Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Premieres 'Rise,' Rockefeller Center's First Dance Film
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has premiered "Rise," a groundbreaking dance film shot at iconic Rockefeller Center in New York City. Directed by Samuel Schler, the film creatively utilizes the venue's history, showcasing performances at notable locations, including the observation deck and the Prometheus statue. Featuring seven dancers in costumes by LUAR and Collina Strada, the film is complemented by music from Jamie xx and Honey Dijon. Schler collaborated with Associate Artistic Director Matthew Rushing to curate pieces aimed at celebrating movement and the setting. In honor of National Dance Day, free workshops will be offered on September 19, 26, and October 3.
Key facts
- "Rise" is the first-ever dance film anchored at Rockefeller Center.
- Creative director Samuel Schler led the project, collaborating with Alvin Ailey Associate Artistic Director Matthew Rushing.
- Seven dancers perform to "Baddy on the Floor" by Jamie xx and Honey Dijon, wearing designs by LUAR and Collina Strada.
- The film was shot across Rockefeller Center, including the observation level, Prometheus sculpture, and Radio Park.
- Director Philipp Paulus and cinematographer Jake Moore contributed to the visual narrative.
- Schler previously created the Brooklyn Museum-set dance film "Transient" and worked on Rockefeller Center's United Flags of Fashion exhibition.
- EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director at Tishman Speyer and Head of Rockefeller Center, commented on the collaboration.
- Free public workshops by Alvin Ailey teaching artists will take place on September 19 and 26, and October 3 for National Dance Day.
Entities
Artists
- Samuel Schler
- Alvin Ailey
- Matthew Rushing
- Jamie xx
- Honey Dijon
- Philipp Paulus
- Jake Moore
- EB Kelly
Institutions
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
- Rockefeller Center
- LUAR
- Collina Strada
- Brooklyn Museum
- Tishman Speyer
- Surface
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Midtown Manhattan
- Rogers
- Texas
- Radio Park