The Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey presented Ailey II for a series of performances at the Folly Theater. Thursday's performance featured two premieres, kick starting the series.
"I feel like I'm leaving my child!" calls out Dwana Smalwood, as the studio door clicks shut behind her. She feigns a weeping expression - wide eyes glancing backward, lithe arms gesturing loningly - then lets out a self-effacing laugh, knowing she'll be back right after lunch.
At the opening night of Ailey II's New York season in April, the last under Sylvia Waters' direction, the house was full of tears, cheers, and - before any dancing had even occured - a standing ovation.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater grew from a now-fabled performance in March 1958, at the 92nd Street Y in NEw York City. Led by Alvin AIley and a group of young African-American modern Dancers, that performance changed forever the perception of American dance.
For two kids with a passion for dance, nothing could stop them from realizing their dreams. Because of their spirit and dedication, these two, now in their early 20s, are dancing with one of the most prestigious - and competitive - dance companies in the city.
The members of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater are adept in what might be termed "extreme dancing" - the jumps seem trampoline-enhanced, the splits are frequently beyond a hundred and eighty degrees, and the drama is off the charts.
Somewhere near the top of the modern-dance family tree, where the foliage is plentiful, you'll find Sylvia Waters. This season after 38 years on the job, Ms. Waters will step down as artistic director of Ailey II, the second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where her main triumph has been to cultivate dancers and nurture their inner stars.
Ailey II, the youthful and gifted second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will return to its home, The Ailey Citigroup Theater, from April 18-29 for a highly anticipated two-week season - the last led by 38-year Artistic Director Sylvia Waters.
Life can be a testament to one's mettle. How one faces personal setbacks and challenges is always an individual decision and evidence of their will to authenticate their true nature. Ailey II dancer Paige Fraser has met every challenge with the attitude of a champion.
Ailey II dancers, Paige Fraser and Yusaku Komori perform an excerpt of "Echoes" on Good Day ahead of their Bass Hall performance.