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Memoir of an Ailey
New book follows a young dancer through her training
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After a year of special events, releases, performances, and exhibitions, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater closes out their 50th Anniversary celebration by bringing us full circle: Back to the beginning, and back to where the future of the Ailey company is nurtured—the dance students and a school of young hopefuls.
A Young Dancer: The Life of an Ailey Student will be released on March 31, and is great for young readers. The hardcover book walks us through the daily routine of a student at the esteemed Ailey School in New York City, by way of 13-year-old Iman Bright.
“We started doing the book when she was 13,” says Tracy Inman, the Junior Division Co-Director. “It shows her warming up at the barre, and doing ballet, Limón Technique, Spanish dance, and West African dance. At the time she was in Level Five of the Junior Division.”
With author Valerie Gladstone and photographer José Ivey, this collaboration of text and photos provides telling images and descriptive narrative to highlight the daily happenings of an Ailey student. The book is a relatable way for children to see the training, technique and dedication of this young dancer, who also likes to hang out with friends and play music.
Written like a journal, we see the very personal and animated story of Iman’s routine, also granting access into the vast styles and techniques offered at the school. “Mr. Ailey believed dance comes from the people and should be given back to the people. So, the book opens doors to young dancers, and they can become aware of all the techniques there are.”
In the spotlight is Miss Bright, who has been training at the Ailey School for roughly nine years. She began at a young age in Level One of the Junior Division, when students are first introduced to ballet. “She has a bright energy about her and she’s a role model for young African-Americans,” says Inman. Talented and enthusiastic about dance, Iman Bright represents the excitement and vigor of all aspiring dancers.
Alvin Ailey’s 50th anniversary has been about sharing dance with the population at large. “It gives a lot of young dancers a chance to see what we do at the Ailey School, and Mr. Ailey’s vision for dance,” says Inman. “It helps present it to a broad audience, African-American or any dancer. The book makes it universal.”