Alvin Ailey on tour

Alvin Ailey on tour
Photo by Andrew Eccles

Welcomed warmly and wildly by Russian audiences, last week’s Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performances in Moscow launched “American Seasons in Russia,” a year-long celebration of American arts and culture.

Under the auspices of the U.S.-Russia Bilateral Presidential Commission (BPC), created by presidents Barack Obama and Dimitry Medvedev to broaden and deepen U.S.-Russia cooperation in all areas, the series of performances by outstanding American artists will continue through April with the support of the U.S. Department of State and the Russian Ministry of Culture.

On Friday, July 1, the company marked the historic passing of the artistic director mantle to Robert Battle, before traveling to St. Petersburg to celebrate the 4th of July with performances at the historic Mariinsky Theatre.

After opening in Berlin on Tuesday, July 12, performances on the 10-week tour to Norway, Russia, Germany and Switzerland will continue until Aug. 28.

Led by Robert Battle, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s extraordinary artists will return to the New York City Center stage from Nov. 30, 2011 – Jan. 1, 2012 to inspire audiences with a variety of premieres, new productions and repertory classics.

Ailey II Takes France By Storm and Performs During Celebrate Brooklyn!

Ailey II’s July 11 performance in Carcassonne, France marked the completion of the company’s six-city French summer tour. This year, Ailey II has toured over 15 European cities, breaking new ground and charting new territory for second companies.

On Aug. 6, Ailey II will bring their youthful verve and energy to Brooklyn for a one night only performance for Celebrate Brooklyn! This free concert will feature the 12-member ensemble in “Echoes,” “Doscongio,” “Proximity” and “Revelations.”