ALVIN AILEY ® AMERICAN DANCE THEATER

JUDITH JAMISON Artistic DirectorMasazumi Chaya Associate Artistic Director

Great dance does more than tell a story or demonstrate physical command. Alvin Ailey showed us that great dance can be a window to the hear and soul, revealing our deepest selves and giving form to memories and dreams. The wonder of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is the ability of these magnificent artists to reflect emotions and experiences in ways that touch us and teach us something about ourselves. As artistic director for more than 15 years, Judith Jamison has led the company with her far-reaching vision and incomparable grace, guiding dancers and audiences together toward ever-greater discovery and awareness.

About the Company

47 years of history and 30 dancers strong, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is dancing into the 21st century “to explore all those nooks and crannies we haven’t been to yet,” says artistic director Judith Jamison. The company was founded in 1958 by the late Alvin Ailey, on the heels of his success as a Broadway dancer and in fulfillment of his initiative and creative vision. Despite the wealth of dances that the company possesses from Mr. Ailey himself, it has mandated continued acquisition and commissions of new works. Thus today’s good fortune is a repertoire of some 170 pieces by 65 different choreographers.

Critic's Comments

“Smart, passionate, and technically impressive, these Ailey dancers perform as if they believe in the power of communication.”

- The New York Times

“They will have you swooning with pleasure.”

– Backstage

Evening's Program

Love Stories (2004)Choreography: Judith Jamison, Rennie Harris, Robert Battle Music: Stevie WonderShades of the Philly Bop, Lindy Hop, jitterbug, and hip-hop illuminate the technique, energy, rhythm of African-American social dance

Acceptance In Surrender (2005)Choreography: Hope Boykin, Abdur-Rahim Jackson, Matthew Rushing Music: Original score by Philip HamiltonAiley dancers create a new work portraying a spiritual journey

Solo (1997)

Choreography: Hans van Manen

Music: Johann Sebastian Bach’s Violin Suite #1 in D Minor

A race of intricate footwork and white-hot dance challenges the Ailey men’s daring and agility.

Revelations (1960)

Choreography: Alvin Ailey

Music: Traditional spirituals

The company’s signature masterpiece inspires with timeless themes and emotional journey

Performances at Northrop

1971, 1973, 1974, 1981, 1985, 1989, 1997, 2000, 2005