Lost in Jersey

Rachel Martens and Janette Afsharian

Explore life just outside New York City!  Meet the captivating characters connected to New Jersey,  from celebrities to photographers and farmers. Co-hosted by Rachel Martens and Janette Afsharian, two former city dwellers now based in Montclair, NJ.

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Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

THE ROAD TO THE TOP OF DANCE :  From NJ to Alvin Ailey
Apr 2 2024
THE ROAD TO THE TOP OF DANCE : From NJ to Alvin Ailey
Meet Chalvar Monteiro and Christopher Taylor, two incredible New Jersey born dancers with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.Chalvar Monteiro, a seasoned member of the Alvin Ailey company, shares his journey from Montclair to the global stage. Growing up, Chalvar's dance aspirations were nurtured through church activities and the liturgical dance ministry. His pivotal moment came when he witnessed an Alvin Ailey performance, which solidified his decision to pursue dance professionally. He was supported by his mother and his mentors in Montclair to make his dreams come true.Christopher Taylor's tale began in Newark, where his grandmother's unwavering support and exposure to house music festivals ignited his love for dance. His introduction to the Alvin Ailey organization came through educational programs in his school, leading to his participation in AileyCamp and eventually earning scholarships to the Alvin Ailey School in Manhattan.Both Chalvar and Christopher embody the spirit of Alvin Ailey's vision, using dance as a medium to express their unique voices and experiences. Their stories are a reminder of the hard work, dedication, and passion required to excel in the world of professional dance. As we look forward to the NJPAC Mother's Day show, we celebrate the beauty and resilience of these two incredible artists from New Jersey.Don't forget to grab your tickets for the NJPAC show and witness the magic of Alvin Ailey for yourself.Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok