On May 10, 1943, ballerina and choreographer Judith Jamison was born in Philadelphia, Pa., the younger of two children. Tall and lanky, she was enrolled in dance classes at 6 years old, where she began to exhibit grace and a dancer’s presence on stage. She also studied piano and violin, as well as classical ballet.

One of the world’s favorite dance companies, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will return to the music center for an unprecedented 10 performances, April 8-17. Presenting three powerful and memorable programs, the company’s brilliant artistry and passionate energy is expected to bring audiences to their feet night after night.

First lady Michelle Obama recently hosted the first ever White House event honoring the art of dance. She dedicated it to highlighting Judith Jamison, artistic director of the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, an icon in the dance world and considered one of the greatest choreographers in the country. Jamison will step down next year, after 20 years of running the company following founder Alvin Ailey’s death in 1989.

In anticipation of the upcoming Los Angeles engagement of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, The Music Center announced it will present RockaYourSoul: LA’s Celebration of Gospel, Dance and Ailey, a free, multi-dimensional cultural experience inspired by the heritage of the African American community.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Fees to film in downtown’s Grand Park will remain $20,000 per day per block for now, as county officials today postponed a decision to temporarily drop or dramatically reduce the charge.

Sarah Walsh of the Motion Picture Association of America said the fee has created “a major disincentive to film in the county of Los Angeles.”