One way students can explore dance's past is by learning historical repertory. Ailey/Fordham BFA students take Black Traditions in American Dance and World Dance History, which are often coordinated with repertory classes. "The movement shows you a different side of what you're learning in the classroom," says Marie Paspe, a recent graduate of the program, who learned Blues Suite and Revelations from Ailey II artistic director emerita Sylvia Waters.
Dancers use strength and agility to make midair splits and elaborate lifts look effortless. Take it from these pros, who've mastered everything from ballet to break dancing, then try our flexibility workout to feel long and limber.
Fordham graduate Courtney Celeste Spears is in her second season with Ailey II, one of two troupes in the world-renowned dance company. "Since we spend eight hours a day training, dancers have a unique love for activewear," she says.
From battling scoliosis at an early age to touring the world with one of the country's premier dance troupes, Samantha Barriento never felt out of tune with her passion for dance. "There is never a day that I question whether or not this was a good decision," Barriento told NBC News.
For more than 40 years, Ailey II, the junior ensemble of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, has thrilled audiences with its performances. The company travels for most of the year, but comes back to New York City for its two week season every spring.
It's no secret that Ailey II, the Alvin Ailey American Repertory Ensemble, is a launch pad for exciting young dancers and choreographer who are dance's next generation. The company's two-week season, beginning March 30 at the Ailey CitiGroup Theatre, spotlights 12 talented performers in a mix of modern masterpieces, returning favorites and premieres...
Courtney Celeste Spears, recipient of the 2015 Princess Grace Award and dancer with Ailey II, sits down with Chris Glorioso to discuss the upcoming Ailey II dance programs, "All New" and "Returning Favorites," for the 2016 season.
La talentosa bailarina Samantha Barriento regresa a Nueva York.
A crowd filled the little steps of City Hall Wednesday morning for the historic marker dedication for legendary hometown dancer and choreographer Alvin Ailey. Rogers Mayor Tammy Cockrum, who emceed the event, said she was not only impressed by the town's response with more than 50 residents and almost 150 students in attendance, but also from people who traveled to Rogers from across Central Texas and even as far as Houston.