Well, I just got back from seeing the Alvin Ailey Dance Company in New York and I must say I was thoroughly impressed. Leading up to this afternoon's performance, I was worried about how I would deal with gay men and fit women twirling and jumping around the stage. But by the middle of the first performance, I was mesmerized by the way the dancers moved, the way the moved in sync, and the difficult positions they were able to hold seemingly with ease. I don't know if that was something I'd bring my son to for father/son time, but if I had a daughter, I would definitely take her to see Alvin Ailey.
Prior to the performance they showed a brief video on the history of Alvin Ailey the man, as well as his dance company overall. Judith Jamison was feature prominetly thoroughout the video, and even at age 65, she stil looks regal and very beautiful.
I am not smart enough to write a detailed review of the performance, because this is my first experience with seeing a dance company. But I CAN say that when they come to DC, I will probably go see them again. But today's trip was all about my lady, since this was her Christmas gift, and she had a great time.
Alvin Ailey Dance Company - Wade in the Water (from Revelations).
This may be my gayest moment ever, but I don't care, this is GREAT stuff.
7 comments:
You get a free pass on Alvin Ailey. I've seen them a few times and they're like that. Especially their Revelations program... brilliant stuff.
1. I love AA and I try to catch them whenever I can. Great gift.
2. This goes without saying, but I'm saying it: All male dancers are not gay.
3. I think taking a son to see dance is just as valuable and appropriate as taking your daughter. Dance is a beautiful art. Alvin Ailey isn't just about the art though, it's about the culture. The MEN and women dancers are powerful and strong. They put a remarkable amount of work into their craft and I think any child can benefit from seeing that. I hope you don't really plan on passing down such rigid and pointless gender stereotypes to your young'ins!
bourgieadventures,
I know all male dancers aren't gay, but that was always my past reasoning for not seeing AA sooner. I know better now. And my 11 year old son is way too smart to let me attempt to slip a stereotype by him. That being said, I'd definitely take him to see AA. Its just not the "traditional" father-son event..
Glad you guys had a ball. I think everyone needs to see Wade in the water and revelations in person, in their lifetime..
i was wondering how many times you would use the word ghey in this entry. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I think I've seen Alvin Ailey at least 10 times now.
I can do a split and turn around like...
so um I'm feeling crazy dilettante-ish right now because apparently I'm the only one who hasn't seen a performance by the AA dance company. I am ashamed and am now on a mission to rectify this.
Anyway I'm glad you enjoyed yourself (lol @ ghey men and fit women twirling and jumping...you are a mess) great gift for your lady.
I'm so glad you enjoyed the AA performance. It really is an experience. I've seen them twice and I am moved every time. Of course that's not saying much because I love dance...but... I just love the way they translate feeling and emotion into body movements, with fluidity and grace. I can't say enough good stuff about them. I can't wait to see them again in March.
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