Arts & Entertainment

Ailey's multicultural ballet comes to Jones Hall

By Chris Goodier
The Daily Cougar

The Society for the Performing Arts presents yet another groundbreaking modern dance performance this weekend at Jones Hall. Having earned a reputation as an ambassador of American culture, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater carries to Houston the essence of black expression.

Photo courtesy of SPAH

In Rogers, Texas, at the dawn of economic collapse and social upheaval in 1931, Alvin Ailey found inspiration in the works of The Katherine Dunham Dance Company and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. As he began to cultivate his own distinct style, Ailey held close the "blood memories" of his home state through the use of blues, spiritual and gospel music.

Ailey created a total of 79 ballets, of which Revelations was by far the most popular. He secured his companyis mission as a haven for cultural enrichment by employing landmark works of the past and emerging ideas of the present. Forty five years after their initial assembly on 92^nd street in New York, The Ailey has performed more than 170 works credited to over 65 choreographers.

Aileyis career brought modern dance to the stages of 68 countries and an estimated 19 million people; his death in 1989 heralded a replacement by the companyis most accomplished veteran. Judith Jamison danced for The Ailey from 1965-1980, creating such a significant impact that the groupis founder developed for her a solo titled "Cry."

As evidence of a maturing performance mission, The Ailey will present a colorful array of pieces each night, including Following the Subtle Current Upstream, Prayers From the Edge and Revelations, tonight and Saturday.

Sundayis matinee features The Winter in Lisbon, Love Songs, Serving Nia and Revelations.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performs at 8 p.m. tonight and Saturday evening. Sundayis 2 p.m. matinee rounds out the visit. 

Tickets range from $15 to $50 and may be purchased by calling (713) 227-4SPA or through the SPA website at www.spahouston.org.

Students with a proper I.D. are eligible for a 50 percent discount at the Jones Hall street-level box office the day of the show.

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