In this evocative excerpt from Alonzo King LINES Ballet’s performance of Deep River, the entire company immerses itself in the rich legacy of the traditional Black spiritual, melding classical and contemporary dance under the stirring vocals of Lisa Fischer and Jason Moran on the piano. The ensemble’s movements flow with a soulful grace, echoing the organic rhythms of a rolling river, as they express the deep emotional yearning for peace encapsulated in the song. Through a dynamic interplay of uniform and canonic choreography, the dancers convey a profound sense of shared heartache, evoking multifaceted responses as they seek respite through a hopeful struggle.
NEXT at the Kennedy Center on PBS features programs across the Center's season, showcasing artists who are at the forefront of their disciplines and serve as culture bearers of the 21st century.
