Denise Jefferson/Director Alvin Ailey School
As I began to write this blog about Denise Jefferson’s passing, a tribute to her legacy appeared on “So You Think You Can Dance.” (What timing) When I received my scholarship to Ailey’s I was assigned Denise Jefferson for Modern/Graham technique. Two words have become synonymous for me with regard to Ms. Jefferson, “turn –out” (for she was alwaaaaays in one, and had a helluva one at that!), and “Giselle” for she was one graceful lady who danced with ease. As I struggled the first year or two (ok who am I kidding – the rest of my life!) with the concept of Graham floorwork, it was Ms. “J” who would chuckle at my attempt as she explained the male anatomy regarding the open hip in Graham dancing. Relieved, I justly compensated when we got off the floor. Triplets, skitters and Bison Leaps became my specialty, and she acknowledged with a smile.
Ms. “J’s” passing is a true shock. I recalled it was just a year ago that I ran into her at Ailey’s as she inquired and was proud of the University teaching I had accomplished. Although it wasn’t the modern technique I administered, it was the Jefferson grace and suspension that I incorporated in every triple metered choreography executed.
Miss Jefferson, you will be terribly missed, but you live in our hearts and studios…forever!
Ailey 2′s Friday night performance at Central Park Summerstage will be in her honor
There are no responses yet