American Dance Festival runs May 27–July 25

American Dance Festival’s 2026 season will run from May 27 to July 25 in Durham, with 49 performances by 26 companies and choreographers. (americandancefestival.org) The festival said the season also includes nine world premieres, 12 American Dance Festival commissions and 13 company or choreographer debuts. Educational programs are scheduled from June 13 to July 25. (americandancefestival.org) Tickets are set to go on sale May 5 through Duke University’s Box Office, with most performances sold there and some exceptions sold directly by American Dance Festival or partner venues. (americandancefestival.org) The season opens May 27 with Wally Cardona and Molly Lieber at ADF’s Scripps Dance Studios, followed by five performances through May 30. BODYTRAFFIC’s “Unplugged” follows on June 8 at Reynolds Industries Theater. (americandancefestival.org 1) (americandancefestival.org 2) Jesse Factor’s “The Marthaodyssey” is scheduled for June 17, and the festival says the work pays homage to Martha Graham and Madonna, both identified as ADF alumni. An after-show dance party is also planned that night at the JB Duke Lobby Bar. (americandancefestival.org 1) (americandancefestival.org 2) Other returning companies include Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, Pilobolus and Paul Taylor Dance Company. Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble is scheduled for the July 4 weekend with “Dances to American Music.” (americandancefestival.org) The children’s matinee series is set for July 4 and July 25 at noon, featuring Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble and Pilobolus. A two-show matinee package is listed at $30. (americandancefestival.org) The festival says its international programming includes a collaboration between Shen Wei Dance Arts and Guangdong Modern Dance Company, scheduled for July 17 and 18. A closing dance party fundraiser is planned after the July 25 performance at Parizäde. (americandancefestival.org 1) (americandancefestival.org 2) American Dance Festival says it has presented modern dance since 1934. The 2026 season is dedicated to late director emeritus Charles L. Reinhart, according to the festival’s March 25 announcement. (americandancefestival.org) (americandancefestival.org)