What is "jacob s pillow"?

Jacob's Pillow is a renowned dance center and performance venue located in the town of Becket, Massachusetts. It is considered one of the most prestigious dance festivals in the United States and attracts dancers, choreographers, and dance enthusiasts from around the world. Founded by modern dance pioneer Ted Shawn in 1933, Jacob's Pillow has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development and promotion of dance as an art form.

The name "Jacob's Pillow" comes from the original name of the property where the dance center is located. The site was named after Jacob, a settler who lived in the area in the 18th century and supposedly used a large rock on the property as a pillow. The land was later purchased by Ted Shawn and his wife, Ruth St. Denis, who transformed it into a dance school and performance venue.

One of the key features of Jacob's Pillow is the Ted Shawn Theatre, a beautiful indoor performance space that hosts dance performances throughout the summer season. The theatre has a capacity of over 600 seats and features state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, making it an ideal venue for both traditional and contemporary dance performances. In addition to the Ted Shawn Theatre, Jacob's Pillow also has an outdoor stage called the Doris Duke Theatre, which showcases more experimental and avant-garde dance works.

Every summer, Jacob's Pillow hosts a dance festival that features a diverse lineup of performances, workshops, and events. The festival typically runs from June to August and includes performances by both established dance companies and up-and-coming choreographers. In addition to performances, the festival also offers a wide range of dance classes and workshops for dancers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. These classes cover a variety of dance styles, including ballet, modern dance, jazz, hip-hop, and more, making Jacob's Pillow a hub for dance education and training.

One of the highlights of the Jacob's Pillow festival is the Inside/Out series, which takes place on an outdoor stage and features free performances by emerging dance artists. This series allows audiences to experience a wide range of dance styles and genres in a more casual and intimate setting. In addition to performances, Inside/Out also hosts pre-show talks and discussions with the artists, providing insight into the creative process behind the works being presented.

In addition to its summer festival, Jacob's Pillow also offers year-round programming, including performances, workshops, and residencies for dance artists. The Pillow Lab, for example, is a creative incubator program that provides choreographers with the time, space, and resources to develop new works. The program offers artists access to studio space, technical support, and mentorship from experienced dance professionals, allowing them to experiment and push the boundaries of their art form.

Jacob's Pillow has a strong commitment to supporting and promoting diversity and inclusion in the dance world. The Pillow has launched several initiatives aimed at increasing access and opportunities for underrepresented artists, including the Jacob's Pillow Fellowship Program, which provides support and mentorship to early-career dancers of color. The Pillow also regularly collaborates with dance companies and artists from diverse backgrounds, showcasing a wide range of voices and perspectives on its stages.

In recent years, Jacob's Pillow has expanded its reach beyond its physical location in Becket through digital initiatives and online programming. The Pillow has launched a virtual dance series that allows audiences to experience performances and workshops from the comfort of their own homes. This digital platform has helped the Pillow reach a wider audience and connect with dance enthusiasts from around the world.

Overall, Jacob's Pillow is a vital hub for the dance community, offering a platform for artists to create, perform, and innovate. With its rich history, commitment to diversity, and dedication to excellence, Jacob's Pillow continues to be a beacon of creativity and inspiration in the world of dance. Whether you are a seasoned dance professional or a casual fan, Jacob's Pillow offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about the art of dance.