Happy Thursday!
Today as I sat down at my desk a very special memory came to me and I wanted to share it with you. Let this inspire you to dream boundlessly.
January 26, 2020 I headed to one of my favorite cities as a hopeful dancer. I wanted to be apart of a particular dance company so hopping on a flight not even a full 7 days after being in Philadelphia for the International Association of Black In Dance Conference, was a quick and easy decision. As the story goes, I complete the audition and I felt just okay about it. I did not feel bad but I knew there were a few things I had done imperfectly. Not the best audition but not the worst. Going back to a few hours prior, I had spoken with an Ailey company member about taking class. I don't know what caused me to ask that but I did and I was given a "Yes!"
Just one day before the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater set off on tour, I took company class with them.
What was supposed to be a simple audition trip turned into one infused with timeless inspiration. Since the 6th grade I have loved the "feel" and essence of The Ailey Company. They have always been a dream company for me. Gaining access to take class with them as an outsider, having no prior physical connection to the company or the organization's programming, was truly a divine work of God. From the elevator to the marley everyone showed me kindness. I did not know what to expect and assumed I'd be taking a fun Horton class. I was pleased however, once I realized I'd be taking ballet class.
It is important to point out how incredibly comfortable I felt being there amongst those dancers and in that studio. Class began with me dancing at the barre that was next to Jaqueline Green's barre. Enough said. As we transitioned to center work I really had the chance to marvel at how effortlessly beautiful she is. Strong and taut, she grazed the floor with intention, grace and a lovely bone structure (that makes a difference too! A physically beautiful dancer is a whole different story). I watched with a grateful heart and feelings of ease. I remember this one exercise where we had to do a double or single pirouette and finish balanced. The way I held my body was different. A wild experience. I felt like I was a part of this place I had never spent more than 4 consecutive hours in.
Later that night I would take a class at Steps On Broadway that was led by Ailey's Associate Artistic Director, Matthew Rushing and that experience was amazing. I always have specific connections to places I dance depending on the caliber of instruction. I also value and understand the honor principle. What I gained that night was an extension of greatness personified. Some of it is personal treasure. I will never forget my weekend with AAADT.
...And shout out to my friend Derick McKoy, Artistic Director of McKoy Dance Project and dance artist with Dallas Black Dance Theatre for getting me into that class!
Comments
Post a Comment