The
British
Invasion
THE ROYAL BALLET TAKES OVER JACOB ’ S PILLOW
B y S c o t t E d w a r d A n d e r s o n
TRISTRAM KENTON
Sixty years after The Beatles launched the British Invasion with their performances on the Ed Sullivan Show in February 1964 , another British Invasion is launching this July at Jacob ’ s Pillow Dance Festival in Becket . The Royal Ballet of the United Kingdom will take over Jacob ’ s Pillow from July 3 to July 7 . This will mark the first time in the festival ’ s history that a single company will perform on both the indoor and outdoor stages with separate programs on the same day , including the historic indoor Ted
44 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Holiday Spring May / June 2024 2023 2024
Shawn Theatre and the outdoor Henry J . Leir Stage .
Great Britain has a long and rich tradition in the realm of ballet . At the forefront is the revered Royal Ballet , widely considered one of the leading classical ballet companies in the world . With a lineage of legendary dancers and choreographers dating back to the first half of the 20th century , the Royal Ballet represents the zenith of technical virtuosity , artistic expression , and preservation of the art form ’ s rich traditions — while also exploring the boundaries of new territories in dance .
From the meticulous coaching and rehearsal process that goes into each production , to the seamless melding of dance , music , design , and storytelling , the company epitomizes excellence . Whether reinterpreting iconic works from its storied repertoire or bringing innovative new ballets to life , the Royal Ballet ’ s dancers possess a timeless quality that transcends borders . Their artistry has inspired generations while upholding British ballet ’ s global reputation for world-class talent and uncompromising standards .
So , when this esteemed company brings