Set against the sweeping terraced lawns of the Mount, dancers from the Olga Dunn Dance Company bring the world of Edith Wharton vividly to life. This site-responsive performance blends dynamic choreography, spoken word, and live cello music in a rich dialogue with the landscape. The program includes an exclusive preview of the Company’s newest work and culminates in two evocative dances set to French songs, paying tribute to the final chapter of Wharton’s life.
A reception with the artists will follow the performance. Join us!
IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION:
- This program is a site-specific, outdoor dance performance that takes place on the terraced lawn of The Mount, just below the Terrace Café. Please be mindful of weather and plan accordingly!
- Tickets are free, but capacity is limited – seating is first come, first served.
- Please park in the Upper Parking Field. We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to allow time to enjoy the quarter-mile walk down the driveway to the Mansion. Golf carts run throughout the day if you require assistance to the event location. Accessible parking is available in spaces adjacent to the Mansion.
- Seating for all programs at The Mount is first-come, first-served. To enjoy the performance from the grass or looking down from the Terrace, we recommend bringing lawn chairs or a picnic blanket.
- Stairs are required to reach the performance area. Individuals with mobility concerns are advised to contact us by phone: 413-551-5111 x5; or email: programs@edithwharton.org. For more information about accessibility, review The Mount’s accessibility webpage.
- Questions? Email: programs@edithwharton.org; or phone: 413-551-5111 x2
Born in Paris to a Russian family, Olga Dunn has been immersed in dance since age five. She began her training at the Richmond Academy of Ballet in Virginia, continuing her studies at the Royal Canadian School of Ballet, Emerson College, and George Washington University. She later pursued her professional development in New York City, studying with influential artists including Erick Hawkins, Peter Gennaro, Maggie Black, Fred Benjamin, and Thelma Hill. She came to the Berkshires as part of a Boston University summer program at Tanglewood with the José Limón Dance Company, and what started as a one-year teaching engagement evolved into permanent residence. She founded the Olga Dunn Dance Company, a nonprofit professional ensemble that has received multiple Massachusetts Merit Aid awards, Pass funding approval, a choreography fellowship from Jacob’s Pillow, and statewide recognition. In addition to leading her company, Dunn has served as an Arts Lottery and Massachusetts Cultural Council panelist, reviewed dance for regional publications, and taught in the Berkshire Theatre Festival Internship Program.
Rosa Barnaba began dance classes at an early age with the Olga Dunn School of Dance and in high school performed extensively as a member of the Dunn Junior Co. Rosa continued her love of dance at Springfield College, where she performed in works by Maureen Shea, Kodee Van Nort, Didy Veldman, and Monica Bill Barnes. After college, Rosa has continued with the Olga Dunn Dance Co., where she nurtures her passion and love for dance.
Kate Chester received her early dance training from the Olga Dunn School of Dance, where she also spent time teaching. She holds degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Cardozo Law School. Kate is an inspiring and longtime member of the Olga Dunn Company, performing with the group at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, Mahawie Performing Arts Center, Saint James Place, and more.
Hope St. Jock received her training with the Olga Dunn School of Dance and then went on to teach and choreograph extensively for the Dunn School. Se has been a member of the Olga Dunn Dance Co. since graduating from high school, and has performed with the group at the Colonial Theater, Shakespeare and Co.’s Tina Packer Stage, Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival, Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, and more. Hope’s choreography has won awards. While Hope also devotes her time to teaching her kindergarten class, she considers dance to be a continuing force and influence in her life.
