Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Masekela Langage

Alvin Aileys searing portrait of oppression draws parallels between the era of South African apartheid and the race-induced violence in Chicago during the 1960s. As trumpeter and composer Hugh Masekelas driving music propels the dancers through a string of theatrical tableaus, the commanding choreography speaks of passivity, militancy, despair and defiance anywhere, at any time.