The Vail Dance Festival opens Friday, launching an 11-day celebration of dance featuring world premieres, internationally acclaimed artists, and a milestone season marking 20 years under the artistic direction of Damian Woetzel. Running July 31 – August 10, the festival brings together artists from across the dance world for 13 performances and more than 30 events throughout Vail, Beaver Creek and Avon. America’s oldest dance company, the Martha Graham Dance Company, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Support Local Journalism DonateEnjoy a free Vail Dance Festival performance at Nottingham Park in Avon on Aug. 6. Vail Dance Festival/Courtesy photoPerformance highlightsAdditional Vail Dance Festival performances and programs, including Master Classes, Dancing in the Streets, and the popular Conversations on Dance live recording, can be found online at vaildance.org .