Ailey II Dance Company to perform at SU Feb. 3

Ailey II Dance Company to perform at SU Feb. 3January 28, 2004Amy Schmitzaemehrin@syr.edu

Syracuse University will host the renowned dance company, Ailey II, Feb. 3 at 8 p.m. The concert will be held in the Goldstein Auditorium, located in the Schine Student Center. The company’s modern repertoire is infused with a mix of ballet, jazz and ethnic choreography, featuring “Fragments” by Troy Powell, “The Hunt” by Robert Battle, an excerpt from “Divining” by Judith Jamison and the company’s signature piece, “Revelations” by Alvin Ailey.

“Revelations” is considered by critics to be one of Ailey’s masterpieces. His groundbreaking work seeks to convey the African American experience and combines soul-searching and spirituals with the company’s energetic performance. The signature movements of the dancers’ hands represent the “community of faith” that Ailey is known for.

Founded in 1974 by choreographer Alvin Ailey, Ailey II was created to give young dancers the opportunity to hone their talents on national tours. It is now widely regarded as one of the most popular and critically acclaimed dance companies in the United States. The 12 dancers of Ailey II are all in their teens and early 20s and appear under the artistic direction of Sylvia Waters.

The SU performance is part of the company’s 40-city tour, celebrating 45 years of Ailey’s work. It is sponsored by PULSE, with additional support from the Office of the Dean of SU’s College of Visual and Performing Arts.

Ticket prices are $5 for SU students with ID and $8 for the general public. Tickets may be purchased at the Schine Student Center box office by calling 443-4517 and free parking will be available in the Irving Garage.