The audience leans forward, the lights begin to dim, and the stage becomes a gateway to the world of dance. The opening Festival performances at Jacob’s Pillow are not merely shows; they set the rhythm for the weeks to come, inviting audiences into a realm where movement speaks volumes. Journey through our history as we take a look at the opening performances that have kicked off Festival seasons past and present.
2025: A Triumphant Return and New Beginnings
The Center Will Not Hold: A Dorrance Dance Production | June 25-29
In the Ted Shawn Theatre, Jacob’s Pillow fan favorites and close collaborators Michelle Dorrance and Ephrat Asherie kick off Festival 2025 with a lively celebration of street, club, and vernacular dances, born from their many years of creating together. With an eclectic ensemble of 11 performers, each deeply rooted in regional music and movement—The Center Will Not Hold features live percussion by John Angeles, along with tap dance, hip hop, breaking, house, Chicago footwork, Detroit jit, litefeet, Memphis jookin’, and body percussion.
“with a transcendent strength of spirit”
– The Washington Post
Prehistoric Body Theater | June 25-26
On the outdoor Henry J. Leir stage, ancient tales come alive. Indonesian artists of Prehistoric Body Theater, in collaboration with international scientists, weave a narrative that will take us back in time to the age of the dinosaurs. Through dynamic movement and evocative storytelling, they resurrect the spirits of prehistoric creatures, reminding us of our shared history.
“An innovative form of global public outreach for paleontology”
– Oxford University Press
Doris Duke Theatre Opening Program | July 9
A historic ribbon-cutting will usher in a new era for the Doris Duke Theatre, followed by an inaugural program that bridges legacy and innovation. From a powerful honor song by Shawn L. Stevens and Friends to a movement score by Annie-B Parson performed by 12 luminary artists of the Duke’s past, the evening will celebrate resilience and renewal. Highlights include an excerpt of Shamel Pitts | TRIBE’s Touch of RED, the U.S. premiere of a duet by Alexander Whitley Dance Company connecting dancers across theaters via motion capture, and performances by Ryan Johnson and JD Samson, whose dance party finale will transform the night into a joyful celebration of what’s to come.
There is so much to see this Festival! With 9 weeks of performances, the sheer talent and inspirations that will come to our theaters are ones you don’t want to miss. From dances that incorporate technology in the newly rebuilt Duke Doris Theater to up and coming artist on the Henry J. Lier stage, there is something for everyone to watch and enjoy.
Echoes from the Past: Celebrated Openings
The history of Jacob’s Pillow is rich with 92 years of opening performances that have left indelible marks. On Jacob’s Pillow Dance Interactive, the Opening Attractions video playlist revisits some of these pioneering moments:
Savion Glover (2005)
The stage became a canvas as renowned tap artist Savion Glover painted with his feet in the 2005 Season Opening Gala. His tap sequences, both raw and refined, splattered through the Ted Shawn Theatre, captivating audiences with their intensity and passion.
Grupo Corpo’s Nazareth (2004)
Brazilian rhythms infused the air as Grupo Corpo delivered a performance that was charged with the sense of joy. With inspiration from Brazilian ballroom dance and Corpo’s trademark elegance, Grupo Corpo entranced the audience with their theatrical Nazareth dance. 
Ballet BC’s Bedroom Folk (2013)
With striking precision and sculptural clarity, Sharon Eyal’s U.S. debut of Bedroom Folk left the audience in awe. Her work blended classical technique with bold contemporary form. Ballet BC’s opening performance was sleek, daring, and utterly magnetic.
A Legacy of First Steps
Each opening Festival performance at Jacob’s Pillow is a testament to the power of dance to inspire, challenge, and connect. From innovative works to classic, these moments set the tone for the Festival, inviting audiences into a season of exploration and wonder. As we celebrate the present and honor the past, we look forward to the future performances that will continue to welcome audiences into the Festival. Join us this summer for another fabulous opening!
This blog post was written by Justin Tran and published on June 20, 2025.
