Montclair, New Jersey's own Chalvar Monteiro, who has been with Ailey since 2015, continues his leading role in two of the World Premiere performances. The work is set to an original composition by Duke Ellington and four jazz standards given an avant-garde twist by composer Rafiq Bhatia. The program also welcomes In a Sentimental Mood, an intimate scene from the domestic life of a couple that becomes an exploration of love and desire. Scored to a “mixtape” of soul, hip-hop, and R&B from beloved musical artists like Jhené Aiko, Drake, Lauryn Hill, Kendrick Lamar, Jazmine Sullivan, and Summer Walker, the critically applauded work explores the connections among music, communication, and personal memory. This program also features two Alvin Ailey classics set to the musical genius of Duke Ellington: Reflections in D ,a strong yet serene solo known to highlight the grace, artistry, and power of the male dancer and Night Creature, a bubbly champagne cocktail of a dance that perfectly fuses Ailey’s buoyant choreography and Duke Ellington’s sparkling music.Īudiences will have two opportunities to experience the “New Jersey Premieres ” program (Fri., May 12, 8pm and Sun., May 14 at 3pm), featuring acclaimed choreographer Kyle Abraham’s Are You in Your Feelings?, a celebration of Black culture, Black music, and the youthful spirit that perseveres in us all.
The 2023 version of "Survivors" from Alvin AileyĪ soundtrack of Max Roach’s richly varied drumming and Abbey Lincoln’s powerful vocals sets the emotional tone for Survivors. It's incredible seeing this work come back to life." I think it's important that we understand that Alvin Ailey was ahead of his time, that before the notion of Black Lives Matter became a verbal statement, it was an embodiment of the type of work that Alvin Ailey did and the type of leaders and freedom fighters that he wanted to reflect on that stage. At that time, we didn't know if Mandela would be released. He doesn't necessarily leave you resolved. It was an expression of Alvin Ailey's rage over the situation, and how that situation sort of reflected racism in our own country. The ballet takes place just as Nelson Mandela is about to be thrown in jail. "I've been wanting to bring back that work that Alvin Ailey created and hasn't been seen in over 30 years.
Robert Battle, now in his 11th year as Artistic Director, is excited to see Survivors performed on the NJPAC stage. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Artistic Director Robert Battle is in his 11th season
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