Obituary of Calvin Vernon Hunt

Calvin Vernon Hunt died unexpectedly on Sunday, April 6. Born November 27, 1954, in Washington, DC, he grew up in Tacoma, WA, where he maintained deep roots throughout his life. He graduated from North Carolina School of the Arts and moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue a career in dance, before switching his focus to backstage. Calvin began his career as stage manager for the Dance Theater of Harlem before joining Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre's production staff in 1982, where he became a pivotal leader within the organization. He also was proud to serve for two years as Director of Touring and Production at Jazz at Lincoln Center for two years. He touched many lives around the world and helped launch and sustain many careers in the arts. In addition to being a devoted husband and loving father, Calvin was a beloved friend and colleague. He was proud to be an SGI-USA member and passionate about his Buddhist practice, which entails working for other people's happiness, for the past 20+ years. He was a wise, humorous, thoughtful, and generous presence in many lives. He was a citizen of the world, who embraced the joys of travel, cycling, and food--from his favorite BBQing to exploring intriguing new recipes for family and his many friends. At the time of his death, Calvin resided in South Orange, New Jersey, with his beloved wife of 16 years, Margaret, and their two children Elisha and Brenna. Calvin is also survived by his sister Sonya Hunt. Donations in Calvin's name may be made to Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation or to a trust for Elisha and Brenna Hunt. In addition to a private service, A Celebration of the Life of Calvin Hunt will be held on Tuesday, May 20th at City Center Theater, 131 W 55th St., New York City, NY at 4PM. To be informed about plans for the celebration, the trust for the children, or to send a note of condolence to his family, please write to CalvinMemorial@alvinailey.org.