You Don't Just See An Ailey Performance, You Feel It! | Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

For Ailey women, performing all three sections of Alvin Ailey's 'Cry' is a marathon. It's 17 minutes of not only physical effort but a labor of deep emotional expression as well. Constance Stamatiou in Alvin Ailey's 'Cry', video by Nel Shelby Productions. | Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

On this day in 1971, Alvin Ailey's 'Cry' premiered. He created the solo on Judith Jamison as a birthday gift for his mother and dedicated it “to all Black women everywhere—especially our mothers.” Mr. Ailey called it a “thank you.” We call it a masterpiece. On May 10 at 3pm @AileyExtension is celebrating Ms. Jamison's birthday and 53 years of 'Cry' with a special workshop led by Nasha Thomas, teaching the iconic choreography online and at the Ailey Studios. Sign up today: http://lite.spr.ly/6003