1/10/03

Diane Clifton, 334/844-5117

AU OUTREACH, OPELIKA ARTS ASSOCIATION TEAM TO BRING DANCE GROUP TO AU

AUBURN -- Auburn University Outreach, AU's Theatre Department and the Opelika Arts Association are joining forces to bring the dynamic dance company Ailey II to the AU Campus.

Ailey II, an offshoot of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will perform at Telfair Peet Theatre Jan. 23-25, 2003. Each evening performance will begin at 7:30 p.m.

"We're excited to partner with the Opelika Performing Arts Association to bring the Ailey II to Auburn University," said David Wilson, associate provost and vice president for University Outreach.

"If you've never seen this group perform, you have missed a seventh wonder of American cultural experiences," said Wilson. "They are world class in every respect, and to see them perform their signature piece, Revelations, which will be a part of their program here at Auburn University, will leave you breathless."

This is not the first time the Opelika Arts Association has been associated with the Alvin Ailey dance experience, according to Phillip Preston, director of programs.

"The Opelika Arts Association hosted Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as part of its 1991-92 performance series season -- a memorable performance enthusiastically cheered by our subscriber audience," said Preston.

"In the decade since," said Preston, "the Ailey company has continued to grow in stature as one of the world's most important cultural institutions. The main company is now in such demand that their appearances are almost exclusively in large urban areas.

"We are excited to have Ailey II, their company of up-and-coming stars, here in January for performances both for the general public and for student performances," added Preston. Matinee performances are being scheduled for Alabama students from the Auburn-Opelika area and for students from West Alabama.

"Besides being a critically acclaimed and honored dance company, Ailey II offers community outreach to local schools across the country," said Wilson. "The school children of central Alabama would otherwise never be exposed to this calibre of performing arts."

Created by Alvin Ailey in 1974, Ailey II began as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble to aid talented individuals in making the leap from studio to stage. Under the artistic direction of Sylvia Waters, Ailey II has world class coaching and an expansive performance schedule. The Company emphasizes a balance of repertoire, technique and performance and has won numerous honors, awards and proclamations in recognition of its performance and community outreach programs.

Tickets are available by calling the Opelika Arts Association at 334/749-8105 or AU's Telfair Peet Theatre at 334/844-4154.

CONTACT: Wilson, 334/844-5700.