AILEY II - 2 Reviews for 2 Astonishing Programs

AILEY II is in an elitist modern dance companies that has been under the artistic direction of the revered Sylvia Waters for almost IV decades.  Waters, a former founding dancer with Ailey was selected by Mr. Ailey in '74.  Waters has steered the company on its consummate level of excellence.  Last year, Ms. Waters passed the baton for the 1st time to Troy Powell, a former dancer with Ailey II & Alvin Ailey Amer. Dance Theatre.  Powell is regarded as one of the most talented choreographers of the 21st C.  The 2 alternating programs were:  Returning Favorites & All New.  The program Returning Favorites featured Ailey's Quintet ('68); restaged by Ms. Waters, Jamison's Divining ('84),  & Powell's The External Knot (07.)  The program was a perfect demonstration for the evolution of the Ailey Co. beginnning with 3 of Ailey's iconic artists & driving forces, to the capable hands of Troy Powell.  Powell's The External Knot is a very inventive & artistic comoposition.  The All New program featured One Forgotten Moment '(12) (the best rumble choreography since Robbins' W. Side Story,) an excerpt from Splendid Isolation II ('06,) Rusty (12) and Virtures ('12.)  I was totally mesmerized by the powerful elegance of the solo dancer in Isolation whose movements constrained within an immense white gown were divine.  Virtues was breathtakingly beautiful. All he dancers all performed with graceful athleticism and artistic brilliance, they are truly a gift for Mr. Powell.  I want a redux on the 2, Ailey II performances.  BRAVO!