Posted by Cara Hagan on June 17, 2010 11:44 a.m.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is arguably the world’s most celebrated American modern dance company. For over 50 years, audiences all over the world have delighted in Mr. Ailey’s choreographic vision and his legendary works for the stage. And though Mr. Ailey himself is no longer surviving, his company is alive and well, performing his most iconic works, the most famous being Revelations (1960), a piece marrying exquisite choreography and soul-penetrating gospel music that conveys aspects of the African American experience. In addition to Mr. Ailey’s work, the company performs the work of such notable contemporary choreographers as Dwight Rhoden, Ron Brown, Robert Battle and Judith Jamison, the company’s current Artistic Director.
Performing for The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a hard, but rewarding job that comes with the responsibility of carrying on the legacy of an artistic visionary. I recently had the opportunity to speak with Aisha Mitchell, a young member of the company, about her experience doing just that.
Aisha began her journey into The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater after graduating from Fordham University, where aspiring dancers can earn a college degree while studying at the Ailey School. Aisha then joined Ailey II, the second company of AAADT, where young dancers have the opportunity to transition from student to professional through performance and community outreach. Upon initially auditioning for the main company, Aisha was not offered a place, but persistence won out and Aisha was offered a spot in 2008.
Making the transition from Ailey II to the main company was a growing experience for Aisha. She describes the company like a family, where everyone is supportive of each other, especially new dancers. And though she felt welcomed and encouraged during her first year in the company, Aisha says that getting into the swing of things was hard work.
“Coming to the first company, I could spread my wings as a professional because there is a lot expected of you as a member of the company; you need to take the initiative to make the performances look great,” says Aisha. “We spend a lot of time learning new repertory and teaching new dancers [the choreography]. We spend about two months prior to our touring season in rehearsal, then we’re on the road about six months out of the year. Some days, we’ll have rehearsals and shows on the same day.”
Touring with a dance company is one of the highlights, and most necessary parts of being a professional dancer. Dancers in AAADT get to travel the world, performing on stages where many have only dreamed of going.
“Touring is incredible, it’s an opportunity that a lot of people don’t experience!” Aisha says. “I love going out and seeing what each city has to offer, especially internationally. We usually have a day off at each tour stop and one of my favorite things is meeting people, learning where everyone comes from, and how they view the world. Oh, and the food!”
And though feelings of adventure and excitement often come with being on the road, Aisha admits that being away from home is not always as glamorous as one might think.
“It’s unsettling not to have a place to come home to. You’re constantly living out of your suitcase.” Aisha says she keeps herself centered and grounded while on tour by engaging in activities and hobbies other than dance.
Love Stories (2004) is Aisha’s favorite to perform is a high energy, make-you-wanna-move kind of dance. It’s a collaborative work between Artistic Director Judith Jamison, and guest choreographers, Robert Battle and Rennie Harris. The piece, danced to the music of Stevie Wonder and a collection of pulsating beats and soundscapes, incorporates many types of dance including modern, jazz and hip-hop. “It’s a definite crowd pleaser,” Aisha boasts.
Despite the adventure of traveling all over the world, and entertaining audiences every evening with amazing works of art, Aisha says the most rewarding aspect of being a part of The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is that she gets to carry Mr. Ailey’s vision forward for the current generation and future generations of dance lovers.
“I get to be part of a legacy,” Aisha says. “I’m upholding something that was here before me, and that will be here after me. I’m doing my part.”
To see where the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will be touring to next, check out their website, www.alvinailey.org. They may be performing near you!