-professional dancers a unique opportunity to train and perform at the Festival during an intensive two-week residency. Participants receive mentorship, work alongside Festival artists, attend rehearsals, and perform in repertory and new works. Generously Underwritten by Mauri Pioppo & Keith Funger.

Dario Natarelli performs with Celebrate the Beat. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Festival interns & staff. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Community Arts Access

Removing socio-economic barriers to the performing arts to ensure access for all.

• We provide free tickets to every Festival performance. In addition, we provide free tickets to other local nonprofits and charities so they can provide free tickets to the communities they serve.

• Children 12 and under receive free access to the lawn with the purchase of an adult ticket.*

• Students and faculty may purchase discounted lawn tickets for $10.*

• Dance for $20.26 is a specially-priced evening devoted to arts access. Reserved pavilion seats are $20.26 each, and lawn tickets are $10.26 each.

* For performances at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Support for ticket subsidies & Community Arts Access provided in part by Caroline Fisher in memory of Bob Knous.

Remembering KATHERINE KERSTEN

February 3, 1941–May 31, 2026 // Artistic Director of the Vail Dance Festival 1992–2006

In 1992 Lissa Tyler, then Senior Vice President of the Vail Valley Foundation, hired Katherine Kersten to be the director of the Bolshoi Ballet Academy at Vail. Katherine had big dreams and saw the potential for a Festival that would host the brightest stars of the dance world. It was her vision that launched the first International Evenings of Dance in 1993, a cornerstone of our Festival today.

“Katherine Kersten will long be remembered as the visionary catalyst behind the development and success of the Vail International Dance Festival. From the moment we met, I recognized her extraordinary creative talent, deep passion for dance, and unique leadership abilities. What began as a fledgling program (Bolshoi Ballet Academy), flourished under her guidance into a festival of international significance. Her legacy lives on not only in the Festival she helped build, but also in the countless lives she touched through her friendship, mentorship, and love of the arts.”—Lissa Tyler

Lissa Tyler, Katherine Kersten, and Allie Coppeak at the Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Rex Keep.

Katherine Kersten with the cast of International Evenings of Dance, August 5, 2006. Cast includes:

Damian Woetzel, New York City Ballet; Anna Antonicheva & Vladimir Neporozhiny, The Bolshoi Ballet; Isabelle Ciaravola & Benjamin Pech, Paris Opera Ballet; Stephanie Dalphond, Africa Guzmán & Alejandro Alvarez, Compañía Nacional de Danza; Lorna Feijóo, Boston Ballet; Paloma Herrera & Daniel Hallberg , American Ballet Theatre; Eri Nakamura & Luca Vetere, Victor Ullate Ballet. Photo by Rex Keep.

Festival attendees at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Photo by Chris Kendig.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I buy tickets to the Vail Dance Festival?

ONLINE at vaildance.org

BY PHONE at 970.845.TIXS (8497)

IN-PERSON at one of our box office locations: Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail or Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek

What should I wear?

Attire ranges from mountain casual to semiformal-dress however you feel most comfortable. Summer evenings in Vail can cool down quickly after sunset, so we recommend bringing layers or a blanket for added comfort. Festival performances take place rain or shine.

Where do the performances take place?

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

540 S Frontage Road East, Vail, CO 81657

This open air venue is operated by the nonprofit Vail Valley Foundation and offers 1300+ covered, reserved pavilion seats as well as an additional 1300+ general admission lawn seats, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may bring legless lawn chairs.

Limited paid parking is also available at the Ford Park parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis.

Free parking is available in the Vail Village and Lionshead parking structures when entering after 3:00 p.m. From Vail Village, walk east along South Frontage Road East toward the softball fields, then follow the paved path into Ford Park to the venue entrance.

Complimentary express bus service to Ford Park is available during the Festival from the upper levels of both Town of Vail parking structures.

Walking from the Vail Village parking structure, travel east and follow the South Frontage Road East sidewalk northeast toward the softball fields. Look for the paved pathway into Ford Park to the south and follow the path to the venue entrance. For more information visit grfavail.com/policies

Vilar Performing Arts Center

68 Avondale Lane, Beaver Creek, CO 81620

This intimate 530-seat theater in Beaver Creek is operated by the nonprofit Vail Valley Foundation and hosts year-round performances including concerts, Broadway, comedy, dance, film, family entertainment, classical music, and more. The venue features exceptional acoustics and striking architectural design.

Free summer parking is available in Beaver Creek on a first-come, first-served basis. The Villa Montane lot is located directly across from the Vilar on Avondale Lane, and the Ford Hall lot is just north of the venue on Village Road.

Complimentary Beaver Creek Village shuttle service is available from the lower Beaver Creek parking lots (Elk and Bear). Guests staying in Beaver Creek or Bachelor Gulch may also use the complimentary Dial-a-Ride shared shuttle service by contacting their concierge or using the Village Connect app.

For more information visit vilarpac.org/venue-policies.

Avon Performance Pavilion at Nottingham Park

1 Lake Street, Avon, CO 81620

Located in Avon, the Performance Pavilion at Nottingham Park is a year-round outdoor venue that hosts festivals, concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, educational events, and more.

Open-air seating is available on the expansive lawn, with limited bleacher seating provided. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas, and picnics to enjoy the experience. Performances take place rain or shine.

Public restrooms are located adjacent to the venue in Nottingham Park, and free nearby parking is available.

QUESTIONS? Visit vaildance.org or contact us at info@vvf.org or 970.777.2015 .

Explore our Festival ticket packages this summer—world-class performances at prices crafted for every dance lover.

Encore Club Pass*

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

• One lawn ticket to each performance at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Nine shows total

• Ability to upgrade to reserved pavilion seating for $30 to select performances (based on availability)

• Three vouchers for discounted guest lawn tickets

• NOT valid for performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center

• Package total: $247.50 including all fees

• Package pricing and availability subject to change at any time Over $75 in savings

Pick 3 // 20% Off*

Enjoy 20% off the best available seating to 3 select performances:

August 1 Martha Graham Dance Company

August 2 UpClose with Damian Woetzel

August 3 State of Grace

August 5 Rennie Harris Puremovement

August 8 International Evenings of Dance III

August 9 Colorado Dances

August 10 NOW: Premieres

Pay Your Age*

Receive the best available seats at a big discount.

• 18–30 year-olds are invited to ‘Pay Your Age’ for reserved seating

• Limited availability

• Pay Your Age tickets must be purchased at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater or Vilar Performing Arts Center Box Offices with valid proof of age ID

• Pay Your Age promotion does not include Opening Night, International Evenings of Dance I & II, Dance for $20.26

Kids Free on the Lawn

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

• Children 12 and under receive free lawn admission at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater with the purchase of an adult ticket

• Excludes performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center

4 Pack on the Lawn

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

Enjoy ballet with your besties and receive a discount when you buy lawn tickets in a group of four to select performances.

• Receive a discount if you buy lawn tickets in a group of 4 to select performances. To book a 4-pack, select price type 4-PACK at seat selection!

• Excludes Dance for $20.26 and performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center

Lawn Packs available at these performances:

July 31 Opening Night

August 1 Martha Graham Dance Company

August 2 UpClose with Damian Woetzel

August 3 State of Grace

August 7 International Evenings of Dance I

August 8 International Evenings of Dance II

August 8 International Evenings of Dance III

August 10 NOW: Premieres

Student & Faculty Lawn Tickets // $10*

• Students and faculty may purchase discounted lawn tickets to performances at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

• Excludes Dance for $20.26 and performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center

• Discounted student & faculty tickets may be purchased online at vaildance.org or by calling the box office at 970.845.TIXS (8497)

*Availability subject to change at any time

BOX OFFICE INFORMATION

Phone: 970.845.TIXS (8497)

Email: boxoffice@vvf.org

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

540 S Frontage Road East, Vail, CO 81658

Vilar Performing Arts Center 68 Avondale Lane, Beaver Creek, CO 81620

2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

COLOR KEY

●  PERFORMANCES

●  EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

●  DONOR EVENTS

EVENTS FOR CHILDREN

2

Master Class: Chun Wai Chan

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Herman Cornejo

10:30am–11:30am // VMS

FREE Dancing in the Streets: Rennie Harris Puremovement

12:00pm–12:30pm // B&G

VVF Summer Donor Reception* 4:30pm // BFPP

LOCATION KEY

GRFA: Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

AVON: Avon Performance Pavilion at Nottingham Park

B&G: Cross streets of Bridge and Gore

BFPP: Borgen Family Patrons Plaza at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

GPST: Golden Peak Studio Tent

LHV: Lionshead Village

MG: May Gallery Patrons Lounge at the Vilar Performing Arts Center

SC: Social Courtyard at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

SP: Solaris Plaza

VMS: Vail Mountain School

VILAR: Vilar Performing Arts Center

UpClose with Damian Woetzel 6:00pm // GRFA

3

Master Class: Rennie Harris Puremovement

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Michelle Dorrance & Trinity Irish Dance Company

10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Pre-performance Access† 6:00pm // BFPP

State of Grace featuring Balanchine’s Serenade 7:00pm // GRFA

9

Master Class: Mira Nadon

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Sparkling Brunch*** 10:00am–1:00pm // SC

Conversations on Dance: Career Pathways + Pianists of the Festival 9:00am–10:30am // VMS

FREE Dancing in the Streets: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance

12:00pm–12:30pm // LHV

Open House with Alexei Ratmansky 3:00pm // GPST

Pre-performance Access† 5:00pm // MG

Colorado Dances 6:00pm // VILAR

Sparkling Reception** Post-performance // MG

10

Master Class: Carla Körbes

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Pre-performance Access† 6:00pm // BFPP

NOW: Premieres 7:00pm // GRFA

4

Master Class: Unity Phelan

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Ballet and Beyond with Robbie Fairchild, Lauren Lovette, & Unity Phelan 10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Pre-performance Access† 5:00pm // BFPP

Dance for $20.26 6:00pm // GRFA

Celebrate the Beat Pop Hop Camp

30 JULY

FREE Dancing in the Streets: Martha Graham Dance Company

5:30pm–6:00pm // SP

31

Master Class: Martha Graham Dance Company

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Yoga Class: Tiffany Fraser 10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Opening Night Reception† 6:00pm // BFPP

Opening Night 7:00pm // GRFA

5

Master Class: Tiler Peck

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Watching Dance with Heather Watts

11:00am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Composer-In-Residence

Caroline Shaw

1:00pm–2:00pm // SC

Pre-performance Access†

5:00pm // MG

Rennie Harris Puremovement

American Street Dance Theater: Nuttin’ But A Word 6:00pm // VILAR

6

Master Class:

Chloe Misseldine

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance:

Ryan Tomash

10:30am–11:30am // VMS

VIP Tent at Dancing in the Park†

4:30pm // AVON

Dancing in the Park 5:30pm // AVON

7

Master Class: Larry Keigwin + Daisy Kate Jacobson

9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Artist-In-Residence

Alexei Ratmansky 10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Pre-performance Reception† 6:00pm // BFPP

International Evenings of Dance I 7:00pm // GRFA

Sparkling Reception** Post-performance // BFPP

1 AUGUST

Master Class: India Bradley 9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Tiny Dancer Tea Party 10:00am–11:30am // SC

Conversations on Dance: Martha Graham Dance Company 10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Pre-performance Access† 6:00pm // BFPP

Martha Graham Dance Company 7:00pm // GRFA

Sparkling Reception**

Post-performance // BFPP

8

Master Class: Margaret Tracey 9:00am–10:20am // VMS

Conversations on Dance: Shaping the Stage–How Dance Educators Prepare the Next Generation 10:30am–11:30am // VMS

Pre-performance Access† 4:00pm // BFPP

International Evenings of Dance II 5:00pm // GRFA

Pre-performance Access† 7:00pm // BFPP

International Evenings of Dance III 8:00pm // GRFA

SPECIAL DONOR EVENTS KEY

†Reserved for Gold Dress Circle Donors and above, and Vail Valley Foundation Leadership Giving Circle.

*Reserved for Gold Dress Circle Donors and above, and Vail Valley Foundation Ford Founders level Donors and above.

**Bronze Dress Circle Donors and above are invited to all three Sparkling Receptions. Fan Club Donors are invited to one.

***Reserved for Gold Dress Circle Donors and above.

Visit vaildance.org for more information about Conversations on Dance and Master Class program content. Schedule is subject to change.

Edwards Elementary School

THAT NEXT STEP

By Lauren Warnecke

“For everybody who comes here, no matter where they are in their career, there’s something interesting— something more that can be done.”

—Damian Woetzel

It is a year of milestones for the Vail Dance Festival, with Artistic Director Damian Woetzel celebrating two decades of leadership, acclaimed choreographer and 2026 Artist-InResidence Alexei Ratmansky making his first appearance at the Festival, and music-maker extraordinaire Caroline Shaw marking her 10th anniversary season as the Leonard Bernstein Composer-In-Residence.

Woetzel first visited Vail in 1993 as a principal dancer with New York City Ballet, performing at the invitation of then Artistic Director Katherine Kersten in the John Paul Mitchell Systems International Evening of Dance—a trip he describes looking back as at first seeming like “another gig” among the many he was doing at that time.

