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Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at BAM
In half a century of innovation this dance company has become an American cultural institution
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Alvin Ailey’s Blues Suite (Photo: Steve Vaccariello)
Throughout their 50 years, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre (AAADT) has become an American cultural institution, ambassador and renowned company. They have seen triumphant successes, as well as challenges. At times, it seems the only tradition to keep a company going is innovation and change, which must be balanced by their own particular flavor. AAADT has influenced the art form and weathered storms, all the while remaining true to their spirit of American dance.
With two programs catered to their vast and applauded repertory, the company will perform at the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House from June 9–14. The works, which span the decades, serve to celebrate the dancers and choreography, and to close out their anniversary celebrations.
Program A, titled Best Of features works of three choreographers. Hymn was created in 1993 by Judith Jamison, Artistic Director and famed Ailey dancer, as a tribute to the diversity of Ailey’s choreography. It’s a collaboration between Jamison and actress Anna Deavere Smith, who wrote and will narrate this multi-disciplinary performance. Suite Otis, a playfully romantic piece, was choreographed in 1971 by George Faison and set to the music of Otis Redding. Revelations, Ailey’s 1960 masterpiece, will be performed in its entirety. The piece escalated the company to international recognition with its soul, spirituality and traditional score.
The theme of Program B is Classic Ailey spanning about 30 years of his masterful work. Animated and compelling, Blues Suite was premiered in 1958 and was a fitting introduction to a company that would go on to trademark a humanness and passionate quality in their dancing. Also on Program B is Revelations, again performed in its entirety. Anniversary Highlights presets excerpts from Phases (1980), Landscape (1981), For Bird—With Love (1984), Caverna Magica (1986) and Opus McShann (1988). With the music of some great composers and Ailey’s choreography, we get a glimpse into a time, place and feeling; the program should be an adventure through the company’s repertory.
What began in 1958 with the premiere of Alvin Ailey and his troupe of young modern dancers at the 92nd Street Y, AAADT has gone on to perform for millions of people throughout 71 countries. Now under the direction of Judith Jamison, they have celebrated their 50th anniversary during this past year with special outreach programs, books, exhibits, dolls and greeting cards. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is an enduring slice of American Dance and with their celebratory programs at BAM, the audience can share in their history.