European Contemporary Dance
While many consider America to be the birthplace of modern dance, Germany also holds rich traditions that trace back to the early 20th century. And even as contemporary dance can now be found throughout the world, Europe remains a hotbed of creativity.
Next:
Gauthier Dance//Dance Company Theaterhaus Stuttgart
Swan Cake, 2023
Three out of five works on Gauthier’s 2023 Pillow program were by Israeli choreographers, including Hofesh Shechter’s 21st century gloss on Swan Lake.
Next:
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui's Eastman
Fractus V, 2018
Winner of the 2022 Jacob’s Pillow Dance Award, Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui can be seen here performing as part of the ensemble.
Next:
Company Wang Ramirez
Monchichi, 2015
The French-Hispanic-Korean duo of Sébastien Ramirez and Honji Wang have developed a unique genre that they describe as “urban Tanztheater.”
Next:
Tero Saarinen Company and The Boston Camerata
Borrowed Light, 2012
In a fascinating cross-cultural exchange, Finnish choreographer Tero Saarinen found inspiration in the American Shakers to create this ground-breaking dance.
Next:
Compañía Nacional de Danza 2 (CND2)
Gnawa, 2010
This seminal work by Nacho Duato was presented as part of the very last program performed in the U.S. by CND2 under Duato’s direction.
Next:
Nederlands Dans Theater 2
Dream Play, 2007
Johan Inger’s approach to Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring envisions the story as a daydream inspired by a fleeting encounter between the sexes.
Next:
Danish Dance Theatre
Kridt, 2006
The title of the work seen here in its U.S. premiere translates as “Chalk,” part of a trilogy by British choreographer Tim Rushton, addressing the limits and challenges of human interaction.
Next:
Lutz Förster
For the Children of Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, 2003
Though Pina Bausch herself only performed at the Pillow once (in 1968), her work was later taught here by longtime company member Lutz Förster.
Next:
Compagnie Felix Ruckert
Deluxe Joy Pilot, 2003
This immersive experience by the Berlin-based Felix Ruckert transformed the Doris Duke Theatre into an environment where audience members could choose their level of involvement.
Next:
Beppie Blankert
Dubbelspoor/Double Track, 2000
In this transformation of the Doris Duke Theatre, some of the action took place behind the audience, inventively reflected in large mirrors that facilitated magical illusions.
Next:
CoisCéim Dance Theatre
Ballads, 2000
This Dublin-based company made its U.S. debut with David Bolger’s exploration of a defining moment in the psyche of the Irish people, grappling with the great Irish Famine of 1845.
Explore Playlists
Jean Cébron
Wild Horse, 1957
Seen here in his U.S. debut, Jean Cébron is most remembered today as a longtime teacher at Germany’s Folkwang School and a mentor to Pina Bausch.