Choreographer Jeremy McQueen’s ballet collective, The Black Iris Project, has been using movement to celebrate black artists since 2016. At SummerStage, the performance will include “MADIBA”, a ballet inspired by the life of the late Nelson Mandela, whose 100th birthday is being commemorated this year. The work, which was selected by the celebrated ballerina, Misty Copeland, and previously performed at the The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 2017, will be followed by the world premiere of “A Mother’s Rite,” featuring former Alvin Ailey soloist and TONY nominated dancer, Karine Plantadit. The ballet, set to a four hand piano version of “The Rite of Spring” written and arranged by Igor Stravinsky, was co-commissioned through The Bronx Museum of the Arts’ Dance and Visual Arts Collaborative Commissioning Program.

featuring Alvin Ailey’s Revelations Celebration Community Workshop at 7pm.

Alvin Ailey’s Revelations is the world’s most popular work of modern dance. Learn excerpts from this American classic led by master teacher Nasha Thomas or other former Ailey company members, with live music by an Ailey percussionist and selected props. Join your friends and family – all ages are welcome! Dance for a moment, remember it for a lifetime.