Sylvia Waters had no intention of leading a dance company but the legendary Alvin Ailey saw a passion in her that he would not allow the world to pass by. Some 35 years ago, the late American choreographer and activist invited Waters to launch Ailey II — the junior company to his school and it has since has grown into an international success story.
Attending Indian weddings and ending up the night sweaty and tired from hours of bhangra dancing have been regular parts of my weekend repertory since I was a child. The catchy music can entice even the most die-hard wallflower to move.
Whenever I read about people who are in thrall to a dance craze, my world suddenly seems too small. Oh, to dance the mazurka until my footmen are forced to carry me home on a makeshift gurney at dawn; oh, to spurn a dinner invitation to Scott and Zelda's because I literally cannot stop doing the Charleston.
Imagine you're in the audience at, say, "Swan Lake," and the ballerinas you've been watching suddenly swoop over to your seat, envelop you with their wings and spirit youonstage to flutter along en pointe.
Ballet Tennessee of Chattanooga, NT, welcomes Ailey II to its hometown for one night only, presenting this group of vibrant young dancers at the Tivoli Theatre on Jan. 28.
Expanding its repertoire in an unexpected direction, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater brought power and surpassing lyricism to Paul Taylor's "Arden Court," at New York City Center, this month.
Dance seems to have always been a part of Judith Jamison's road in life. Growing up, she trained early in dance and music and attended the Philadelphia Dance Academy. In 1964, she started performing with the American Ballet Theatre.
Hip-Hop dancer and teacher Jonathan Lee shows you how to master floats, clides and slides.
The Alvin Ailey company isn't just about "Revelations." Now artistic director Robert Battle put together a program Tuesday night of four varied works - from revivals to a recent commission - to unveil his company's changing face.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returned for its 40th season at New York City Center on Nov. 30 under a new artistic director, Robert Battle, its first since famed choreographer Judith Jamison took over following Ailey's death in 1989. Among the troupe's latest productions is Home, a hip-hop routine that celebrates people affected by HIV, appropriately set to premiere on World AIDS Day, Dec. 1.