Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Gala
Ambassadors of American Culture

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s gala celebrated the opening of a six-night run at the Kennedy Center’ Opera House on February 22. The evening began with a presentation of “Vespers,” a work by the late Ulysses Dove honoring his grandmother’s religious passion, followed by “Love Stories,” David Parson’s “Caught,” and the classic “Revelations.” Following the critically-acclaimed performances, guests proceeded to the Atrium for a festive dinner-dance, chaired by Carolyn Brody, Debra Lee, Wendy Raines and Beatrice Welters. Over $300,000 was raised to benefit the theater, founded over 46 years ago by Alvin Ailey. The theater’s productions incorporate a mix of ballet and modern dance with a wide range of music, including classical, jazz and contemporary.

Judith Jamison and David Ratcliffe	Mary Beth Carver and her mom

Mary Duffett and Ray Bender	Franklin Raines, Riley Temple and Wendy Raines

Darryl Carter and Cheryl Cooper	Diane Williams and Mayor Anthony Williams

Photos by Kyle Samperton