Dandy Moment: Tatted Up- Hummingbird Heartbeat

Dandy Girl - Nicole and Me

The  Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has always been revered as one of the worlds most premiere modern dance companies. Performing in more than 48 states, 71 countries and 6 continents over the past 54 years, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has an expansive repertory,not only comprised of Mr. Ailey's 79 ballets, but well over 200 works by over 80 choreographers. Before the passing of  Mr. Ailey in 1989 he graciously passed the Artistic Director torch to Ms. Judith Jamison ,who for 21 year helped establish and rebrand the Ailey name to the remarkable company it is today. In 2011 she passed the same torch to Mr. Robert Battle, who has done an extremely impressive job of maintaing the Ailey legacy and fusing it with his own unique style that has a fresh and contemporary vision. I have had the honor and pleasure to work for this organization for a combined total of 5 years.

The opening night benefit gala has become a tradition for many dance lovers and supporters.  This years Honorary Chair was the Oscar Award winning comedic/actress MoNique, with a special performance of the Ailey classic:Revelations featuring special soloist Jessye Norman, Brian Stokes Mitchell and Anika Noni Rose. The 2012 season has several monumental moments for supporters to enjoy: A Night Celebrating Sharon Gersten Luckman (Executive Director for AAADT), Renee Robinson Farewell as well as 5 new works, and world and company premiere's.

Dandy Girl- Monique Alleyne and I 

Dandy Girl- Sharifa Crawford and I

Mr. Alvin Ailey 

Ms. Judith Jamison

Mr. Robert Battle

Dandy Moment: Date Night With Dandy Girl Assue, Maison Harlem

Me and Dandy Girl Assue

There is a new French Bistro that just opened a few months ago in West Harlem, NewYork. Maison Harlem is the romantic eatery founded by Romain Bonnans and Samuel Thian, two ambitious New Yorkers, originally born in France, who have decided to share their love and passion for French food and wine, and collaborate as restauranteurs in central Harlem. This cozy bistro is reasonably priced for their gourmet  dishes. If you are looking for a place to spend a romantic evening or just quaint hideaway Maison Harlem the perfect place for you. 

Dandy Moment: Thanksgiving In Harlem 2012

Thanksgiving has always been a holiday for people to be able to gather and fellowship with friends and family. I always look forward to celebrating this particular holiday, because it allows me the opportunity to express publicly with my friends and family just how thankful I am for them and all the blessings I have in my life. This year I was pleasantly invited to the home of three of my loving friends Assue, Azebe and Nicole, three beautiful Florida natives who now call New York their home. These lovely ladies open their beautiful Harlem brownstone doors to me and several of their friends. Here are a few photos from the magical night that was filled with love, life and friendship.

The Lovely Hadaya Turner

Dandy Girl and Host- Nicole 

Dandy Girl and Host - Assue Etsubeneh 

The Lovely Ms. Krystle 

Myself 

The lovely Host Assue,Azebe,Nicole and special friend and cook Erica

Dandy Event: Cotton Club Parade Featuring Glee's Amber Riley

Glee's break-out star Amber Riley stars in the off broadway, Encore Special Event: Cotton Club Parade. For one week only Ms. Riley and a phenomenal cast of 24 of the most talented Jazz singers and dancers performed at the New York City Center along with the Jazz At Lincoln Center All Stars. Under the musical direction of Wynton Marsalis and lead by Conductor Daryl Waters this 1920s and 30's variety-style show was thrilling to watch and hear. The dance moves and costumes helped to transport me back in time to the 20's and 30's. The big band sound of the J.A.L.C.A.S set the mood by playing timeless classics by legendary jazz composers Duke Ellington, Harold Arlen,Dorothy Fields and Jimmy McHugh. This show is a must see for any jazz or art lover looking to experience the magic and the essence of the 1920s. 

Dandy Man -Samuel Coleman