2012 Press Releases

When:  September 25, 2012 – February 1, 2013  
Where:  Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts, 4747 Flora, KCMO 64110
Cost:   N/A

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA Conducts Two-week Residency at Paseo Academy

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), celebrating nearly 30 years of dance and dance education, will conduct three two-week residencies at Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts. Three teaching artists will each conduct a two-week residency with students in the dance department, giving classes in Ballet, Modern, Jazz and Composition/Choreography. KCFAA’s Director of Artistic and Educational Programs, Michael Joy, has worked with Paseo faculty and staff to develop and implement this program.

Initiated in the Fall of 2006, the purpose of the residency is to bring professional performing/teaching artists to Paseo Academy  to work with their dance students. KCFAA’s artists have a passion and commitment for working with inner city high school populations, and serve as role models for the students by helping them see their potential and inspiring them to achieve their goals. Two of the artists are Paseo Academy alumni who have performed with internationally recognized dance companies and leading choreographers:  Winston Dynamite Brown and Terrence Poplar.

Winston Dynamite Brown, a native of Kansas City, Missouri, is also a former KCFAA AileyCamper and AileyCamp The Group member.  He started dancing at Smith Sisters Dance Studio and continued his training at the Missouri State Ballet.   He is a graduate of University of Missouri at Kansas City Conservatory of Music & Dance, where he earned his BFA, and was under the mentorship of Tyrone Aiken at The Center Dance.

Winston has participated in numerous intensive programs – Kansas City Ballet, Alonzo King’s pre-professional program, Ailey summer intensive as three time fellowship recipient, and the Ballet and Modern programs at Jacobs Pillow as the inaugural recipient of the Lorna Strassler Award. He has worked with the Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company, Deeply Rooted Productions, Albany Berkshire Ballet, Metropolitan Opera and Taylor 2. Winston was a member of the Pilobolus touring company from 2009 through 2011.

Terrence Poplar, also a native of Kansas City, Missouri began dancing at KCFAA’s AileyCamp while in middle school. He also trained at Smith Sisters Dance Studio, Westport Ballet Theater, Kansas City Ballet, The Center Dance, and both the Joffrey Ballet School and the Ailey School in New York City.

Terrence has professionally danced with Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company, Fred Benjamin Dance Company, Earl Mosley Diversity Dance Theater, Ailey II, Jennifer Muller/The Works and Battleworks Dance Company. He has also performed with Mystic Rhythms Of Tokyo Disney Sea, The Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, Dream Boys (Musical), and Endless Shock (Musical) in Japan. Terrence has taught both nationally and internationally, his teaching credits include Ailey Camp, The Ailey School, Greenhouse and Arkansas Ballet.

The teaching artists will conduct daily technique classes in Modern Dance, Ballet, or Jazz Dance, in addition to creating a dance composition that utilizes the dance technique to enhance students’ skills and knowledge of the discipline.  Students will learn vocabulary, elements of movement, elements of choreography, and knowledge of local art institutions, artists or works of arts. This project prepares students to compete in a post- high school level in dance, therefore supporting the school’s mission and improvement plan.

Terrence Poplar has focused on Jazz Dance from September 25 through October 9, and Winston Dynamite Brown will have focused on Modern Dance from October 30 through November 13.  From January 21 through February 1, 2013 the focus will be on Ballet by an artist who will be announced later.

The residency supports Paseo  Academy’s  mission and promotes the academic, creative, artistic, physical, social and emotional development of students within a racially and economically diverse learning environment.   Known for their excellence, KCFAA has received national recognition and reached more than 1 million people in Kansas City and the surrounding communities.  KCFAA serves more than 30,000 school-aged children annually through exceptional year-round arts education programs and through partnerships with the Kansas City, Missouri schools since 1984.

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey is the only official second home of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

For Immediate Release

Review | Junior Ailey troupe performs new works, repertory favorites at Folly Theater

By LIBBY HANSSEN
Special to The Star

The Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey presented Ailey II for a series of performances at the Folly Theater. Thursday’s performance featured two premieres, kick starting the series.

This is the first season for artistic director Troy Powell, who has come up through the ranks of the Ailey organization from training to teaching, dancing and choreographing.