“I went to this place called Vail, Colorado, and danced at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, which was very new—just a couple of years old,” he says. “What I remember now is realizing how special that stage was, and how uniquely beautiful it was to dance surrounded by nature in the mountains.”

By 2007, when Woetzel became the Festival’s artistic director, he had a list of things he wanted to do, shaped by decades of “just another gig,” not only in Vail, but around the globe as one of the dance world’s brightest stars.

“A lot of the things that were done in that very first year turned into that ‘next step’ model Vail has become,” he says. “For everybody who comes here, no matter where they are in their career, there’s something interesting—something more that can be done.”

Often, that means cross-genre collaboration, which has become a Festival hallmark. Vail is the place where tap and ballet meet, as they did in 2018 with MacArthur “Genius” Michelle Dorrance and Tony Award-winning choreographer Justin Peck’s world premiere duet, They Try to Tell Us. It’s where Lil Buck’s 21st-century Memphis jookin’ street dance collides with Bach’s timeless form. And throughout it all, there has been an effort to make dance accessible through affordable tickets, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.

“Twenty years ago, we took a look, and then we just started dreaming,” he says. The “we” is Woetzel and his wife, renowned ballerina Heather Watts, who has been a creative force at the Festival throughout the last two decades. “The idea for us was the ingredients,” Woetzel says, “assembling who can be here and focusing on the terrific mix that can be made each year. Over the years, it’s just gotten deeper and more collaborative.”

The ingredients and the recipes—arguably calculated risks—are balanced with deep respect for classics and crowd-pleasers. That first summer, then–New York City Ballet resident choreographer Christopher Wheeldon launched his edgy company Morphoses/ The Wheeldon Company. Also on the schedule were Pacific Northwest Ballet dancing Balanchine and a sold-out appearance by tap titan Savion Glover.

“When I look back on it, launching a new company and creating a new dynamic all at once… wow, Vail really showed up,” Woetzel says.

Over the years, artists have shown up too, refreshed and inspired by Vail’s uniquely collaborative environment and the high-altitude, rarefied air only the Rockies can provide.

“Things just look different here, and it has a real effect— merging nature and art,” Woetzel says. “It’s a great place to make a debut or to dance with a new partner, to try something completely out of your comfort zone, to mix things up. That’s really the story of these past 20 years.”

The mix this summer includes appearances by Martha Graham Dance Company on August 1, celebrating its centennial year, and Rennie Harris Puremovement on August 5, the Philadelphiabased pioneering street dance company making its Festival debut. Balanchine’s Serenade is featured August 3 in a balletic evening with Colorado Ballet and Festival stars. Christopher Wheeldon makes his mark on this celebration choreographing a new duet for Lauren Lovette and Robbie Fairchild. And for the perennial season finale of new works, August 10 will feature world premieres by Ratmansky and other stars of the dance world.

Ratmansky’s résumé includes leading Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet and creating works for nearly every premier ballet company in the world, along with artist residencies at American Ballet Theatre and, currently, New York City Ballet. He is also widely known for reconstructing several of Marius Petipa’s 19th-century ballets from original notes, including Swan Lake, La Bayadère, and Sleeping Beauty

Ratmansky has created work for the Vail Dance Festival before, his Fandango was choreographed for the 2010 Festival where it was performed by ballerina Wendy Whelan (now New York City Ballet Associate Artistic Director). The ballet lived on, and was later performed by ballerina Sara Mearns, and then adapted by Ratmansky for principal dancer Roman Mejia. But 2026 marks the first time Ratmansky will create a new work for the Festival while in residence at the Festival itself. That presents a new set of opportunities for collaboration and experimentation—another “next step.”

“Let’s see where this goes; it’ll be interesting to see,” Woetzel says. “He has in him a reverence for history, but also the driving impulse to explore.”

It’s a quality Ratmansky shares with Caroline Shaw, the Festival’s Grammy- and Pulitzer Prize-winning Composer-InResidence for the past 10 years, who returns this summer to create and perform original music for Ratmansky’s piece as part of Woetzel’s unwavering commitment to live music at the Festival.

“Caroline’s music is a miracle,” Woetzel says. “She is a beacon of light. To be in that world of collaboration with her is a privilege.”

For her part, Shaw says “I’m so grateful for all the opportunities to make new work with some of the greatest artists, to be in the room with such creativity and enthusiasm, and to constantly learn and grow in such a unique environment.”

It’s an environment that doesn’t happen by accident, as Woetzel and Watts continue to dream of next steps for the expansive mix of artists they assemble.

Opposite page, from top to bottom, left to right: Damian Woetzel, photo by Erin Baiano. Savion Glover, photo by Rex Keep. Morphoses/The Wheeldon Company, photo by Erin Baiano. Illustrations by Andrea Selby. Damian Woetzel, photo by Kyle Froman. Christopher Wheeldon, photo by Caitie Kakigi. Michelle Dorrance & Justin Peck , photo by Erin Baiano.

20 YEARS IN MOTION: A TIMELINE OF ARTISTIC LEADERSHIP & INNOVATION

with DAMIAN WOETZEL

1993

DAMIAN DEBUTS AT THE VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL

At the invitation of Artistic Director Katherine Kersten, New York City Ballet principal Damian Woetzel makes his Vail debut at the International Evenings of Dance, joined by principals from leading companies worldwide including Stuttgart Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet.

Vail Dance Festival.

2007

DAMIAN’S INAUGURAL FESTIVAL AS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

For Damian Woetzel’s inaugural Festival, Pacific Northwest Ballet made the Festival’s first full-company appearance; Christopher Wheeldon launched his new ensemble, Morphoses/The Wheeldon Company; and Heather Watts introduced Celebrate the Beat, a free dance and music education program for local children. The year also marked the launch of the UpClose series.

3. Damian Woetzel performs with Celebrate the Beat at the 2012 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

2010

ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM CREATED

The prestigious Artist-In-Residence role was established, with choreographer Larry Keigwin named its inaugural recipient followed by Lil Buck in 2011, and a distinguished list of dance luminaries in the ensuing years.

5. Ashley Browne and Larry Keigwin at the 2010 Vail Dance Festival.

by Erin Baiano.

2006

CELEBRATED ARTIST DAMIAN WOETZEL NAMED ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

The Vail Dance Festival proudly announces Damian Woetzel as its new Artistic Director, ushering in an exciting new chapter for one of the world’s premier dance festivals. An internationally acclaimed artist, choreographer, producer, and principal dancer with New York City Ballet, Woetzel brings a bold creative vision and deep commitment to artistic collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

2008

PHILIP GLASS DEBUTS AT THE FESTIVAL

On Opening Night, Philip Glass performs his own compositions, highlighting Damian’s commitment to new music at the Festival.

Dance for $20.08 kicked off the series of reduced priced annual community building performances that continues to this day.

4. Heather Watts and Philip Glass at the 2008 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Erin Baiano.

2011

NEW WORKS CREATED IN VAIL GET THEIR OWN EVENING

NOW: Premieres—an evening devoted entirely to newly commissioned works—debuts at the Festival, alongside the launch of New York City Ballet MOVES in Vail.

6. New York City Ballet MOVES’ Wendy Whelan and Craig Hall perform After the Rain, choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, at the 2011 Vail

Festival. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Photo

1. Damian performs at the

Photo by Rex Keep.

2. Damian Woetzel performs at the 2008 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Kyle Froman.

Dance

2014

SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM CREATED

Heather Watts launches the Scholar-In-Residence program, offering emerging artist the extraordinary opportunity to experience the Festival through the lens of a professional dancer. Sixteen-year-old flamenco dancer Elena Heiss is named the inaugural Scholar-In-Residence.

MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY DEBUTS AT THE FESTIVAL

Martha Graham Dance Company makes its Festival debut.

7.

Company.

2016

VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL TAKES MANHATTAN

Damian brings the Festival to New York City with Vail Dance Festival/ReMix at New York City Center in the fall, expanding the Festival’s reach onto one of the world’s most celebrated stages.

ALONZO KING LINES TAKES THAT NEXT STEP

2015 THE COMMUNITY ARTS ACCESS PROGRAM IS CREATED

In honor of Damian’s 10th anniversary as Artistic Director, to provide broader access to the arts in the Vail Valley, the Community Arts Access Program is established.

Alonzo Kings’ work scored by jazz luminary Jason Moran featuring artists from Alonzo King LINES and New York City Ballet premieres.

10. Lil Buck performs at the 2016 Remix in NYC. Photo by Erin Baiano. 2017

THE FESTIVALS DEDICATION TO MUSIC EXPANDS

Caroline Shaw arrives as the Festival’s first Leonard Bernstein Composer-In-Residence, bringing her acclaimed, genre-spanning artistry to Vail. Her residency expanded the Festival’s interdisciplinary programming, deepening the connection between dance and live music while honoring Bernstein’s legacy of creativity and innovation.

11. Caroline Shaw and Festival artists in morning class. Photo by Chris Kendig. 2018

Martha Graham Dance

Photo by Erin Baiano.

12. Alonzo King Lines Ballet. Photo by Erin Baiano.

8. Elena Heiss at the Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Erin Baiano.

9. Festival attendees. Photo by Jennifer Weintraub.

7.

2020

INNOVATION DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Digital Festival commissioned two original works by acclaimed artists Bobbi Jene Smith and Robbie Fairchild. The Festival reached a global audience, generating more than 100,000 views across eight countries over a 22-day period.

Inspired by the challenges of the pandemic, the Festival also launched a digital screening series on the Amphitheater lawn, offering limited-capacity, sociallydistanced outdoor viewings.

To further support the artistic community during this unprecedented time, the Artistic Reserve Fund was established through a leadership gift from Susan and Jeff Campbell, providing critical resources for artists and staff affected by the pandemic.

13.

2022

A LANDMARK MOMENT FOR THE FESTIVAL

The Festival celebrates the 100th world-premiere dance commission under Damian’s leadership, cementing Vail as a major hub for dance and music collaboration and creation. This milestone reflects the Festival’s enduring commitment to fostering artistic innovation, championing emerging and established choreographers, and creating transformative experiences that resonate with audiences around the world.

THE FESTIVAL RETURNS AND CONTINUES TO GROW

The Vail Dance Festival returns to in-person performances, including American Ballet Theatre’s Calvin Royal III as Festival Artist-In-Residence performing in new works choreographed for him by Tiler Peck and by Jamar Roberts. The Festival featured seven commissioned world premieres.

TWO DECADES OF LEADERSHIP

Damian celebrates 20 years as Artistic Director

16. Damian Woetzel.

Duggan.

16.

15. Mira Nadon in Pam Tanowitz’s Nobody’s in NOW: Premieres at the Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Festival attendees view the Digital Festival.

14. Johnny Gandelsman with Damian Woetzel and Nicholas Cords during International Evenings of Dance Rehearsal. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Photo by Christopher

SEASON NO. 39

JUNE 25 - AUGUST 6, 2026

ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS • JUNE 25 - 28

DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA • JULY 2 - 8

THE PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA • JULY 10 - 17

NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC • JULY 22 - 29

CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES • JUNE 30 - JULY 27

IMMERSIVE SERIES • JULY 13 - 14

CLASSICALLY UNCORKED • AUGUST 5 - 6

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Tickets selling fast — get yours before they’re gone!

NEW WORKS at the 2026 Festival

Each year, the Vail Dance Festival brings together artists from a wide range of dance genres to create unexpected collaborations that push the boundaries of the art form and reinforce Vail’s reputation as a leading incubator for new choreography and music in the United States. Set against the inspiring backdrop of the mountains, the Festival offers artists the rare opportunity for deep creative focus within an intimate, “laboratory-style” environment that encourages bold experimentation and artistic cross-pollination. This year, the Festival is proud to present 11 new works, continuing its legacy of innovation and creative expansion at the heart of the Vail Dance Festival.

CHOREOGRAPHERS

Robert Battle

Generously

Chun Wai Chan

Generously

Robbie

Tiler Peck

Generously Underwritten by

Generously

Generously Underwritten by Anonymous

Amanda

by

Takehiro Ueyama

Generously Underwritten by Terry Galpin-Plattner

Christopher Wheeldon

Generously Underwritten by Jill & Kevin Plancher

Melissa Toogood, Herman Cornejo, Caroline Shaw and Kate Davis in Pam Tanowitz's No Nonsense at the 2022 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

OPENING NIGHT

The Festival launches with an extraordinary Opening Night celebration, offering a thrilling preview of the remarkable artistry and innovation to come throughout the season. Bringing together stars of New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Martha Graham Dance Company, Rennie Harris Puremovement, Colorado Ballet, and other acclaimed artists, the evening reflects the Festival’s expansive vision—honoring the rich traditions of dance while embracing today’s most dynamic creative voices.

The evening’s highlights will include: New York City Ballet principal Mira Nadon in the role of Princess Aurora in the Rose Adagio from The Sleeping Beauty; American Ballet Theatre principal Herman Cornejo returns to the Festival to join New York City Ballet principal Indiana Woodward in their debut performance together in Jerome Robbins’ Three Chopin Dances; New York City Ballet stars Sara Mearns and Chun Wai Chan in George Balanchine’s haunting Elegie from Tchaikovsky Suite #3, joined by artists of Colorado Ballet; and New York City Ballet principal Unity Phelan makes her debut on Martha Graham’s evocative Moon duet alongside Lloyd Knight of the Martha Graham Dance Company.

