Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater comes to SA

The highly acclaimed New York-based Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, one of the world’s most popular global modern dance companies, returns to South Africa in September after 17 years, with 13 of their 20 performances in Johannesburg at the Teatro at Montecasino from 3 to 13 September.

The artistry, power and passion of the company’s 32 extraordinary dancers in performances by a spectrum of renowned choreographers, has impacted audiences around the world emotionally and physically, bringing them to their feet in standing ovations.

Alvin Ailey’s signature masterpiece Revelations is acclaimed as a must-see and will be the programme’s rousing, hand-clapping finale.

The theatre has performed for an estimated 25 million people in 71 countries on six continents, inspiring all in a universal celebration of the human spirit using the African-American cultural experience and the American modern dance tradition.

“Alvin Ailey was posthumously awarded the 2014 Presidential Medal of Freedom – the nation’s highest civilian honor. Twenty-five years after his passing, the power of his enduring legacy continues to extend from New York to far-reaching international tours and memorable visits to communities around the globe,” said Robert Battle, artistic director since 2011, who will visit South Africa for the first time in September.

“Ailey said it so well: ‘Dance came from the people and should always be delivered back to the people’. I’m proud to lead the company back to South Africa for the first time this century and am excited for audiences there to experience uplifting performances by the world’s most amazing dancers.”

The incredible athleticism, technique and spirit of the dancers performing a diverse and dynamic number of classics and premieres, is like nothing else presented in this country. It is one of the biggest shows to hit South Africa this year.

Details: www.computicket.co.za