Judith Jamison, Renowned Dancer and Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dies at 81
Judith Jamison, an internationally acclaimed dancer who later served as artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for two decades, has died. She was 81.
Life and Career
Jamison grew up in Philadelphia and trained there in ballet from a young age. At a time when Black dancers were rare in ballet, she began with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965.
Tall, graceful and expressive, she became one of the company’s most famous performers and a muse for Ailey. Jamison had star turns in two of Ailey’s signature dances, “Revelations” and “Cry.” She danced with the Ailey company for 15 years before leaving to perform on Broadway and as a guest artist with other ballet companies.
Artistic Director
Jamison later returned to the Ailey company as its artistic director for 20 years. She is widely credited with helping to make it one of the most successful dance companies in the U.S.
Legacy
As a dancer, choreographer, director, and speaker, her distinguished career leaped over barriers of race and gender.
“She was a unique, spectacular dancer who was majestic and queenly. She danced with eloquence and integrity,” Sylvia Waters, Ailey II Artistic Director Emerita, said Saturday following the news of Jamison’s death.
“To dance with her and to be in her sphere of energy was mesmerizing,” Waters said. “I was fortunate to perform with her and she set the bar very, very high.”
Exhibition and Honors
Striking images of Jamison, including photos, video, and a sculpture, are currently displayed at an exhibition about the work of the Ailey company at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art.
Jamison was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 1999. Other honors included the National Medal of Arts and the Handel Medallion, the highest cultural award from New York City.
Conclusion
Judith Jamison’s passing leaves a void in the world of dance, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Her remarkable career and contributions to the arts will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
FAQs
Q: What was Judith Jamison’s age at the time of her death?
A: 81
Q: How long did Jamison serve as artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater?
A: 20 years
Q: What honors did Jamison receive during her career?
A: The Kennedy Center Honors, National Medal of Arts, and the Handel Medallion
Q: Where are striking images of Jamison currently displayed?
A: At an exhibition about the work of the Ailey company at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art
