Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Designs Barbie Doll
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Barbie doll is the first Barbie inspired by a dance company. Artistic Director Judith Jamison designed the doll in association with Barbie-maker Mattel for the company’s 50th anniversary.
Jamison created the entire appearance of the doll, from its eye color to its clothing - a flowing, white lace costume from Alvin Ailey’s signature work Revelations. Jamison revealed, “It was a dream of mine to make this doll available for the next generation of young girls. This Barbie has universal appeal.”
It also has a design appealing to young dance enthusiasts. Jamison incorporated design elements that would give the AAADT doll the unique traits and capabilities specific to a dancer. It has a fully posable “pivotal” body with twelve points of articulation that allow for a greater range of motion than most dolls. The feet are arched and the toes pointed; characteristics important when mimicking the moves of the Ailey dancers. It even arrives in the box posed in a soaring leap, much like arrival of the company’s famed dancers onstage. Jamison added, “It is one of the many special projects during Ailey’s 50th anniversary that furthers our mission of making dance accessible to all people.” When questioned by a New York Times reporter as to why there was no Ailey Ken doll, Jamison responded, “Do you know any other dance company that has its own Barbie Doll? Give me a break.”
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Barbie doll is available at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performances, www.aileyboutique.com, www.barbiecollector.com and all major toy retailers.
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