BECKET, MA — Production Manager Kathryn “Kat” Sirico Dies in Workplace Accident at Jacob’s Pillow

BECKET, MA — Production Manager Kathryn “Kat” Sirico Dies in Workplace Accident at Jacob’s Pillow

Identified Victim

The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that the victim of the accidental fatality at Jacob’s Pillow was 40-year‑old Kathryn “Kat” Sirico, a dedicated Production Manager from Rochester, New York

What Happened

• On Friday, August 1, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Becket Police and medical responders arrived at Jacob’s Pillow after reports of an accident on the festival grounds

• According to the DA’s office, Sirico and a summer intern were transporting staging platforms on a dolly across a sloped area of the property.

• The dolly lost control downhill, and when Sirico attempted to regain it, she tripped and fell. The dolly ran over her and the platforms fell on top of her, resulting in fatal injuries

Bystanders immediately performed life-saving efforts, and first responders arrived promptly, but Sirico was pronounced dead at the scene

Investigation & Ruling

• The Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office has ruled the incident a workplace accident, and no criminal charges will be filed

• Investigations are ongoing by Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and OSHA to determine the formal cause of death and ensure workplace safety protocols are reviewed

💔 Remembering Kat Sirico

A Valued Leader & Longtime Member of Jacob’s Pillow

• Sirico had been affiliated with Jacob’s Pillow since 2005, beginning as an intern and rising through the ranks to become Production Manager of the Doris Duke Theater in February 2025

• Executive and Artistic Director Pamela Tatge described Kat as “an essential and hugely devoted leader on our team,” adding that “their spirit, generosity, and dedication touched the lives of many”

Deep Impact Beyond the Pillow

• At the University of Rochester, where Sirico supported the dance and movement program starting in late 2024, colleagues emphasized her professionalism, creativity, and inclusive leadership in productions and workshops

• Her lighting work, mentorship, and collaborative spirit earned respect and admiration from artists and students alike.

🌳 How Jacob’s Pillow Responded

• In the wake of her death, Jacob’s Pillow immediately canceled all performances and events scheduled from August 1 through August 3 and closed the campus to allow for mourning and investigation

• The organization pledged to resume performances and events the following week, honoring Sirico’s memory with care and solemnity

✨ A Legacy of Dedication

Kat Sirico’s life and work left a lasting imprint:

• Her years of service at Jacob’s Pillow made her a key part of one of the country’s most influential dance festivals.

• She combined artistry, technical skill, and leadership—enhancing the experience for performers and audiences across the Berkshires and beyond.

• Her kindness, work ethic, and commitment to collaboration fostered a supportive, vibrant creative environment.

📋 Incident Summary

🕯️ In Closing

The death of Kat Sirico is a profound loss for Jacob’s Pillow, the broader arts community, and all who knew her as a mentor, collaborator, and friend. Her passion, creativity, and leadership enriched countless productions and lives.