The Yard recently received a major three-year gift with a 2013 challenge matching goal of $250,000. While the donors have requested anonymity, the gift launches the Yard’s concurrent three-year Back (The) Yard! Challenge Match. Goals for 2014 and 2015 will be set at a later date.

The funds will provide a stabilizing and leveraging anchor for The Yard’s operations and programs through 2015, setting in place a significant lead challenge amount for the refurbishment and eventual expansion of The Yard’s campus and facilities, and establishing a small working cash reserve.

The Yard’s 2013 calendar opens on June 14 and June 15, with the Bessie Schonberg Mentorship Residency Performances featuring Hari Krishnan, Deborah Lohse and Donnell Oakly. Doug Elkins returns this summer on August 15 and 17 with Hapless Bizarre and Mo(or)town/Redux. Hapless Bizarre was first developed in a Yard creative residency in 2012 and features dancers and clowns exploring the intersection between slapstick comedy and choreography.

For a complete summer schedule, visit dancetheyard.org or call 508-645-9677.