The evening will also feature appearances by celebrated artists Lil Buck, Adji Cissoko, and Robbie Fairchild, among others, in a program spanning classical masterworks, contemporary innovation, and genre defying performance. Together, these extraordinary artists and companies set the stage for a Festival season filled with bold creativity, exceptional talent, and unforgettable moments. Visit vaildance.org/openingnight for more information.

performance is generously underwritten

This evening’s

by Lisa Tannebaum & Donald Brownstein and Senenne & Marc Philippon.

Sara Mearns and Chun Wai Chan with Colorado Ballet in ÉLÉGIE during International Evenings of Dance I at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine.

©The George Balanchine Trust

Photo By Christopher Duggan.

SATURDAY // AUGUST 1 // 7:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY

The legendary Martha Graham Dance Company takes the Vail stage for a spotlight performance—its only Colorado appearance on a centennial world tour celebrating 100 years as one of modern dance’s most influential and enduring artistic forces. The program honors the groundbreaking legacy of founder Martha Graham, alongside contemporary works by artists inspired by her vision, carrying forward a powerful tradition of innovation, emotional intensity, and artistic courage that defines the Graham spirit. The evening will feature hallowed works by Graham, including Diversions of Angels, Steps in the Street from Chronicle, and Lamentation, which will be danced for the first time at this performance by special guest NYC Ballet star Sara Mearns. The program will close with Jamar Roberts’ recent acclaimed work made for the company, We the People, and in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Martha Graham Dance Company, the evening will also feature the premiere of a special 92NY Dance Education Laboratory (DEL) Movement Sentence Choir (MSC) in tribute to Martha Graham and her legacy. Visit vaildance.org/marthagraham for more information.

This evening’s performance is generously underwritten by Priscilla Brewster

Martha Graham. Photo by Arnold Eagle.

A CENTURY OF GRAHAM: THE MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

America’s oldest dance company, the Martha Graham Dance Company, is celebrating its centennial with performances and events around the world. Widely recognized as one of the most influential artistic forces of the 20th century, Martha Graham (1894–1991) gave her first performance with a small group of dancers on April 18, 1926, from a modest studio at Carnegie Hall in Midtown Manhattan.

Over the last century, more than 400 dancers have performed with the Company, carrying forward a groundbreaking and distinctly American style of dance that has inspired generations of artists and audiences alike.

“Our company’s centennial rests on the shoulders of the earliest Graham acolytes—the handful of young women, many of them firstgeneration Americans, who gave life to Martha’s radical new style,” says Artistic Director Janet Eilber. “In the 1930s, they embarked on our first transcontinental tour, bringing the littleknown and frequently misunderstood art form to audiences from Tallahassee to Vancouver.”

In developing her technique, Graham experimented endlessly with movement, beginning with the elemental principles of contraction and release. From these foundations, she created a movement vocabulary designed to express the deepest dimensions of human emotion. Her 181 dances are known for their sharp, angular, and emotionally charged physicality.

Graham revolutionized dance not only through movement, but by expanding the thematic possibilities of the art form. Her works explored social, political, psychological, and mythological subjects while drawing inspiration from sources ranging from the American frontier and Native American ceremonial traditions to modern painting and Greek mythology. Many of her most celebrated roles portray powerful women from history and myth. Today, the Company continues that legacy by pairing Graham masterworks with newly commissioned works by contemporary choreographers.

Since its founding, the Martha Graham Dance Company has performed in more than 50 countries and at many of the world’s most celebrated venues, including Carnegie Hall, the Paris Opera House, the Royal Opera, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The GRAHAM100 season includes a major exhibition at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, a two-part PBS documentary, collaborations with NYC Dance Project and PHILADANCO!, and the Company’s recent move into a new headquarters in Times Square. Together, these initiatives honor Martha Graham’s enduring artistic legacy and the generations of artists who continue to carry it forward.

Programming subject to change.

SUNDAY // AUGUST 2 // 6:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

UPCLOSE with DAMIAN WOETZEL

For two decades, Artistic Director Damian Woetzel has shaped the Festival, transforming it into a creative laboratory where dance and music meet, evolve, and inspire new possibilities. Under his leadership, the Festival has become known for convening world-class artists in unexpected collaborations that celebrate both innovation and artistic excellence.

Woetzel launched the UpClose performance series in his first season as director in 2007, inviting audiences inside the creative process to witness the collaboration, risk-taking, and artistic discovery that happen before the curtain rises. This year’s UpClose continues in that spirit, bringing together an extraordinary roster of artists from New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Royal Danish Ballet, Alonzo King LINES Ballet, and beyond. Joined by independent dancers, these artists will be coached and mentored by Woetzel and legendary ballerina Heather Watts as they prepare classical and contemporary repertory for 2026 Festival performances. Visit vaildance.org/upclose for more information.

This evening’s performance is generously underwritten by

Jeffrey Byrne, additional support provided by Rosalind Reed.

Damian Woetzel leads an UpClose demonstration of Serenade during the 2009 Vail International Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine. ©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo ©2009 Kyle Froman Photography.

MONDAY // AUGUST 3 // 7:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

STATE of GRACE featuring GEORGE BALANCHINE’S SERENADE

A luminous evening under the stars, this performance celebrates the beauty, power, and harmony of dance with extraordinary artists from American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Colorado Ballet, and other leading companies from around the world.

Highlights of this special performance will include: the world premiere of a new pas de deux choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon for Lauren Lovette and Robbie Fairchild; Mira Nadon and Ryan Tomash making their debuts in Jerome Robbins’ Afternoon of a Faun; Catherine Hurlin making her debut in Balanchine’s Serenade in the role of the “Russian” girl; and performances by additional artists including Adji Cissoko, Herman Cornejo, Calvin Royal III, Unity Phelan, Melissa Toogood, and more to be announced.

The performance culminates in George Balanchine’s breathtaking Serenade, set to Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings and performed live by the National Repertory Orchestra under the baton of Michael Stern. Bringing together Festival stars and Colorado Ballet artists, this iconic work offers a transcendent finale beneath the Colorado night sky. Visit vaildance.org/stateofgrace for more information.

Programming subject to change.

This evening’s performance is generously underwritten by Tina & David Wilson and The Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet.

Lauren Lovette and dancers of Colorado Ballet perform Serenade by George Balanchine on the Opening Night program of the 2024 Vail Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine.

©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

TUESDAY // AUGUST 4 // 6:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

evening’s performance is generously underwritten by

Experience an electrifying night of dance at unbeatable prices, with pavilion seats costing just $20.26 and lawn tickets only $10.26. Festival stars light up the stage in a high-energy, high-impact program featuring ballet, tap, hip-hop, street styles, and more. An unforgettable night for all. Visit vaildance.org/dancefor2026 for more information.

This

the Town of Vail.

Festival attendees during Dance for $20.25 at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater.

Photo by Chris Kendig.

WEDNESDAY // AUGUST 5 // 11:00AM

Vail Mountain School Theatre, Vail

WATCHING DANCE with HEATHER WATTS

Legendary “Balanchine Ballerina” Heather Watts shares an interactive exploration of dance repertory and history through live demonstrations with Festival artists.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Vail Dance Festival’s free dance education summer camps, Celebrate the Beat Summer Celebration Team and Pop Hop Camp.

Visit vaildance.org/watchingdance for more information.

This performance is generously underwritten by Judy & Howard Berkowitz

Tiler Peck & Herman Cornejo demonstrate an excerpt from Balanchine’s Apollo with Heather Watts at the UpClose: Apollo program of the 2015 Vail International Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine.

©The George Balanchine Trust. Photo ©Erin Baiano

Celebrated choreographer Rennie Harris lays down his three laws of hip-hop—individuality, creativity, innovation. Here to expose the essence of their art form with unmatched subtlety and surprise, the indefatigably disciplined dancers of Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater command the stage with a mixtape of moves from b-boying to Campbellocking to house. Every step tells a story in sync with the rhythm, honoring hip-hop’s roots while raising the bar to new heights. You can try to shout ’em down, but you ain’t said Nuttin’ But a Word.

“This suite of works challenges the structural integrity of Campbell locking, house, hip-hop, and b-boying. Now that we are a global hip-hop nation, we seem to have become hiphop/street dance zealots. This purist attitude has stagnated the natural progression of street dance. Simply put, we have become elitist about hip-hop culture. This elitism is due to this generation’s obsession with “keeping it real.” The truth of the matter is this generation will never relive my generation’s era of original dance. My generation defined the three laws of hip-hop culture: innovation, individuality, and creativity. At best, they can appreciate it, pay homage to it, and acknowledge it as the foundational era of hip-hop/street dance it was; in doing that, they will tap into their

individuality, creativity, and innovation, which in turn ensures progress. The work’s title, Nuttin’ But A Word, was taken from a cultural phrase used amongst Blacks in the United States. The complete phrase is, “You ain’t said nothing but a word”; loosely translated, it means, “Your words mean nothing—pay close attention because what I do next will trump anything you have to say.” Hip-hop/street dance is progressive by design. There is nothing about the three Laws of hip-hop that suggests stagnation. Nothing about these laws indicates that we as practitioners of hip-hop should only adhere to its foundation; it is quite the opposite. Nuttin’ But A Word challenges the hip-hop puritans at every turn and reminds us that we will not evolve as a form without individuality, creativity, and innovation.”—Rennie Harris Visit vaildance.org/rennieharris for more information.

Programming subject to change.

Rennie Harris Puremovement

American Street Dance Theater dancers perform Nuttin’ But A Word

Photo by Steven Pisano.

THURSDAY // AUGUST 6 // 5:30PM

Avon Performance Pavilion at Nottingham Park, Avon

DANCING IN THE PARK

evening’s performance is generously underwritten by The

, additional support by Slifer

Dancing in the Park invites audiences of all ages to enjoy this free summer tradition celebrating world-class dance, cultural expression, and community. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket or lawn chairs, and gather with friends and family at the lakeside Performance Pavilion for a relaxed and memorable evening nestled in the beauty of the Colorado mountains.

The program begins with joyful performances by the youth dancers of the Celebrate the Beat Celebration Team, followed by an exciting lineup of Festival artists, Colorado Ballet, Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater, and more. Spanning a dynamic range of dance genres—from classical ballet and contemporary movement to hip-hop, and street dance—the evening showcases the richness and diversity of dance as a universal form of storytelling and connection. With something to inspire every audience member, Dancing in the Park offers an unforgettable celebration of artistry under the summer sky. Visit vaildance.org/dancinginthepark for more information.

This

Town of Avon

Smith & Frampton Real Estate

Olivia Bell and Philip Duclos perform at Dancing in the Park at Nottingham Park in Avon, CO as part of the 2024 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

FRIDAY // AUGUST 7 // 7:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

INTERNATIONAL EVENINGS of DANCE I

A defining Vail tradition since 1993, the International Evenings of Dance are celebrated for their dazzling artistry, extraordinary collaborations, and “only in Vail” moments—featuring world premieres, unexpected partnerships, and role debuts by today’s most acclaimed dance artists from around the globe. This summer’s series will feature three distinct International Evenings programs. Each program features a collection of Festival artists collaborating in made-forVail partnerships. The gala series opens with Celebrate the Beat, an electrifying performance featuring local Eagle County students sharing the stage with Festival stars. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with breathtaking talent, energy, and inspiration from some of the biggest names in dance today. The performance runs approximately two hours and includes one intermission. Visit vaildance.org/ie1 for more information.

evening’s performance is generously underwritten

This

by Oscar Tang & Agnes Hsu-Tang, PH.D.

Brooks Landegger and Chloe Misseldine in Tchaikovsky Pas De Deux during the International Evenings of Dance I at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine. ©The George Balanchine Trust Photo By Christopher Duggan.

SATURDAY // AUGUST 8 // 5:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

INTERNATIONAL EVENINGS of DANCE II

Enjoy an earlier showtime perfect for families or anyone planning dinner or an evening out afterward. Bathed in the warmth of daylight, International Evenings of Dance II delivers all the brilliance, artistry, and excitement of the Festival’s world-class dancers in a streamlined 90-minute performance with no intermission.

A defining Vail tradition since 1993, the International Evenings of Dance are renowned for their dazzling artistry, extraordinary collaborations, and unforgettable “only in Vail” moments—bringing together celebrated artists from around the globe for unique partnerships and special role debuts. This summer’s Festival features three distinct International Evenings programs, each showcasing a dynamic mix of ballet, contemporary, tap, and street dance.

In keeping with the spirit of the International Evenings of Dance, Festival artists for this performance will be announced after artists arrive in Vail, when inspired collaborations, role debuts, and distinctive repertoire have been thoughtfully curated. Visit vaildance.org/ie2 for more information.

performance is

underwritten

This evening’s

generously

by Marge & Phil Odeen

Calvin Royal III & Joel Wenhardt perform Reflections in D by Alvin Ailey during the 2025 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

SATURDAY // AUGUST 8 // 8:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

INTERNATIONAL EVENINGS of DANCE III

The series concludes with a magical evening under the stars, where world-class dance meets the beauty of a Colorado summer night. International Evenings of Dance III embraces the drama and intimacy of late-night performance, enhanced by striking theatrical lighting and the breathtaking backdrop of the Vail Valley. Audiences can expect two unforgettable hours of artistry, athleticism, and inspired collaboration.

