“The dancers in Ailey II are spectacular beings” – The New York Times
“indefatigable, virtuosic and relentlessly sexy” – Los Angeles Times
“Off-the-charts energy” – The New Yorker
“Wow factor aplenty…” – Herald Scotland
“The performers’ technique and performance quality continues to be some of the best in the country.” – The Examiner
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Dance St. Louis continues its landmark 60th anniversary season with the legendary Ailey II.
The company will rock St. Louis on Friday and Saturday, April 10 & 11 at the Touhill Performing Arts Center in an unforgettable weekend of world-class dance and iconic music.
The Ailey II presentation includes a world premiere commissioned by Dance St. Louis for the 60th Anniversary Season – BERRY DREAMIN – a nod to the music, life and impact of the “Father of Rock and Roll” Chuck Berry.
Celebrating his birth 100 years ago and the music that transformed our nation, choreographer Chalvar Monteiro and Ailey II Artistic Director Francesca Harper take St. Louis on a journey with Ailey II dancers as our storytellers.
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AILEY II
THE NEXT GENERATION OF DANCE
For over 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.
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APRIL 10 & 11, 2026
Friday & Saturday
6:30PM | Free “Speaking of Dance” Pre-Show Q&A led by Dance St. Louis Artistic Director Michael Uthoff (Terrace Lobby)
7:30PM | Performance (A-B Performance Hall)
(📷 by Nir Arieli)
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