Alvin Ailey

The irresistible dancers of Ailey are back in Plymouth after their sell-out last visit in 2010 with a dazzling array of offerings.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Robert Battle, Ailey continues to wow audiences and critics around the world. The all-star lineup will include new works by some of today’s most acclaimed choreographers, as well as Ailey classics including the beloved crowd-pleaser Revelations, the most widely seen modern dance work in the world.

“THE CROWD STARTS CHEERING BEFORE THE CURTAIN GOES UP” – The New York Times

Robert Battle
Artistic Director

Masazumi Chaya
Associate Artistic Director

PROGRAMME
EXODUS

Choreography: Rennie Harris
Music: Raphael Xavier

Acclaimed hip hop choreographer Rennie Harris explores the idea of “exodus” – from one’s ignorance and conformity – as a necessary step toward enlightenment. Set to gospel and house music along with poetic narration, the work underscores the crucial role of action and movement in effecting change. Exemplifying his view of hip hop as a “celebration of life,” Exodus marks Harris’ latest invitation to return to spiritual basics and affirm who we are.

FOUR CORNERS

Choreography: Ronald K. Brown
Music: Carl Hancock Rux, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Yacoub

Dancers depict spiritual seekers among four angels standing at the corners of the earth, holding the four winds. In creating his fifth commission for the Ailey company since 1999, the celebrated choreographer Ronald K. Brown turned to the song “Lamentations” by his friend, recording artist Carl Hancock Rux. Drawing from West African and modern dance influences, Brown uses grounded, earthy movements to portray figures who are burdened by grief but ultimately find peace, solace, and freedom.

AFTER THE RAIN PAS DE DEUX

Choreography: Christopher Wheeldon
Music: Arvo Pärt

Christopher Wheeldon’s dreamlike duet – praised for its sublime simplicity and intricate partnering – is revealed in a fresh light as the Ailey dancers make it their own.

REVELATIONS

Choreography: Alvin Ailey
Music: Traditional Spirituals
Using African-American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues, Alvin Ailey’s Revelations fervently explores the places of deepest grief and holiest joy in the soul.
More than just a popular dance work, it has become a cultural treasure, beloved by generations of fans. Seeing Revelations for the first time or the hundredth can be a transcendent experience, with audiences around the world cheering, singing along and dancing in their seats from the opening notes of the plaintive “I Been ’Buked” to the rousing “Wade in the Water” and the triumphant finale, “Rocka My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham.”

2 Hours 12 Mins

Tickets are priced £10 - £26 and are available from the Box Office on 01752 267222 or online at www.theatreroyal.com. Concessions are available.