6/17/26 O&A NYC BY WALTER RUTLEDGE: Hymn Conversation

By Walter Rutledge

On June 4 at a group of former Ailey dancers sat down to discuss the recent reconstruction of Judith Jamison’s Hymn for the Ailey company’s four-day spring series at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The dancers were part of the original cast of Hymn and had participated in the new remounting of the work, while also coaching the dancers in the present Ailey company. What was apparent from the beginning of the discussion was their willingness, enthusiasm and what can only be described the sheer joy in sharing their experiences with the dancers and now the public. Continue reading

12/23/19 O&A NYC DANCE: A Conversation With Masazumi Chaya- The Golden Age Of Ailey

By Walter Rutledge

Masazumi Chaya, affectionately called Chaya, has been a part of Ailey organization for almost half a century. Chaya joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1972 during an era we refer to as the Golden Age of Ailey. During Chaya’s fifteen years as an Ailey dancer he distinguished himself as an intense performer; who excited audience with an almost effervescent abandon. Continue reading

9/16/17 O&A NYC DANCE: Dance Documentary- The Alvin Ailey Company: Beyond The Dance (Paris 2005)

Dance Documentary- The Alvin Ailey Company: Beyond The Dance (Paris 2005) featuring Judith Jamison, Masazumi Chaya, Matthew Rushing, Glenn Allen Sims, Amos Mechanic Jr., Calvin Hunt, Dwana Smallwood, Hope Boykin, Renee Robinson and excepts from the extensive and diverse repertory.  Continue reading