Alvin Ailey @ Edinburgh Festival Theatre

Although it may lack the familiarity of Swan Lake or Giselle, Revelations is the most viewed piece in modern dance. Having been the signature work of Alvin Ailey's company since its creation in 1960, it still retains an emotional intensity and instant accessibility over twenty years after Ailey's untimely death.

Alvin Ailey's vision of a dance company that would bring African-American cultural expression and the American modern dance tradition to the world began with the foundation of the company in 1958: Revelations was an early fusion of African American Spirituals, contemporary dance and a fierce social conscience. Looking back at the days of slavery, but also celebrating elegance, style and faith, Revelations is a rare example of contemporary dance that is resistant to changing fashions. That its political engagement has not been dulled by the years is either testament to Ailey's vision or a sad comment on how little has changed.

Following Ailey's death, the company has both cherished his classics, and developed new work. Also on the bill at the EFT is another signature piece, Judith Jamison's Hymn – itself a tribute to Ailey – and a new commission from Christopher Huggins, Anointed. Through these three works, the company demonstrate how they remember their founder, celebrate his legacy and move forward.