The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was conceived in Rogers, Texas, and later moved to New York City. Alvin Ailey would see his dance company flourish and grow in to an American institution over the course of his life. In the late 50s and 60s, by changing the perception of modern dance, and how black dancers were viewed in the profession, the Ailey Company set a standard of excellence and dominance in the field.
The founder of the dance company, Alvin Ailey, created dances in remembrance of his upbringing inTexas, by evoking the elements of blues, spirituals, and gospel music in his work. He created 79 pieces, though his company commissioned works from the past and new ones while he was alive.
Alvin Ailey died in 1989 and left his company in the hands of longtime mentee and friend, Judith Jamison.
Alvin Ailey died in 1989 and left his company in the hands of longtime mentee and friend, Judith Jamison.
For over 21 years, Judith Jamison, a world-renowned dancer in her own right, helped bring the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater global recognition as an elite dance company that focuses on its rich culture and history. The dance company is now under the direction of Artistic Director, Robert Battle. He took over the position in July 2011.
Jamison says of her successor, the third person to head the Company, “Combining an intimate knowledge of the Ailey Company with an independent perspective, Robert Battle is without question the creative force of the future.”
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was in full force this past weekend at the Jones Hall For The Performing Arts. Beginning with the choreography of Rennie Harris, entitled, Home (2011), inspired by the “Fight HIV Your Way” initiative. Dancer’s moved to soul-lifting gospel house music and showcased their love for modern dance, all the while, sending out a message about the forgotten individuals who harbor the deadly disease.
During intermission the crowd was introduced to a dancing mime. Not knowing that his performance would lead in to the next piece , Minus 16 (1999), choreographed by Ohad Nahrin; the crowd was in for a treat. The dance composition is based on excerpts from works from the past and present including Mabul (1992), Anaphaza (1993), Zachacha (1998), and Three (2005). The dancers included audience members in the performance, and received a standing ovation after finishing the dance composition.
The finale, Revelations (1960), a critically acclaimed piece, choreographed by, Alvin Ailey, was performed last on stage. The dance piece features traditional music and is a testament to an individual’s salvation. There are three performances that are in this moving dance including Pilgrim of Sorrow, Take Me To The Water, and Move, Members Move.
Audience members were captivated from beginning to end with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s performance. They proved that as a dance company they are an American staple for the performing arts.
Check out the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Performances below.
By kYmberly Keeton
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