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A group of dancers performs on a dark stage, each holding a glowing white orb. They are positioned in various dynamic poses, with some standing and others kneeling or stretching, creating a visually striking composition against the dark background.

Repertory

Freedom Series

COMPANIES

CHOREOGRAPHER

RUN TIME

27 Minutes

WORLD PREMIERE

2021

MUSIC

Various Artists*

COSTUMES

Elias Gurrola

LIGHTING

Abby May

Inspired by her AILEY homecoming, Francesca Harper’s Freedom Series travels through a landscape of memories creating a series of vignettes that embody and imagine a hybrid world where memory strives to influence the future. Depicted through this futuristic lens, and developed in collaboration with the Ailey II dancers, Harper’s work examines identity and community. With costumes by designer Elias Gurrola and a score featuring a blend of acoustic and electronic sounds, Freedom Series’ unexpected twists and turns bridge tender moments to an intrinsic ferocity. 

Freedom Series

A group of dancers performs on a dark stage, each holding a glowing white orb. They are positioned in various dynamic poses, with some standing and others kneeling or stretching, creating a visually striking composition against the dark background.

Ailey II in Francesca Harper's Freedom Series Photo by Erin Baiano

A dancer in a black outfit poses on one knee against a dark background, with one arm raised gracefully. The subtle lighting highlights the contours of their body and emphasizes their elegant posture.

Ailey II in Francesa Harper's Freedom Series Photo by Erin Baiano

Dancers are scattered across a dark stage, each holding a glowing white orb. The central dancer stands in a spotlight, creating a focal point while others pose dynamically around them. The orbs provide the only light source, emphasizing the dancers' movements.

Ailey II in Francesa Harper's Freedom Series Photo by Erin Baiano

A group of dancers is illuminated by glowing white orbs they are holding, creating a striking contrast against the dark background. The orbs highlight their faces and bodies, showcasing an artistic arrangement.

Ailey II in Francesca Harper's Freedom Series Photo by Erin Baiano

Music Credits

“Doomed” by Moses Sumney, published by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing and Domino Publishing Company of America Inc. “(No One Knows Me) Like the Piano” by Sampha, published by Beggars Tunes. “Little Fly” by Esperanza Spalding, published by Kobalt Songs Music Publishing. “Roaming Rogue” by Jasmine Hearn and Slowdanger (Anna Thompson and Taylor Knight). “Fury” by Slowdanger (Anna Thompson and Taylor Knight). “Without” by Sampha, published by Beggars Tunes. “Welcome” by Jon Hopkins, published by Domino Publishing Company of America Inc and Just Another Management Co.