A defining Vail tradition since 1993, the International Evenings of Dance are celebrated for their dazzling artistry, extraordinary collaborations, and unforgettable “only in Vail” moments—bringing together acclaimed artists from around the globe for unique partnerships and special role debuts.

Festival artists for this performance will be announced once artists arrive in Vail and the creative process reveals the extraordinary pairings and performances that make each International Evening a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Visit vaildance.org/ie3 for more information.

evening’s performance is generously underwritten by

This

Jill & Kevin Plancher

Mira Nadon and Ryan Tomash in Diamonds Pas de Deux during International Evenings of Dance I at the 2025 Vail Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine.

©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo By Christopher Duggan.

SUNDAY // AUGUST 9 // 6:00PM

Vilar Performing Arts Center, Beaver Creek

COLORADO DANCES

Colorado Dances celebrates the extraordinary depth, diversity, and creative spirit of the Centennial State’s dance community with a dynamic program showcasing two of Colorado’s most influential cultural institutions: Colorado Ballet and Cleo Parker Robinson Dance. Renowned nationally and internationally for their artistic excellence, innovation, and enduring contributions to American dance, these powerhouse companies come together for an evening that honors both tradition and forward-looking artistry.

From the refined athleticism and classical mastery of Colorado Ballet to the soulful, expressive storytelling and rich cultural legacy of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, the program highlights the unique voices that define Colorado’s vibrant performing arts landscape. Audiences will experience an inspiring range of repertory that reflects the breadth of contemporary dance today—bridging ballet, modern, and culturally rooted movement traditions in a celebration of community, creativity, and shared artistic purpose. Visit vaildance.org/codances for more information.

This evening’s performance is generously underwritten by Jane & Skip Netzorg , additional support provided by Alexia & Jerry Jurschak.

Jennifer Grace with Mario Labrador & Liam Hogan in S. Rachmaninoff by Yoshihisa Arai.

Photo by Jeff Kearney/Green Box Arts.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble.

Photo by Martha Wirth.

MONDAY // AUGUST 10 // 7:00PM

Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

NOW: PREMIERES CLOSING NIGHT

For two decades under the artistic leadership of Damian Woetzel, the Vail Dance Festival has stood at the forefront of innovation—where groundbreaking music and dance come vividly to life in the present moment. Since 2007, the Festival has premiered more than 145 original works by some of the world’s most visionary choreographers and composers, creating a singular platform for bold artistic collaboration across genres.

NOW celebrates the 20th anniversary of Woetzel’s artistic vision with an evening of newly-created works developed in collaboration with Festival artists. Featuring daring choreography, inventive musical partnerships, and an exceptional roster of dancers and musicians, the program reflects the Festival’s enduring spirit of creativity, curiosity, and fearless experimentation.

Choreographers for this milestone evening include 2026 Artist-In-Residence Alexei Ratmansky, Robert Battle, Michelle Dorrance, Robbie Fairchild, Larry Keigwin, Tiler Peck, Pam Tanowitz, and first-time Festival choreographers Chun Wai Chan, Chelsea Hoy, Amanda Treiber, and Takehiro Ueyama.

Artists appearing in NOW are expected to include Tiler Peck, Catherine Hurlin, Lauren Lovette, Chloe Misseldine, Mira Nadon, Unity Phelan, Melissa Toogood, Daisy Kate Jacobson, Robbie Fairchild, Roman Mejia, Calvin Royal III, Ryan Tomash, Brooks Landegger, Dario Natarelli, and Trinity Irish Dance Company.

Musicians are expected to include the acclaimed string quartet Brooklyn Rider, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and performer Caroline Shaw, Ringdown (Caroline Shaw and Danni Lee Parpan), bass-baritone Davóne Tines, pianist Tony Siqi Yun, pianist Derek Wang, flutist Alex Sopp, and vocalist-songwriter Kate Davis, with additional artists to be announced. Visit vaildance.org/nowpremieres for more information.

Roman Mejia rehearses with Alexei Ratmansky ahead of the 2019 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

MOMIX: BOTANICA

SUN | JUL 5 | 7PM

MAREN MORRIS dreamGIRL Tour

FRI | JUL 17 | 7PM

The World Famous GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

SUN | JUL 19 | 7PM

BRUCE COCKBURN

THU | JUL 23 | 7PM

DON WAS AND THE

PAN-DETROIT ENSEMBLE

MON | AUG 10 | 7PM

DJANGO FESTIVAL ALLSTARS

WED | AUG 12 | 7PM

THE BACON BROTHERS

People In The World Tour

MON | AUG 17 | 7PM

TOWER OF POWER

THU | AUG 20 | 7PM

MIKE SUPER Magic & Illusion

FRI | AUG 21 | 6:30PM

BROADWAY SINGS AMERICA

THU | SEPT 3 | 7PM

ESPERANZA SPALDING

THU | SEPT 17 | 7PM

HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER

FRI | SEPT 25 | 7PM

TOM RUSH

FRI | OCT 2 | 7PM

ALYSHA BRILLA

WED | OCT 7 | 7PM PUNCH BROTHERS

TUE | OCT 13 | 7PM

SNEAK PEEK

ALONZO KING LINES BALLET SAT | FEB 20 | 7PM

Honoring Susan Campbell: Eight Years of Extraordinary Leadership

By Julie Block

Since her first gift to the Vail Dance Festival in 2008, Susan Campbell has been an indispensable part of this community as a donor, a champion, and for the past eight years, as Vail Dance Festival committee chair. A lifelong devotee of ballet and all dance genres, Susan brings deep artistic knowledge and an equally deep commitment to the people who share her passion.

“Susan exemplifies what it means to quietly but confidently lead with sincerity, generosity, and purpose,” says Mike Imhof, President of the Vail Valley Foundation. “Her commitment to the Vail Valley Foundation, the Vail Dance Festival, and to ensuring the performing arts have an indelible place in our community is profound, and her impact will resonate long into the future.”

Susan has been a tireless champion for access and inclusion, ensuring the Festival’s magic reaches every corner of the Vail Valley. As a board member of New York City Ballet, Susan has cultivated a nationwide network of dance relationships, enriching this Festival in ways felt both on and off the stage.

“Susan has been a true champion of artists, including sheroically leading on the effort to support the Festival’s dancers, musicians, and team during the challenges of the pandemic,” says Artistic Director Damian Woetzel. “Her passion for dance and dedication to the community we’ve built together has made our Festival stronger in every dimension.”

As Susan passes the baton after eight remarkable years as Vail Dance Festival committee chair, we are deeply grateful for everything she has given to this Festival and this community.

Longtime Festival supporter Jill Plancher will step in as the new committee chair following the 2026 Festival.

“I am honored to continue Susan’s extraordinary leadership of the Festival’s dance committee,” Jill says. “Susan has been a great friend and tremendous mentor to me. I can only hope that I can shepherd the Festival as Susan has done, with grace, commitment, vision, and joy—though it might take a bit of convincing to join Larry Keigwin on stage!”

Susan & Jeff Campbell at the 2021 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Brian Maloney.

From left to right: Jill Plancher (incoming Committee Chair), Judy Berkowitz (Committee Chair 1998–2018), and Susan Campbell (Committee Chair 2018–2026) at Fall for Dance Festival at New York City Center.

Martha Graham & Betty Bloomer Ford TWO KINDRED SPIRITSUnited in Dance

By Joel Solari

As the legendary Martha Graham Dance Company caps its centennial season with a spotlight performance at the Vail Dance Festival, the celebration in the mountains also highlights the enduring friendship between Graham and the late First Lady Betty Ford.

Their history spanned many decades, beginning when young Betty (Bloomer) Ford studied dance and performed with Martha Graham’s auxiliary troupe in the late 1930s, appearing in New York concerts and even at Carnegie Hall. That early devotion to dance evolved into a lifelong connection between Ford and Graham—one grounded in artistic admiration, resilience, and mutual respect.

During the 1970s, First Lady Betty Ford became one of the nation’s most visible advocates for the performing arts, helping bring modern dance, including the work of Martha Graham, into the cultural life of the White House. Friends and collaborators often noted the support and compassion Ford extended to Graham during the choreographer’s later years.

Today in Vail—the mountain community that the First Lady and President Gerald Ford embraced after leaving the White House and came to regard as their adopted home—our Festival unfolds in a place deeply shaped by their legacy. Taking the stage of the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and set beside the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, this special gathering brings the influence of the Fords and Martha Graham together once again through the proximity of performance, education, and community.

30 Years of Art at the Heart of Teaching

Martha Graham x Dance Education Laboratory

™

As a celebratory part of the Martha Graham Dance Company’s 100th anniversary appearance in Vail, the Saturday August 1st performance will feature a 92NY Dance Education Laboratory Movement Sentence Choir (DEL MSC) created especially for the occasion and performed by the Graham dancers. Inspired by movement theorist Rudolf Laban, the DEL MSC initiative takes a communitybased ensemble and uses structured, narrative driven choreography to explore collective expression, in this case, creating a oneof-a-kind celebration of Graham’s enduring legacy that will then go on to be a dance education resource in the years to come.

Betty Bloomer dances in a class at the Bennington College Summer School of the Dance, 1937.

Betty Ford & Martha Graham in the Red Room of the White House at the reception following the dinner in honor of Martha Graham and presentation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom on October 14, 1976. Photo by David Hume Kennerly.

The Vail Valley Foundation and the Vail Dance Festival extend our sincere gratitude to our patrons. Thank you, your passion for the arts makes it possible for us to bring the Festival to the stage and the community for so many to experience and enjoy!

MARQUEE PRESENTER

JODY & JOHN ARNHOLD | ARNHOLD FOUNDATION

Jody and John Arnhold are major supporters of the arts in New York City and admirers of the Vail Dance Festival’s Artistic Director Damian Woetzel. They are proud to support the Vail Dance Festival again this year. John is committed to making a positive impact serving the organizations important to him, including the Mulago Foundation, University of California Santa Barbara, International Tennis Hall of Fame, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Conservation International, and WNET. Jody was a New York City public school dance teacher for 25 years. She is an advocate for dance and dance education and her mission is Dance For Every Child. She is Chair Emeritus of the 92nd Street Y New York, Chair Emeritus of Ballet Hispánico, and founded the renowned Dance Education Laboratory (DEL) 92NY. She is the Executive Producer of two documentaries about dance education in public schools: PS Dance! (New York Emmy-nominated) and PS DANCE! The Next Generation. Both are available to stream on public television. In 2024, Jody received the Teachers College, Columbia University’s Medal for Distinguished Service, their highest honor. She has been awarded Honorary Doctorate degrees from The Juilliard School and Hunter College for her contributions to the field of dance education. The Arnhold’s visionary support for dance education has brought opportunities to many through the Arnhold Graduate Dance Education Program at Hunter College and the Doctorate in Dance Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. The Arnhold Institute for Dance Education Research, Policy & Leadership at Teachers College generates valuable thought leadership for dance education in public policy, ensuring that dance becomes central to the conversation wherever education is discussed. Photo by Arthur Elgort.

PREMIER PRESENTER

SUZANNE STORR

SUSAN & JEFF CAMPBELL

Susan and Jeff Campbell started coming to the Vail Valley from Dallas when their children were first learning to ski. They bought a house in Beaver Creek, providing stability for the family as they moved from Dallas to London, San Francisco, and the West Village in New York City. They are avid dance lovers and longtime supporters of the Vail Dance Festival and Vilar Performing Arts Center. Susan serves on the boards of the Vail Valley Foundation and New York City Ballet, and also chairs the Vail Dance Festival committee. Jeff retired from his full-time job as Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer of American Express last year and serves on the board of The Juilliard School and several corporations. The Campbells and their three grown children, who now live in San Francisco and Pittsburgh, are avid skiers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

JILL & KEVIN PLANCHER

Jill and Kevin Plancher first enjoyed the Vail Dance Festival in 1993 when Kevin was a fellow at the Steadman Clinic in Vail. They have attended and supported the Festival each and every year since. Jill and Kevin now live in Greenwich, and have three grown children: Brian, Jamie, and Megan; daughter in-law

Annie Knickman Plancher and sons-in-laws

Cezar Babin (Jamie) and Boaz Goldwater (Megan); and grandkids Tess, Logan, and Rory (Brian and Annie) and Shiloh (Jamie & Cezar). Kevin has a private orthopedic practice in New York City and Greenwich. Jill is a recently retired family law attorney, and serves on the Vail Valley Foundation board of directors, the Juilliard School board of trustees, the Vail Dance Festival committee, is on the advisory board for the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in Philadelphia, and on the board of Celebrate the Beat. Jill and Kevin are delighted to once again support International Evenings of Dance III. In addition, the Plancher family generously supports Celebrate the Beat.