The show opened with Thang Dao’s “Echoes,” a beautiful dreamlike work. Quivering silhouettes in gray blue light began with rippling motion, sequences evolving to mimic the looping, repetitive lines from a string quartet. The music was a haunting score by Ezio Besso, heavily reminiscent of Pachelbel’s Canon in D. Duets emerge from the ensemble, dancing in blocks of light, with sharp shadows. A series of lifts emerged from an amorphous corps.

The first of two premieres, Benoit-Swan Pouffer’s “Rusty,” had a loose narrative of a young dancer, with music from Mikael Karlsson. Spoken phrases accompanied the male soloist as he demonstrated an intricate gestural phrase, the base for the work. With the entrance of the rest of the dancers, the gesture morphed from somewhat casual to almost grotesquely angular, turning antagonistic, then comforting. They swirled and mingled, almost holding each other back, absorbing each other.

The tone changed to a more casual, fun attitude as they began to show each other individualized phrases, as though at a rehearsal session, often ending a set as though tossing a ball. The piece ended with the soloist tossing to the audience.

Amy Hall Garner’s “Virtues,” set to the heavily synthesized music of Karl Jenkins, was flirty and boisterous. It showcased the individualism of the dancers, especially the solo transitions set during silent moments within an otherwise relentless score, the rhythmic driving heading into a triumphant finale.

The troupe is young, all first- or second-year members, and is designed to test promising performers. Individually, these dancers delivered, with strong solos, confident, intimate pairings and energetic ensemble work. In the ensemble, timing and blocking were constantly inconsistent, with individuals preempting leaps and kicks by nanoseconds and lacking solid unison hits and angles in extended gestures. These somewhat minor missteps added up and drew attention away from the visual impact of the choreographic vision.

Thursday’s program will be repeated Saturday evening. Friday’s program, to be repeated at Saturday’s matinee performance, included Judith Jamison’s “Divining,” Donald Byrd’s “Shards,” and the premiere of Malcolm Low’s “One Forgotten Moment.”

© 2012 Kansas City Star and wire service sources. All Rights Reserved. http://www.kansascity.com

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:   Thursday, October 4 through Saturday, October 6, 2012
Where:  Folly Theater, 300 W. 12^th, Kansas City, Missouri 64105
Cost:   $25.00 – $65.00 Thursday, Friday and Saturday matinée performances;
$150.00 – $500.00 Saturday evening Benefit 2012 tickets

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA Presents Ailey II

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), the official second home of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, presents Ailey II in four public performances Thursday, October 4 through Saturday, October 6 at the Folly Theater at 12^th & Central, KCMO 64105.

New Artistic Director Troy Powell will build upon Ailey II’s remarkable tradition and bring a fresh dimension to this beloved company during his inaugural season. Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding emerging choreographers. Ailey II flourished into one of the most popular dance companies in the country under the leadership of Sylvia Waters. After over a decade of working alongside Sylvia Waters as Associate Artistic Director, Troy Powell recently announced his first three richly diverse new commissions, all of which have their world premiere performance in Kansas City.

“I’m extremely excited about this year’s world premieres,” says Troy Powell. “I set out to challenge our twelve dancers and our fans by bringing in three new choreographic voices that expand the variety of what Ailey II presents to audiences all around the world.”

Acclaimed Paris-born choreographer Benoit-Swan Pouffer brings a European flare to Ailey II’s repertory with his new work, Rusty. With ethereal movement and lush partnering, this contemporary piece explores the experiences of young artists – the challenges they face and the relationships they build as performers.

Chicago native Malcolm Low is a highly-regarded evolving choreographic talent. His new work, One Forgotten Moment, depicts the love and loss of various relationships. At times assertive and vulnerable, this work magnificently showcases the dancers’ physical prowess and finesse.

Amy Hall Garner is emerging as one of America’s diverse creative talents. In her new work Virtues, Garner delivers high energy with a sophisticated edge. The dancers radiate with regal grace, while deftly executing a distinctive blend of contemporary modern and jazz movement.

In addition to the aforementioned three world premiere works, Ailey II will present three repertory favorites while at the Folly Theater: Echoes by Thang Dao, Judith Jamison’s Divining, and the skillfully crafted work Shards by Donald Byrd.

The performances are scheduled on Thursday, October 4 at 7:30pm, Friday, October 5 at 7:30pm, and Saturday, October 6 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.  Ticket prices for the Thursday, Friday and Saturday matinée performances are $25.00 – $65.00.  Groups of 6 or more and KCFAA Members receive a 25% discount. Student Rush Tickets are available two hours prior to the performance for $11.00 for best available seating.  Student IDs must be shown.

