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Ailey II with Artistic Director Francesca Harper and Rehearsal Director Shay Bland. Photo by Nir Arieli.
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Ailey II's Jennifer M. Gerken and Xhosa Scott. Photo by Nir Arieli.
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Ailey II's X. Logan, C. Brooks, and M. Brown. Photo by Nir Arieli.
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Ailey II. Photo by Nir Arieli.
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Ailey II. Photo by Nir Arieli.
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Ailey II's Jordyn White. Photo by Nir Arieli.
Ailey II in Ailey Highlights
Ailey II in Divining
John 4:20
Luminous

“The entire company looks terrific. Clearly, the future is theirs.”

The New York Times

“….the exquisitely rehearsed dancers of Ailey II possess mature mastery of style.”

Newark Star-Ledger

“…athleticism, boundless energy and constant connection to music and lyrics created a visually stunning, emotionally uplifting performance and brought the audience to its feet.”

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

“Second to none.”

Dance Magazine

“Off-the-charts energy.”

The New Yorker

Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers.

Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, the company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. Sylvia Waters was selected by Mr. Ailey to be its founding Artistic Director, serving in that role for the Company’s first 38 seasons and helping Ailey II to flourish into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs.

In September 2021, Francesca Harper stepped into the role of Artistic Director of Ailey II. Ms. Harper – who trained at The Ailey School and who has choreographed for both Ailey companies – brings fresh perspectives to Mr. Ailey’s legacy, while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward.