Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater first arrived on the New York dance scene in 1958 as a young energetic group of black dancers. Their first performance at the 92nd Street Y forever altered the landscape of American modern dance. Through continued expansion over the past 50 years, AAADT has not only established a lasting presence in American dance, but also proven to be one of its strongest pillars, winning two National Medals of the Arts and acting on numerous occasions as ambassadors for American culture.
Renowned for stunning athleticism, AAADT is an undeniable audience favorite. These are passionate, splashy, dramatic performers and their spiritual music is the kind that can’t help but be uplifting. If you attend an Ailey concert, it’s very likely that you’ll see the company’s signature piece, Revelations. Created in 1960 by Alvin Ailey himself, this piece is a tribute to the sorrow and hope of African-American heritage. It’s the piece that first brought Ailey international acclaim and it’s still one of the company’s most extraordinary works.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Information
- Public Transportation: Very good (Easily accessible by subway lines N, Q, and R at 57th Street/7th Avenue; the F at 57th Street; the B, D, and E at 7th Avenue/53rd Street; and buses M5, M7, M20, M31, M57, and M104)
- Handicapped Accessibility: Good
- Performances/Programs: Alvin Alley performs at City Center every year in December. The programs are generally a selection from the company’s extensive repertoire and the exact combination of works may vary slightly from night to night
- Ticket Prices: Tickets usually start at about $25 and can range up to around $110 for special events. Prices and special offers vary based on venue
- Membership: The basic annual membership fee is $75. This includes a subscription to the Ailey newsletter, Revelations, and two passes to an open rehearsal at New York City Center.
