Your ONE-STOP DESTINATION
tionary dance space that breaks traditional boundaries, offering unprecedented flexibility through adaptable staging, technological capabilities, and artist-centered design that allows performers to create, move, and perform in entirely new ways. As Houben herself said,“ We really wanted to design a building specific for dance, and that was in a way almost never done before in the world.”
Indeed, this is neither a generic performing arts center nor a monument to what was lost. It is, instead, a continuation and an extension, an honoring of history and a leap into what’ s possible when vision, values, and community align. What has emerged from the ashes of the old theater is a living, breathing space for cultural regeneration. A home for artists and audiences to gather together— not just as performers and spectators, but as co-creators of meaning.
“ It’ s been four and a half years, and I
still can’ t believe it’ s really happening,” says Tatge.“ This theater is going to lead us into artistic experiences we wouldn’ t otherwise have.”
Standing in the nearly completed theater as early afternoon light played across its surfaces, I understood exactly what she meant. The building doesn’ t just house dance— it embodies it, capturing in physical form the same transformative power that has made Jacob’ s Pillow a sacred space for movement for nearly a century. When the new Doris Duke Theatre officially opens its doors in July, it won’ t just be a rebirth. It will be a leap into the future of dance itself.
DORIS DUKE THEATRE OPENING WEEK CELEBRATION, JULY 6 – 13
The week of celebration features performances, talks, installations, and community events at Jacob ' s Pillow.
On Sunday, July 6, enjoy a Pop- Up Dance Celebration at 1:30 p. m. that will surround the new building. The piece was choreographed by Camille A. Brown.( Join the dance! Register beforehand and plan to arrive at 11 a. m.) The day also includes the launch of a self-guided audio tour by Andrew Schneider at 1 p. m.; opening of Dancing the Algorithm exhibition and unveiling of artwork by Brenda Mallory at 2 p. m.; and gallery remarks from the artists and curators at 2:30 p. m.
The official opening of the Doris Duke Theatre on Wednesday, July 9, includes a ribbon cutting at 7 p. m. and an inaugural program at 8 p. m. with celebrated artists performing. There will be an on-campus watch party in the Ted Shawn Theatre. The livestreamed program also will be offered free and open to anyone, anywhere. n
More at jacobspillow. org / calendar.
Stringed Instruments
A
M
G
I
C
F
L
U
K
E
Your ONE-STOP DESTINATION
for TILE & NATURAL STONE
Our team has over 90 years of combined expertise in fabrication and slab installation. We proudly offer a wide variety of premium materials, along with exceptional service and expert consultation for contractors, builders, and homeowners alike.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
Locally made since 1999
413-229-8536
( 413) 243-9383 905 Pleasant Street | Lee, MA 01238 | genrose. com
76 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE August July 2025 2025