Ailey II has evolved into a formidable force in the modern dance community. The company is presently experiencing unparallel success having recently completed a 49-city tour spanning both North America and Europe.
Sylvia Waters is the Artistic Director for Ailey II, the junior company of the renown Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, which she has led since its inception in 1974. Waters was hand-picked by Alvin Ailey to lead the new venture and under her direction Ailey II has grown into a powerful company in its own right.
Since its formation in 1958, New York's Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has played a pivotal role in pushing and transforming the boundaries of modern dance, particularly in the United States. But as a child Yannick Lebrun of French Guiana didn't know that history.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, past and future, irradiated the stage of Berkeley's Zellerbach Hall on Tuesday evening when the company launched its annual Cal Performances residency, a relationship that stretches back over four decades and give no sign of ending, despite a change in artistic leadership next season.
It takes many years of study to acquire a professional level of dance technique, so aspiring dancers must begin training at a very young age. Even those who start performing professionally as youngsters must continue training through their adolescent years.
On its final tour with artistic director Judith Jamison, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performed its signature piece, "Revelations," as well as strong new work at the 5th Avenue Theatre.
Our tour concluded with wonderful performances in Truro, Belfast, and Salford, each city broadening my view of the UK’s landscapes, fashion, and people. Truro was interesting, almost like a maze with all of the curving streets and alleyway shops. Belfast was an adventure, especially because we stayed near a lot of historical sights.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater visits Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre on March 25-27, celebrating the 50th anniversary of "Revelations" and bringing new works.
Hello everyone. Our UK tour has ended and we’ve made it back to New York City safe and sound. The last leg of the tour included Truro, Belfast, and Salford. Our visits to Truro and Belfast were quick ones, so I didn’t really get the chance to indulge myself in getting acquainted with the cities, but I enjoyed what I could.
During a performance of the famed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, principal dancer Renee Robinson wants the audience to feel "this is the only place in the world I want to be."