TINA & DAVID WILSON AND THE CAROL F. STORR ENDOWMENT FOR CLASSICAL BALLET

Tina and David Wilson have called the Vail Valley home for 30+ years. Along with their daughters, Colby and Nicole, the Wilsons have embraced the uniqueness of Vail complete with immersion in the arts, culture, and outdoor activities that make Vail so special. In addition, they are active supporters and volunteers for a variety of charitable organizations in the Vail Valley including Vail Health and Vail Valley Charitable Fund. Their support to Vail Health helped fund a new palliative care program, Shaw at Home. In 2024 they launched The Wilson Family Performing Arts Scholarship through Youth Power to help a local student pursue their dreams of a degree in the arts. Tina serves on the board of the Vail Valley Foundation and is a member of the Vail Dance Festival committee. In honor of Tina’s mother, Carol Storr, the Wilson family created The Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet in 2022 to ensure the inclusion of classical ballet in the Vail Dance Festival for generations to come. The Wilson family is proud to support State of Grace on August 3rd and provide special support for classical ballet pieces performed throughout the Festival.

MARGE & PHIL ODEEN

Marge and Phil Odeen have had a home in Vail for more than 40 years. When not in Vail they live in McLean, Virginia, and Naples, Florida. They have supported the Vail Dance Festival since they met Damian Woetzel the first year he became the Artistic Director of the Vail Dance Festival. Both Phil and Marge have been active in numerous cultural and charitable activities in the communities in which they live.

OSCAR TANG & AGNES HSU-TANG, PH.D.

SEASON PRESENTER

PRISCILLA BREWSTER

JONNA MACKIN, PH.D.

Prof. Jonna Mackin taught English at Dartmouth for 15 years. She lives in New Hampshire and since retiring spends much of her time in New York City attending dance. Jonna serves on the Vail Dance Festival committee and is also a proud sponsor of “NextGen”, a program of DL/NY (Dance Lab New York) which recruits and mentors young dancers in the New York City public schools. It also provides apprenticeships in choreography for these students. In 2024 she helped establish the Heather Watts Emerging Artist Fund for the Vail Dance Festival with a lead gift. Recently Jonna joined the advisory committee of the Stephen S. Elbaum Family Center for Caregiving at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Oscar has supported the Vail Valley Foundation (VVF) at a leadership level since its inception and is a founding sponsor of the Vail Dance Festival. He is a life trustee of the VVF, after having served on the board from 1987 to 2015 and galvanized the VVF’s early focus on education in Eagle County. A lifelong New Yorker, Oscar is co-chair of the New York Philharmonic and has been a trustee of the Met Museum for over 30 years.

Agnes has advised UNESCO and President Obama’s Cultural Property Advisory Committee, including two UNESCO World Heritage designations and an international treaty on the prevention of looting and commercialization of looted cultural objects. Agnes is board chair of The New York Historical and chair of the Met Museum’s Objects Conservation Visiting Committee.

They co-founded numerous institutions, including most recently the Hsu-Tang Library at Oxford University.

UNDERWRITER CIRCLE

MALO & JOHN HARRISON

LISA TANNEBAUM & DON BROWNSTEIN

Lisa Tannebaum and Don Brownstein are longtime supporters of the performing arts and education in Vail and Connecticut. Lisa has a career as a harpist. Don is an investor.

JEFFREY D. BYRNE & RICHARD G’SELL O.D.

Jeffrey Byrne has spent 24 years as a full- and part-time resident of the Vail Valley, skiing in winter and enjoying music, dance, and summer weather. He leads Byrne Pelofsky + Associates, LLC, providing strategic counsel to nonprofits nationwide in capital, endowment, and fundraising efforts— having supported more than 750 organizations and raising over $3.5 billion. A fourth-generation member of a family farming operation sold in 2021, Jeffrey is deeply engaged in volunteer leadership. He serves on the boards of the David Parsons Dance Company, the Vail Valley Foundation, the Vail Dance Festival committee, and Charitable Communications, Inc. He has also served on the boards of the Grammy Awardwinning Kansas City Chorale, the Kansas City Camerata, and other arts and nonprofit organizations. Jeffrey supports philanthropic efforts across St. Louis, Kansas City, and nationally, and lives in St. Louis with his partner Rick G’Sell, their Miniature Australian Shepherd Holly, and two cats Mama & Papa. Rick is a St. Louis native, practicing optometry with National Vision Optometrists.

JANE & SKIP NETZORG

The Netzorgs have enjoyed their mountain home in Vail for many years. They are active supporters of the performing arts and education in Denver, CO. Jane serves on the board of Colorado Ballet and she is a member of the Vail Dance Festival committee. Together they served on the capital campaign committee for Cleo Parker Robinson Dance’s beautiful new building. Skip is on the board of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. They have loved seeing some of the finest dancers in the world at the Vail Dance Festival each year. They are grateful to Damian Woetzel and Heather Watts for the creativity and excitement they bring to the Vail Valley.

RUBY DRESS CIRCLE

WENDY WILLIAMS & NOEL KULLAVANIJAYA

GINA BROWNING & JOE ILLICK

Gina Browning and Joe Illick are both professional musicians and lovers of the performing arts. Gina started coming to Vail in 1971 and Joe started coming with her in 1979. Gina and Joe’s life in opera has taken them to live and work all over the world. The two of them are avid skiers and hikers, and are passionate part-time residents of the Vail Valley. They want to use their talents to support the Valley with an emphasis on the performing arts and education for children, which they feel are an integral and essential part of a healthy and vibrant community. As lifelong dance lovers, they both feel that the Vail Dance Festival adds important richness to the incredible cultural fabric of Vail, and they are excited to be involved with this wonderful organization.

MICHAEL E. MCGOLDRICK CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

The Michael E. McGoldrick Charitable Foundation is a private family foundation supporting non profits in the areas of Arts and Culture, Education, Environmental Conservation, Human Rights, Peace, Justice, and the Rule of Law. Michael E. McGoldrick was a life-long learner, a curious intellectual, and inspiring teacher with a photographic memory and genius at financial mathematics. He attended Amherst College and Stanford University and taught economic history around the world. He was active in the financial markets his entire life from a young investor in Seattle to a trader on the NYSE and Chicago Board of Trade. He worked as an economist, consultant, development director, teacher, and portfolio manager and retired as a successful private investor. He was a kind human, an animal lover from bugs to bears, and generous donor to the philanthropic causes and themes that he felt would improve our world. He lived a life of adventure traveling the world as a teacher, fisherman, mountain climber, conservationist, and most importantly, with the love of his life Terry Galpin-Plattner.

ROSALIND REED

Rosalind Reed is an artist who lives and works in New York City. She previously had a home in Wolcott. She once dreamed that she could have a career as a backup singer/dancer for a series of popular bands but neither skill is in her repertoire. She serves on the board of directors of the Paul Taylor Dance Company.

PAUL REPETTO & JANET PYLE

Paul Repetto and Janet Pyle are enthusiastic supporters of the Vail Dance Festival and the performing arts in general. Paul and Janet were honored at the 2022 Festival for their commitment to the Festival and the arts. Janet was a very involved board member of the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder. Paul has served on the board of the Boulder Ensemble Theater Company and the Colorado Music Festival as the chairman of that board. Paul and Janet greatly enjoy traveling and have explored much of Europe and the Pacific together. Paul is co-founder of Horizon Organic Dairy. In 2022 they created the Paul Repetto & Janet Pyle Gift for Collaborative Works to support unique collaborations (like theirs) that mix genres and surprise audiences.

DIAMOND DRESS CIRCLE

Anonymous (3)

Karen & John Arnold*

Martin Atkin & Reid Balthaser

Bacca Foundation*

Ann Smead & Michael Byram

Pamela Comfort

Mauri Pioppo & Keith Funger

Lisa & Bruce Goldman

Margery Goldman

Sheika Gramshammer

Martha Head*

Jane & Ray Heller

Doe Browning & Jack Hunn*

Alexia & Jerome Jurschak

Lisa Watson & Michael Krupka*

Mary Lujack & Sarah & Gracie Johnson

Elizabeth G. Chambers & Ron Mooney

Lisa & Mark Neporent*

Martha & Terry Allen Perl

Senenne & Marc Philippon

Nancy & Donald Remey

Robert Schneider

Mary Sue & Michael Shannon*

Irene Shen

Marcy & Gerald Spector*

Teresa Tsai*

Martin Waldbaum

LaDonna & Gary Wicklund

Heather Watts & Damian Woetzel

Kristy & Bill Woolfolk*

* VVF Cornerstone Patron

PLATINUM DRESS CIRCLE

Hennessy-Allen

Mary Ellen Anderson

Jamie & Cezar Babin

Judy & Howard Berkowitz

Bendy Bodies

Deborah & David Boillot

Jane & Gary Bomba

Alison Mass & Salvatore Bommarito

Margo & Terry Boyle

Rebecca & Howard Braverman

Ms. Arlene Harris & Mr. Martin Cooper

Robert J. Croteau & Karen A. Nold

Pam & Ernie Elsner

Kaye Ferry

Caryl & Ken Field

Caroline J. Fisher

Susan & Harry Frampton

Sara Friedle & Michael Towler

Terry Galpin-Plattner

Stacey Gillett

Suzette Glazer

Celeste Grynberg

Sherry & Michael Guthrie

Judith Hoffman

Kaye Isaacs

Shelly & Chris Jarnot

Susan Kasser & Daniel Kah

Pam & Dr. Henry Levine

Teresa & Robert Lindsay

Philip Livingston

Eugenia Lubell

Nancy & Richard Lubin

Hilary & Kevin Magner

Jean & Tom McDonnell

Paul Mesard

Sarah Malloy Millett & Peter Millett

Melanie & Allan Nelkin

Renée Okubo

Rella & Monroe Rifkin

Michael L. Ritchie

Paula & Scott Ryan

Ann & William Sacher

Dhuanne & Doug Tansill

Sunnie & Mark Wang

Deborah & Peter Weinberg

GOLD DRESS CIRCLE

Cheryl Acierno

Dorothy Ahuja

Jill & Christian Anschutz

Kelli & Jeff Bailey

Cathy & Bill Bethke

Shirley & James Cassing

Julie Choi

Andrea & Tim Clark

Janet & Curtis Clark

Allie Coppeak

Brenda & Thomas Curnin

Debra Devereaux

Keala & Greg Dickhens

La Belle & Gary Edmiston

Holly & William Elliott

The Fabos Family

Kathy & Bill Farley

Susan & William Fink

Vicky & John Garnsey

Margie & Tom Gart

Alex Goldsmith

Neal Groff

Mollie & Bill Grojean

Pam & Duke Hartman

Pamela & Richard Hinds

Lisa Huertas

Sally & Kyle Hybl

Raydean Acevedo & Walter Jenkins

Jannice Alvaney & Paul Johl

Julia & Donald Johnson

Donna & Ward Katz Family

Anne-Marie & John Keane

Elaine & Arthur Kelton

Cynthia Kohlbry

Cynthia LeBreton

Joan & Robert Levine

Janet & Paul Lewis

Wolfgang Mairhofer

Michelle & John Mason

Ferrell & William McClean

Lynn McGowin

Helen McIntyre

Rosemary Maher & Mendel Melzer

Lynnette Morrison

Laurian Unnevehr & Jerry Nelson

Ruth Malman & Michael Opatowski

Sandy & Fred Pack

Ellen Arnovitz & Michael Plasker

Ronnie Potter

Nellie Rosenberg

Elise & Jay Rossiter

Fran Schulman

Amy & Leonard Slosky

Lynne & Michael Stein

Kathryn & Brian Stoffers

Jeffrey Byrne & Fred Tresca. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Allan & Melanie Nelkin. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Diane Sullivan

Megan Furman & William Thomas

Sara Fitzgerald & Bruce Wilson

Ellen & James Wiss

Leila Worth

Mary Ellen & Dave Wright

SILVER DRESS CIRCLE

Anonymous (2)

