Carmel Dance Festival

About the Event

​Each performance begins with an immersive walkabout, inviting the audience to explore grounds activated by contemporary dance while gaining insights into sustainable farming practices. Against this vibrant backdrop, exceptional dancers breathe life into the environment with their extraordinary performances.

Following the walkabout, the audience is treated to a trio of captivating dance pieces. The journey starts with "Summer," choreographed by San Francisco's Robin Dekkers, set to the evocative strains of Vivaldi. Next is the world premiere of a mesmerizing piece by Amsterdam’s Anouk Van Dijk, featuring the astounding dancer Joseph Kudra. Finally, the evening culminates with the world premiere of a stirring work by New York-based Kelly Ashton Todd, accompanied by live cello from local phenom Michelle Djokic.

Completing the sensory experience, at evening performances the audience will savor cuisine harvested by the performers themselves. This event is devoid of pomp but rich in authenticity and talent, dedicated to an amazing cause. Proceeds from the performances will support Carmel Dance Festival's Fellowship Program, providing full scholarships for promising young artists. This unique blend of dance, sustainable farming, and culinary delight promises an unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the performance ends.

Schedule

2:00 pm: Family Matinee

See Ballare Carmel, Carmel Dance Festival's professional resident dance company, in an unforgettable immersive dance experience that seamlessly blends dance and sustainable farming.

Experience Ballare Carmel in a captivating event that seamlessly blends extraordinary dance and sustainable farming. Upon arrival, audience members can enjoy a beverage of choice (beer, wine, sparkling water, soda) while exploring Hacienda Hay & Feed's eclectic grounds, brought to life with dancers. VIP guests will receive a Carmel Dance Festival recycled tote bag and have the chance to pick fresh vegetables. The journey then continues to the farm for the main stage production.

The program includes:

"Summer" by Robin Dekkers
A new solo by Dutch choreographer Anouk van Djik
The world premiere of a work by Brooklyn-based dance maker Kelly Ashton Todd, accompanied by live cello from Michelle Djokic

Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic or purchase meals from Radici Market, featuring ingredients harvested by the dancers themselves. The magical event will conclude with Sweet Reba's desserts and intimate conversations with the artists in the covered seating area amidst the breathtaking hills of Carmel Valley.

Leading up to the performances, as part of the rehearsal process, the dancers will engage in a series of visits to local farms to harvest, plant, and learn about regenerative farming. By connecting directly with the earth, the dancers will not only draw inspiration for their performances but also share a powerful message about how sustainable farming can help combat climate change. This fusion of sustainable farming and dance creates an innovative experience that is both enriching and inspiring.

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