At 50, Ailey Gets All Dolled Up

In celebration of it’s 50th season, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater pairs up with Mattel to produce the first ever dance company inspired Barbie doll. Designed by Ailey’s Artistic Director, Judith Jamison, the doll features a fully pivotal body that allows it to pose like a dancer.

Wearing a white lace dress from “Wade in the Water,” a section of Ailey’s masterpiece, Revelations, this little doll turns the beauty of dance into a tangible object. It’s no doubt that dance will continue to emerge into the forefront of pop culture, but who knew the infamous big-busted, small-waisted doll would be the one to bring modern dance into the hands of children and adults all over the country.

Now in the middle of it’s 18-month celebration, Ailey has other ways, aside from the new Barbie, to celebrate it’s 50th season with dozens of commemorative offerings, special performances, and a grand opening gala on December 3rd for the season opening at the New York City Center. To mark the City Center opening, the Empire State building will shine gold, recognizing an American modern dance stronghold.

The Alvin Ailey Barbie Doll is available at Target, and online at aileyboutique.com

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