AileyCamp focuses on developing self-esteem, creative expression, and critical thinking skills while engaging in a variety of dance techniques, including ballet, Horton-based modern, jazz, and West African dance.
AileyCamp, the nationally acclaimed summer program that uses dance as a means to stretch the minds, bodies, and spirits of middle-school students, launched in Atlanta June 5 in partnership and continued through July 14 at Luther J. Price Middle School.
This rewarding summer experience aligned with Mayor Andre Dickens’ “ATL Year of the Youth” initiative for the City of Atlanta Government. The camp culminated in a special presentation at the High Museum of Art.
“Our Year of the Youth is designed to provide opportunities for young people to follow their passion and enrich their lives. Thanks to AileyCamp, 25 Atlanta youth can do just that. Together, AileyCamp Atlanta and Purpose Built Schools Atlanta are allowing these young people to learn from some of the nation’s leading dance instructors, nurturing their talents and, in turn, contribute to our city’s thriving arts and culture community,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
The six-week, full scholarship program strives to help students ages 11-14 reach their full potential with classes in dance, personal development, creative communications, and inspiring daily affirmations.
Together, AileyCamp Atlanta and Purpose Built Schools Atlanta allowed young people to learn from some of the nation’s leading dance instructors, nurturing their talents and, in turn, contribute to Atlanta’s thriving arts and culture community.
“Dancing with AileyCamp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students,” said Mike Davis, CEO of Purpose Built Schools Atlanta. “This partnership is a tremendous example of why collaborating with arts organizations is critical for our city.”
Founded by Alvin Ailey and Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey in 1989, and now reaching 10 cities nationwide, AileyCamp develops self-esteem, self-discipline, creative expression, critical-thinking and goal-setting skills in a supportive environment. The acclaimed program has a strong emphasis on Personal Development and Creative Communication classes, teaching campers how to express themselves in a positive way and tackle challenging subjects that include decision-making, peer-pressure, conflict resolution, and self-awareness.
“Alvin Ailey once said, “to be who you are and become what you are capable of is the only goal worth living,” stated Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Artistic Director Robert Battle. “Since its inception, AileyCamp has provided direction and hope to thousands of inner-city middle school students through dance. We are excited to offer Atlanta youth a safe space to stretch their minds, dream big, and take steps towards a successful future.”