Episode Details

In this interview on One to One, host Sheryl McCarthy talks with Sylvia Waters, former principal dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and later artistic director of its second company, Ailey II. Sylvia Waters discusses Alvin Ailey's transformative impact on dance. She highlights the Edges of Ailey exhibit at the Whitney Museum, which delves into Ailey’s life and artistic vision. Ailey founded his company in 1958 to create opportunities for African-American dancers and to celebrate African-American culture through modern dance. Waters also discusses the role of Ailey II , which provides emerging dancers with performance opportunities and mentorship, ensuring Ailey’s legacy continues.

Waters emphasizes the importance of Ailey’s educational programs, which cater to all ages and skill levels. The conversation touches on Ailey’s struggles, including financial challenges, but his vision helped establish a globally recognized institution. Waters reflects on Ailey’s choreographic approach, blending modern dance with classical ballet, and the cultural influences, including his Southern upbringing and African heritage, that shaped iconic works like Revelations. She concludes by acknowledging Ailey’s lasting influence and the continued relevance of his artistic legacy.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, America’s cultural ambassador to the world, returns to the New York City Center stage for its annual holiday engagement, December 4, 2024–January 5, 2025. The five-week run kicks off the 2024-25 season celebrating Legacy in Motion and the life and legacy of late Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison (1943-2024), with new works by choreographers inspired by founder Alvin Ailey’s artistry alongside returning favorites. Throughout the season audiences will be treated to the world premieres of Sacred Songs by Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing, Finding Free by Hope Boykin, Many Angels by Lar Lubovitch, and Al-Andalus Blues by Jamar Roberts. The season also includes the 25th anniversary staging of Ronald K. Brown’s rapturous blockbuster Grace and a new production of Elisa Monte’s mesmerizing Treading. Live music will be presented at select performances of Finding Free, Sacred Songs, and Alvin Ailey’s soul-stirring masterpiece Revelations. For further information, visit ailey.org.

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