The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's 50th Anniversary tour swayed into Cleveland last night with such fluid motion and intense joy and drama that I am still elated this morning.Anyone who had the pleasure to witness the brilliance of this performance should feel honored. The show opened with a film, "A Golden Anniversary Celebration," recounting the life of Alvin Ailey and his rise in the world of American dance. Not a regular follower of all things dance, I was struck by the continued growth of Ailey's dream and legacy.
Judith Jamison, Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, has taken Mr. Ailey vision of making dance something everyone can enjoy and taken it to another stratosphere. From the professional company to summer camp and even dance lessons and exercise for those who only long to be as smooth and svelte as the principals in the Company.
The performance began with Blues Suite, a tribute to the down home feeling that only the blues can present. As I said, I'm not a dance aficionado so I won't attempt to describe the plies and the Allonge'.
Reviewing the program book, my sister and I found that opening night was definitely a treat with at least fourteen scenes spanning 1958-1984. The combination of dance and music lifted the audience from the State Theater in 2009 back in history. Stories were told of love, loss and faith all through the deft movement of limbs.
I would recommend that anyone interested in the arts take the time out of your busy schedules to enjoy the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. It is well worth the time and the money.
Oh yes, love AAA Dance Theater! Nothing beats watching them perform "Revelations." Of course, I do have an old tape of Judith Jamison performing "Cry" which comes pretty darn close to perfection.
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