Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, New York, NY

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Directed by the legendary dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison, the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater celebrates its 50th year of bringing African-American cultural expression and the American modern dance tradition to the world’s stages. The 18-month celebration will include a U.S. tour featuring special events, promotions and collaborations. The troupe officially begins its five week season at the New York City Center this December. Visit the official AAADT website for more information.

[youtube width="560" height="385"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veRjhWO84d0[/youtube]

African Diaspora Film Festival, New York, NY

The first festival focusing on the depicting the diversity and richness of the global Black experience, the African Diaspora Film Festival (ADFF) celebrates its 16th year in 2008. ADFF features an eclectic mix of urban, classic, foreign and independent films including many world and U.S. premieres. The directorial debut of Giancarlo Esposito (see below), this year’s ADFF Opening Night film will be one of 50 New York City premieres among 88 titles representing 41 countries. For more information, including film screening venues and times, visit the official African Diaspora Film Festival website.

First trailer for the movie Gospel Hill starring Danny Glover, Angela Bassett, Julia stiles, Taylor Kitsch, Adam Baldwin and Giancarlo Esposito.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b0-N0wWy6Q[/youtube]