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Jacob’s Pillow Cancels 2025 Summer Season After Tragic Workplace Death
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Jacob’s Pillow, nestled in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, has been a beacon for dance and a cultural haven for LGBTQ+ artists and audiences for more than nine decades. Known for its unwavering commitment to artistic innovation, education, and inclusion, the festival draws performers and patrons from around the world each summer, many of whom identify as LGBTQ+ or are strong allies. This year’s festival, which began June 25 and was scheduled to continue through August 24, promised an especially rich season, including the anticipated debut of the newly reimagined Doris Duke Theatre .
On August 1, the festival was brought to a devastating halt when Kat Sirico, age 40, a beloved production manager and respected leader within the Pillow community, died in a workplace accident. Sirico and a summer intern were transporting staging platforms on a dolly across a sloped section of the campus when the equipment became uncontrollable. Sirico fell and was struck by the dolly; immediate efforts by bystanders and emergency responders could not save their life . The Berkshire District Attorney’s office ruled the incident a tragic accident with no criminal charges to be filed .
Sirico, who had been with Jacob’s Pillow for several seasons, was remembered by Executive and Artistic Director Pamela Tatge as “an essential and hugely devoted leader” whose “spirit, generosity, and dedication touched the lives of many.” The organization’s official statement emphasized the profound loss felt by Sirico’s family, friends, and colleagues, and the need for space to grieve and honor their memory .
While the festival’s leadership initially canceled only the immediate weekend’s performances, the gravity of Sirico’s loss and the emotional impact on staff and artists soon became clear. On August 5, Jacob’s Pillow announced the cancellation of the entire remainder of the 2025 season, a decision made public through its website and social media channels. “We have come to this difficult decision following the tragic accident on our campus on August 1. Ticket buyers affected by the cancellations will receive refunds,” the official statement read .
For nearly a century, Jacob’s Pillow has been a sanctuary for dance and a site of affirmation for LGBTQ+ artists and communities. The cancellation underscores the festival’s commitment to care and healing, with leadership prioritizing the well-being of staff, artists, and the extended Pillow family over the demands of programming. “We are holding their family, friends, and colleagues in our hearts as we grieve together,” Tatge said .
The loss of Kat Sirico extends beyond the walls of Jacob’s Pillow, reverberating through the broader dance world and LGBTQ+ cultural spheres. Sirico’s leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for safe, inclusive creative spaces were widely respected. Their absence is deeply felt, especially among LGBTQ+ artists who often find affirmation and community at institutions like the Pillow.
Jacob’s Pillow has long been recognized for championing LGBTQ+ voices—in its programming, leadership, and educational outreach. The festival’s closure this season leaves a significant gap in the calendar, not only for dance enthusiasts but for queer communities who view the Pillow as a place of belonging and inspiration. Artists and organizations nationwide have expressed solidarity and condolences, with many emphasizing the need for continued vigilance regarding workplace safety and trauma-informed support for queer and trans employees in the arts .
As ticket holders receive refunds and the Pillow’s campus enters a period of mourning, leaders are calling for unity and reflection across the performing arts. Plans for memorials and support gatherings are expected, with a particular focus on affirming the contributions of LGBTQ+ staff and artists who help make Jacob’s Pillow a home for so many.
The festival’s leadership has reiterated its commitment to returning in 2026, with renewed emphasis on safety, equity, and the continuing mission to uplift diverse voices in dance. As the community grieves, the legacy of Kat Sirico endures in the countless lives they touched and the transformative work they championed.
