The legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey's dances center on the Black American experience with grace, strength and beauty.

In 1960, Alvin Ailey choreographs his classic masterpiece "Revelations" at just 29 years old.

In "Masekela Langage," Ailey drew parallels between South African apartheid and race-induced violence in 1960s Chicago.

Alvin Ailey choreographed his 1971 signature solo "Cry" as a birthday present for his mother.

In 1979, Alvin Ailey premiered "Memoria," a work dedicated to his recently passed dear friend and colleague, Joyce Trisler.