Red Angels

Ulysses Dove (1947-1996), born in Columbia, SC, began his dance journey while studying pre-med at Howard University, where he first trained with Carolyn Tate. He later transferred to the University of Wisconsin to study with Xenia Chlistowa of the Kirov Ballet before earning a degree in dance from Bennington College in 1970. After moving to New York, Dove became part of Merce Cunningham’s company and performed with Mary Anthony, Pearl Lang, and Anna Sokolow. In 1973, he joined Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, quickly gaining recognition for his commanding presence, clarity of movement, and dramatic intensity.

Encouraged by Ailey, Dove turned to choreography and, in 1980, created the solo Inside for Judith Jamison. He went on to have a prolific freelance career, choreographing for prestigious companies like Basel Ballet, Royal Swedish Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and New York City Ballet. His choreography was known for its relentless speed, force, and daring sensuality. Dove also choreographed the 1986 Robert Wilson-Philip Glass opera The Civil Wars and had several ballets performed by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. His Red Angels (1994), created for New York City Ballet’s Diamond Project, became an instant hit, as did his final work, Twilight (1994).

His contributions to dance were honored with the Emmy Award-winning Dance in America: Two by Dove on PBS’s Great Performances in 1995.