Review: ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER Celebrates the Legacy of Mr. Ailey at the New York City Center

"American Cultural Ambassadors," Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, returns to the New York City Center stage for its 45th consecutive year December 2, 2015-January 3, 2016. This five week engagement, led under the direction of Artistic Director Robert Battle, has become such a wonderful holiday tradition here in New York.

One of the many special programs to highlight include the All Ailey performances, which is comprised of works solely choreographed by Mr. Ailey himself. The evening began with a beautiful piece entitled Memoria: IN MEMORY- IN CELEBRATION. Mr. Ailey choreographed this piece shortly after the premature death of his dear friend and acclaimed choreographer Joyce Trisler in 1979. It was a joy to watch this moving piece as the dancers performed with such grace, strength, and ease across the stage. An added bonus was the adjoining talent of company members of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, and advanced students of The Ailey School, marking the first time Mr. Ailey combined all three into one piece. It was such a treat to watch everyone on the stage at the same time. The alluring movements truly highlights the genius of Ailey as a great choreographer.

Next was the stunning new production of Love Songs, originally created for the legendary Dudley Williams, who passed away earlier this year, in 1972.This three-part piece, performed by Rehearsal Director and Guest Artist Matthew Rushing, traces the dancer's journey through love, anguish, and determination to overcome adversity. The dancers had the amazing opportunity to work with Williams himself on this dance, which is now a time that will always be treasured. Rushing performed with such emotion, taking on a wondrous presence on the stage. Ailey's choreography gives the dancer a unique opportunity to express both the power and gentleness of the male dancer. This was wonderfully done and executed as it brought everyone to their feet!

Cry, a piece dedicated for all Black women everywhere, especially our mothers, was originally choreographed by Mr. Ailey in 1971 as a birthday present for his mother, Lula Cooper. First performed by the legendary and Artistic Director Emerita, Judith Jamison, the female soloist depicts the trials, tribulations, and joyful triumphs over hardships. I absolutely loved it! Linda Celeste Sims did a wonderful job evoking the emotions of Ailey's heart and appreciation for his mother.

The evening ended with the much anticipated piece, Revelations. This originally premiered in 1960 and has become a masterpiece by Mr. Ailey. It was truly breathtaking! This timeless signature always proves why it is a cultural staple in the world of dance. The dancers performed with such emotion and powerful elegance, as after five decades, it continues to inspire audiences from all over the globe.

Whether you have seen this company perform year after year, or if this will be your first time, I highly encourage you to come out and see the spectacular performances by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online at www.alvinailey.org or www.nycitycenter.org or at the New York City Center Box Office, through CityTix at (212) 581-1212. This is a season not to miss!

Photo Credit: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Alvin Ailey's Revelations. Photo by Gert Krautbauer

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