Carmel Dance Festival

​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

6:00 pm: Dinner and Show

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

This innovative performance unfolds in distinct parts:

Immersive Walkabout & Saloon Refreshments: The experience begins with an immersive walkabout at the front of the property, where dancers, under the direction of Ballare Carmel's resident choreographer Javon Ja'moon Jones, blend Victorian elegance with Wild West charm. Inspired by the early settlers of Carmel Valley, this unique dance performance integrates history and culture with contemporary dance. Set to music inspired by farming traditions, dancers animate Hacienda's eclectic property in a captivating opening act. At the saloon, guests enjoy refreshments and select a complimentary beverage (beer, wine, or soda) included with their ticket.

Mainstage Performances: For the dance finale, guests move to the farm at the rear of the property for the main stage production, featuring three compelling pieces:

"Summer" by Robin Dekkers, a vibrant piece set to the evocative strains of Vivaldi.
A new solo by acclaimed Dutch choreographer Anouk van Dijk performed by dance sensation Joseph Kudra with LIVE HARP music by Vincent Pierce.
The world premiere of a work by Brooklyn-based dance maker Kelly Ashton Todd, accompanied by live cello from Michelle Djokic.

Dinner After the Show: Dinner After the Show: Those with dinner and show tickets can extend their evening with farm-to-table cuisine by Patina, featuring ingredients harvested by the performers themselves. (See menu below). The dinner is followed by dessert where audience members can mingle with the performers, discussing the evening's artistry in an festive setting.