AILEY II The Next Generation of Dance: sponsored by VyStar Credit Union-BEYOND BROADWAY presented by FSCJ | ARTIST SERIES
When: Feb. 21, 2023
Where: Jacksonville Center For the Performing Arts
Time: 7:30 pm
Tickets: http://www.fscjartistseries.
Founded by Alvin Ailey and established since 1974; Ailey II has become one of the most popular modern dance troupes in America. Artistically Directed by Francesca Harper with the help of Sylvia Waters and Emerita; This tour has managed to incorporate Community Outreach Programs manifesting here in Jacksonville, FL.
Let’s start from the very beginning. The show started at exactly 7:30 pm. As soon as we arrived, we were pleasantly greeted by the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts Staff. I heard,
“They’re closing the doors! Hurry!”
Another staff member informed us that “this is the most strict dance production that we’ve ever had”. Another staff member I heard confirm, “They have a strict 30 minute hold”. They looked stressed, but in a comical #heavymetalcomedy kind of way. We were directed to the door for our seating, but had to wait in the back until the 30 min hold passed. So thank you, God is good. The view wasn’t bad, actually. Right after the four selections, they had an intermission, and we were able to find our seats. From those selections, I was actually able to pin point one of Alvin Ailey’s concepts. There was one performance that I really enjoyed. It made me giggle and when I giggle it’s because I may have realized something that no one else may be paying attention to.
One of the concepts, I would describe as “ballet meets krump session”. I looked around at the crowd and thought,
“Does the audience even know what just went down?!”
Krumping is a style of dance that manifested in South Central, LA created by Ceasare “Tighteyex” Willis. He simply did what came natural. Unaware of what to call “the dance that came naturally”, Jo’ Artis “Big Mijo” Ratti stepped in and said, “Call it krumping” and together the dance became popular all over the world.
A Brief Story: Back in the early 2000s, I had the pleasure of speaking with the person behind the dance called “Krumping” When speaking with Tighteyex, about this “natural feeling” that came over him, I asked “Could this feeling be described as ‘Spiritual’?” Unsure of what I meant by spiritual, he responded with “Ive heard the word before, but its been a while since I’ve heard it. Could you give me the definition?” In response, I asked him, “What does it mean to you? Let’s start with “Spirit”. He mentioned that he felt it was something that activated within, but came from above. At the moment, I asked him “Source?” He looked puzzled and as he was thinking I asked another question, “What is source, to you?” and without hesitation he responded “God”. I pointed to his chest and said nothing. He spoke and said “God is within me and when my intentions are from my heart my Spirit is activated”. I looked at him, smiled, and said “You said it, not me.”
This is another reason I would like to emphasis how important and necessary it is to have platforms such as Blacksonville and Jacksonville Center For the Performing Arts. Humans need Humans. It was a pleasure attending Ailey II’s Show and love the positive movement that is manifesting right here in Jacksonville. “The Next Generation” includes all generations and I believe that all generations play a part in “creation”. This is a great production. I see Ailey II as a positive movement that has graced our city and we look forward to seeing Ailey II next year. When I set my intentions and align myself within I have the ability to create. I am energy. When my energy touches those around me, it creates a movement.
There are many selections; if I could highlight everyone involved in this wonderful dance production, I would. Ailey II the Next Generation Dance is one for the books. The Show was “Breathe Taking!” It was culturally aware and inclusive beyond Society’s surface. Tear dropping, heart pumping, emotional roller coaster. It was influential, empowering, and I believe every soulful being would enjoy it. I would suggest to put this show on your Calendar for next year when Ailey II is in town and attend if you can.
“Ailey II was spiritual. It was grounding. It was a recharge and uplift.”
This was my first time attending Ailey II the Next Generation Dance and again I wasn’t disappointed at all. Word of advice for anyone looking to attend: BE ON TIME, early. All ages are welcome but keep in mind the strictness of the show; you could hear a pin drop as the show started. Make sure, as a unit, that everyone is punctual to avoid missing the beginning of the show. The concept I mentioned above is within the first 30 mins. The dress code was as broad as the crowd. I seen mini dresses and heels, Business casual, casual, and 12-year olds to 60 and up. The highlight of the show, for me, was not only the performance, but the older lady sitting in front of me with an Afro. An instant demand and reminder to “Honor My Crown”, by lifting my chin to see above it.
Review by Araya Knight @ BCN Media
