Vespers

Ulysses Dove's bold choreographic voice and daring athleticism are embodied by the phenomenal Ailey women in Vespers, a dramatic work full of raw energy and profound grace inspired by Dove’s memories of his grandmother’s place of worship.  

Like many of Dove’s works, Vespers has a stark, ferocious quality. Mikel Rouse’s percussive score matches the dancers’ insistent drive as they propel themselves across the stage between rows of straight-back chairs. The Village Voice pronounced it “an exemplary vehicle for six Ailey women, showing off their streamlined power and how coldly they can burn.”

Dove’s choreography has been a fixture in the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater repertory since 1980 and has been kept alive by former Associate Artistic Director Masazumi Chaya, who stages his ballets. “I love to expose new dancers to the genius of Dove’s work,” Chaya said. “I want each new dancer to bring this generation’s perspective to the steps. At the same time, it keeps the ballet from becoming a ‘museum piece.’ There must be life in it.”