Alvin Ailey

Alvin Ailey, Jr. (January 5, 1931 – December 1, 1989) was an African American modern dancer and choreographer who founded the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater.

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Ailey was born to his 17-year-old mother in Rogers, Texas. When Ailey was six-months old, his father abandoned the family.

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Alvin developed an early interest in art. Initially, he took dance classes from choreographer Katherine Dunham and later studied under Los Angeles dance teacher Lester Horton. After Horton?s death, Ailey took over his dance company.

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Alvin Ailey was homosexual and was a longtime lover of David McReynolds in the 1950s.

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Ailey started his own dance company in 1958 featuring primarily African American dancers. He integrated his dance company in 1963. He also directed; one notable production was Langston Hughes's Jericho-Jim Crow 19644.

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The Alvin Ailey Dance Company popularized modern dance throughout the world with his international tours sponsored by the U.S. State Department.

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Ailey was diagnosed with cytomegalovirus and an esophogeal ulcer (complications of AIDS); he died on December 1, 1989.

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January 5: January 5 is the 5th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. 360 days (361 in leap years) remain in the year after this day....

1931: 1931 is a common year starting on Thursday....

1989: 1989 is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. The world population growth in absolute numbers is believed to have been the highest ever around this time. http://www.census.gov/ipc/www/worldpop.html...

Alvin Ailey related Images and Photos (experimental)

Alvin Ailey Performance 2004	Alvin Williams	Alvin And The Chipmunks	Alvin and the Chipmunks
Alvin and the Chipmunks DVD	Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel DVD	Alvin and The Chipmunks 'Undeniable' CD	Alvin and the Chipmunks- Original Soundtrack
Alvin and the Chipmunks- Original Soundtrack	Alvin and the Chipmunks (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) CD	Alvin and the Chipmunks 100 Piece Puzzle	Alvin and the Chipettes 2011 Wall Calendar