Kyle Abraham's A.I.M. Dance Company Performs at Zellerbach Hall

The New York-based troupe brings a mix of recent works set to live music for its Cal Performances debut.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Kyle Abraham's acclaimed dance company A.I.M. is making its Cal Performances debut at Zellerbach Hall in Berkeley this weekend, February 21-22. The program features three recent works by Abraham, including the Bay Area premiere of the new piece "2x4", set to an original score by composer and saxophonist Shelley Washington. The performances will feature live vocalists, a rhythm section, and two saxophonists, with Robert Glasper's arrangements for "The Gettin'" and an intimate, politically-charged aesthetic throughout the evening.

Why it matters

Abraham's dances are known for their multilayered blend of formal clarity and emotional expression, treating the musical score as a full creative partner. This engagement offers Bay Area audiences a tight snapshot of how the choreographer matches his rigorously trained company with live improvisers and contemporary jazz aesthetics.

The details

The A.I.M. program includes the works "The Gettin'" (2014), "If We Were a Love Song" (2021), and the Bay Area premiere of "2x4" (2025). "2x4" features a setup with two baritone saxophones onstage with four dancers, underscoring dialogue, counterpoint, and stillness. The live music features vocalists Crystal Monee Hall and Charenée Wade, a rhythm section, and two saxophonists.

  • The performances are scheduled for Saturday, February 21 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, February 22 at 3 p.m.
  • A.I.M. is celebrating its 20th anniversary season with this program.

The players

Kyle Abraham

The choreographer and artistic director of the New York-based dance company A.I.M.

A.I.M.

Kyle Abraham's contemporary dance company making its Cal Performances debut.

Shelley Washington

The composer and saxophonist who created the original score for the new work "2x4".

Robert Glasper

The jazz pianist and producer who arranged the music for "The Gettin'".

Crystal Monee Hall

The vocalist performing live with the A.I.M. company.

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What they’re saying

“What's charging me right now is trying to persevere and push myself.”

— Kyle Abraham (Harper's Bazaar)

What’s next

Cal Performances has stated that live audio descriptions will be available at the Sunday matinee performance, and that headsets may be reserved through the ticket office.

The takeaway

This engagement showcases Kyle Abraham's ability to blend rigorous contemporary dance technique with live jazz and improvisational elements, creating multilayered works that balance formal clarity and emotional expression. For Bay Area audiences, it's an opportunity to experience the company's unique artistic vision.