Alvin Ailey1931-1989

Early years Born in Rogers Texas. Moved to California at the age of 14. Began dance career with Lester

Horton. Began his own company in the

1950’s.

*Company is predominantly black but He encouraged integration.

*He encouraged dancers to make their own dances.

*He is responsible for bringing black traditions and black dancers to modern dance.

Dancers Judith Jamison was a lead dancer with the

company for 15 years. After Ailey died she became the artistic director.

Famous dances Alvin Ailey’s first choreography was “Blues

Suite.” Two of his most popular and famous

dances are “Revelations” which reflects his Southern Baptist background and “Cry” which was made for his mother and is a tribute to all mothers and the suffering, joy, and frustration they go through.

Choreography/ Philosophy Ailey’s company does not only perform

dances he creates, but has also performed pieces by Katherine Dunham and Donald Byrd.

To Ailey, dance is more than steps, form and pattern- it is theater, action charged with emotion.