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.

Related Topics:
January 5 - 1931 - December 1 - 1989 - African American - Modern dancer - Choreographer - 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.

Related Topics:
Katherine Dunham - Los Angeles - Lester Horton

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

Related Topics:
Homosexual - David McReynolds

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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.

Related Topics:
1958 - 1963 - Langston Hughes - 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.

Related Topics:
Cytomegalovirus - Ulcer - AIDS - December 1 - 1989

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