Ailey II

For more than 50 years, Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance – has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, this universally renowned company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. Under the leadership of Sylvia Waters, who served as artistic director for 38 seasons, Ailey II flourished into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs. Today, with Artistic Director Francesca Harper at the helm, she brings fresh perspectives to Mr. Ailey’s legacy, while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward.

The 2024-25 repertory features two world premieres by former Ailey II member Alia Kache and by Houston Thomas, as well as repertory favorites and beloved classics. This season also celebrates the life and legacy of beloved Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison.

This season, eight new dancers—Carley Brooks, Meredith Brown, Jennifer M. Gerken, Xavier Logan, Xhosa Scott, Darion Tuner, Eric J. Vidaña, and Jordyn White—join the four returning members Alfred L. Jordan II, Kiri Moore, Corinth Moulterie, and Kayla Mei-Wan Thomas.

Join us for more! Immediately following the performance, Shanique Peart will host a “Talkback” with the company, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the performance. 

Shanique Peart is a multidisciplinary artist based in Kingston, Ontario, with a background in dance, photography, and storytelling. Beginning as a self-taught dancer in Hip-Hop and Freestyle, she expanded her practice to include Dancehall, Afro Fusion, Modern, and Urban Contemporary styles. Her work explores the intersections of movement, identity, and environment, using vibrant compositions to foster connection and evoke emotion. 

Rooted in collaboration and inspired by community, Shanique blends artistic disciplines to craft stories that reflect shared experiences and collective memory. Beyond performance, she is actively involved in creative projects across theatre, education, and arts administration. 

Shanique was a 2024 Kingston Grand Theatre Local Artist-in-Residence.