Ballet East: An expression of Hope

Ballet East hasn't changed its name to Alvin Ailey West, but we're thinking it could. The local company, which has a long tradition of working with choreographers from established dance troupes, has had three Ailey company members set works on Ballet East dancers in seasons past. Now, for its fall concert, being presented this weekend at the Dougherty Arts Center, a fourth has joined their ranks. Hope Boykin, a dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater since 2000, has created the new work Suite, … Peggy Lee on commission from Artistic Director Rodolfo Mendez and set it on the company in October. As Boykin is said to love "earthy, full-out choreography" and has had her work described as "fierce," this dance might well put you in something of a … fever. The program also features new choreography by Ballet East assistant director Melissa Villarreal, Amberlee Cantrell, Steve Ochoa, Sharon Marroquin, and Lyn C. Wiltshire.

Ballet East presents Suite, … Peggy Lee Nov. 30-Dec. 3, Thursday-Saturday, 8pm, Sunday, 2pm, at the Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. For more information, call 474-TIXS, or visit www.balleteast.org.