Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is performing its annual show at Manhattan’s City Center with exciting new pieces – including Alonzo King‘s 2001 Following the Subtle Current Upstream in the works.

The performance delves into the profound connections that exist between Western and Eastern classical art forms, fundamental elements, the wonders of the natural world and the essence of the human spirit. 

Termed by King as a work centered on the rediscovery of joy, Following the Subtle Current Upstream reflects the vibrant ebb and flow of life and serves as a poignant reminder that all elements of nature yearn to return to their origins. 

King’s choreography, both abstract and imbued with profound significance, guides the dancers through a continuous stream of movement, accompanied by an eclectic blend of compositions by Zakir Hussain, Miguel Frasconi and Miriam Makeba.

In the past, King emphasized the universal search for permanent joy.

He said, “All of our choices, poor or wise, are based on the achievement of that one goal. It has been proven time and again that external acquisitions cannot guarantee that goal. All desires achieved bring happiness, but only temporary happiness. It is an inward journey back to ourselves alone that brings permanent happiness.”

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is now performing at New York City’s Lincoln Center, tickets are available now.

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