Alvin Ailey Dance Theater

Our nation is not known for celebrating cultural and artistic or political and social achievements. A notable exception is The Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of which was recently awarded posthumously to the legendary choreographer, Alvin Ailey. 

As a nation, the United States is not particularly renowned for celebrating cultural, artistic or political and social achievements. A notable exception is the The Presidential Medal of Freedom which is awarded to those who have made "especially meritorious contributions to (1) the security or national interests of the United States, or (2) world peace, or (3) cultural of other significant public or private endeavors.* 

Last evening,  (November 24, 2014), Alvin Ailey received the Presidential Medal of Freedom (awarded posthumously) from President Obama for his cultural contributions in the area of 
modern dance.

*Mr. Ailey was also honored in 1988 with Kennedy Center Award for his artistic achievement.  

I am not particularly knowledgeable about dance, but I know great art when I see it and sincerely appreciate the opportunity to be reminded what a truly visionary artist Mr. Ailey was - as well as his prize protege and successor as artistic director, Judith Jamison. 

The clips below are a reminder not only of what has gone before, but a reminder of how important it is that we encourage the growth of true artists such as these. 

Alvin Ailey Dance Theater 50th anniversary

Hymn - Judith Jamison Tribute to Alvin Ailey 1973

Judith Jamison Footage

Wade in the Water (From Revelations)

Cry Section 1 

(debuted in 1971 as a gift for Ailey's mother, it was first performed by Judith Jamison. It is performed here by Deborah Manning) 

Cry Section 2

Cry Section 3