Nancy Adam & Marlene Shapiro

Linda Stamper Boyne

Steve Brint & Mark Brown

Amy & Ken Brown

Vintage Contessa & Times Past, Rob & Donae Chramosta

Maggie & Clayton Chessman

Richard Corton

Louise Pearson & Grant Couch

Elizabeth & Lee Davis

Dr. Fred Distelhorst

Diane & Larry Feldman

Kim & Andrew Fink

Ami Hudgins

Roberta Levin & Dr. Gilad Gordon

Lisa Green

Juli Greenwald

Gina Harman

Rhondda Hartman

Ronne & Donald Hess

Lorraine & Harley Higbie^ Family

Christian Keesee

Bonnie Lee & Lawrence Kivel

Lesley Larson

Beth & Todd Leonard

Ellen & Harry Levitt

Susan & Steven Lipstein

Gretchen & Walter Lobitz

Karen Marisak & Gerard Lynch

Rachelle McBride

Marcia & Thomas McCalden

Amy Paul

Jana Edwards & Frederick Poppe

Etty & Alberto Rimoch

Marlene Shapiro

Lara & Stanley Shapiro

Andrea & Stuart Shatken

Laura Frohman & Brad Sherbone

Charlotte Shifrin

Jeanne & Terry Startzel

Stacy & Mark Stoutenberg

Brenton VerPloeg

George Ann & Buzz Victor

James Wright

Jim Coakley & Christian

Zimmermann

BRONZE DRESS CIRCLE

Anonymous

Janet & Bill Adler

Elizabeth & Cristian Basso

Audrey & Joel Bines

Mary Bird

Kathy & Jack Blair

Deborah Webster & Stephen Blanchard

Christine & George Burns

Julie Carr

Mary Catherine & Steven Conger

Gretchen Corey

Diana & Robert Crew

Linda Miller

Amy Kennedy & Steve Miller

Gudrun Lange & Benjamin Natelson

Nancy Nottingham

Deborah Nunez

Rosie & Roger Oberg

Eunice Park

Lorraine Prentis

Amanda & Adam Quinton

Elissa Stein & Richard Replin

Margaret & Rick Rogers

Nancy & Robert Rosen

Jane Rosenbaum

Katherine & Hassan Dayem

Andrew Donaldson

Renee & Jeffrey Epstein

Colleen Forrest & Christopher Forrest

Mikki & Morris Futernick

Merrily Glosband

Lucy & Thomas Goldstein

Ami Goradia

Julie Grimm

Jannah Hodges

Christi & Tim Howell

Ellen Morris & Ted Jadwin

Lynn & Andrew Kaufman

Meredith & Jeffrey Kennedy

Linda & Wayne KIng

Audrey LaFehr

Jordan Lausch

Jeremy Lazarus

Eleanor & John Lock

Beth Barbre & John Mangan

Maple Family Peace Love

Sunshine Fund

DeAnn & Dan Maurer

Margaret & David McKeown

Barbara & Mark Cohen

Dennis Costello

Maureen & David Cross

Elizabeth Czaja

Karen Davidson

Alejandra & Chus De La Llama

Nancy & Craig Denton

Sharron Dorward

Debra & Richard Durben

Darlene & Lee Ebert

Kay Maune & David Elmore

Lisa & Alan Engel

Lynn Van Buren & Robert Engelman

Mary Anne & Robert Fantauzzi

Carole Feistmann

Barbara & Larry Field

Ann Frick

Robert Furr

Elizabeth & Alvin Goldman

Caroline & Mark Goosman

Suzanne Greene

Elaine Gunnell

Rebecca & Dale Hahs

Douglas Hamilton

Jan Harkins

Vilia Hayes

David Hill

Cathy & Graham Hollis

Jill & Loyal Huddleston

Leslie & Stephen Isom

Barbara Smith

Terry Snyder

Linda & Tim Stancliffe

Marla Steele

Judy & Charles Stoopack

Sandra & Thomas Thomas

Karen Travis

Debbie & Fred Tresca

Suzanne Weiss

Nina & Ken Wise

Rosalind & Larry Wolff

FAN CLUB

Anonymous (2)

Diana Bradley & Claude Accum

Catherine & Truman Anderson

William Bartlett

Nannette Bedway

William Bohn

Katie Boone

Amy & Terrence Britton

Marc Brombert

Jean Kutner & Robert Brown

Wendy Rudolph & Graeme Bush

Amy & Howard Cantor

Arthur Israel

Corinne Johnson

Amy & Kevin Jones

Catherine & Victor Juska

Gay & George Kapplinger

Ellen Keszler

Stephanie Rudnick & Todd Kingdom

Julia & Mike Kirk

Linda Kirscht & Karen Backstein

Carol Krueger

Laine & Merv Lapin

Joey Lerner

Dawn Lesh

Carol Lewis

Ann & William Lieff

Leslie & John Manes

Rebecca & Chris Matlon

Ayse McCracken

Janice & Brian McGarvey

Nancy & Michael McKeever

Linda McKinney

Marilyn Metzl

Sheila Mossman

Jane Netzorg, Jonna Mackin, & Lynnette Morrison. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Helen Moxcey

Daniel Murphy

The Nalbantoglu Family

Tiffany & David Oestreicher

Nancy & Sam Osborne

Susan & Kenneth Press

Michele Prosser

Carlinda & Luis Quintero

Joan & Dennis Robinson

Ken Robinson

Coralie & Bruce Rogers

Merle & Philip Rosenfeld

Halle Schargel

Judy Margolis & Joede Schoeberlein

Carole Schragen

Bianca Russo & Michael Sekus

Carol & Jon Shanser

Nancy Smolow

William Snyder

Linda & Stephen Sparn

Lyra Mayfield & Charles Stein

Jane Ellen Stone

Stephanie & Arthur Strasburger

Ann Thayer

Peggy Thompson

Susan & William Tracy

Patricia Unterman

Julie Van Camp

Patricia Peeples & Tony Vangalis

VVF PATRONS

CORNERSTONE FRIENDS

Anonymous

Karen & John Arnold

Bacca Foundation

Martha Head

Doe Browning & Jack Hunn

Lisa Watson & Michael Krupka

Lisa & Mark Neporent

Paula & Scott Ryan

Mary Sue & Michael Shannon

Marcy & Gerald Spector

Teresa Tsai

Kristy & Bill Woolfolk

PEAK CIRCLE

Anonymous

Patricia & David Kirwan

Jill & Kevin Plancher

FRIENDS OF VAIL

Anonymous

MJ Blythe

Ellen & Dan Bolen

Kathy & Bjorn Erik Borgen

Devon & Peter Briger

Lisa & Ronald Brill

Kelly & Sam Bronfman

Ann Smead & Michael Byram

Angela Dal Pezzo

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Diane & Brad England

Julie & Bill Esrey

Susan & Harry Frampton

Margie & Tom Gart

Mary Kevin & Tom Giller

Donna Giordano

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Lisa & Bruce Goldman

Lyn Goldstein

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Case Lynch

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Jeffrey Willis

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Helene Zimmer-Loewb

SUPPORTER

Anonymous

Marilyn Averill

Sally Balthaser

Colorado Gives Foundation

Grey Salt Vail

Susan & Allie Gruber

Jan Hiland

The Jerome Robbins Foundation

Jill Kammerer

Marsha Landesman

New York City Center

The Redel Foundation

Sarah Shields

Carol & Roger Sperry

Jordan Walker

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June & Paul Rossetti

Didi & Oscar Schafer

Lisa & Kenneth Schanzer

Susanna Johnson Shannon & Tim Shannon

Stan Shuman

Sue & Martin Solomon

Jenny & Donald Strasburg

Oscar Tang & Agnes Hsu-Tang

James W. Taylor

Connor Tedstrom

Denise O’Leary & Kent Thiry

Keala Dickhens & Shelly Jarnot. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Leanne Repetto, Paul Repetto, & Janet Pyle. Photo by Brian Maloney.

Kelly & Richard Topfer

Debbie & Fred Tresca

Marie & Andy Unanue

Barbara & Richard Wenninger

Tina & David Wilson

ARTS CIRCLE

Anonymous

MEDALLION CIRCLE

Anonymous

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Susan & Jeff Campbell

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Jessica Strehlow & Brian Caress

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The Gilbert Family Charitable Foundation

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CHAMPIONS CIRCLE

Anonymous

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Biondi Family

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LEGENDS CIRCLE

Anonymous (3)

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Daniel Hanrahan

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The Sherrill Family FoundationDebbie & Skip Courtney

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Marilyn & Ron Wollard

Deborah & Stephen Yurco ^in remembrance

We strive for accuracy but from time to time we do make a mistake. If you find one, please let us know at connect@vvf.org.

Jeff Campbell, Kendra Powell, Susan Campbell, Oscar Tang, & Angus Hsu-Tang, PH.D.

Photo by Brian Maloney.

Vail Dance Festival Costume Fund

his year at the Vail Dance Festival, we identified a critical need to establish a dedicated costume collection of our own. Historically, the Festival has relied on rented or borrowed costumes, opportunities that have become increasingly limited over time. While we have carefully preserved a small collection of treasured pieces dating back to the late 1980s, the need for access to new costumes has been growing for the past years.

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community, we successfully reached our $50,000 goal, empowering our wardrobe team to begin building a foundational costume collection that will support a wide range of repertory for years to come. Today, that work is already underway, with our team designing and creating new costumes set to debut this summer at the 2026 Vail Dance Festival.

MAJOR SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

Margo & Terry Boyle

Priscilla Brewster

Malo & John Harrison

Lisa Huertas

Jonna Mackin

Laurian Unnevehr & Jerry Nelson

Jane & Skip Netzorg

Kevin & Jill Plancher

Teresa Tsai

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:

David & Deborah Boillot

Gary & Jane Bomba

Susan & Jeff Campbell

Caryl & Ken Field

Mauri Pioppo & Keith Funger

Merrily Glosband

Vilia Hayes

Ronne & Donald Hess

Sally & Kyle Hybl

Stephen & Leslie Isom

Ellen Morris & Ted Jadwin

Jannice Alvaney & Paul Johl

Ellen Keszler

Cynthia LeBreton

Dr. Henry & Pam Levine

Karen Marisak & Gerard Lynch

Brian & Michelle Maloney

Lynnette Morrison

Ronnie Potter

Nellie Rosenberg

Halle Schargel

Karen & Gregory Weiss

Heather Watts & Damian Woetzel

Judith Wyman

Carla Körbes in George Balanchine’s

La Sonnambula at the 2014 Vail International Dance Festival. ©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance

Cleo Parker Robinson, Founder & Artistic Director

Winifred R. Harris, Associate Artistic Director

Celebrating its 56th Anniversary Season, the renowned Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble brings the power, passion, and beauty of modern dance rooted in African-American traditions and legacy. Holding the works of master choreographers of American modern dance in its repertoire including Katherine Dunham, Donald McKayle, Eleo Pomare, and Talley Beatty, the Ensemble’s performances encompass both the iconic and the innovative. Touring over 40 countries, 100 original works produced & commissioned, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble presents dance as a universal language of movement, transcending boundaries of culture, class, and age while honoring diversity and inclusiveness throughout the global community. Photo by Whitney Browne.

DANCERS:

Michael Battle

Caeli Blake

Colorado Ballet

Gil Boggs, Artistic Director

Tori Carter Adrian Dominguez

Sameed Afghani, Executive Director

Jasmine Francisco Corey Jamel

Gabriela Maduro

Max Nelson-Steinhoff

Lamar D. Rogers

Lauren Slaughter

Based in Denver, Colorado Ballet inspires audiences through exceptional classical ballet and innovative contemporary dance, performances, training, education, and community engagement. Founded in 1961 by Lillian Covillo and Freidann Parker, the non profit organization is celebrating 65 years of excellence. A world-class professional company serving more than 100,000 patrons, it presents 58 annual performances at the 2,000seat Ellie Caulkins Opera House. The roster includes 42 professional dancers and 20 studio company members. Led by Artistic Director Gil Boggs, the company stages classical masterpieces, full-length story ballets, and the annual MasterWorks repertory program, spanning neoclassical pieces to world premieres. The Raydean Acevedo Academy serves more than 1,200 students, while Education and Community Engagement reaches 25,000 people and 200 organizations each year. Artists of Colorado Ballet in Swan Lake, photo by Amanda Tipton. Generously Underwritten by Jane & Skip Netzorg.

DANCERS:

Kenny Allen

Catherine Aoki

Cato Berry

Lily Bines

Leopold Foster

Sheridan Guerin

Lily Hagan

Liam Hogan

Tiffany Hopkins

Chloe Kinzler

Mario Labrador

Ever Larson

Bailey Marie

Ariel McCarty

Leah McFadden

Catherine McGregor

Patrick Mihm

Christopher Mitchell

Rheana Montesantos

Stefanee Montesantos

Emelia Perkins

Justin Pidgeon

Sonata Ross

Tate Ryner

Martha Graham Dance Company

Janet Eilber, Artistic Director

LaRue Allen, President and Executive Director

Mackenzie Dessens

Studinski

Natalie Taylor

Sara Thomas

Lili Travaglia

Alexandra Wilson

The Martha Graham Dance Company has been a leader in the evolving artform of modern dance since its founding in 1926. It is both the oldest dance company in the United States and the oldest integrated dance company. Today, the Company is embracing a new programming vision that showcases masterpieces by Graham alongside newly commissioned works by contemporary artists. During its 100-year history, the Company has received acclaim from audiences and critics in more than 50 countries. Artists of Martha Graham Dance Company in We the People, photo by Isabella Pagano.

DANCERS:

Ane Arrieta

Gabrielle Corrigan

Zach Jeppsen-Toy

Meagan King

Lloyd Knight

Antonio Leone

Devin Loh

Marzia Memoli

Amanda Moreira

Chloe Morrell

Lauren Mosier

Ethan Palma

Jai Perez

Ben Schultz

Laurel Dalley Smith

Anne Souder

Leslie Williams

Ying Xin

Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater

Rennie Harris, Choreographer, Founder, & Artistic Director

Rodney Hill, Executive Director

Rennie Harris Puremovement (RHPM) is the leading street dance theater company in the U.S. For more than 35 years, the company has preserved and shared hip-hop culture through performances, workshops, residencies, mentoring, and educational programs. Rooted in Harris’s inner-city upbringing, RHPM tells stories that are intimate, honest, and powerful. Its mission is to re-educate audiences about hiphop and street dance by presenting their true artistic spirit, beyond the stereotypes often portrayed in popular media. Photo by JHSU Media.

