by Angelique B. D’Silva
Arts & Entertainment Editor
Words spoken through the art of dance. Beautiful and eloquent expressions permeating in each step. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater showcased its talent at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Saturday, March 17.
The company of modern and classical ballet has been going strong for 43 years. Ailey began his company in March 1958 when a group of adolescent black dancers performed at the Young Men’s Hebrew Association in New York.
Since their first performance in 1958, according to Performance Arts Magazine, they have performed for more than 19 million people in 48 states and 68 countries.
“The company has earned a reputation as one of the most acclaimed international ambassador of American culture, promoting the uniqueness of black cultural expression and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance heritage,” according to Performance Arts Magazine.
The company set the stage with the following four productions: “Blues Suite,” “Pas De Duke,” “Phases” and “Revelations” to finish off the night.
“As we entered the crowded pavilion, we were welcomed with jazzy music,” said Lindsay Towne, 40, from Los Angeles.
“Blues Suite” choreographed by Ailey in 1958, is a ballet illustrating reflections of an adolescent boy imagining himself with other perplexed individuals gathered in a barrelhouse, partying and drinking.
“The music was sensational and their interpretation was exquisite,” said Los Angeles resident Ann Thomas.
“I have been anxiously awaiting their arrival. Having the opportunity to experience this show is a great honor. Today is my birthday, and I thought what a wonderful gift to treat myself to,” said Erica Waters, 25, from Seal Beach.
She went on to add,”The passion and identity of my culture, was truly captivated.”
“Phases”choreographed in 1980 by Ailey was a five-part production, depicting an illumination, an awakening of the beauty of life.
Larry Williams, 33, from Pasadena, Calif., said, “The dancing and the images they portrayed was stunning. Great choreography!”
