The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has dedicated its 2024-25 season to the life and legacy of beloved Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison, who passed away on November 9 at age 81. Along with the Opening Night Gala and party, the dance organization held a touching memorial on December 11 at NY City Center, celebrating her life and accomplishments through archival video footage, singing, dancing and cherished stories.
The event opened with a photo retrospective of the extraordinary dancer, leader and mentor. It highlighted her nearly 60 years with the organization, showcasing pictures from her time on stage as a dancer, choreographer and executive. The packed house was silent, with some dabbing back tears during the 10-minute presentation that featured her countless interactions with dancers, students, staff, friends, family and admirers.
Ailey II Artistic Director Emeritus Sylvia Waters; Anna Deveare Smith, who worked with Jamison on Hymn; and Reverend Eboni Marshall Turman, Jamison’s pastor, emotionally shared their connections with the dancing spirit. Gala honorary co-chair Phylicia Rashad recited the poem Phenomenal Woman. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater members performed an excerpt from Ailey’s most well-known piece, Revelations, and former Ailey dancer Clifton Brown delivered a moving rendition of the Jamison-choreographed “If It’s Magic” from Love Stories. A scholarship was announced in Jamison’s name to educate the next generation of dancers.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater gala performance, also held at NY City Center, featured an excerpt of Ailey’s Cry, which was first danced by Jamison; a performance celebrating the 25th anniversary of choreographer Ronald K. Brown’s Grace with live vocals from Leslie Odom, Jr. and Cécile McLorin Salvant; and Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations performed with live music. Jody Gottfried Arnhold, a dance educator, was the night’s honoree.
The evening concluded with a star-studded party at the Ziegfeld Ballroom, featuring live music, specialty cocktails, dinner and dancing. The night raised over $2.2 million to support Ailey’s new works, scholarships and educational programs.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is on stage at NY Center through January 5, 2025, followed by a coast-to-coast national tour.
