By Walter Rutledge 
Paris-born choreographer Benoit-Swan Pouffer and Ailey II dancer David Freeland discuss the creative process following a rehearsal of Rusty prior to the Ailey II New York season April 2 through April 14 at the Ailey Citgroup Theater. Pouffer based the work on the challenges young artist face in performance and during the process of creation. The work also explores the relationships the dancers develop in a performing ensemble.
Pouffer is a former member of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the former artistic director of Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet, recently he choreographed the Broadway show Soul Doctor at the Circle in the Square Theater. His work, Rusty, for Ailey II features nine dancers and is set to music by composer Mikael Karlsson. Rusty, which premiered on the company in 2013, will be presented on the Returning Favorites Program.
David Adrian Freeland, Jr. is a two year veteran of Ailey II. A strong performer with gravity defying ballonné and an inner intensity he is one of the featured performers in the work. For tickets and more information about the entire Ailey II season visit alvinailey.org/aileyii.
