Ailey II appeared at the Hult Center last night and it was an electric performance! The group of twelve dancers performed four dances choreographed by Alvin Ailey, Robert Battle, and Benoit-Swan Pouffer. Each dancer has been with the company for one to two years and competed with thousands to win their positions.
Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble started forty years ago and I first saw them perform at Yerba Buena Center in San Francisco. Their amazing talent continues to wow audiences worldwide!
“Ailey II is renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of outstanding emerging choreographers.”
Mr. Ailey selected Sylvia Waters as Artistic Director and she led the company for thirty-eight years. When she retired in 2012 she named Troy Powell as her successor.”
Alvin Ailey established an extended cultural environment providing dance performances, training, and special community programs. His American Dance Theater first performed in March 1958 at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. The young African-American dancers went on to change the world’s perception of modern dance.
“Before his untimely death in 1989, Alvin Ailey designated renowned dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison as his successor.” She served for 21 years and the Company flourished under her leadership. In 2011, Ms. Jamison selected Robert Battle to succeed her as Artistic Advisor. Since then, his energy and talent have brought new life to the company!
The evening’s grand finale was Revelations, a special piece choreographed by Mr. Ailey and one of my favorites! It’s a suite of touching, lively dances set to traditional spirituals and blues music including Wade in the Water, Sinner Man, and Rocka My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham. Their performance received a standing ovation!
During their 2013-2014 tour the modern dance company will perform in 30 cities throughout the US and abroad.