The Vail International Dance Festival returns July 30–August 13, presenting two weeks of dance against one of Colorado’s most spectacular mountain backdrops. Opening night is July 30 at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. This season also celebrates the 10th anniversary of artistic director Damian Woetzel, who rose to prominence as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet. Isabella Boylston serves as Artist-in-Residence, and Philadelphia’s BalletX is the Company-in-Residence.
The 2016 program features a diverse lineup of companies and choreographers. BalletX performs on July 31, offering an evening of works that includes the witty Slump and Show Me, which premiered in 2015. Other highlights include Dance Theatre of Harlem on August 10 and Paul Taylor’s company, American Modern Dance, on August 11. The festival also presents two International Evenings of Dance showcasing artists from around the world.
This season introduces several premieres across ballet, modern, and contemporary genres. New commissions and pieces come from choreographers Jodie Gates, Claudia Schreier, Lil Buck, Matthew Neenan, and Shantala Shivalingappa, reflecting a wide range of styles from classical technique to street-influenced movement and storytelling through contemporary Indian dance forms.
Set outdoors in Vail’s striking alpine environment, performances combine high-caliber artistry with a unique sense of place, making the festival a highlight of the summer cultural calendar in Colorado. Audiences can expect carefully programmed evenings that balance established repertory with bold new works, showcasing both celebrated performers and emerging choreographic voices.