Unifying the work of one’s mind, body and spirit simultaneously, modern dance uses the body as an instrument of self-expression and prodigious emotion – glorifying “line, interdependence of bodies and the balance of the visual sculpture.” At the turn of each century, modern dance has evolved into a spectrum of revolutionary works created by visionary and creative artists. Alvin Ailey, a pioneer in modern dance, formed the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, revolutionizing “African-American participation in 20th century concert dance.” The company, under the direction of Ailey, began with a group of young African-American modern dancers with a vision to change the perception of American dance.
