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International artists from around the world, at the crossroads of tradition and innovation!
AILEY II (USA)
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. The original members of the Company were handpicked by Mr. Ailey 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 invigorates the American dance scene by offering unique opportunities for artists. AILEY II company members 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..
In recent years, AILEY II’s distinctive repertory has included works by dance masters Alvin Ailey, Talley Beatty, Ulysses Dove, George Faison, Lar Lubovitch, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Artistic Director Judith Jamison and such innovative choreographers as Robert Battle, Sidra Bell, Donald Byrd, Kyle Abraham, Jessica Lang, Thang Dao, and Kevin Wynn.
Whereas the past seasons consisted of performances in over 30 cities all over North America, the Company is now looking forward to include yearly international touring following its first sold out European tours in Germany, Austria, the UK, Finland and France including a 2-week engagement at the Lyon Dance Biennale, September 2010. The Company also performs regularly in New York City, most recently during Spring 11 at the Ailey Citigroup
AILEY II continues to win unmatched critical praise for its residencies at major colleges and
universities as well as its visits to elementary, middle and high schools across North America. The Company has received numerous honors, awards and proclamations in recognition of its Community outreach programs. Showcasing the talent of the country’s best young dancers, the critically acclaimed AILEY II brings exciting dance and innovative outreach programs to diverse communities throughout the country.”
Theater in Manhattan and the world renown Apollo Theater in Harlem. Its next New York City season will take place during April 16-29, 2012.
