Judith Jamison Interview

Summary

The transcript captures a personal reflection on the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, its legacy, and the leadership of Robert Battle. The speaker emphasizes the company's essence—accessibility, spiritual reciprocity, love, truth, and excellence. With a tribute to Alvin Ailey's vision and leadership, the speaker also highlights the importance of listening, embracing individuality, and honoring the dancers' humanity. The transcript reveals the deep connection between dancers and their art, portraying dance as a sacred space where transformation and self-expression occur. It also underscores the spiritual and political significance of performance, with a nod to Ailey's groundbreaking contributions to the dance world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker describes a memorable experience watching an Edison pack performance, feeling a voyeuristic thrill while enjoying the music and dance.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on downloading the artist's music, which became their ringtone, as a result of the powerful experience.
• 😀 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is described as a company that's been around for nearly 60 years, with an emphasis on accessibility, spirituality, and mutual reciprocity.
• 😀 The concept of 'reciprocity' is emphasized, with the idea that performances on stage inform both the dancers and the audience about themselves.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the leadership qualities of Robert Battle, the current artistic director, noting his blend of respect for the past and vision for the future.
• 😀 The speaker compares Robert Battle's mannerisms and leadership to Alvin Ailey’s, especially regarding their shared sense of humor, tenacity, and understanding of dance.
• 😀 The importance of loving dancers as human beings is stressed, as they bring their unique selves to the art of dance.
• 😀 The speaker recalls Alvin Ailey’s teaching that stepping on stage makes a political statement, as dancers are subject to external expectations.
• 😀 The best advice from Alvin Ailey was to truly listen to everyone involved in the company, from artists to staff, and to lead with care and respect.
• 😀 The speaker’s personal legacy is centered around giving everything to their craft, with an understanding that imperfections exist but dedication is key.
• 😀 The process of teaching choreography involves building a strong technical foundation, emphasizing the importance of learning the basics before progressing.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on the sacred and safe space created during rehearsals and performances, where artists can experience personal growth and transformation.
• 😀 The speaker expresses awe at watching dancers evolve over time, growing artistically and personally, embodying Alvin Ailey's vision of otherworldly beauty in their craft.

Q & A

What is the significance of the dance performance described in the transcript?

The dance performance described in the transcript is an emotionally powerful experience, where the speaker feels like a voyeur at a party, witnessing the energy and expression of the dancers. This reflects the transformative and immersive power of dance.

Why does the speaker mention downloading music after watching the performance?

The speaker is moved by the music and dance performance, particularly a piece titled 'Calm Down.' They felt so inspired by it that they immediately downloaded the music, highlighting the impact the performance had on them.

How does the speaker describe Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in five words?

The speaker describes Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater using the words: accessibility, lifted, reciprocity, love, and truth.

What does the concept of 'reciprocity' mean in the context of the dance company?

In this context, 'reciprocity' refers to the ongoing exchange between the dancers and the audience. What is presented on stage informs the viewers, and the viewers, in turn, offer their own interpretation and connection to the performance.

How does the speaker view Robert Battle's leadership of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater?

The speaker praises Robert Battle for his leadership, comparing him to Alvin Ailey in terms of his dedication, vision, and ability to balance the past, present, and future of the company. Battle is described as a forward-thinking leader who understands the importance of both honoring the company's history and guiding it toward a bright future.

What was the most valuable advice Alvin Ailey gave to the speaker?

The most valuable advice Alvin Ailey gave was about leadership and ownership of the company. Ailey emphasized that in order to lead effectively, one must listen to everyone in the company, from artists to staff, and build a team of strong leaders.

How does the speaker describe the experience of teaching choreography?

The speaker explains that teaching choreography involves both technique and creativity. First, students must learn the technical aspects of dance before they can truly engage with the artistic expression. The speaker also emphasizes that the space between teacher and student is sacred, where trust and growth occur.

What role does spirituality play in the speaker's perspective on dance?

The speaker views dance as a spiritual practice, describing it as a form of expression that comes close to divinity. The act of sharing one's art is seen as a deeply personal and almost sacred experience that transcends the physical act of dancing.

What is the significance of the term 'Sankofa' in the transcript?

'Sankofa' refers to a Ghanaian concept meaning 'to go back and fetch it.' In the transcript, it symbolizes the importance of reflecting on the past to guide the future. The speaker mentions that this principle remains present in the company's approach, emphasizing the connection between history and future growth.

Why is dance considered a political act, according to the speaker?

Dance is considered a political act because, as the speaker mentions, stepping onto a stage as a Black woman automatically makes a statement. The audience will already have preconceived notions about what the dancer can or should do, making the act of performing inherently political, as it challenges and redefines those expectations.