Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
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Mini-Performance
About Alvin Ailey
Ailey’s Style
Born in a small Texas town in 1931, Alvin Ailey began his dance training at age eleven by being exposed to classical, social, and folk dances, as well as new techniques of modern dance.
Alvin Ailey’s dance style developed from his memories of growing up in the South and his careful observation of human movement. Ailey then assembled movements to create dances that were uniquely his own. During the miniperformance, watch for movements that show:
Ailey embarked on his career during a period when opportunities for African American dancers like himself were severely limited. Ailey wanted to create a company that allowed African American dancers to display their talents and to express their experiences and heritage. Decades later, when he formed the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, it was one of the first professional companies where dancers of all races and backgrounds were welcome.
• turning, bending, and jumping across large distances • contracted muscles, creating forceful, angular lines • expressive hand movements • influences from African American culture
Performances for Young Audiences is made possible by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Alvin Ailey’s Revelations. Photo by Paul Kolnik.