Dance company Ailey II is bringing its 50th anniversary world tour to Happy Valley. Led by Artistic Director Francesca Harper, the company’s return Penn State performance will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, in Eisenhower Auditorium.
The second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will present a diverse repertory, including two world premieres: “Luminous” by Harper and “John 4:20” by the duo of Baye & Asa; as well as “Revelations,” a masterpiece by Ailey.
Tickets — $48 for adults; $10 for University Park students, and $15 for individuals 18 and younger — are available for purchase online, by calling 814-863-0255 or in person from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays at Eisenhower Auditorium. A $4 fee is applied to online purchases only.
Founded in 1974, the company embodies Ailey’s 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, providing a bridge between The Ailey School and the professional dance world. In its golden anniversary season, Ailey II continues to thrive with Harper’s fresh look at the revered repertoire.
“As we celebrate this monumental 50th anniversary, I am honored to continue Alvin Ailey’s mission of fostering and nurturing the next generation of bright young artists,” Harper said.
