8.16.2008

50th Anniversary of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater


Just the day after the summer intensive, Candy and I went to New York City Center (the studio for summer intensive classes is in this building) again, because on that day Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) was celebrating its 50th anniversary there. The West 55th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues was close for pedestrians only and it was really a street party, with stalls selling clothing, accessories, food, etc, and stalls holding activities for kids.




There was also a stage set for providing free lessons of drumming, Horton, Hip Hop and West African dance to the public. As we saw, a lot of people passing by were attracted and joined the free lessons. It was really happy and excited to learn dancing with so many people on the street!

Aside from the street party, free dance performances were provided as well, and we were fortunate that the programs shown on that day were the classical dance pieces created by Mr. Ailey, such as Phases (excerpt), "Bird" - With Love (excerpt), Blues Suite (excerpt) and Revelations. The dancers were terrific with sophisticated dance techniques. On the other hand, the audience was mostly fans of AAADT, highly lifted up the atmosphere of the performance.

We had a great time for this celebration activity held by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater!

--- Stella

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