When Alvin Ailey and a small group of African American dancers took the stage on March 30, 1958 at New York City’s 92nd Street Y, the engagement was for one night only, but it turned out to be the start of a new era in the arts. Sixty years later, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues its reign as an American “cultural ambassador to the world”—having performed live for an estimated 25 million people in 48 states, 71 countries, and six continents. The gifted and gorgeous Ailey dancers infuse energy and emotion to classics and new works alike. Guided by the visionary artistic director Robert Battle, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater remains the nation’s leading modern dance company.

“Possibly the most successful modern dance company on the planet.” – NYTimes