Encore Atlanta

February 2007 Fabulous Fox Theatre

Dance of astonishing beauty and power

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Fox

By Kristi Casey Sanders

“Atlanta is a rich historical and cultural landscape, so it’s always a joy to return each year,” says Judith Jamison, artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (The Ailey). “The warmth and energy of this city inspires our dancers in a way that is indescribable.”

The February engagement at The Fox Theatre kicks off the company’s 2007 North American tour, which ends May 6. Highlights of the program include the company premiere of Twyla Tharp’s “The Golden Section,” the popular signature piece “Revelations,” and a new production of the Alvin Ailey-Duke Ellington collaboration, “The River,” restaged by Associate Artistic Director Masazumi Chaya. A special performance of “Grace” on Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. honors the 25th anniversary of Renee Robinson, the only dancer in the current company hand-picked by Ailey.

The Ailey began in 1958 with a performance at the 92nd Street Young Men’s Hebrew Association in New York City featuring choreographer Alvin Ailey and a group of young, African-American modern dancers. Since then, the company has performed for an estimated 21 million people in 48 states and in 71 countries on six continents. Its repertoire consists of more than 200 works by more than 70 choreographers, including 79 ballets by Alvin Ailey. During the Atlanta leg, the company presents a mix of new and classic works from its repertoire, with two student matinees on Feb. 1 and 2.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater plays The Fox Theatre Feb. 1-4, 2007.

A guide to what’s playing:

Love Stories An exploration of exuberant dance past, present and future, integrating Alvin Ailey choreography, African-American social dances and contemporary dance. A collaboration between Judith Jamison, hip-hop pioneer Rennie Harris and modern dance choreographer Robert Battle; soundscape by Darrin Ross, music by Stevie Wonder.
Thurs. & Fri., Feb. 1 & 2 @ 10:30 a.m.; Sat., Feb. 3 @ 2 & 8 p.m.

Revelations Alvin Ailey’s most famous work, a celebration of the gospel and spiritual music Ailey grew up with in 1930s Texas.
All shows, Thurs.-Sun., Feb. 1-4

The River Ailey and musician Duke Ellington collaborated in 1970 to create this allegory of birth, life and rebirth using elements of modern dance, classical ballet and jazz.
Thurs., Feb. 1 @ 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 4 @ 1:30 p.m.

The Golden Section A company premiere choreographed by Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp and scored by David Byrne. “Dancing of astonishing beauty and power.” — The New Yorker.
Thurs., Feb. 1 @ 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Feb. 4 @ 1:30 p.m.

Night Creature Considered one of Ailey’s best tributes to Duke Ellington’s jazz idiom, this 1975 piece is filled with nocturnal rituals, humor and humanity, and sizzles with intensity.
Fri., Feb. 2 @ 8 p.m.

Sweet Bitter Love An excerpt from Carmen de Lavallade’s sensual exploration of a love affair gone awry.
Fri., Feb. 2 @ 8 p.m.

Grace Choreographer Ronald K. Brown’s celebration of spiritual consciousness, inner strength and determination triumphing in the face of adversity, combining elements from African-Brazilian and hip-hop dance with the music of Duke Ellington, Roy Davis and Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The performance celebrates Renee Robinson’s 25th anniversary with the company.
Fri., Feb. 2 @ 8 p.m.

Shining Star Two lovers radiating beauty and strength are supported by their community in this suite of dances choreographed by David Parsons; music by Earth, Wind and Fire.
Sat., Feb. 3 @ 2 & 8 p.m.

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