Jacob's Pillow 80th Anniversary Season Opening Gala Set for 6/16

Celebrating eight decades of dance from around the world, the 2012 Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival will officially commence with an 80th Anniversary Season Opening Gala on June 16.

Honorary Co-Chairs for the 80th Anniversary Gala include Massachusetts Governor Deval L. Patrick and First Lady Diane B. Patrick, dance legend Carmen DeLavallade, and David Hallberg, principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre and the Bolshoi Ballet.

A cocktail reception will kick off the event, along with a preview of Decades of Dance – a commemorative exhibit highlighting images from the extensive Pillow Archives – on display in the Blake's Barn Gallery. The Gala performance in the historic Ted Shawn Theatre will feature a variety of extraordinary artists and choreographers, and includes a world premiere by acclaimed British choreographer and former Director of the English National Ballet School Michael Corder, performed by dancers of The School at Jacob's Pillow Ballet Program.

David Hallberg will perform Nacho Duato's Kaburias, a hypnotic solo to music by Afro-Cuban composer Leo Brouwer. An excerpt of CIRCA, a thrilling circus-arts work by Australian ensemble Circa, and a duet from beloved Brazilan contemporary company Mimulus will round out this exclusive program.

The prestigious Jacob's Pillow Dance Award will be presented by Executive and Artistic Director Ella Baff to a distinguished dance artist.

The Gala performance will be followed by a three course dinner by The Old Inn and Moore; a live auction with George McNeely of Christie's; and dancing to a live band and DJ.

The 2012 Gala Co-Chairs are Jacob's Pillow Board Member Hunter K. Runnette and Dr. Mark P. VandenBosch, and Elaine and Irving Wolbrom.

When: Saturday, June 16 at 5:30pm

Where: Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, Becket, MA

Tickets: Gala Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals and businesses.