For dance fans in Chicago, Spring means much more than the anticipation of good weather -- it means that the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Auditorium Theatre!
This year, Alvin Ailey celebrates its 50th Anniversary, and there are numerous ways to join in the celebration.
On Tuesday, go for broke with the Alvin Ailey Circle 50th Anniversary Celebration event. The $500 ticket price may pull a hamstring, but, don't let that cramp your style. You get to enjoy cocktails, dinner, rubbing elbows (tootsies) with the dancers, and the satisfaction of knowing that your generosity will help provide complimentary performance tickets to children attending AileyCamp in Chicago.
Okay, maybe $500 is a little too rich for your currently lean body. No worries, because on Wednesday from 5 - 7 p.m., you can schmooze for a mere $50 at the Pre-Show Reception at Russian Pointe Dance Boutique. You and your fellow dance enthusiasts can enjoy hors d'ouevres, wine, and the company of the Alvin Ailey dancers (including Glenn Allen Simms and Tina Monica Williams) at the luxuriously appointed, theatrical setting of Russian Pointe. Afterwards, a trolley will whisk you off to the Auditorium Theatre for the 7:30 p.m. performance.
At Wednesday's performance, they will perform traditional favorites and new works! AAADT will also be joined by Sweet Honey In the Rock for one night only, whose soulful, soul-stirring, melodious sounds can only push the already moving performances to even more incredible heights.
More performances will be held on Friday through Sunday, so there's no excuse not to experience the beauty, grace, emotion and passion that is always the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Stephanie S. Green is the publisher, editor and owner of Soleil's To-Dos, Chicago's Calendar of Urban Events, and a member of the NBC Chicago Street Team blog.
