The Kennedy Center christens its lastest addition with an epic 16-day art extravaganza.
“The idea behind REACH was to break down the walls and give the public the chance to look at the creative process and what goes into each production,” explained Director of Artistic Planning Robert van Leer as we toured the thenunfinished expansion of America’s home for the arts, The Kennedy Center. The architecture of REACH’s campus speaks to being transparent, as well: Steven Holl Architects wanted to build an extension that complemented, but also retained, its own power without challenging the existing Kennedy Center. If you’re wondering about the name, that is intentional too. “We want to reach beyond our walls, extend and deepen our relationship with our city, develop a dialogue and come together,” said van Leer. The public can see that process in all its glory September 7 to 22 via performances, events and installations across artistic fields as diverse as opera, dance, theater, art, hip-hop and go-go. Opening festival events are free, reservations for timed passes will be required for entry, cms.kennedy-center.org/festivals