AILEY II an Insider's Look at Ailey's 2016 Season

Alvin Ailey Amer Dance Co (AAADC) is world renown for its incredible dancers, Amer heritage and sovereign dance performances.  AILEY II is an essential extension to (AAADC.)  It serves as a launching pad for some of the country's best young dancers and enables emerging choreographers to develop their works.  Last week AILEY II had an invitation only studio showing spotlighting fragments from 4 new works that will be featured during their upcoming season beginning March 30th at the Ailey studios on 55th/9th.  All 4 pieces were developed in ('15) and will mark their debuts this spring.  Jamar Roberts, an AAADC since ('02) is known for his statuesque physique and athletic versatility.  He choreographed one of the pieces, a pas des deux for 2 male dancers GEMEOS.  Roberts came onstage to talk about his piece GEMEOS; meaning twins.  "I've a brother two year older. We're not twins and we're very different in many ways."  Roberts described his brother as being an exceptional athlete in school while his own interests were in the arts.  The jest of the piece was evident, 2 people can be opposites and oppositional but still very much connected.  The piece was exceptional.  The partnering of the dancers countered & enhanced the other.  It was a creative & ebullient work and I look forward to seeing it, redeux.  The other piece I favored was by Ray Mercer SOMETHING TANGIBLE; choreographed for 3 dancers.  Mercer is currently on B'wy in THE LION KING. His regal choreography reigned with exceptional artistry & musicality.   Courtney Celeste Spears sparkled in this piece & is a young dancer to watch.  Mark your calendars for AILEY II's spring season.