Opening night Thursday evening and Saturday evening Benefit performance programs will include Echoes, and two premieres Rusty and Virtues.  Friday evening and Saturday matinée performances will showcase Shards, Divining, and the premiere One Forgotten Moment.

The 7:30pm Saturday evening KCFAA Benefit 2012 performance helps support the organization’s year-round programs for youth.  The Benefit includes an After Party in the Imperial Colonial Ballroom at the Marriott Hotel Muehlebach, on 12^th St. between Central and Wyandotte.  Call 816.471.6003 for Benefit 2012 tickets, which range from $150 to $500.

For more information about all other performances, please contact the Folly Theater box office at 816.474.4444, or visit the box office in person at 10^th & Central. Event information is at www.kcfaa.org.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:    Enrollment is Saturday, September 8, 9:00am through 1:00pm; classes start the week of September 24th  
Where:    Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, 1714 East 18^th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108
Cost:   Free with $35 registration Fee (registration fee may be waived based on family income)

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA Studio Programs Now Enrolling

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is currently enrolling second through twelfth grade students in KCFAA Studio Programs, which begin September 24, 2012 and continue through May 1, 2013.  The Programs offer free dance classes throughout the school year and are designed to introduce youth to the joy of dance.  Classes are held at the KCFAA studio in the 18^th & Vine Jazz District, 1714 East 18^th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108.

The Second through Fourth Grade Program meets after school for one class a week, and includes elements of classical ballet, modern dance, jazz dance, African dance, and social dance.  The Fifth & Sixth Grade Program meets after school for two classes per week, and includes ballet, jazz dance, and nutrition and healthy lifestyle workshops.  AileyCamp The Group for 7^th through 12^th grade students meets twice weekly for dance classes in jazz, modern and ballet, personal development and rap forums, and field trips to attend dance performances and other arts events around the region.

Students achieve their goals through focus, discipline, and hard work.  All students additionally learn about the importance of smart lifestyle choices, physical fitness and healthy eating.

Michael Joy, Director of Artistic and Educational Programs, oversees all education and outreach programs, including AileyCamp. A highly talented dancer with an impressive resume, Michael says his finest achievement has been working with children and facilitating growth and positive change.

Class level placements are Saturday, September 8 at the KCFAA studio.  Class placements are from 9:00 – 10:15am for second through fourth grades, 10:30 – 11:30am for fifth and sixth grades, 11:45 – 12:45 for 7^th through 12^th grades with last names beginning with A through K, and 1:00 – 2:00pm for 7^th through 12^th grades with last names beginning with L through Z.  Class placements start promptly, and appropriate dance attire is required.

KCFAA Studio Programs dance classes are free with a $35.00 registration fee.  For families with two or more students enrolled, the registration fee is $50.00.  Fees may be waived based on family income.

For more information, please call Jessica Thompson, Education Programs Coordinator, at 816.471.6003 x1113, email Jessica@kcfaa.org, or visit www.kcfaa.org.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:   Wednesday, July 11, 2012  
Where:   Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway, KCMO 64108
Cost:  Free Admission

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA AileyCamp Free Final Performance

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Tyrone Aiken, Executive Director of the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), is pleased to present the Final Performance of the 2012 AileyCamp students.  It will be held on Wednesday, July 11, 7:00pm at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, Missouri.  Theater doors open at 6:30pm for first come, first served seating. Admission is free, and families are encouraged to attend.  Onsite parking is $7 cash; valet parking is $17 cash.

“These students have put in an extraordinary amount of work and dedication into their classes and in preparation for this Final Performance,” said Mr. Aiken.  “AileyCamp is where the spirit of Alvin Ailey really comes alive – with the students.”  The first AileyCamp began in 1989 in Kansas City, Missouri, and in 2001 in Kansas City, Kansas.  This is the second year of partnership with Topeka Public Schools; more than twenty Topeka students are participating in AileyCamp Kansas.  This summer AileyCamp will be held at ten sites throughout the United States.

