June 1, 2018 (Becket, MA)—Jacob’s Pillow kicks off Festival 2018 with a Season Opening Gala, its signature fundraising event, on Saturday, June 16. Considered the start of the summer season in the Berkshires, the Season Opening Gala includes the official opening of all 2018 Exhibits, the presentation of the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award to acclaimed choreographer and director Faye Driscoll​, and a tribute to Honorary Chair and 2018 Kennedy Center Honoree Carmen de Lavallade​; in addition to exclusive programming, an evening of delicious food and drink by The Old Inn On The Green, and a festive After Party with live music and dancing.

The Gala program includes a cocktail hour performance of POP-UP Duets by Scotland-based Janis Claxton Dance in their U.S. debut; an exclusive preview of Ephrat Asherie Dance’s Odeon prior to its world premiere at the Festival (June 27-July 1); a world premiere performed by the Ballet Program dancers of The School at Jacob’s Pillow, choreographed and set in just four days by internationally sought-after choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa; and Dance Theatre of Harlem’s Amanda Smith performing Carmen de Lavallade’s “signature solo” Come Sunday, as a tribute to the Honorary Chair.

For the full press release, click here.