History of Judith Jamison in Timeline
Judith Ann Jamison was a highly influential figure in American modern dance. As a dancer, she was renowned for her powerful stage presence, dramatic intensity, and unique style. She joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965, quickly becoming one of Ailey's muses and a star performer. Her most famous role was in "Cry," a 30-minute solo choreographed by Ailey as a tribute to Black women. Jamison's choreographic works often explored themes of African American culture, spirituality, and social justice. She assumed leadership of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater after Ailey's death in 1989, guiding the company for over two decades and ensuring its continued success as a prominent force in the dance world. Her leadership nurtured new generations of dancers and choreographers while preserving and celebrating Ailey's legacy.
May 10, 1943: Birth of Judith Jamison
Judith Ann Jamison was born on May 10, 1943.
1943: Early life and dance training
In 1943, Judith Jamison began her dance training at the Judimar School of Dance, studying various dance forms under Marion Cuyjet's mentorship.
1964: Joins Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
In 1964, after an audition and invitation from Alvin Ailey, Judith Jamison joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
1965: Premiere with Alvin Ailey Dance Theater
Judith Jamison made her premiere with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965 at the Harper Theater Dance Festival in Chicago.
1966: European and African Tour
In 1966, Judith Jamison toured Europe and Africa with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
1967: Returns to Alvin Ailey Dance Theater
After a brief hiatus of the company, Judith Jamison returned to the re-formed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1967.
May 4, 1971: Premiere of "Cry"
On May 4, 1971, Judith Jamison premiered her signature solo performance, "Cry", choreographed by Alvin Ailey.
1972: Marriage to Miguel Godreau
Judith Jamison married Miguel Godreau, a dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, in 1972.
1974: Annulment of Marriage
Judith Jamison's marriage to Miguel Godreau was annulled in 1974.
1976: Performs "Pas de Duke" with Mikhail Baryshnikov
In 1976, Judith Jamison danced with Mikhail Baryshnikov in "Pas de Duke", choreographed by Alvin Ailey.
1980: Broadway Debut in "Sophisticated Ladies"
Judith Jamison made her Broadway debut in the musical "Sophisticated Ladies" in 1980.
1981: Begins teaching master classes and choreographing
In 1981, Judith Jamison began teaching master classes at Jacob's Pillow and started choreographing her own works.
November 15, 1988: The Jamison Project Premieres
Judith Jamison's dance group, The Jamison Project, premiered at the Joyce Theater in New York City on November 15, 1988.
1988: Returns to Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as Artistic Associate
In 1988, Judith Jamison returned to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as an artistic associate.
December 1, 1989: Becomes Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Following Alvin Ailey's death on December 1, 1989, Judith Jamison became the artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
1989: Judith Jamison becomes Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
In 1989, Judith Jamison took on the role of Artistic Director at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
1992: Honorary Induction into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
Judith Jamison was inducted as an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority in 1992.
July 2011: Transitions to Artistic Director Emerita
In July 2011, Judith Jamison transitioned to the role of Artistic Director Emerita and appointed Robert Battle as her successor.
2011: Judith Jamison becomes Artistic Director Emerita
In 2011, Judith Jamison transitioned to the role of Artistic Director Emerita at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
November 9, 2024: Death of Judith Jamison
Judith Jamison passed away on November 9, 2024.