Ailey II, the second company of the acclaimed Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, commemorates their 40th anniversary with a two-week New York season curated by artistic director Troy Powell. Powell who has been with the Alvin Ailey family since the age of nine is delighted to present the show “at home.”
Ailey II is a platform for young, talented dancers and emerging but wildly talented choreographers to showcase their art. In addition to showcasing talent, the company provides a network and training for dancers and extends itself into the community. Powell encourages aspiring dancers to “work hard and stay focused.”
The group of 12 dancers from all over the world took the stage at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Joan Weill Center for Dance with a thunderous roar of passion and talent.
David Adrian Freeland Jr., one of the Ailey II’s shining stars, described being a part of the company as ” a dream.” Freeland, who was classically trained various dance styles and techniques, recalls images of Alvin Ailey posters laminated on the walls of the dance studio in his hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. Making the experience one that has come full-circle for him.
In addition to the four repertory favorites, three new works are included in the program.
Cuore Sott’ olio (heart submerged in oil) one of the new additions, is described by it’s choreographer, Katarzyna Skarpetowska as “a dream like journey of a woman through her past, tumbling through memories of her younger self … snapshots of love lost and it depicted through three different pairs of dancers.”
Each couple gave an evocative performance that really pulled audience members into this woman’s journey to self-love.
Wings, also a new work, was choreographed by emerging choreographer Jennifer Archibald. The piece is a highly emotional interaction between humans and angels, with all members of the company performing.
The entire company of dancers and choreographers represent a forward moving exhibition of dance poetry. The Ailey II group for the season are carrying on the legacy of the Alvin Ailey name with a high caliber of performances and enthusiasm.