DANCERS:

Angel Anderson

Joshua Archibald

Genesis Castaneda

Zakhele Grabowski

Miyeko Harris

Tyreis Hunte

Trinity Irish Dance Company

Chelsea Hoy, Co-Artistic Director, Choreographer, & Dancer

Mark Howard, Co-Artistic Director

Alain Lauture

Roukijah Rooks

Rachel Snider

Marguerite Waller

Trinity Irish Dance Company (TIDC) is the high watermark of the art form; a Chicago-based Irish-American dance legacy that is rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking and ever-evolving. Founded in 1990, TIDC is the birthplace of progressive Irish dance, Mark Howard’s trailblazing movement genre which opened new avenues of artistic freedom, leading directly to commercial productions such as Riverdance. Led by Artistic Directors Mark Howard and Chelsea Hoy, TIDC’s diverse and genredefying repertoire continues to redefine what is possible for Irish dance. Considered a cultural treasure by critics and enthusiasts worldwide, TIDC has sold-out tours in Europe, Asia, and North America, from New York City’s Joyce Theater, to Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, and Tokyo’s Orchard Hall. With a unique blend of uncompromising power and grace, TIDC sends a consistent message of female empowerment with a repertory that has elevated the art form for over three decades. TIDC is also the most toured foreign dance company of Japan. Photo by Michael Shay Polara Studio.

DANCERS:

Maddie Cabral Sofía Dorantes

Michael Fleck Anna Gorman

Chelsea Hoy

National Repertory Orchestra

Michael Stern, Music Director

For more than 65 years, the National Repertory Orchestra (NRO) has trained the next generation of orchestral musicians through an immersive, tuition-free summer festival in Breckenridge, Colorado. Each summer, 80 exceptional young musicians from around the world are selected for an intensive eight-week program featuring orchestral performances, chamber music, mentorship, and career development led by preeminent conductors and guest artists. With more than 140 performances and events each season—most free to the public—the NRO enriches communities across Summit County, Colorado while preparing fellows for successful, professional careers in music.

Photo by Curtis DeVore.

Alexei Ratmansky*

Artist-In-Residence Festival Choreographer

Lil Buck Memphis Jooker

Dominika Afanasenkov Soloist, New York City Ballet

Cameron Catazaro* Principal, Miami City Ballet

Vladyslav Detiuchenko* & Veronika Rakitina* Contemporary Dancers, n’Era

Daniel Guzmán Apprentice, American Ballet Theatre

Robert Battle

Resident Choreographer, Paul Taylor Dance Company Festival Choreographer

Chun Wai Chan Principal, New York City Ballet Festival Choreographer

Michelle Dorrance Artistic Director, Dorrance Dance Festival Choreographer

Chelsea Hoy* Co-Artistic Director, Trinity Irish Dance Company Festival Choreographer

Olivia Bell Corps de Ballet, New York City Ballet

Adji Cissoko Dancer & Associate Artistic Director, Alonzo King LINES Ballet

Philip Duclos Soloist, Royal Danish Ballet

Catherine Hurlin Principal, American Ballet Theatre

Gilbert Bolden III Principal, New York City Ballet

Herman Cornejo Principal, American Ballet Theatre

Robbie Fairchild Former Principal, New York City Ballet / Broadway Star Festival Choreographer

Daisy Kate Jacobson Independent Dancer

Naomi Corti Soloist, New York City Ballet

Elijah Geolina Apprentice, American Ballet Theatre

Larry Keigwin Artistic Director, Keigwin + Company Festival Choreographer

Savannah Green BalletX

Brooks Landegger Corps de Ballet, American Ballet Theatre *

India Bradley Soloist, New York City Ballet

Lauren Lovette Former Principal, New York City Ballet Resident Choreographer, Paul Taylor Dance Company

Mayfield Myers Corps de Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet

Jerard Palazo BalletX

Kayla Mak Apprentice, American Ballet Theatre

Ron Myles Memphis Jooker

Sara Mearns Principal, New York City Ballet

Mira Nadon Principal, New York City Ballet

Tiler Peck Principal, New York City Ballet Festival Choreographer

Ryan Tomash Principal, New York City Ballet/ Royal Danish Ballet

Melissa Toogood Independent Dancer Dean, Juilliard Dance

Roman Mejia Principal, New York City Ballet

Emiko Nakagawa Independent Tap Dancer

Unity Phelan Principal, New York City Ballet

Audrey TovarDunster* Dancer, ABT Studio Company Scholar-In-Residence

Chloe Misseldine Principal, American Ballet Theatre

Dario Natarelli Independent Tap Dancer

Calvin Royal III Principal, American Ballet Theatre

Amanda Treiber* Artistic Director, Amanda Treiber + Company Festival Emerging Choreographer

Takumi Miyake Soloist, Courtesy of American Ballet Theatre

Michael de la

Corps de Ballet, American Ballet Theatre Festival Emerging Artist

Yoon Jung Seo Corps de Ballet, Courtesy of American Ballet Theatre

Takehiro Ueyama* Festival Choreographer

Pam Tanowitz Artistic Director, Pam Tanowitz Dance Festival Choreographer

Kloe Walker* Corps de Ballet, New York City Ballet Festival Emerging Artist

Nuez*

Christopher Wheeldon

Artistic Associate, The Royal Ballet/ Broadway Director & Choreographer Festival Choreographer

Langston Hughes IIˆ Saxaphone

Alex Sopp

Indiana Woodward Principal, New York City Ballet

Caroline Shaw

Multi-instrumentalist, Vocals

Ringdown

Leonard Bernstein

Composer-In-Residence

Danni Lee Parpan*

Multi-instrumentalist, Vocals

Ringdown

Moriah Trenk*

Brooklyn Rider Quartet-In-Residence

With their gripping performance style and unquenchable appetite for musical adventure, Brooklyn Rider has carved a singular space in the world of string quartets over their 15 year history. Defining the string quartet as a medium with deep historic roots and endless possibility for invention, they find equal inspiration in musical languages ranging from late Beethoven to Persian classical music to American roots music to the endlessly varied voices of living composers. Claiming no allegiance to either end of the historical spectrum, Brooklyn Rider most comfortably operates within the long arc of the tradition, seeking to illuminate works of the past with fresh insight while coaxing the malleable genre into the future through an inclusive programming vision, deep-rooted collaborations with a wide range of global tradition bearers, and the creation of thoughtful and relevant frames for commissioning projects. Photo by Shervin Lainez.

MUSICIANS:

Nicholas Cords, Viola

Johnny Gandelsman, Violin Colin Jacobsen, Violin

Youba Cissokho Kora

Piano

Kate Davis Multi-instrumentalist

Eliza Salemˆ Drums

Derek Wang Piano

Flute

Anne-Marie McDermott Piano

Joel Wenhardtˆ Piano

Jayla Cheeˆ Upright Bass

Alberta Khoury Guitar

Davóne Tines Bass-Baritone

Michael Scales Piano

Tony Siqi Yun Piano

Michael Nicolas, Cello

A Salute to

20 YEARS of Music Excellence

By Joel Solari

Music is a defining creative force of the Vail Dance Festival, shaping the Festival’s identity as a place where dance and music are imagined together in bold and unexpected ways. Under Damian Woetzel’s visionary leadership as Artistic Director over the past two decades, music has evolved from accompaniment into an equal artistic partner— driving collaboration, innovation, and discovery across every stage of the Festival.

By bringing together extraordinary musicians, choreographers, composers, and dancers in this singular creative laboratory in the Rockies, the Festival has cultivated an environment where artistic boundaries dissolve and new work comes vividly to life. Many of the leading musical voices of our time have contributed to this spirit of exploration, including Philip Glass, Jason Moran, Rhiannon Giddens, Gabriela Lena Frank, Davóne Tines, Kate Davis, Claire Chase, Youba Cissokho, the Festival Jazz Ensemble led by Joel Wenhardt, and the acclaimed ensemble Brooklyn Rider, the Festival’s Quartet-In-Residence.

This season, the Festival proudly celebrates Grammy- and Pulitzer Prize–winning composer Caroline Shaw on the occasion of her 10th anniversary as Leonard Bernstein Composer-in-Residence. Over the past decade, Caroline has been a driving creative voice both within the Festival and across the wider artistic world, helping define Vail as a vibrant home for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her music—radiant with curiosity, invention, playfulness, and profound emotional resonance—has become deeply woven into the artistic fabric of the Festival.

Caroline’s collaborations with many of today’s most visionary artists—including Justin Peck, Pam Tanowitz, Lil Buck, Michelle Dorrance, Bobbi Jene Smith, Melissa Toogood, Damian Woetzel, Davóne Tines, and Brooklyn Rider—have produced works of extraordinary imagination and resonance. Through these collaborations, she has continually expanded the possibilities of what dance and music can become together, creating performances that feel intimate, daring, and transformative.

The Festival’s rich musical identity has also been shaped by extraordinary pianists whose artistry has brought countless collaborations to life, among them Cameron Grant, Michael Scales, Derek Wang, Joel Wenhardt, Tony Siqi Yun, and AnneMarie McDermott. A beloved artistic presence in Vail for many years, McDermott has made a profound impact as the artistic leader of Bravo! Vail, where her vision, musicianship, and enduring commitment to artistic excellence have helped shape the cultural life of the community in lasting ways.

Through the artistry of the extraordinary musicians who have been part of the Festival, and through Woetzel’s enduring commitment to collaboration as a creative force, the Vail Dance Festival continues to present performances in which music and dance are not only brought together, but continually reimagined.

History & Innovation in Street Dance: Rennie Harris Debuts at the Vail Dance Festival

By Sarah Silverblatt-Buser

History and innovation. Two words among many that describe Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater, which makes its Vail Dance Festival debut on August 5th at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Described as “the most brilliant hip-hop choreographer in America” The New Yorker, Harris will also be featured within the Opening Night and Dance for $20.26 performances on July 31st and August 4th

Known for being one of the first choreographers to craft virtuosic, improvisation-based street dances for theater settings in the 1990s, Harris helped write the history of hip-hop on stage. And as any true originator, his passion is progress. Harris describes his work as “honoring hip-hop’s roots while raising the bar to new heights.” It is a dynamic that is deeply in keeping with the Vail Dance Festival’s own ethic under the direction of Damian Woetzel since 2007. “That oscillation between tradition and what is new is what it’s all about,” says Woetzel. “It’s exciting for anyone, whether they’ve been to the Festival before, or coming for the first time.” Harris’s choreographic skills create this oscillation onstage. He and his magnetic dancers invite audiences both familiar with and new to street dance to feel moved by the innovative ways dance and music reveal truths about political, social, and economic histories–and potential futures. For their headlining Vilar performance, Puremovement brings a “mixtape of moves from b-boying to Campbellocking to house,” highlighting the many languages of street dance that each originated from different contexts –from the Bronx to Philly to LA, Chicago, and beyond. Harris describes the work’s title, Nuttin’ But A Word, as drawn from a vernacular expression in Black American culture, loosely meaning, “Your words mean nothing—pay close attention because what I do next will trump anything you have to say.” Harris, who grew up inspired by The Campbell Lockers on Soul Train and dancing the Philadelphia-born GQ form of street dance, affirms that these dances are innovative at their core. It is

up to the individual’s creativity, he says, to push these movement languages into new artistic territory.

Harris is a legendary pioneer of exploring such new artistic territory. From working with hip-hop legends Run DMC, LL Cool J and Salt-N-Pepa (to name only a few) to earning a Guggenheim Fellowship (among many other awards) and representing the United States throughout the world with DanceMotion USA, Harris was one of the first artists to bring street dance to major modern and ballet companies, including being the first street dancer to create an evening-length work for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

It is a powerful legacy that Harris has created and continues to build. His recent Joyce Theater commission drew praise from The New York Times, as a “nationwide house party started long ago, [showing] no signs of shutting down.” For the Vail Dance Festival debut of Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater, audiences are invited into this party, which is an ongoing celebration of artistic legacy, evolution, and excellence.

Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater. Photo by Steven Pisano.

Rennie Harris Puremovement American Street Dance Theater. Photo by Brian Mengini.

Celebrating Colorado’s DANCE EXCELLENCE at Colorado Dances

By Sarah Silverblatt-Buser

As the Vail Dance Festival honors Damian Woetzel’s 20th year as Artistic Director, Colorado’s dance community is simultaneously celebrating two major milestones: the opening of the Cleo Parker Robinson Center for the Healing Arts facility in Denver and Colorado Ballet Artistic Director Gil Boggs’ 20th anniversary leading the company. On August 9 at the Vilar Performing Arts Center, Colorado Dances will spotlight both companies while celebrating the Centennial State’s remarkable role in fostering world-renowned dance.

For 53 years, choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson has championed dance as a force for social change. The acclaimed Colorado cultural leader’s illustrious career spans collaborations with Dr. Maya Angelou and recognition including the Colorado Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts. “Let the world dance,” Parker Robinson says, describing work rooted in honoring African American and African Diasporic dance traditions. She speaks of dance as a way “to celebrate and to renew, to stop any regression,” affirming that the “joy of life is really discovering the harmony together.”

That conviction in the power of dance inspired the creation of the company’s expansive new 25,000-square-foot addition, known as “The Center for Healing Arts.” The newly opened facility expands the organization’s longtime home at the Historic Shorter AME Church in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood and marks a major cultural investment in the future of Colorado arts.

