For 22 years, the Festival has delighted audiences with an outstanding mix of entertaining and inspiring programs. Internationally acclaimed dance, an eclectic array of world-class musicians, breathtaking circus, ground-breaking theatre and engaging speakers define the Festival as the region’s premier arts and culture destination. The June Festival boasts over 170 events and at least 85% are totally free. Year-round programs include special town-hall events, a fellowship program for youth, planning and implementing mini-festivals in inner-city neighborhoods, and our Visionary Leadership Award.

Each year we welcome artists and speakers from all over the world - Angelique Kidjo, Bristol Old Vic, Handspring Puppet Company, Rosanne Cash, Little Richard,The National Theatre of Scotland, Yo-Yo Ma, Druid Theatre, Kronos Quartet, Spike Lee, and Salman Rushdie have all shared their talents and ideas. New Haven’s walkable historic downtown core and warm June weather forms the perfect backdrop for this highly accessible, international event.

MMDG first performed at the Festival in 2009, with Dido and Aeneas. Pepperland marks the third evening-length work performed at the Shubert Theater and the Festival's first commission of a Mark Morris piece.