Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: A Living Celebration of Cultural History

In the hushed darkness of Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre, the curtains rise. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater takes center stage, and the dancers paint the stage with their artistry. The Alvin Ailey dancers blend athleticism and grace so effortlessly that you believe you, too, can soar. Their movement is an eloquent language, their bodies in motion telling stories that words never could.

The journey they take us on fills us with hope and with pride for our heritage. Each performance of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a tribute to those who came before us, a salute to their perseverance and spirit. The dancers remind us: we are still here, and we are still dancing.

For Atlanta, the Ailey company’s February shows have become a cultural tradition. They draw multiracial audiences from all generations, filling the Fox Theatre with people who recognize the importance of art that uplifts and connects us. We know that the stars align when Ailey performs in Atlanta, the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement, during Black History Month. The significance of intersectionality is not lost on us in Atlanta; it is our honor to showcase Black heritage and triumphs of the human spirit.

This year’s program, held February 12-16,  featured new performances like “Finding Free” and timeless classics like “Revelations.” These performances demonstrate why the Ailey company remains an essential cornerstone of the arts nearly 67 years after its founding. 

“Finding Free,” choreographed by Hope Boykin, a celebrated former Ailey dancer, is a vibrant and emotionally layered piece. It explores themes of liberation, transformation and self-discovery through a distinctly Black American lens. Set against a score by pianist Matthew Whitaker, the movement invites the audience into a Southern Sunday morning church service. Whitaker’s music and the dancers’ movement are full of rhythm, spirit, and possibility. Boykin’s work carries raw emotional power, weaving tradition with innovation. “Finding Free” moves between restraint and release, embodying struggle, release and renewal. It’s a crafted, soul-stirring experience that pulls the audience into a time capsule. 

Alvin Ailey’s masterwork, “Revelations,” is a pillar of Black dance and American cultural history. First performed in 1960, it continues to resonate deeply. The work draws viewers into its emotional core and holds them captive. Even for those who have seen it multiple times, “Revelations” retains its power to move audiences emotionally and spiritually.

This year’s Atlanta audience responded with a prolonged and enthusiastic standing ovation, honoring the dancers and the legacy they carry. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater remains one of the most vital cultural institutions in the country. Its work testifies to pain, honors resilience and celebrates the beauty of Black expression.  

Ailey is a tapestry of heritage and culture woven into moving stories that everyone should experience. Particularly in these sociopolitical times, we must continue championing the visibility of Black art, culture and history in its various forms. With the strength and courage of our ancestors guiding us, let’s ensure we keep dancing.

*Did you know the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a non-profit that provides art education, dance camps, and community programming? If you love the arts, please consider sharing the joy of dance. Visit Ailey.org for ways to give.