Ailey II

February 23, 2010

Ailey II is an exceptional company that merges the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding emerging choreographers. Ailey II began in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble when Alvin Ailey initiated a workshop composed of the most promising scholarship students from The Ailey School. Mr. Ailey handpicked the original members of the Company from among that group. Ailey II embodies Mr. Ailey’s pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training and community programs for all people. Today, it has become one of the most popular dance companies in the United States.

Under the artistic direction of Sylvia Waters, Ailey II offers unique opportunities for artists to refine their technique while gaining invaluable performing and teaching experience during their tenure with the Company. Throughout its history, many Ailey II company members have gone on to pursue successful careers as dancers, teachers and choreographers with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, other professional dance companies, on Broadway and in schools.