In the realm of modern dance, few works resonate with the emotional depth and cultural significance of Alvin Ailey’s Cry. Premiered in 1971, this 16-minute solo piece has become a cornerstone of American dance, celebrated for its raw expression of resilience, pain, and triumph. Here are five must-know facts about this iconic work that continue to inspire audiences and dancers alike.
1. A Tribute to Black Women’s Strength
Alvin Ailey created Cry as a love letter to his mother, Lula Cooper, and all Black women who endured hardship with unwavering strength. Ailey, who grew up in the racially segregated South, witnessed his mother’s resilience in the face of poverty and discrimination. The piece is a testament to the endurance and spirit of Black women throughout history, embodying their struggles and triumphs.
2. Judith Jamison’s Iconic Performance
Originally choreographed for Judith Jamison, Cry became her signature piece. Jamison’s towering presence and technical prowess brought Ailey’s vision to life, transforming the solo into a powerful narrative of survival. Her interpretation remains the gold standard, though the piece has since been performed by other dancers, each bringing their unique voice to the role.
3. Musical Mosaic of African American Experience
The soundtrack of Cry is a carefully curated blend of music that reflects the African American experience. It features a mix of spirituals, blues, jazz, and gospel, including works by Alice Coltrane, Sean “Rocky” Sumper, and James Brown. This musical tapestry underscores the emotional journey of the piece, from sorrow to joy, struggle to liberation.
4. Symbolism in Movement and Props
Ailey’s choreography in Cry is rich with symbolism. The dancer uses a single chair and a long piece of fabric as props, which represent both the burdens and the tools of resilience. The fabric, for instance, is dragged, wrapped, and ultimately discarded, symbolizing the shedding of pain and the embrace of freedom. The movements themselves—from fluid, lyrical phrases to sharp, angular gestures—convey a wide range of emotions.
5. Enduring Legacy and Global Impact
“Cry is more than a dance; it’s a statement of survival and hope,” said Alicia Graf Mack, a former principal dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Over five decades since its debut, Cry remains a cornerstone of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s repertoire. It has been performed worldwide, inspiring audiences with its universal themes of resilience and empowerment. The piece has also influenced countless choreographers and dancers, cementing its place as a masterpiece of 20th-century dance.
What inspired Alvin Ailey to create *Cry*?
+Alvin Ailey was inspired by his mother, Lula Cooper, and the resilience of Black women who faced immense challenges. The piece is a tribute to their strength and endurance.
Who was the original performer of *Cry*?
+Judith Jamison was the original performer of *Cry*, and her interpretation remains iconic in the dance world.
What role does music play in *Cry*?
+The music in *Cry* is a blend of spirituals, blues, jazz, and gospel, reflecting the African American experience and enhancing the emotional narrative of the piece.
How has *Cry* influenced modern dance?
+*Cry* has inspired countless choreographers and dancers with its themes of resilience and empowerment, solidifying its status as a masterpiece of modern dance.
Alvin Ailey’s Cry is more than a dance; it’s a profound expression of the human spirit. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to transcend time and culture, speaking to anyone who has faced adversity and found the strength to rise above it. As we continue to celebrate this masterpiece, we honor not only Ailey’s genius but also the indomitable spirit of those who inspired it.
