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A group of dancers in colorful costumes pose with arms extended upward in a dynamic formation on stage. The background is dark with subtle yellow light spots, enhancing the vibrant energy of the performance.

'Night Creature': An Imaginative Journey Through Dance

This new curriculum is based on the study of Alvin Ailey's Night Creature, a fusion of Mr. Ailey's buoyant choreography and Duke Ellington's sparkling music. As a large ensemble work, replete with movements that invoke animals in joyful celebration, it is ideally suited for engaging young minds. 

Students will explore the history of jazz music and dance, the basic elements of movement analysis, strategies for group collaboration and peer assessment, and embodied learning through dance-making. The Night Creature curriculum uses imaginative thinking to provide connections to music, visual arts, social studies, science, and literacy through discussion, analysis, reflective response, and writing. Students will be encouraged to explore their own "night creatures" through learning excerpts of Night Creature, writing poems, drawing, and creating their own original choreography. 

Grades3–5
LocationStudio, gym, or auditorium
How longNational Residencies are 1-week; includes mandatory professional development workshop for educators
ADK Residences are eight weeks minimum; includes mandatory professional development workshop for educators
Students served35 maximum per class 
AvailabilityOctober–June 

More Information 

For more information about our programming, and/or to schedule an Ailey Arts In Education activity, please contact: 

Stacey Spencer-Willoughby 
Assistant, Ailey Arts In Education & Community Programs 
Phone: 212-405-9152 
[email protected] 

Young dancers in blue leotards stand with arms extended in a dance studio, following their instructor's lead. The walls are adorned with awards, photos, and a sign that reads "The secret of getting."

Night Creature Residency at Dr. Henry E. Perrine Academy of the Arts Photo by Justin Namon, courtesy of Arsht Center

Young dancers in blue leotards sit on the floor in a circle, clapping hands with each other. An instructor stands nearby, observing. The classroom wall features a "Word Wall" and the phrase "Shoot for the moon and land among the stars" in colorful letters.

Night Creature Residency at Dr. Henry E. Perrine Academy of the Arts Photo by Justin Namon, courtesy of Arsht Center

A group of young dancers in blue leotards practice in a dance studio, led by an instructor in a black shirt. The walls are decorated with framed pictures and awards. The dancers are positioned with arms extended upwards, mirroring the instructor.

Night Creature Residency at Dr. Henry E. Perrine Academy of the Arts Photo by Justin Namon, courtesy of Arsht Center