BALTIMORE — As a child, Tyler Brown watched the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater and wished that one day she would become a part of the world-renowned troupe. Brown’s wishes have come true. The Maryland native and Carver Center for Arts and Technology graduate is a member of Ailey II, Alvin Ailey’s American Dance Theatre.
“It’s an honor,” said Tyler. “I have always looked up to the Alvin Ailey Dancers. To be part of an organization I have admired for years is such an honor. I am grateful for the opportunity. This is really great.”
Courtesy photo
Maryland native Tyler Brown is a member of Ailey II, Alvin Ailey’s American Dance Theatre.
Comprised of the most promising scholarship students of The Ailey School, Ailey II offers unique opportunities for artists to refine their technique while gaining invaluable performing and teaching experience during their tenure with the company.
Towson University’s College of Fine Arts & Communication and Department of Dance will be presenting Ailey II for two performances. The performances will take place Saturday, September 21, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in Stephens Hall Theatre, located at 8000 York Road on the campus of Towson University.
As part of Ailey II and Towson University’s community outreach and commitment to providing access for all, Ailey II will also be presenting two, free 45-minute mini-performances at 10:00 a.m. and noon for Baltimore City and County schools on Friday, September 20.
Tyler, along with another Maryland native, Aubree Brown are excitedly looking forward to their performances.
“I trained at Carver Center for the Arts, which is close to where we will be performing,” said Tyler. “It’s great to come back home.”
Tyler began her dance training on scholarship at Peabody Dance Preparatory in Baltimore under the direction of Carol Bartlett.
“Performing with Ailey II is very empowering,” said Tyler. “It’s a great organization and great way to learn. This is my second year with the Company. Overall, it teaches you how to be strong, how to create your work and developing yourself. However, it’s also a lot of hard work and dedication. You have to push yourself every single day.”
Under the direction of Troy Powell, Ailey II is universally-renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding emerging choreographers. Founded in 1958, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is recognized by U.S. Congressional resolution as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World.” Ailey’s artists have performed for an estimated 23 million people in 71 countries on six continents. Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, Ailey II embodies Ailey’s pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training and community programs for all people.
“Being an Ailey dancer is very deep,” said Tyler. “It’s more than being a dancer. It also represents who we are and Ailey stands for. As a youngster, I aspired to be like them. I am proud to continue the legacy.”
Aubree began her dance training at Baltimore School for the Arts under the guidance of Norma Pera, Anton Wilson, Deborah Robinson and Linda-Denise Fischer-Harrell.
“Being with Ailey II is an honor and a huge accomplishment for me,” said Aubree. “As a dancer you have to love what you do. We try to progress and improve each day. It makes me love dance even more.”
In addition to Tyler and Aubree, The Ailey II Dance Company includes David Adrian Freeland, Jr., Gentry George, Daphne Lee, Olivier Medus, Edward Spots, Riccardo Battaglia, Shay Bland, Jacquelin Harris, Danica Paulos and Jamal White.
“I am looking forward to our performance in Baltimore,” said Aubree. “Many of my family members are coming to support me. It is a blessing, and I am very excited. We do many styles of dance. People can expect a lot of diversity, and a phenomenal show.”
For Ailey II tickets or information, visit: www.tuboxoffice.com or call 410-704-2787.