The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT), one of the most celebrated cultural institutions in the world, will make its highly anticipated return to Atlanta in 2025. Six breathtaking performances are scheduled from February 12th to February 16th at the iconic Fox Theatre. This season is especially meaningful as it honors the life and legacy of Judith Jamison, the company’s Artistic Director Emerita, who passed away on November 9, 2024.
Since its founding in 1958 by Alvin Ailey, the company has revolutionized modern dance, bringing African American cultural expression to the forefront and creating a universal language of movement that resonates across the globe. Ailey, a Texas-born choreographer and visionary, aimed to celebrate the richness of African American heritage and the human experience through dance. The company’s first performance, held at New York City’s 92nd Street Y in 1958, featured Ailey’s iconic work Blues Suite, a piece that highlighted the emotional depth and spiritual roots of African American storytelling.
After Ailey’s death in 1989, Judith Jamison became Artistic Director and continued his mission, expanding the company’s repertoire while staying true to its roots. Under her leadership, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater grew into a global cultural ambassador, earning numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts. Jamison also founded Ailey II, a junior company that nurtures emerging talent and provides a platform for young dancers to develop their artistry.
This season’s performances reflect Jamison’s enduring influence and the company’s commitment to innovation and cultural celebration. The lineup includes Sacred Songs, choreographed by Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing, which reimagines spirituals originally included in the 1960 premiere of Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations. Other works include Finding Free by former company member Hope Boykin, an exploration of personal freedom set to jazz- and gospel-inspired music, and Many Angels by Lar Lubovitch, inspired by the 13th-century theological question, “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?”
Jamar Roberts, a former Ailey dancer, contributes Al-Andalus Blues, a piece that evokes the golden age of the Moors in Spain, set to music by Roberta Flack and Miles Davis. Ronald K. Brown’s Grace, celebrating its 25th anniversary, connects sacred and secular traditions in a dynamic blend of African and American dance. Rounding out the repertoire is a new staging of Elisa Monte’s Treading, a sculptural and mesmerizing duet filled with mystery and sensuality.
The season opens on February 12th with a special College Night performance at 7:30 PM, offering discounted tickets for students. College attendees can purchase tickets for $15 each or two for $25, plus fees, using the promo code COLLEGE.
Tickets and additional information are available at ailey.org/series/ailey-atlanta or foxtheatre.org.
As the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to Atlanta, audiences will be reminded of the transformative power of dance to tell stories, celebrate cultural heritage, and connect communities. This season, dedicated to the legacy of Judith Jamison, promises to inspire and uplift, continuing the company’s tradition of groundbreaking artistry and timeless storytelling.
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