Alvin Ailey at The Arsht Center

I just came back from the first of two Alvin Ailey performances at the Adrienne Arsht Center. The picture above is from the piece titled "In/Side" performed by Jamar Roberts (not in photo) and set to the song "Wild is The Wind" by Nina Simone. I was not prepared for the emotions this piece tore from my heart.

The dance is a lover's cry. It appears his pleas have fallen on deaf ears and so he has gone mad with heartbreak. Alvin Ailey dancers are known for their beauty, strength and passion and Roberts is not only no exception, but his physique, agility and grace are exceptional.  His moves were often manic-- purposely missing the beat of the music-- exiting his body with the violence of a limber child possessed. In calmer moments the performance was fluid, angelic and soft.

I cannot get this piece out of my head. And, the show had the entire audience on their feet with both applause and awe. Don't miss a chance to see this famed dance company while they are still in Miami. This weekend only.