Performing arts and dance have combined to mesmerize people for centuries. This form of art has developed over the years so much that there are now companies dedicated to just that. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre leads the line of organizations that have gone on to captivate fans around the US and beyond with performances that are nothing short of breathtaking. A lot of time and effort is invested by the dance company to hire and hone the skills of some of the best performers available to it today. Formed by Alvin Ailey, it has become a bit of a yardstick others are measured against. The organization’s allure has ensured that Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre tickets never have a problem selling out. With them now on tour, fans can expect another spellbinding series of performances.
About Alvin Ailey
Alvin Ailey is regarded by many to be the man who broke ground for African Americans to become dancing stars. Lester Horton took a young Ailey under his wings and taught him all that there was to know about dancing. When Horton passed away, Ailey took on different projects and moved to various cities. He also performed on Broadway but there still was something amiss.
Ailey began to create his own pieces when he could not find someone who, according to him, was as good as his deceased mentor. He wanted to create something unique and special and that is what made him create the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. That was to become Ailey’s platform to shine and shine he did. One epic performance after another, he cemented his reputation as one of the most famous names in dance history and won quite a few accolades along the way.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre was incepted in the year 1958. Ailey got together with a few black dancers and performed for the first time in March, 1958. He then choreographed “Revelations,” one of the most famous dance productions of all time. Not only that, but he also opened doors for people of different skin color to join the AAADT. Ailey passed away in 1989 but not before turning it into a famous and unique dance company.
Post Alvin Ailey
Judith Jamison took over as the artistic director. It remained that way till she was made the Artistic Director Emertia in 2011. During her tenure at the helm, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre carried on the legacy that Ailey left behind. The theater added numerous new projects to its repertoire and began to tour internationally more frequently. It also went on to win numerous awards.
Robert Battle was appointed as the Artistic Director Designate in 2011. He has been carrying out the duties ever since. He has added works from numerous other choreographers like Garth Fagan, Ohad Naharin, Jiri Kylian, Paul Taylor and Wayne McGregor. The AAADT also started the New Directions Choreography Lab that looks after aspiring talent.
What began as a small project has now morphed into one of the biggest names in dance production. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre has performed in six continents in some of the most famous arenas around the world. The AAADT show is about to get underway once again so get ready to be a part of it.