Originally broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2005

A crackling ride through one of the seminal dance-works of multicultural America.

The audience shouts and hollers for more at the end of each performance of ‘Revelations’, caught up in the joyful combination of powerfully sung spirituals and stunning dancing. ‘Revelations’ is the title of the documentary, which tells the story of a dance-work that put the pioneering Alvin Ailey Dance Theater on the road to success.

Created in the 60’s by the choreographer Alvin Ailey against the background of the civil rights protests, it shows the strength and optimism of an earlier generation of African-Americans as their spirit triumphs over their tough lives. Accompanied by spirituals such as Oh Sinner Man, Rocka My Soul, and Wade In The Water, the ballet journeys from sorrow to exultation.

The American dancer, teacher and writer Thomas DeFrantz meets the artistic director of the Ailey Company Judith Jamison, and talks to other dancers and writers about the piece that will end every performance presented by the Company on their up-coming UK tour. The programme, through which runs the crackling energy and exuberance of the dance, is guaranteed to get toes tapping.

 


 

N.B. Some music & extracts have been edited from the original broadcast version due to copyright restrictions

 


 

TAKING PART 

THOMAS DeFRANTZ – Presenter
CLIVE BARNES – Dance & Theatre Critic
JODI KRIZER – Director of Marketing, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
JUDITH JAMISON – Artistic Director, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
DUDLEY WILLIAMS – Dancer, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
DWANA ADIAHA SMALLWOOD – Dancer, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
RENEE ROBINSON – Dancer, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
SYLVIA WATERS – Dancer, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre
CLIFTON BROWN – Dancer, Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre

Writers/Presenters

Thomas DeFrantz

Editing

Richard Bannerman/Neil Gardner

Producer

Richard Bannerman

Released

2005

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