Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange has said that culture and entertainment in Jamaica, dance in particular, has suffered a severe blow with the passing of Tony Wilson, who was the founder and artistic director of the Company Dance Theatre.
“Tony Wilson was among the best dancers and choreographers produced by Jamaica. Devoting a lifetime to dance, he was also a founding member of the National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica and with his deep involvement mentored generations of dancers, including the late Professor Rex Nettleford,” Minister Grange said in a press release.
“Tony will be remembered for the profound impact he made on the dance community as a pioneer, leader, teacher, mentor, and inspirational figure. I express my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and associates and to the dance fraternity. May his soul rest in peace.”
An announcement of Wilson’s death last Friday stated, “As you all have been aware, Tony has been ill for quite sometime. With that we issue this statement from his family: It is with profound sadness that we, the family, share the news that our beloved Tony Wilson passed away yesterday afternoon. We know the profound impact Tony has made in the dance community and beyond as a pioneer, leader, teacher, mentor, inspirational figure, and as an uncle and brother. We are proud to acknowledge the legacy and love he has created through his passion for the arts, that will continue to live on through his love of dance, and the joy he has brought to our lives and the lives of many.”
The family added that details of the funeral will be shared soon, and thanked everyone “for the continued love and support”.
Wilson, who was one of Jamaica’s leading exponents of dance, enjoyed a career spanning more than 40 years, having started in his early teens, while a student of Kingston Technical High School. He would go on to study dance on a full-time scholarship with The Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre, Martha Graham, and Dance Theatre of Harlem, all in the United States.
He first formed the Company Dance Theatre in Chicago, then moved back home to Jamaica where he seamlessly continued his remarkable journey.
TRIBUTES
Tributes have been pouring in for the man lovingly referred to simply as ‘Sir’.
On Instagram, former students and fans poured out their hearts. Tamichinmitchell said, “Oh Mr Wilson. There are no words to express how grateful I am (and always will be) for you. Thank you for ALLLL of it!!! May you dance evermore!!!! Deepest condolences to his family, friends, students and all who loved him.”
Shermac876 Wrote, “Mr.Wilson, Mr. Wilson, Mr.Wilson … Sirrrrrr ! We had a kaleidoscopic relationship … the privilege of coming up through the school under the tutelage of yourself and Tony Henry … from the shack on Waterloo all the way to being in the Company at AISK … many many moons later … is all I’ve ever known by way of being taught to dance, you awakened and nurtured what is now a lifelong passion of mine … your artistry and love for your craft was legendary… To Sir … with all my love.”️
Gabsi77 stated that “everything I am as a dancer is because he was. Eternally grateful to have experienced and benefitted from his genius️”.
Alibjm wrote: “Gutted. Jamaica has lost a giant. My love for dance and the arts was fuelled by you Sir, and the importance of working hard and discipline. Will forever be grateful for all the incredible experiences. Bless you.”
Vaughnclaude hailed Wilson for “[seeing] in me what I couldn’t … and I’m forever grateful to have been a part of your dream. Rest well”.
On reflecting on the magnitude of Wilson’s impact, keenfletch stated, “The impact you’ve made on the Jamaican dance community is immeasurable! The joy, passion and sheer love for the art will always be remembered and will most certainly live on in the hearts of people you’ve touched. Even though I was not a student of yours, when taking your class, the power in which you taught and guided was just beautiful. Even outside of the studio you were also so generous and always giving! You will be dearly missed Mr. Wilson.”