NYC Arts: The Complete Guide to Art and Culture

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, recognized by U.S. Congressional resolution as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World,”  grew from a now fabled performance in New York in March 1958, when Alvin Ailey (1931-1989) founded the company. Today, led by Artistic Director Judith Jamison, Ailey has performed for an estimated 23 million people in 48 states and in 71 countries on six continents, including two historic residencies in South Africa, promoting the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance tradition. 

Ailey’s New York City Center season takes place every December, and for the third year in a row Ailey will be performing at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) in 2010.  Throughout the year, AAADT’s North American Tour (February-May) takes the company to dozens of cities.

The Ailey organization also includes Ailey II (1974), Ailey’s second company in residence; the Ailey School (1969), one of the most extensive dance training programs in the world; Ailey Arts In Education & Community Programs, which brings dance into the classrooms, communities and lives of people of all ages; and the Ailey Extension, a program offering dance and fitness classes to the public that began with the opening of Ailey’s permanent home—the nation’s largest building dedicated to dance—the Joan Weill Center for Dance. 

The Ailey Extension offers classes at all levels in a non-competitive environment.  Since its inception, over 30,000 people have taken classes there.  Dynamic classes taught by expert teachers are offered seven days a week on a walk-in basis in a wide variety of techniques for all levels, including Horton, West African, ballet, hip-hop and jazz, underscoring Alvin Ailey’s life-long commitment of bringing dance to everyone. 

Dance classes are open to the public on a walk-in basis, in accordance with Alvin Ailey’s dictum “dance is for everybody.” Information on the Ailey Extension, including a schedule of classes, can be found at www.aileyextension.com.  For more information on the Ailey organization, please visit www.alvinailey.org. 

• Directions: Subway: A,B,C,D,1 to 59th Street-Columbus Circle or N,R,Q to 7th Avenue.

• ADA Compliant Restrooms
• Disability Access
• Gift Shops: The online dance shop sells clothing, cds and dvds, books, gift cards and more.
• On-Site Food: Bag lunches allowed only in lounge
• On-Site Parking: On streets or in commercial lot on same block.
• Space Rental
• Tours

Get involved with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

• Donations through Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's Web site
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Memberships
• Subscriptions