Alvin Ailey’s Choreography And Life Will Be Honored Through The Artistic, Poetic Eye Of Barry Jenkins

Barry Jenkins, the Award-winning director of Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk, is set to direct a film based on the life and work of Alvin Ailey (1931–1989), Deadline reports.

Ailey is thought to be one of the most prominent choreographers of the 20th century. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, and is credited for revolutionizing African-American participation in 20th century concert dance, as well as bringing modern dance to the mainstream.  Set by Fox Searchlight, the film is being made with the full support and cooperation of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Alicia Keys will co-produce the film, alongside Judy Kinberg, Adele Romanski, and Rachel Cohen. Julian Breece will write the script for the currently untitled biopic.

When we consider the poetic and gentle style of Jenkins’ work, there is no question that the Beale Street director is an absolutely brilliant choice to bring Ailey’s choreography and story to the big screen. With his first feature film, Moonlight, Jenkins took home the Oscar for Best Picture, and was most recently nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay for If Beale Street Could Talk. 

In December, The Alvin Ailey Dance Theater celebrated its 60th anniversary. Below, enjoy a film featuring signature classic dances, immersive conversations about why the company remains relevant and special today, and more. 

Explore the phenomenal history of the theater by visiting alvinailey.org.