Celebrating a Decade of Partnership with Alvin Ailey

St. Patrick's is proud to celebrate a remarkable 10-year partnership with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. This collaboration has enriched our community with unforgettable experiences that blend the arts, education, and cultural exploration. To mark this milestone, we are excited to be bringing back a series of special events for our students for the first time since the pandemic, beginning with programming for all students in Grades K-8, and culminating in an inspiring field trip to the Kennedy Center for students in Grade 2.

Grades K-8 students will attend a special assembly featuring a live, interactive performance by artists from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the St. Patrick’s Gymnasium and Performance Center. This dynamic presentation will showcase the vibrancy of modern dance and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that Alvin Ailey’s work embodies. Students will also learn about the artists’ professional journeys and have the chance to ask questions. The assembly promises to be an unforgettable experience that inspires awe and curiosity in students of all ages.

Our partnership with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater aligns beautifully with the Grade 2 Pinkney author study, which explores the works of Jerry Pinkney and other authors who celebrate African American culture and history. Just as Pinkney’s stories bring history and heritage to life through words and illustrations, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater tells powerful stories through movement and music. This connection provides a multidisciplinary approach to learning, enriching students' understanding of culture, history, and the arts.

While AAADT has partnerships with several schools in New York City, their 2014 visit to St. Patrick's was the first time that members of the company worked with students in Washington, D.C. That visit began a successful partnership and an annual event that has become a highlight of the Grade 2 literacy curriculum—the visit ties in with exploring the Pinkney family of children's authors and illustrators. Four members of the Pinkney family have produced more than 200 books, many of which focus on important people and events related to the African American experience. Jerry Pinkney and Gloria Jean Pinkney met in art school and married. They became children's book authors and illustrators, and their son Brian and his wife Andrea Davis Pinkney also followed that career path.

As an extension of their Pinkney author study, Grade 2 students will enjoy a school-based workshop led by talented performers from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. This interactive session will introduce students to the artistry and athleticism of dance while fostering creativity and self-expression. Students will have the unique opportunity to learn from world-class dancers here at St. Patrick’s, gaining insight into the discipline, passion, and storytelling that define Alvin Ailey’s iconic work.

Finally, this week of partnership will culminate in a field trip to the Kennedy Center for Grade 2 students–notably the only Grade 2 students in the area who are permitted to attend the AADT’s school-day show–where they will witness a live performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, including an excerpt from the world-famous Ailey signature piece, Revelations. Performed to African American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs, and holy blues, Alvin Ailey’s Revelations fervently explores the places of deepest grief and holiest joy in the soul. This outing will allow students to experience the magic of professional dance on a grand stage, deepening their appreciation for the performing arts and the power of storytelling through movement.

Over the past decade, the Day School’s collaboration with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has inspired countless students to explore their creativity, embrace diversity, and find joy in artistic expression. We look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence and innovation, fostering a love for the arts that will last a lifetime.

Here’s to another decade of partnership, growth, and shared inspiration!