Day: July 14, 2026

Lanes Coven’s As You Like It

Photo Jason Grow

In Lanes Coven’s engaging production of “As You Like it,” the Windhover stage becomes the magical world of the Forest of Arden, where the course of true love doesn’t exactly run smooth, but rather runs in a delightful series of twists and turns, gender switching, palace intrigue, and, well, great fun, to its final, satisfying resolution.  

What better place to come and experience this comedic romp than in our outdoor theater, under the shade of the tent.  You can have a picnic beforehand, and explore our own “Forest of Arden” – what was once a dairy farm and is now a haven for the performing arts on Cape Ann. You’ll meet Touchstone the wise fool, Jacques the melancholic philosopher, Orlando the lover, and Rosalind, the linchpin of it all, who cleverly disguises her identity in order that others reveal theirs. 

We ordinary mortals may be “merely players” but the Lanes Coven actors bring their own infectious blend of talent, skill, dance and occasional zaniness to their work. This is no stilted, hard-to-understand Shakespeare, but an imaginative production in which the words are easily understood, and we can delight in the revelry.

It is a “must see” for those on Cape Ann, and the show lasts until August 2nd, playing Thursdays through Sundays. Check the Windhover website (Windhover.org) for details. Tickets can be purchased here.

AND… COMING UP LATER THIS SUMMER

As the summer merrily rolls along, please take note of a plethora of grand and exciting performing arts productions at Windhover. Here are some of the coming attractions. Save these dates.

Limón Dance Company

photo: Ben McKeown

We are proud to be hosting this world-renowned dance company for two evening performances on our outdoor stage on Friday, August 14and Saturday August 15 at 7:00pm. This is the first time the entire company has come to Windhover, and part of this week-long residency includes an Open Rehearsal, which is free for the public. That will be held on Saturday, August 15th at 2:00pm under the tent. The evening performances include a Bach Chaconne choreographed by José Limón in 1942 and played live by local virtuoso violinist Scott Moore. This exciting collaboration between live musicians and dancers looks towards a future at Windhover when such collaborations happen more frequently. For further details of the program and for tickets, click here.

Quarry Dance 2026

Continuing our tradition, this year’s quarry dance is happening at a quarry here on Cape Ann on Friday, August 7; Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9th.Each year we commission a dance company to create a site-specific work at a different Cape Ann quarry. This August it takes place at a privately owned quarry which the owners have graciously allowed us to use for this occasion. Because parking is severely limited, we are offering free parking at Windhover in our large field, and shuttle buses will transport guests the half mile or so to the location, and then also bring guests back to Windhover free of charge.

The times are different for each day, so please consult the website for more details. No reservations are needed, but rain does cancel the show. The dance usually lasts about one hour, but please arrive for the parking early so that everyone can arrive at the quarry in a timely manner.

More Dance on the way

On Saturday, August 8th at 7:00pm, (the quarry dance is that afternoon) two innovative and exciting modern dance companies will share the Windhover stage. Alison Cook Beatty Company from NY, along with local talents Hollis Bartlett + Nattie Trogdon present new modern dance works which, based upon their themes, inspire and create community. One dance uses the Shakers for inspiration; another explores ways we can break free of the fetters of tradition and form. You  can  get your tickets here. This 90-minute show will conclude before the fireworks begin for Illumination Night in Rockport.

Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm Boston Dance Theater will share their first public preview of their new work “Four Seasons on the Great Marsh: Autumn”which explores the ecology and history of New England’s Great Marsh. A Brazilian choreographer is also featured on the program with a work titled “Delicate Blue,” which is inspired by our diminishing relationship to the natural world. Tickets can be found here.

BoSoma Dance Company returns to Windhover onThursday, August 27th at 7:00pm. Brand new works from this innovative company kick off their 23rd season. Tickets can be found here.

And, the “other” performing art — Music!

Two stellar music events on Sunday nights in August finish out the August calendar: Stan Strickland and his quartet play many instruments in a variety of styles, and Stan’s vocals add color and depth. His charismatic presence and musical sophistication are not to be missed. Tickets are now on sale here.

The second is award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Reese Fulmer and The Carriage House Band, playing on Sunday, August 23rd at 5:00pm under the tent. Reese has deep roots on Cape Ann, and his blend of folk, Americana and even some jazz top off the evening. Tickets are here.

Finally, and yet most importantly, be sure to sign up for our 2026 Windhover Summer Celebration Galataking place on Tuesday, August 25th from 5:00pm-9:00pm. Two distinguished artists from the world of modern dance and the world of jazz will grace us with their artistic gifts. Sign up to discover who they are! Delicious hors d’oeuvres and a three- course meal will be served by none other than beloved chef Melissa Donati (formerly of Willow Rest) and now owner of Vidalia’s in Beverly Farms. A selection of wines will be served, along with cheeses and crudities before dinner. Tickets are now on sale for our Gala here.

Please come to enjoy a festive evening at Windhover under our tent.

This will be our best summer yet, so pack your picnics, bring your friends, and celebrate the wealth of artists and talent which we are fortunate to host at Windhover.

With warm wishes,

Lisa Hahn, Windhover Executive Director
Duncan Hollomon, Windhover Board Member
Your Donation is Welcome

We rely on community support and you to continue producing dance, drama, music and poetry at Windhover. 

Please consider donating to Windhover, a non-profit 501©3 organization by going to: www.windhover.org/donate

All donations are tax deductible

Still Life…

Home

Treat yourself to one of our customer favorites!

🌊 Lobster Roll just $13.99 + tax
✔️ Served with chips & pickles

🍕 BONUS SPECIAL
16” Pizzas HALF PRICE
Maximum of 2 pizzas

Excludes gluten-free pizzas
Excludes online orders

Sharing information about Nauti Cone, a new ice cream choice on Rogers Street. Can’t wait to give it a try.