Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Performing Arts Destination in Rockport, MA
Windhover has been a cornerstone of artistic expression and community engagement for over five decades. Founded in the 1970s as a summer girls camp, we evolved into a nonprofit performing arts center dedicated to fostering creativity through dance, theater, and music. Our mission centers on creating shared experiences that bridge art and nature, offering public performances, educational classes, yoga retreats, and residencies for artists. Our historic campus in Rockport, Massachusetts, features versatile performance spaces, including an outdoor tent and historic quarries transformed into immersive venues. Under the leadership of Executive Director Lisa Hahn, a Princeton and NYU-trained arts professional with decades of experience, we provide sanctuary for both audiences and performers.Our signature Quarry Dances celebrate Cape Anns natural landscapes through site-specific choreography, while our residencies attract renowned artists like Alison Cook Beatty Dance and Continuum Contemporary Ballet. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on donations to sustain our programs, which have enriched global audiences since our inception. Our partnerships with local businesses, such as the Emerson Inn, enhance visitor experiences, and our commitment to transparency ensures all contributions directly support artistic endeavors.
Services
Dance Performances
Theater Productions
Music Events
Dance Classes
Yoga Retreats
Artist Residencies
Wedding Venues
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of experience in arts programming and community engagement.
- Our historic campus blends natural beauty with versatile performance spaces.
- We host renowned artists and companies through immersive residency programs.
- Our Quarry Dances uniquely integrate modern choreography with Cape Ann's landscapes.
- All donations directly support artists and are tax-deductible.
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) organization
Services
Dance Performances
Windhover presents professional dance performances in unique settings, including outdoor stages and historic quarries. Our programs feature collaborations with acclaimed companies like Alison Cook Beatty Dance, blending modern choreography with natural landscapes. These events provide immersive cultural experiences for audiences of all ages.
Artist Residencies
Our residency programs offer artists dedicated space and resources to develop new works. Located in a historic campus with studios, gardens, and performance halls, we host choreographers, musicians, and theater groups for focused creative exploration. Past residents include Continuum Contemporary Ballet and Mettler Studios.
Yoga Retreats
Windhover's yoga retreats combine physical practice with the tranquility of our natural surroundings. Led by experienced instructors like Nancy West and Annie Hoffman, these multi-day programs emphasize mindfulness and connection to the environment in our peaceful Cape Ann setting.
Quarry Dances
This signature program transforms Cape Ann's quarries into living performance spaces. Founded in 2012 by Ina Hahn, Quarry Dances feature site-specific choreography that interacts with natural landscapes, creating unforgettable experiences that celebrate both art and environmental heritage.
Wedding Venues
Our 4.5-acre campus offers distinctive venues for weddings and events, featuring outdoor stages, gardens, and historic buildings. With flexible spaces accommodating both ceremonies and receptions, we provide a memorable backdrop for celebrations while offering backup options for inclement weather.
People
Lisa Hahn
Executive Director
Lisa Hahn leads Windhover with 40+ years of experience in arts administration. A Princeton graduate and founder of Art Horizons International, she has directed Windhover since 2016, expanding its global reach while preserving its community roots. Her leadership combines academic expertise with hands-on experience from childhood involvement at the center.
Questions
Where are Windhover's performances held?
Performances occur at our Rockport campus, local quarries, and historic venues across Cape Ann, Massachusetts.
Are donations to Windhover tax-deductible?
Yes, Windhover is a 501(c)(3) organization, making all donations tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Can I host events at Windhover?
Yes, we offer wedding and event spaces with outdoor venues, backup buildings, and overnight accommodations for guests.
How does weather affect outdoor performances?
Performances are rain or shine. We recommend bringing appropriate gear for outdoor enjoyment under our permanent tent.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide dance classes, teen intensives, yoga retreats, and workshops led by professional artists and instructors.
How can artists apply for residencies?
Contact us directly to discuss residency opportunities, which include access to studios, performance spaces, and natural inspiration.
Reviews (3)
Ralph McHatton
Sep 02, 2021
Report
Not our best night out. Venue seemed like an old farm and very buggy which took away from concentrating on the performance. I guess I enjoy watching my performing arts inside. Not a value for my hard earned dollars.
Sonya Chu
Jun 30, 2021
Report
Outdoor theater venue, beautiful and mostly shady! You can buy a whole picnic table & bring food & drink. The play, "Tiny Beautiful Things" was really well done. Only reason not 5 stars is that audience has to wear masks even though outside. Hoping this will change over the summer season... don't let this keep you from going!
Brian Oconnor
Jun 04, 2021
Report
Couldn't be more pleasant and entertaining. All the cast's and the performances were over the top
High praise for all the personal for putting such a great day for all who attended.
BRAVO
High praise for all the personal for putting such a great day for all who attended.
BRAVO