The innovative six-week summer day camp is built upon the philosophy that the skills needed to learn dance are effective tools for developing self-esteem in young people through self-discipline, critical thinking, and cooperative learning skills.  AileyCamp is open to middle-school students, and consists of dance classes in jazz, tap, modern and ballet.  The classes are taught by professional faculty from around the country, and many of the Group Leaders were once AileyCampers themselves.

“The instructors are relevant role models who nurture and assist in the development of the whole child,” said Mr. Aiken. “Students are encouraged to not only develop their artistic interests, but also to address their academic, social and domestic challenges.”

Additional workshops in creative writing, percussion, and personal development complement the dance classes. Throughout the summer, students explore their creativity, learn to master their bodies, foster critical-thinking skills and strengthen their respect for themselves and others.  Community service activities, field trips and family events round out the experience for the Ailey Campers.

The Final Performance will showcase the youngsters’ accomplishments in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, percussion and creative writing.

The public is cordially invited to attend this free performance!

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:   Friday, June 22, 2012  
Where:    Attucks School Parking Lot, SE corner of 18^th & Woodland
Cost:  Free Admission

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA to Hold Neighborhood Block Party

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Tyrone Aiken, Executive Director of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), cordially invites the 18^th & Vine Historic Jazz District and neighboring community to the fifth annual KCFAA Block Party on Friday, June 22, 7:00pm.  Neighbors, KCFAA members, and AileyCamp families are welcome to enjoy complimentary hot dogs, chips, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages at the southeast corner of 18^th & Woodland in the Attucks School Parking Lot.

Entertainment will include appearances by local performing dance and spoken word artists.  Also offered is face painting and a Chalk Walk, with kids and parents creating colorful street paintings.  Red Star Studios will also demonstrate the basics of pottery making and invite attendees to try their hand on the potter’s wheel! 

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey looks forward to seeing you for a free evening of summer fun in celebration of their offices having been located in the 18^th & Vine Historic Jazz District since 2007!

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:  Thursday, October 4 through Saturday, October 6, 2012
Where:   Folly Theater, 300 W. 12^th, Kansas City, Missouri 64105
Cost:  $25.00 – $65.00 Thursday, Friday and Saturday matinée performances;
$150.00 – $500.00 Saturday evening Benefit 2010 tickets

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

KCFAA Presents Ailey II
PreSale Tickets, Member and Group Discounts available

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), the official second home of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, presents Ailey II in four public performances Thursday, October 4 through Saturday, October 6 at the Folly Theater.

Under the new artistic direction of Troy Powell, veteran Ailey dancer, teacher, choreographer and Ailey II Associate Artistic Director since 2003, the company will feature Kansas City premiers as well as works new to Ailey II.

Joan H. Weill, Chairman of the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation, stated, “Ailey II is in many ways the vital connection running through everything we do, linking The Ailey School to Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the Ailey organization to emerging choreographers, community programs and cities of all sizes around the country and the world.”

One of the world’s most popular and acclaimed touring companies, Ailey II’s 2011-2012 tour will consist of performances in more than 25 cities across the United States and abroad.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 7:30pm, and Saturday’s matinée is at 2:00pm. Ticket prices for the Thursday, Friday and Saturday matinée performances are $25.00 – $65.00.

Saturday evening at 7:30pm is the Benefit 2012 performance for KCFAA, which helps support the organization’s year-round programs for youth.  The Benefit includes an After Party at the Muehlebach Hotel until midnight.

Tickets to Benefit 2012 range from $150 to $500.  Those interested in attending should call KCFAA directly at 816.471.6003 x 1114.

Donor members and groups of six or more receive a 25% discount (discounts cannot be combined). Donor members may enroll online, and event tickets are available for purchase at www.kcfaa.org.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When: May 10 and 11, 2012 ~ 7:00pm
Where:  Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts, 4747 Flora, KCMO 64110
Cost:  Students $3; Adults $5

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kaleidoscope Dance Performance at Paseo Academy

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Paseo Academy will present Kaleidoscope dance performance on Thursday and Friday evenings, May 10 and 11, at 7:00pm at Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts, 4747 Flora, Kansas City Missouri, 64110.  The performance will feature the works of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) teaching artists and choreographers Michael Joy, Director of Artistic and Educational Programs, and Paula Lang, Master Teaching Artist.

In partnership with the Kansas City Missouri School District (KCMSD), KCFAA brought professional performing/teaching artists to work with students at both Longfellow Elementary School and Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts.  Students grades four through six at Longfellow and grades seven through twelve at Paseo were included in the program and will perform in Kaleidoscope.

