Wendy Whelan and Dance Theatre of Harlem at Jacob’s Pillow

Jacob’s Pillow just announced that both Wendy Whelan and the newly-revived Dance Theatre of Harlem will appear at the festival next summer. DTH will open the festival in June (19-23), with a program that includes Agon (Balanchine) and The Lark Ascending (Ailey). Then, in August, Whelan will perform an evening of duets—not solos, mind you— created for her by four contemporary choreographers: Kyle Abraham, Joshua Beamish, Brian Brooks, and Alejandro Cerrudo.

This is exciting news indeed. Whelan, now in the latter part of her career at NYCB, is one of the most intriguing, soulful dancers around. Watching her, one sees the mental impulse that makes dance into more than a mere physical exercise, as well as the hunger to explore new territory. Lots to look forward to next summer.