Ailey Opening Night Gala 2025

On Wednesday December 3rd, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater hosted their annual opening night gala, beginning their five week run of performances at New York City Center. Daiquan had the opportunity to create a bespoke look for Ailey dance member Shawn Cusseaux.

Referencing his previous collection, The Gospel of Fine Dressing—which drew inspiration from Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations and black, Sunday Best dressing—Daiquan recreated look 5 into a gala appropriate attire. The long white robe from I Wanna Be Ready became a smoking jacket in Wool Satin Faille with custom buttons laser cut to resemble the silhouettes from the dance piece.

The white wool smoking jacket is worn with a Hollywood style high-waisted trousers made in black wool flannel. Underneath the jacket Shawn wears a black and white crepe georgette shirt with panels sewn to resemble a tank top worn over a shirt. Paired together, the shirt and trousers create the illusion of a dancer’s leotard; a playful nod to Shawn's profession.

Lord, I wanna be ready

I wanna be ready

I wanna be ready

Lord, ready to put on my long white robe

I would not be a sinner

I’ll tell you the reason why

‘Cause if my Lord should call on me

Lord, I wouldn’t be ready to die

“I Wanna Be Ready” The Music of Revelations, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater