With the lockdowns that resulted from COVID-19 came online releases of performances from art institutions. Throughout quarantine I was able to watch some works from the Metropolitan Opera, Broadway, and more! I recently watched Relevations by the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, and as someone who has never appreciated modern dance, I was pleasantly surprised and loved the performance. Start from 1:17:41 of this video to watch it!
Revelations, created in 1960, is the signature work of jazz-dance choreographer Alvin Ailey. Influenced by the Southern spiritual experiences of Ailey, the production explores African American experience from a Christianity-inspired perspective, following a story of struggle, salvation, and celebration through 3 sections, "Pilgrim of Sorrow," "Take Me To The Water," and "Move Members Move," respectively. The production showcases dancers who demonstrate their prowess in athleticism and emotional expression, costume designs that reflect overarching themes, and music from spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs, and blues. A celebration of the past, present, and future, Revelations is a sensational work that encapsulates Black tenacity and human spirit.
The first section, "Pilgrim of Sorrow," introduces struggle that begins a journey towards freedom. Solemn, choral music guides a cluster of dancers who demonstrate a community that yearns for a common goal. Hands outstretched upwards, they reach together, hoping. With a strong emphasis on floorwork and earth-toned costumes, this section represents efforts to rise from the ground.
Next, "Take Me To The Water" features the turning point of religious enlightenment. Illuminated by blue lighting, the dancers wear white and pale blue, which symbolize a new purification, and used ribbons to represent flowing water in a baptism. I marveled at the uplifting dance motions, use of props, and minimal acapella singing, which all contribute to the theme of newness.
The conclusion, "Move Members Move," uses upbeat gospel music. Its celebratory tone contrasts from the prior tellings of struggle. From the quick dashes of the men dancing to Sinner Man, to the spunky fan-waving of the women in the "Yellow" section, there is an energetic confidence in the dancers. They stand upright, a contrast to the hunched postures at the introduction. They sport yellow clothes, influenced by 20th century fashion, and this bright color represents the joy they have long yearned for.
I had worried that I would not understand modern dance as a medium, since it is often abstract. However, the lack of a hyper-specific narrative in Revelations makes it strongly applicable to multiple progressions in Black history, from the initial struggles in slavery, to Civil Rights movement, to modern activism. I was able to feel the emotions, from melancholy to joyful, conveyed in the show. Ailey's emphasis on the universality of hope is conveyed through choreography, which transcends barriers in time or culture. I would recommend this performance to watch for anyone wanting to understand dance and African American culture more!