Additional instructors and choreographers are Winston Dynamite Brown and D’Eirre Jackson, and instructor Michele Cox.  All are professional dance artists and Paseo alumni, and currently work with KCFAA educational programs.

These talented artists have a passion and commitment for working with urban school populations.  They also serve as role models for the students, helping them see their potential and inspiring them to achieve their goals.

For more information, call KCFAA at 816.471.6003.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When:   Wednesday, May 2, 2012 at 7:00pm  
Where:    The Gem Theater, 1615 East 18^th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108
Cost:  Free!

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey Presents
Annual Spring Concert 

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is pleased to present our Annual Spring Concert on Wednesday, May 2.  Coordinated by Michael Joy, Director of Artistic and Educational Programs, AileyCamp The Group and the Second through Sixth Grade Programs will perform.

The performance will be held in the historic Jazz District at the Gem Theater, 1601 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri.  The doors open at 6:30pm and the Concert begins at 7:00pm.  Admission is free to the public, but seating is limited!

The Second through Sixth Grade Programs meet once or twice weekly October through May at KCFAA studios to study dance and to learn about healthy lifestyle choices.

AileyCamp The Group was established to give graduates of the six-week summer AileyCamp program an opportunity to continue their dance experience year-round.  In addition, Group members learn about alcohol and drug prevention, nutrition, career planning, and visit cultural institutions in the metropolitan area.

There is no charge for program participants.  Elements of classical ballet, modern, jazz, Dunham dance techniques, African and social dance are evident in the Spring Concert performance.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When: 2012 Term
Where: Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, 1714 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey approves 2012 Board President

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Tyrone Aiken, Executive Director of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), is pleased to announce the approval of Robin Royals as KCFAA’s 2012 Board President.  Debby Ballard, the outgoing Board President, served a three year presidential term.

As the new Board President, Robin Royals brings the analytical, process and human resource management skills that he offers to his global consulting company RC Royals & Associates, LLC (RCRA). He has visited and worked in more than eighteen countries on four continents.  Mr. Royals is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business – University of Pennsylvania and has an MBA from Case Western Reserve University.

“KCFAA is very fortunate to have the quality leadership that Mr. Royals is bringing to the Board helm,” said executive director Tyrone Aiken.  “His expertise will be invaluable in ensuring that the organization’s mission of making dance accessible to all people and teaching young people critical life skills through dance continues to thrive.”

Because Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey is the official second home of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Robin Royals will additionally serve on the Board of Trustees of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Foundation, Inc. in New York to fulfill one of the responsibilities of KCFAA’s Board President.

Approval of Robin Royals as KCFAA Board President for 2012 took place at the December 8, 2011 Annual Board Meeting.  Term service began January, 2012

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When: 2012 Term
Where: Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, 1714 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey approves 2012 Board Officers

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Tyrone Aiken, Executive Director of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA), is pleased to announce the approval of the following Board Officers for 2012: Robin Royals, President; Janet Miller 1st Vice President; Brian Williams 2nd Vice President; Laura Stack, Treasurer; Kashim Skeete, Secretary. Debby Ballard, the outgoing Board President, served a three year presidential term.

The Ailey Trio is comprised of three dancers from the internationally acclaimed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Featured dancers include Guillermo Asca, who has been with the Company since 1994, Demetia Hopkins, who graduated with honors from the Ailey/Fordham B.F.A. Program in Dance in 2009, and Marcus Jarrell Willis, who previously performed with Ailey II and joined the Company in 2008.

Newly led by Artistic Director, Robert Battle, the Ailey company performs for an estimated 23 million people in 48 states and in 71 countries on six continents, including two historic residencies in South Africa. The Company has earned a reputation as one of the most acclaimed international ambassadors of American culture, promoting the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance.

In addition to the free public performance, The Ailey Trio will present fifteen school performances throughout the week to Greater Kansas City schools, and an additional performance at Friendship Baptist Church at 3530 Chelsea Drive, KCMO, 64128 on Tuesday, January 10 at 6:00pm. Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey is the only official second home of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When: Wednesday, February 22, 7:00pm
Where: The Gem Theater, 1601 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108
Cost: Free

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey Presents Setting the Stage

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is pleased to present Setting the Stage on Wednesday, February 22, 7:00pm.  The performance will be held in the historic Jazz District at the Gem Theater, 1601 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri.  Admission is free to the public.

