(Newark, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is proud to present its annual Mother's Day engagement of America's premier modern dance company, Alvin Ailey on Friday, May 8th, 2015 at 8PM, Saturday, May 9th, 2015 at 8PM and Sunday, May 10th, 2015 at 3PM. The Alvin Ailey organization is one of the world’s leading modern dance companies and a global ambassador of American culture and a show not to be missed, be sure to reserve your tickets now at www.njpac.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722). Alvin Ailey is an EVENT and NJPAC is happy to enhance your experience by offering added on specials on Friday, it’s Shopping in the lobby, Saturday-Pre-Performance Pampering & Spa Treatments; Sunday Brunch at Nico for more information www.njpac.org/events/detail/alvin-ailey-american-dance-theater-2
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater grew from a now-fabled performance in March 1958 at New York City’s 92nd Street Y. Led by Alvin Ailey and a group of young African-American modern dancers, that performance changed forever the perception of American dance. Today the company has performed for an estimated 23 million people in 48 states and 71 countries on six continents – and to millions more through television broadcasts. Elegant, electrifying, and marvelously athletic, this always dazzling company arrives with programs that include some of their newest works as well as company classics like Ailey’s masterwork, Revelations, set to African-American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues.
Artistic Director Robert Battle recently visited the White House and accepted the Presidential Medal of Freedom – the nation’s highest civilian honor - on behalf of Alvin Ailey. Bestowed 25 years after the passing of the Company’s legendary founder, President Obama proclaimed that “through him, African-American history was told in a way that it had never been told before -- with passionate, virtuoso dance performances that transfixed audiences worldwide.” Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s national tour begins at the start of Black History Month and carries on the legacy of uplifting, uniting and celebrating the human spirit as Ailey’s extraordinary dancers bring life to a wide variety of premieres, new productions and classic works.
The Associated Press proclaimed that “…the timing could hardly be more apt for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s new civil rights-themed piece” ODETTA a world premiere choreographed by renowned Ailey dancer Matthew Rushing. The tribute is set to the musical repertoire of celebrated singer and civil rights activist Odetta Holmes, who was known as “the voice of the Civil Rights Movement” and anointed as “the queen of American folk music” by Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Pleasure of the Lesson, the Company’s first collaboration with Robert Moses, will also be presented on tour for the first time. Known for his sophisticated and sexy choreography, the new work was created with a cast of ten dancers for the Company’s 2014 Koch Theater engagement.
“Revelations is one of the great works of the human spirit,” The New York Times writes, “The aspects of humanity it demonstrates — sincerity, idealism, ecstasy, among others — build up to a powerful moral statement that audiences love.”
Recommended for grades 6-12.
Alvin Ailey Experiences Exclusively at NJPAC
Pre-Performance Pampering
The Wellness Lounge in South Orange is partnering with NJPAC on a feel-great package designed to complement dance performances. An NJPAC Wellness Happy Hour Experience offers a sampling of Thai massage, foot bath, reflexology, acupuncture and ear candling for your group. “Wellness and Dance,” an interactive experience that explores the relationship between dance and well-being, is the perfect warm-up for performances like Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. In addition to alternative therapy treatments, the lounge offers lifestyle sessions (Pilates, for example), wellness education and organic foods and beverages. Packages are $1,500 for groups of 15 people, $1,850 for 20 and $2,500 for 30.
Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet
Sunday, May 10
11am to 2pm
NICO Kitchen + Bar
Prior to the Sunday performances, come early and treat Mom to the full “Ailey experience” – an exquisite Mother’s Day Buffet at our own NICO Kitchen + Bar. $35 per person; children (age 14 and under) $20 (gratuity not included).
Shopping Indulge yourself and the ones you love! Shop at a unique boutique of products and services from local vendors, featuring gift items to make Mom feel like a queen! Snap a memory picture at our free photo station. These and other attractions are found in the lobby prior to all performances of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
