World-renowned companies Ailey II, Ballets Jazz Montréal and Compagnie Hervé Koubi to bring extraordinary artistry to Beaver Creek
Today the Vail Valley Foundation announced the Vilar Performing Arts Center’s winter 2026 dance series, featuring three internationally acclaimed companies that will bring exceptional artistry to Colorado’s premier performing arts destination. Ailey II, Ballets Jazz Montréal (co-presented with the Vail Dance Festival), and Compagnie Hervé Koubi will grace the Vilar stage with performances that showcase the power and beauty of contemporary dance in an intimate mountain setting.
“Dance has always held a special place at the Vilar, and this winter series exemplifies our commitment to presenting world-class artistic talent,” said Cameron Morgan, Executive Director at the Vilar. “With Ailey II’s explosive energy and next-generation talent, Ballets Jazz Montréal’s deeply moving tribute to Leonard Cohen, and Compagnie Hervé Koubi’s Sol Invictus, these performances represent the very best of contemporary dance. There’s an intimacy to dance at the Vilar that you can’t get anywhere else, where audiences feel connected to every movement and emotion. These companies will create unforgettable moments in our unique space that remind us why live performance is so powerful.”
The announcement comes just ahead of the 37th annual Vail Dance Festival, the Vail Valley Foundation’s internationally renowned two-week celebration of dance. As the VVF prepares to welcome dancers and audiences from around the world for this summer’s festival July 25 – August 5, the winter series announcement at the Vilar showcases the organization’s commitment to dance throughout the year.
2026 Vilar Winter Dance Series
Ailey II – January 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM
For over 50 years, Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance – has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974 and now under the leadership of Artistic Director Francesca Harper, this universally renowned company embodies Ailey’s pioneering mission to provide dance performances for all people. The New York Times calls them “terrific” and notes “the future is theirs,” while The New Yorker praises their “off-the-charts energy.”
Compagnie Hervé Koubi – February 14, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Sol Invictus showcases the extraordinary artistry of Compagnie Hervé Koubi, bringing their acclaimed dance work to the Vilar stage. This unique company combines contemporary and urban dance movements, capoeira, and martial arts with powerful imagery and inspired choreography. The meditative and strikingly athletic work explores the ties that bind us, creating what The New York Times calls “a creation of poetic beauty.”
Ballets Jazz Montréal – March 26, 2026 | 7:00 PM (Co-presented with Vail Dance Festival)
Dance Me: The Music of Leonard Cohen is an exclusive creation inspired by the rich and profound work of Montreal’s legendary poet, artist and songwriter. Approved by Cohen during his lifetime, this riveting homage evokes the grand cycles of existence through five seasons as described in Cohen’s deeply reflective music and poems. Three internationally renowned choreographers – Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and Ihsan Rustem – were entrusted with putting movement to Cohen’s legendary songs, brought to life by 14 BJM performing artists in an unforgettable combination of dance, music, lighting, scenography, and videography.
Tickets for all three shows are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at vilarpac.org or by calling the box office at 970-845-8497.