Beloved worldwide for its captivating performances, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is set to wrap up its 65th-anniversary coast-to-coast tour with a three-day extravaganza at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) from May 10 to 12, 2024. In a longstanding Mother’s Day tradition, Ailey returns to the NJPAC stage for the 25th time, treating tri-state residents to thrilling New Jersey premieres, a special production in honor of the Max Roach Centennial, and iconic repertory favorites, including the must-see American masterpiece, Revelations.
Ailey’s Remarkable Journey
As Ailey marks its 65th year, the dance company has embarked on a tour spanning 21 cities across the United States. This landmark celebration of dance and culture culminates at the NJPAC, where audiences can witness the magic of Ailey’s 32 extraordinary dancers, including two New Jersey natives, Chalvar Monteiro from Montclair and Christopher Taylor from Newark.
Exciting Premieres and Special Productions
The NJPAC performances promise to be a feast for the senses, featuring the New Jersey premieres of two specially commissioned works. Amy Hall Garner presents CENTURY, a deeply personal piece inspired by her grandfather’s impending 100th birthday, celebrating life, resilience, and joy against a backdrop of spirited music. Elizabeth Roxas-Dobrish’s duet, Me, Myself and You, set to Damien Sneed and Brandie Sutton’s rendition of “In A Sentimental Mood,” explores the themes of reminiscence and self-discovery.
Among the new productions, Hans van Manen’s seven-minute tour-de-force Solo and Alonzo King’s Following the Subtle Current Upstream (2000) promise to dazzle audiences. Solo showcases the internationally celebrated choreography of Hans van Manen, while King’s audacious piece delves into the interconnectedness of Western and Eastern classical forms, elemental materials, and the human spirit, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Timeless Classics and Tributes
The program also includes returning favorites such as Survivors (1986), a poignant tribute by Alvin Ailey and Mary Barnett to Nelson and Winnie Mandela, and Ailey’s signature masterpiece Revelations (1960). Survivors is a powerful reflection on the courage and anguish of those who resist oppression, featuring the richly varied drumming of Max Roach and vocals by Abbey Lincoln. Revelations, concluding each performance, draws from Ailey’s childhood memories, paying homage to the African American community’s cultural heritage and exploring the human condition’s emotional spectrum.
Beyond the Stage
In addition to the enthralling performances, NJPAC hosts a range of activities, including Ailey Day—a free community day offering dance classes on April 6—a Schooltime Performance for young students on May 10, and the annual summer AileyCamp running from July 1 to August 9.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary celebration of dance, culture, and artistic expression as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater brings its 65th-anniversary tour to a triumphant close at the NJPAC.