Setting the Stage is a visual journey through African-American dance history that takes place during Black History Month. This multi-media story of African-American dance is interwoven into the broader tapestry of history, and gives insights into the legacies of African-American pioneers in modern dance in American history.  Setting the Stage is performed by talented local and national artists demonstrating the varied dance styles since the Middle Passage against the backdrop of a large-screen narrated slide presentation.

Setting the Stage was developed and choreographed by Tyrone Aiken, KCFAA Executive Director, and inspired by the photo documentary Classic Black, which was originally presented at the Lincoln Center to commemorate African-Americans in classical dance prior to 1970.

Dance artists include Michele Cox, who has performed with New York’s Opus Dance Company, and Whitney Rickets, who has performed in several Starlight Theater musical productions, and Juanita Carter, an AileyCamp graduate who is currently a freshman majoring in dance at University of Missouri – Kansas City.

Latra Wilson and Winston ‘Dynamite’ Brown, who married in 2006, are also Setting the Stage performers.  Born in Tyler, Texas, Latra began her training at the Dance Factory under the tutelage of Pamela Erwin. She went on to study at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she received her BFA in Dance in May 2005. She performed numerous works by DeeAnna Hiett, Sabrina Madison-Cannon, Jennifer Medina, and Rodni Williams. Ms. Wilson was a two-time fellowship participant in the Alvin Ailey summer intensive program. She performed at the Kennedy Center at the National College Dance Festival, Setting the Stage with Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, and with Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company. From 2005-2009, Ms. Wilson was a member of Taylor 2.

Winston Dynamite Brown, a native of Kansas City, Missouri, started dancing at Smith Sisters Dance Studio. He continued his training at the Missouri State Ballet, the University of Missouri Kansas City, where he received his BFA, and The Center Dance under the mentorship of Tyrone Aiken. Winston has participated in numerous intensive programs – Kansas City Ballet, Alonzo King’s pre-professional program, Ailey summer intensive as three time fellowship recipient and the Ballet and Modern programs at Jacobs Pillow as the inaugural recipient of the Lorna Strassler Award. He has worked with the Wylliams/Henry Danse Theatre, Deeply Rooted Productions, Albany Berkshire Ballet, Metropolitan Opera and Taylor 2. Winston was a member of the Pilobolus touring company from 2009 through 2011.

All dancers have attended The Ailey School in New York City.

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey is the only official second home of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.

When: Thursday, January 12, 7:00pm
Where: The Gem Theater, 1601 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108
Cost: Free

Contact: Glory Ann Penington,
Director of Marketing & Communications, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey
816.471.6003 x11
gloryann@kcfaa.org

For Immediate Release

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey Presents The Ailey Trio

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is pleased to present The Ailey Trio on Thursday, January 12, 7:00pm.  The performance will be held in the historic Jazz District at the Gem Theater, 1601 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri.  Admission is free to the public.

The Ailey Trio is comprised of three dancers from the internationally acclaimed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.  Featured dancers include Guillermo Asca, who has been with the Company since 1994, Demetia Hopkins, who graduated with honors from the Ailey/Fordham B.F.A. Program in Dance in 2009, and Marcus Jarrell Willis, who previously performed with Ailey II and joined the Company in 2008.

Newly led by Artistic Director, Robert Battle, the Ailey company performs for an estimated 23 million people in 48 states and in 71 countries on six continents, including two historic residencies in South Africa. The Company has earned a reputation as one of the most acclaimed international ambassadors of American culture, promoting the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance.

In addition to the free public performance, The Ailey Trio will present fifteen school performances throughout the week to Greater Kansas City schools, and an additional performance at Friendship Baptist Church at 3530 Chelsea Drive,  KCMO, 64128 on Tuesday, January 10 at 6:00pm. Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey is the only official second home of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II.

The Mission of Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) is making dance accessible to all people by presenting the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II, teaching young people critical life skills through dance, and modeling interracial and multi-cultural community partnerships.

The Vision of KCFAA reflects the personal vision of Alvin Ailey:  a diverse community united by dance to inspire and change lives.  For more information, please visitwww.KCFAA.org, or call 816.471.6003.