Kyle Abraham’s Homecoming Gala Marked 20 Years of A.I.M

On Sept. 26, choreographer Kyle Abraham was joined at Jazz at Lincoln Center by guests from across the dance and art worlds at a benefit gala celebrating the 20th anniversary of his company, A.I.M. Abraham and executive director Emily Waters welcomed attendees, including honorees Antwaun Sargent and Sarah Arison, to a cocktail reception before a live performance of the choreographer’s “If We Were a Love Song.” Vocalist Baby Rose performed the Nina Simone songs that accompanied the dance performances, featuring a solo by Abraham himself. After, guests and dancers alike gathered for a three-course dinner by James Beard Award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi—whose Lincoln Center restaurant Tatiana remains one of New York City’s most elusive reservations. Notables in attendance included Thelma Golden, Isolde Brielmaier, Scott Rothkopf, Misty Copeland, Calvin Royal III, Catherine Hurlin, Jody Arnhold, John Arnhold, Glenn Ligon, Patricia Delgado, Justin Peck, Kenny Ortega, and more. Photography: Miguel McSongwe/BFA.