A tradition of mine for years and years has been to make sure I see the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater each year. Whether I go to another city to check it out, or stay right here at home in Chicago it is a must for me.
I love the fine arts, I actually used to dance and sing years ago, and I have always gravitated to the theater as well. One day maybe I will have an opportunity to get on stage and do a little acting. But back to Alvin Ailey. I have been watching these amazing dancers evolve from a more traditional ballet to what is now ballet with a twist of modern and street dancing.
Some of the moves I saw on opening night were identical to what we see on some of the blocks in the neighborhoods. Not that it has to, but I really like how the company is becoming more abstract with its programs, allowing the viewer to let their imagination run wild and interpret the dance the way the want to.
And the ever-classic "Revelations" always brings the audience to their feet with a rousing standing ovation. No matter how many times I see that program, it's like seeing it for the first time all over again. Bravo to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and until next year keep giving us perfect performances of artistic dance where our minds can wander to places unknown.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performs at the Auditorium Theatre through March 8.