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.
This evening’s performance is generously underwritten by Jeffrey Byrne, additional support provided by Rosalind Reed.
Casting and repertory are subject to change.