With a manic intensity, the four [dancers] stomped and pounded with a propulsive power that evoked the brutality of the hunters, the fear of the prey, and they exhaustion of the chase" -- The Boston Globe

Set to a wildly percussive soundtrack by Les Tambours du Bronx, this ballet for six men examines the relationship between modern sports and the rituals of the gladiators, revealing the aggressive side of human nature and the primitive thrill of the hunt.

Robert Battle has been named Artistic Director Designate of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and will succeed Judith Jamison in July 2011.  He is a graduate of the New World School of the Arts and holds a B.F.A. in dance from The Juilliard School.  Mr. Battle was a member of the Parsons Dance Company from 1994 to 2001, where he began setting his work in 1998 and had his choreography featured in five New York City seasons. 

Founded by Mr. Battle in 2001, Battleworks Dance Company has performed in New York City at the Joyce Theater, St. Mark's Church, Evening Stars, The Juilliard Theater and Dance Theater Workshop.  He has been commissioned for both new and restaged works by numerous companies including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, River North Chicago, Introdans, Ballet Memphis, Koresh Dance Company and PARADIGM.  

In 2005, Mr. Battle was honored in the Masters of African-American Choreography program at the Kennedy Center, and in 2007 he received the prestigious Statue Award from The Princess Grace Foundation.

Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country's best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today's most outstanding emerging choreographers.  Alvin Ailey personally appointed former Ailey member, Sylvia Waters, as Artistic Director in 1974.  Under her direction Ailey II has flourished into one of the most popular dance companies in the country, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs.

The 12 members of Ailey II are handpicked by Ms. Waters from the student body of The Ailey School.  The junior company as a bridge between the School and the professional world, offering unique opportunites for young artists to refine their technique while gaining invaluable experience.