AILEY II, one of the best American dance company

Ailey II is an exceptional company that combines the spirit and energy of the best talents of young American dance with the passion and creativity of the best emerging choreographers.

Ailey II was founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble and embodied Alvin Ailey’s pioneering intent to establish a broad cultural community offering dance performances, training programmes and other initiatives, all aimed at the public. Sylvia Waters was chosen by Mr. Ailey as the founding artistic director, serving in the role for the company’s first 38 seasons and helping Ailey II thrive into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a tight touring schedule with extensive community outreach projects. In September 2021, Francesca Harper has taken over as artistic director of Ailey II. Trained at the Ailey School and choreographer for both of Ailey’s companies, Francesca Harper develops new creative voices and adds original perspectives to Ailey’s legacy