The world-renowned African American dance group, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will make a stop in Detroit March 17-19 during its 22-city North American tour that started March 8 in Chicago. The historic cultural organization, created by African American dancer Alvin Ailey, celebrates the unique experiences of African Americans and preserves and enriches the American modern dance heritage. 

RELATED: Dance Theatre of Harlem finds inspiration for ‘Higher Ground’ performance at Motown Museum

RELATED: DDC Dances keeps moving 40 years after its start

Ahead of the company’s performance in Detroit, “American Black Journal” host Stephen Henderson sits down with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Artistic Director Robert Battle, who took the helm in July 2011 following his predecessors Judith Jamison and Alvin Ailey himself.  

The two talk about the upcoming Detroit performance, the history of the organization and its founder, and how the dance company changed the face of contemporary dance. Plus, they discuss how the pandemic’s disruption forced the group to think outside the box in order to continue to entertain and grow their audiences.      

Stay Connected

Subscribe to Detroit PBS YouTube Channel & Don’t miss American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Catch the daily conversations on our website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @amblackjournal.

View Past Episodes >

Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit Public TV, WTVS-Channel 56.