JO’S DREAM: AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE OF “THE FLOCK” ON BANNERMAN ISLAND

Step into the world of “The Flock” with a self-guided walkabout through a fantasy world.

“The Flock” is a large scale dance and film project created by Skyla Schreter Dance company (SSD), based on Richard Bach’s 1970 novel “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” and led by Beacon-based choreographer and director Skyla Schreter.

Thanks to funding from the New York State Council on the Arts, and in partnership with Bannerman Castle Trust, the 5th chapter of this of project, titled “Jo’s Dream” will be filmed entirely on Bannerman Island in September 2026 and included as a short film in the completed work in 2027.

In this one-weekend only immersive experience, imagined by SSD creative director Aaron Sanders, visitors will be given a bespoke, handmade map of the Island created in collaboration with Beacon-based artist Chris Ams, which will serve as the guide for visitors to explore the imagined world of “Jo’s Dream” on the Island.

This self-guided tour provides visitors with a unique experience of Bannerman Island, offering a different way to explore the island through imagination and storytelling.

The experience will begin upon boarding the Estuary Steward Boat in Beacon, where visitors will be invited into the world of “Jo’s Dream” and given their map. Following the 30 minute scenic boat ride, visitors will have an hour and a half to explore the island before the return boat trip to Beacon.

Check in details

The RV Estuary Steward leaves from the floating dock located at 2 Red Flynn Drive, Beacon, NY 12508

Please plan to arrive 30 minutes before your departure.

What to bring

The tour departs from Beacon, NY and advance booking is required for all tours! Please wear comfortable shoes as there is some rough terrain on the walking tour portion of the experience.

Strollers cannot be accommodated.

There is a 72-step climb from the dock to the start of the tour (there is a rest stop along the way). Bannerman Island is not handicap accessible and can not accommodate wheelchairs.

Food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase snacks and souvenirs on Bannerman Island.

Only service dogs as described by the ADA are allowed on Bannerman island.

Extras

Concessions will be available for purchase on the island.

Disclaimers

Please dress according to the weather as this is a fully outdoor experience. Walking/hiking shoes are strongly encouraged to explore all the Island has to offer.

FAQs

—learn more about the making of “The Flock” at https://www.skylaschreterdance.com/projects/the-flock or on Instagram at @skylaschreter.dance

To visit our FAQs page: https://bannermancastle.org/contact/faq/