description Cry (Ailey) Overview
“Cry” (Ailey) is a 1986 American contemporary dance piece choreographed by Alvin Ailey, exploring themes of grief and loss through stark black and white imagery and emotionally charged movement sequences within a minimalist setting.
help Cry (Ailey) FAQ
Was Alvin Ailey's Cry created in 1986?
No. Cry premiered on May 4, 1971, and it became one of Judith Jamison's signature solos. Ailey made it as a birthday gift for his mother, Lula Cooper.
Who was Cry originally created for?
Cry was created for Judith Jamison at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The solo is about 16 minutes long and is often described as a tribute to Black women, especially mothers.
What music does Cry use?
The solo uses music by Alice Coltrane, Laura Nyro, and the Voices of East Harlem. That mix gives the piece a journey-like arc, from struggle and mourning toward release.
How is Cry different from Ailey's Revelations?
Revelations is a 1960 ensemble work rooted in spirituals, gospel, and blues. Cry is a solo vehicle from 1971, centered on one woman's endurance and transformation.
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