On the morning of Saturday, November 16, Chapin’s Alumnae Association and ACAP (Alum Cultural Awareness Program) offered a blend of social and educational enrichment with a special guided tour of Edges of Ailey at the Whitney Museum of American Art. Guests, including alums from the Classes of 1979 through 2017, enjoyed exploring the life, dances, influences, and enduring legacy of the world-renowned visionary artist and choreographer Alvin Ailey.
Additionally, two Chapin faculty members, Jamia Jordan (Middle School Dance Teacher) and Allyson Ross (Upper School Dance Teacher), performed in Sacred Songs, a beautiful new piece presented as part of Edges of Ailey. This work, choreographed by Matthew Rushing, Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, is “a concert of dance and music dedicated to and inspired by the legacy of Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations. Mr. Rushing collaborated with music director Du’Bois A’Keen to reimagine the traditional songs through different genres, from rock and roll and gospel to R&B and hip hop.”
“Having the opportunity to work with Matthew Rushing and his creative team on Sacred Songs was a dream come true,” remarked Ms. Ross. “He is someone who clearly has a passion and deep love for humanity and that is reflected through his dance storytelling. I appreciated how he truly encompassed the idea that ‘Dance is for everybody,’ a philosophy of Alvin Ailey, by inviting dancers from all walks of life to be in this creative process. I personally found a new freedom in my own dance practice from having the opportunity to be part of his process and now feel that have so much more to share with the students in the Chapin community! This opportunity was an unexpected gift and one in which I am truly grateful to have received.”
Ms. Jordan shared, “I am deeply grateful for the incredible opportunity to have worked as a dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, an experience that has profoundly shaped both my artistry and my personal growth. A special thank you to our fearless leader, Mathew Rushing, whose vision and leadership created a space where dancers from all backgrounds could unapologetically find themselves in the movement. His commitment to authenticity and expression was a guiding force for me, and his dedication to our craft set a tone of excellence and inclusivity. As a soloist in Sacred Songs, I experienced a humbling journey of self-discovery and artistic growth; something I always hope my students take away in their own dance practice. The role gave me an opportunity to deepen my connection to the work and my own expression. I am grateful to have been part of such a profound piece of art, and I will always cherish the lessons learned and the relationships formed during this transformative experience with the Ailey family.”
Congratulations to Ms. Jordan and Ms. Ross on this amazing achievement!
Photos of Ms. Jordan and Ms. Ross are courtesy of David Dini Photography.
