Luther Vandross Property, Main Wave companion with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on ‘Energy of Love’ ballet & musical tribute to Vandross
Main Wave Music and the Luther Vandross Property have partnered with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on a commissioned ballet set to the music of the late singer.
The manufacturing, titled Energy of Love, will premiere on December 2, earlier than opening to the general public on Friday (December 4) at New York Metropolis Middle.
The hour-long work will run by January 3, 2027, and will probably be adopted by a North American tour later that 12 months.
Energy of Love has been choreographed by Jamar Roberts and developed in partnership with Marcus Miller, Ron Gillyard, and movie director Reginald Hudlin.
The efficiency options a variety of Vandross‘s recordings, together with By no means Too A lot, Right here and Now, Dance With My Father, A Home Is Not a House, and the present’s namesake, Energy of Love.
The songs have been newly organized by Miller and Gillyard, two of Vandross‘s longtime collaborators.
“The Luther Vandross Property is thrilled to see Alvin Ailey, the nation’s pre-eminent trendy dance firm, create a manufacturing constructed across the music of Luther Vandross,” mentioned David Gottlieb, supervisor of the Luther Vandross Property.
“The serendipity is particular: each Luther and Alvin Ailey have been born in 1950’s New York and grew to be forces in leisure, respectively remodeling R&B music and trendy dance for all to expertise. This artistic partnership is certain to be memorable and unforgettable.”
“The Luther Vandross Property is thrilled to see Alvin Ailey, the nation’s pre-eminent trendy dance firm, create a manufacturing constructed across the music of Luther Vandross.”
David Gottlieb, Luther Vandross Property
Choreographer Roberts was Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater‘s resident choreographer from 2019 to 2022.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was based in 1958 by dancer and choreographer Alvin Ailey.
“Ron and I dove in, and with the assistance of our expensive pal, movie director Reginald Hudlin, we took on the duty of creating this mission come to life in a approach Luther can be pleased with,” mentioned Marcus Miller.
“We selected which songs to incorporate which mirrored the breadth of Luther’s profession and will additionally translate effectively to bop,” Miller added. “We did barely new preparations of some songs and added some small touches to tickle the ear with some musical surprises.”
“When Marcus and I talked about doing a tribute to Luther, I didn’t wish to hear singers attempting to sing like him,” mentioned Hudlin. “I wished to listen to his voice, and have dancers categorical the track.”
“Luther’s dedication to his craft on the highest stage is mirrored within the self-discipline and strategy of the Alvin Ailey dancers. It’s a match made in heaven.”
“Whereas working with Luther, we had many conversations about his love of acting on completely different phases and for various audiences,” mentioned Ron Gillyard. “I’ve little doubt he can be extremely excited by this collaboration with Alvin Ailey.”
“The eagerness, pleasure, and fantastic thing about his music, mixed with the grace, energy, and emotional energy of Ailey‘s dancers, create an ideal partnership.”
Main Wave acquired a stake in Vandross‘s publishing, grasp recording earnings stream, and identify and likeness rights as a part of a reported $40 million deal together with his property in 2021.
Main Wave has since expanded its work across the catalog past recordings.
In October 2025, the corporate struck a partnership with venue operator VENU to develop residencies, theatrical performances, and authentic productions.
“Luther Vandross’ music is the soundtrack for generations of affection tales. His legacy – simple,” mentioned Christopher Inexperienced, Content material Growth Supervisor at Main Wave Music.
“His identify – woven into the worldwide tapestry. It’s a distinct honor to align his work with different cultural titans such because the incomparable Alvin Ailey, whose contributions additionally redefined creativity and efficiency.”
“We’re excited to create Energy of Love as a celebration of affection and Luther Vandross.”
“Luther Vandross’ music is the soundtrack for generations of affection tales. His legacy – simple.”
Christopher Inexperienced, Main Wave Music.
The tribute follows Vandross‘s choice for the Rock and Roll Corridor of Fame’s Class of 2026.
He will probably be inducted on Saturday (November 14) on the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, as a first-time nominee.
Vandross, who died in 2005, gained eight Grammy Awards and reached No.1 within the US in 2003 with Dance With My Father.
A gap-night gala celebrating the premiere and Ailey‘s wider season will probably be held on Wednesday (December 2) on the Ziegfeld Ballroom.
Tickets for all dates go on sale on Tuesday (September 8).Music Enterprise Worldwide
