On December 30, the magnificent Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s New York City Center season closed. The month-long, much-anticipated celebration of Alvin Ailey’s world-renowned company, now led by Artistic Director Robert Battle, was marked by new productions, audience favorites, Company classics and farewell wishes.
Crowd-pleaser Grace, choreographed by Ronald K. Brown for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1999 and set to the spirited music of Nigeria’s Fela Kuti, was welcomed back and Another Night, choreographed by newcomer Kyle Abraham and set to Art Blakey & The Jazz Messenger’s rendition of Dizzy Gillespie’s, A Night in Tunisia, had its world premiere.
On December 9, fans paid tribute to long-time Ailey dancer Renee Robinson who was handpicked by Mr. Ailey himself. It was Robinson’s last season dancing with the Company after three decades.
At the start of the season on November 28, Battle relased the following statement: “I’m thrilled to be further expanding Ailey’s diverse repertory with new voices and talented contemporary choreographers that showcase the depth and breadth of the dancers’ artistry. Audiences will experience new treasures, along with encores of last season’s notable works and beloved pieces from Ailey’s rich history, including a program that highlights our founder Alvin Ailey,” said Artistic Director Robert Battle. “Between our Opening Night Gala Benefit and the Season Finale, there will be a variety of special programs that feature live music, all new works and a celebration of two much-admired Ailey family members who will be taking a bow - Sharon Gersten Luckman and Renee Robinson.”
On January 30, the Company will begin its 2013 North American tour. Below is the 21-city performance schedule ending in May 2013:
January 30-February 1, 2013
Philadelphia, PA
February 5-10, 2013
Washington, DC
February 12, 2013
Naples, FL
February 14-17, 2013
Atlanta, GA
February 19, 2013
Gainesville, FL
February 21-24, 2013
Miami, FL
February 26-27, 2013
Chapel Hill, NC
March 1-3, 2013
Hanover, NH
March 5-6, 2013
South Bend, IN
March 8-17, 2013
Chicago, IL
March 19, 2013
Indianapolis, IN
March 21-24, 2013
Detroit, MI
April 9-10, 2013
San Diego, CA
April 11, 2013
Palm Desert, CA
April 13-14, 2013
Santa Barbara, CA
April 17-21, 2013
Los Angeles, CA
April 23-28, 2013
Berkeley, CA
April 29-30, 2013
Davis, CA
May 3-4, 2013
Dallas, TX
May 10-12, 2013
Newark, NJ
May 16-19, 2013
Boston, MA