To honor the occasion, Festival favorite Lil Buck—the acclaimed Memphis jooker and internationally celebrated street dance innovator—created a new work for the company that will be presented on August 9 as part of the Colorado Dances Festival performance. The company will also appear at Dancing in the Streets that same day, inviting the community to come together for a free outdoor celebration of dance and summer in the mountains.

Gil Boggs’ tenure as Artistic Director of Colorado Ballet has been equally meaningful to Colorado’s cultural landscape, marking two decades of artistic growth and expanded community impact. Boggs danced as a principal artist with American Ballet Theatre for 17 years, then with Twyla Tharp before leading Colorado Ballet. His deep artistic experience has helped propel the company in

multiple directions—from presenting beloved classical masterworks to commissioning leading contemporary choreographers from around the world. Even as the company has gained international recognition, it has strengthened its commitment to cultivating local talent and community engagement. The recurring Fancy Footwork program commissions new works from company dancers exploring choreography, while Colorado Ballet’s education initiatives reach more than 300 schools and organizations annually.

For their portion of the Colorado Dances performance, Colorado Ballet will present a mix of classical and contemporary works, including a premiere by former Joffrey Ballet dancer and rising choreographer Yoshihisa Arai. The company will also perform Balanchine’s Serenade alongside Festival artists during the State of Grace program on August 3, in addition to other collaborative performances throughout the Festival.

The ongoing presence of Colorado Ballet and Cleo Parker Robinson Dance at the Festival reflects the spirit of collaboration and community that defines Vail Dance Festival itself. Much like the Rocky Mountain landscape creates a summer experience unlike anywhere else, Colorado’s artists and dance institutions continue to shape a festival that is both globally renowned and deeply rooted in its local community.

Devrae Jefferson and Gabriela Maduro of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance at the 2024 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Leah McFadden and Kevin Gael Thomas of the Colorado Ballet at the 2024 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Christopher Duggan.

CAPITAL CAM PAIGN

A once-in-a-generation investment in the Eagle River Valley—supporting arts, athletics, education, and community supports that shape who we are and who we will become.

We hope you will join us and help us achieve our vision of an extraordinary mountain community, with quality of life for all.

Empowering Possibilities Campaign Steering Committee

John Arnold, Co-Chair

Priscilla Brewster

Jeffrey Byrne

Susan Campbell

Steve Coyer, Co-Chair Alexia Jurschak, Co-Chair

Chris Jarnot

Mike Krupka

Ellen Moritz

Kaia Moritz

Ann Smead

Kristy Woolfolk

Top right photo: Adji Cissoko and Calvin Royal III at the 2023 Vail Dance Festival. Photo by Chris Kendig.

TRANSFORMING ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

SUSTAINING OUR SKI RACING LEGACY

EMPOWERING POSSIBILITY FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES

BUILDING COMMUNITY SUPPORTS

THANK YOU

It takes a village to put on the Vail Dance Festival and we could not do it without the hard work and dedication of our sponsors, partners, staff, interns, ambassadors, and volunteers.

FESTIVAL MARQUEE PRESENTER

Jody & John Arnhold

Arnhold Foundation

FESTIVAL SPONSORS

Bulleit Bourbon

Casamigos Tequila

Celsius Discover Vail

Epic Mountain Express

La Crema

Lifetime Home Remodeling

Lucid Motors

Manor Vail Lodge

Nature Valley

Pacifico

Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate

Sonnenalp Hotel

Squash Blossom

Town of Avon

Town of Vail

Vail Mountain

Vista Bank

LODGING PARTNERS

Beaver Creek West Condominiums

Christiania at Vail

Coral Tree Residence Collection

Grand Hyatt Vail

Manor Vail Lodge

The Pines Lodge, A Rock Resort

The Osprey at Beaver Creek, A Rock Resort

Tivoli

The Christie Lodge

The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa

Vail Realty

Vail Spa Condominium

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

New York City Center

Vail Integrative Medical Group

Vail Mountain School

FOUNDATION SUPPORT

Doris Duke Charitable Foundation

Jerome Robbins Foundation

Virgina B. Toulmin Foundation

ARTISTIC TEAM

Damian Woetzel, Artistic Director

Russell Kaiser, Artistic Planning & Rehearsal Director

Heather Watts, Creative Associate

Tatiana Ratmansky, Choreographic Assistant

Carla Körbes, Repetiteur

Margaret Tracey, Repetiteur

Patricia Delgado, Staging Associate

Melissa Toogood, Staging Associate

Deborah Wingert, Staging Associate

Shelbie Rassler, Musical Director

PRODUCTION

David Glista, Director of Production

Toril Aserlind, Electrician

Betsy Ayer, Production Stage Manager

Brandon Baker, Lighting Designer

Kate Bashore, Lighting Director

Paulina Campbell, Assistant Stage Manager

Covey Carpenter, Backstage Audio

Shane Cassidy, Production Electrician

Javier Cendejas, Pianist

Celestine Cervantes, Wardrobe Assistant

Miguel Chamberlain, Wardrobe Supervisor

Matt Davis, Assistant Production Audio

Ash DiTaranto, Wardrobe Assistant

Ryan Fogal, Music Coordinator

Jarrod Fries, Assistant Production Electrician

Sabina Fritz, Venue/Rehearsal Manager

Duncan Gallagher, Production Manager

Wes Halloran, Production Audio

Marlene Hamm, Costume Director

Daniel Jilek, Electrician & Spot Operator

Hannah Loftus, Venue/Rehersal Manager

Joe Love, Deck Carpenter

Valos Lowe, Stage Operations Crew

Garth MacAleavey, FOH Audio Engineer

Nicole Mommen, Stage Manager

Elizabeth Nguyen, Stage Operations Lead

Angelina Pellini, Assistant Stage Manager

Ethan Saiewitz, Lighting Programmer

Michael Sapp, Electrician

Marqies Smalls, Electrician & Spot Op

Evan Smedley, Assistant Stage Manager

Clifton Taylor, Lighting Designer

David Walters, Backstage Audio

STAFF

Mike Imhof, President & CEO

Harper Addison, Director of Operations, Vail Dance Festival

Lisa Babb, Sr. Manager of Hospitality & Volunteer Relations

Peter Barclay, Vice President of Philanthropy

Yann Benjamin, Vice President of Marketing & PR

Gabriel Beryozkin, IT Manager

Julie Block, Director of PR & Communications

Greg Bloom, Sr. Director, Sponsorship Sales

Peter Blosten, Sr. Director of Operations, GRFA

Martha Brassel, Sr. Director of Philanthropy

Erik Brown, Director of Special Projects

Maddie Brown, Festival Coordinator

Josh Cloud, Chief Financial Officer

Andie Cott, Box Office Manager, Vilar

Noelle Cristo, Director of Development, Operations

Dean Davis, Facilities Manager, Vilar

Erica de Longpre, Controller

Dave Dressman, Vice President, Sales & GRFA

Dionne Drugan Brown, Office Manager

Christopher Duggan, Festival Photographer

Heidi Elzinga, Assistant to the President

Tim Felton, Sr. Operations Manager

Rosi Folmer, Development Events Manager

Sarah Franke, SVP, Operations

Elle Friedle, Sr. Manager, Grant Development

Lauren Gary, Director of Ticketing & Assistant Director, Vilar & GRFA

Elizabeth Gihle, Sr. Box Office Manager, GRFA

Linda Giordano, Sr. Director of HR

Ruthie Hamrick, Director of Marketing, Vilar

Zach Henry, Warehouse and Operations Manager

Kenneth Howell, Food & Beverage Manager, Vilar

Shane Huebner, Director of Production & Operations, Vilar & GRFA

Owen Hutchinson, Artistic Director, Vilar

Harry Jaffe, Community Engagement Manager

Kate Kalamon, Sr. Manager, Sponsorship & Sales

Julie Kapala, Sr. Marketing Manager

Chris Kendig, Photographer

Morgan Kelleher, Director of Marketing, Arts & Athletics

Stephen Licciardi, Director of Philanthropy

Devin Lyon, Marketing Coordinator

Brian Maloney, Photographer

Sean McRee, Gore Creek Concessions

Cheyenne Mendoza, Technical Director, Vilar & GRFA

Cameron Morgan, Executive Director, Vilar

Finn Mott, Grants Coordinator

Bailey Nelson, Philanthropy Manager

Kate Penner, Social Media Manager

Marley Poku-Kankam, NYC Rehearsal Coordinator

Kendra Powell, Director of Donor Engagement

RJ Powers, Development & Gifts Coordinator

Tess Reinhold, Programming & Artist Relations Manager, Vilar

Kelly Ronquist, Director of Philanthropy, Education

Gail Russell, Accounting & Finance Manager

Morgan Russell, Venue & Events Manager, GRFA

Andrea Selby, Festival Illustrator

Julia Salerno, Director of Philanthropy, Vilar

Gabe Shalley, Sr. Director, DataSystems

Nel Shelby Productions, Festival Videographer

Michael Sheridan, Assistant to the Artistic Director

Heather Smith, Payroll & Benefits Manager

Chef Hunter Smith, Big Delicious Catering

Joel Solari, Festival Public Relations Manager

Jessica Stevens, Sr. Director, Sponsorship Sales

Shannon Thornburg, Sr. Marketing Manager

Deb Wautier, Volunteer & Operations Manager

Chloe Westoff, Marketing Coordinator

Ana White, Marketing Manager

Peggy Wolfe, Sr. Director of Operations

Brad Wuelling, Director of Financial Planning & Analysis

Kate York, Production Manager, Vilar

Patrick Zimmerman, High Country Backline

FESTIVAL INTERNS

Abhi Doddapaneni, Ops & Artist Services

Hudson Halverstadt, Ops & Artist Services

Nathan Harris, Development Intern

Gracie Johnson, Development Intern

Kathryn Kuznetsov, Ops & Artist Services

Lindsay Osten, Marketing Intern

Zayn Shafique, Marketing Intern

Larissa Souki, Ops & Artist Services

Katie Sweet, Merchandise Intern

FESTIVAL AMBASSADORS

Audrey Barone, Ambassador

Sophie Carnahan, Ambassador

Faliyn Chalfant, Ambassador

Raquel Chavez, Ambassador

Claire Coughlin, Ambassador

Owen Heinz, Ambassador

Ashlyn Kirkha, Ambassador

Stella Kraus, Ambassador

Violet Long, Ambassador

Maya Maher, Ambassador

Avery Moyer, Ambassador

Brielle Sale, Ambassador

Frankie Sessions, Ambassador

CELEBRATE THE BEAT

POP HOP CAMP STAFF

Tracy Straus, Founding Artistic Director

Aubrey Bell, Lead Teaching Artist

Mariana Diaz, Assistant Teaching Artist

Larry Dutmer, Drums

Diego Espinosa, Guitar

Tony Kieraldo, Music Director

Jacob Lidard, Keys

Cannon Mapp, Assistant Teaching Artist

Kimberley Mayorga, Assistant Teaching Artist

Corinne Mickler, Assistant Teaching Artist

Adilene Noguez, Bilingual Managing Director

Joslyn Sanchez, Lead Teaching Artist

Emma Stedman, Program Director

Kris Walsh, Artistic Executive Director

SPECIAL THANKS TO

The Juilliard School

The Keith Haring Foundation

Shelly & Chris Jarnot

Rebecca & Tyler Morse, MCR

SPECIAL PROJECT VOLUNTEERS

Theresa Anders

Shelly Jarnot

On behalf of the Vail Dance Festival and Vail Valley Foundation, thank you to our dedicated team of volunteers!

“SCENE” at THE FESTIVAL

A look back at past Festivals!

1. Fang-Yi Sheu with Ron Myles at the 2013 Festival. Photo by Erin Baiano.

2. Mayfeild Myers, Elijah Geolina, India Bradley, Brooks Landegger, and Dominika Afanasenkov at the 2025 Festival. Photo by Chris Kendig.

3. Lil Buck and Adji Cissoko at the 2025 Festival. Photo by Brian Maloney.

4. Jerard Palazo and Savannah Green rehearse at the 2024 Festival.

Photo by Chris Kendig.

5. Heather Watts and Damian Woetzel.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

6. Daisy Kate Jacobson with Joel Wenhardt, Abdias Armenteros, Kate Davis, Eliza Salem, and Jayla Chee at the 2024 Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

7. Naomi Corti and Daniel Guzmán at the 2025 Festival. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Plaza Lodge R-7 | Vail

4 bd | 3 ba | 2,142 sf | $12,995,000

Liz Leeds | 970.331.1806 | lleeds@slifer.net

Debbie Gibson | 970.470.3866 | dgibson@slifer.net LizLeeds.com

231 Mesquite Drive | Edwards

4 bd | 6 ba | 6,446 sf | $4,850,000

Bob McCormick | 970.471.0525 | bmccormick@slifer.net

Kelly VanHee | 970.376.7092| kelly@slifer.net

BobMcCormick.VailRealEstate.com

| 970.471.2553 | bedwards@slifer.net beinvail.com

$33,750,000

Jenifer

Tyra

Tyra.Rudrud@evrealestate.com