Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
For just a few short weeks, the iconic Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has descended on the UK for the first time in six years. The tour began with a two-week, four-programme season at Sadler’s Wells, London, and will culminate at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh on 19 October. The tour will include just 10 venues, however the company's travel will mean more regional audiences will be able to see the company perform as part of its arrangement with Dance Consortium. This is a group of 17 large scale venues located across the UK.
Since 1958, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has performed to over 25 million people in 71 countries, on a total of six continents. 2016 is therefore seeing one of the world’s most popular dance companies return to the UK to present new and existing repertoire to audiences, including its Revelations masterpiece. During the company's stint in the UK, it will present 10 works in six programmes, creating variety and intrigue for its numerous audiences.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is now recognised by the US Congress as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World”. This accolade is due to its presentation of constantly high-quality work and dance performances, with impeccable dancers and repertoire which inspires and enthuses. The company has had just three artistic leaders in its extensive history of almost 60 years, and is now under the leadership of Robert Battle. Ailey performances work to celebrate the human spirit through presenting African-American cultural experience, and the American modern dance tradition, inspired Ailey's experience of growing up in the US.
The company's autumn tour marks the fourth time Ailey is presented by Dance Consortium.