Judith Jamison Quotes
Judith Jamison is an American dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. She is best known for her work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where she served as artistic director from 1989 to 2011. Jamison has choreographed over 70 works, including the critically acclaimed “Cry̶…Read More
Judith Jamison is an American dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. She is best known for her work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where she served as artistic director from 1989 to 2011. Jamison has choreographed over 70 works, including the critically acclaimed “Cry” and “Revelations”. She has been honored with numerous awards, including a Kennedy Center Honor, the National Medal of Arts, and a Tony Award. Jamison has also served as a cultural ambassador for the United States, and has been inducted into the National Museum of Dance’s Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame.Read Less
Judith Jamison is an American dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. She is best known for her work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, where she served as artistic director from 1989 to 2011. Jamison has choreographed over 70 works, including the critically acclaimed “Cry” and “Revelations”. She has been honored with numerous awards, including a Kennedy Center Honor, the National Medal of Arts, and a Tony Award. Jamison has also served as a cultural ambassador for the United States, and has been inducted into the National Museum of Dance’s Mr. & Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Hall of Fame.
11 Top Judith Jamison Quotes
Judith Jamison Career Highlights
- Joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965 and quickly became a principal dancer, known for her powerful and dynamic performances.
- In 1971, she starred in the iconic solo piece “Cry,” choreographed by Alvin Ailey as a tribute to black women.
- In 1980, she left the company to pursue a solo career, performing with various companies and choreographers including Twyla Tharp and Agnes de Mille.
- In 1988, she returned to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as a guest artist and in 1989, was appointed as the company’s artistic director.
- Under her leadership, the company has expanded its repertoire, toured internationally, and established the Ailey Extension program, offering dance classes to the community.
- In 2010, she announced her retirement as artistic director, but continues to serve as artistic director emerita and as a mentor to the company’s dancers.
Key Contributions by Judith Jamison
- As a dancer, Jamison’s powerful and expressive performances helped to redefine the role of black dancers in the world of modern dance.
- Her leadership as artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has brought the company to new heights, both artistically and financially.
- She has also been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the dance world, using her platform to promote and support dancers of color.
What Sets Judith Jamison Apart
- Jamison’s unique blend of strength, grace, and emotion in her performances has made her one of the most iconic dancers of her generation.
- As a choreographer, she has created numerous works for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, as well as for other companies, showcasing her versatility and creativity.
- Her dedication to preserving and promoting the legacy of Alvin Ailey while also pushing the company forward has solidified her as a visionary leader in the dance world.
Takeaways
- Judith Jamison’s career serves as an inspiration for dancers of color, showing that with talent, hard work, and determination, one can break barriers and achieve success in the dance world.
- Her contributions to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater have helped to establish it as one of the most renowned and respected dance companies in the world.
- Her commitment to diversity and inclusion serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and equal opportunities in the arts.
Other People
Dancer
· USA
1979 - 2001
Dancer
1985
Ballet Dancer
1937
Dancer
· USA
1988
