Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater by Jack Mitchell

More than 25 million audience members in 71 countries have been to a performance. This masterwork has been seen by more people than any other modern dance. Revelations is Alvin Ailey’s signature work and has been performed by the company since its creation in 1960. He not only choreographs new works, but also invites other artists to create dances for the company. Today, Robert Battle serves as artistic director of AAADT. Watch (and learn) what makes Ailey “Ailey”:Īiley died in 1989, but his legacy lives on through his company and school. According to the New York Times, “You didn’t need to have known Alvin personally to be touched by his humanity, enthusiasm, and exuberance and his courageous stand for multicultural brotherhood.” When he formed AAADT, it was one of the first professional companies where dancers of all races and backgrounds were welcome. But at the start of his career, he encountered few opportunities for African American dancers like himself.Īiley wanted to create a company that allowed African American dancers to display their talents and to express their own experiences and heritage. Photo: Portrait of Alvin Ailey by Jack Mitchell.īorn in a small Texas town in 1931, Ailey began his dance training at age 11 by being exposed to classical, social, and folk dances, as well as the emerging style of modern dance. Based in New York City, the company has toured all over the world. No surprise-they’ve been front and center in the dance world since 1958. You may have heard of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

'Take Action' (a creative activation exercise).

'Think About This' (reflection question).

'Check This Out!' (what to look for and discussion questions).

'What's the Big Deal about Revelations?' (a breakdown of Ailey's signature work with photos and video links).

'What's Going On?' (information about choreographer Alvin Ailey and the company's history).The Student Guide offers information about:

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater by Jack Mitchell