Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Please note: this performance is currently waitlist only.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to Northrop with more dance The New York Times calls “transfixing, pulsating and galvanizing.” Embarking on its next era under the leadership of new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack, the company remains guided as ever by Alvin Ailey’s pioneering legacy — continuing to push the bounds of what the human body can do and what the human spirit can achieve. Audiences will be treated to different programming each night, including some classic favorites alongside several new works by contemporary choreographers that promise to propel dance in exciting new directions. Both programs culminate with Ailey’s ultimate anthem to resilience and joy, “Revelations.”

The Saturday, April 18 performance includes “Jazz Island” (2025) by Maija García, “Difference Between” (2025) by Mathew Neenan and “Song of the Anchorite” (2025) by Jamar Roberts.

The Sunday, April 19 features “The Holy Blues” (2025) by Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, Samantha Figgins and Chalvar Monteiro, “Blink of an Eye” (2025) by Medhi Walerski and “A Case of You” (2004) by Judith Jamison.

Both performances will conclude with the touchstone of inspiration, “Revelations” (1960). More than just a popular dance work, “Revelations” has become a cultural treasure. Performed to African American spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues, Alvin Ailey’s “Revelations” fervently explores the places of deepest grief and holiest joy in the soul. This enduring classic is born out of the choreographer’s “blood memories” of his childhood in rural Texas and the Baptist Church. Since its premiere in 1960, the ballet has been performed continuously around the globe, crossing barriers of faith and nationality, making it the most widely-seen modern dance work in the world.

Content Warnings/Age Recommendations

This performance is recommended for ages 11 and older.

Themes

• This performance is a blend of newer work and classic work from decades ago. What similarities and differences do you imagine there will be between the newer and older dances?
• “Revelations” is a deeply personal work by founder Alvin Ailey, reflecting on his childhood memories. If you were to create a personal work of art inspired by your life, what art form(s) would you use? What would the work be called?

Accessibility

Many performance venues offer accessibility accommodations such as wheelchair seating, assistive listening, sensory ear plugs, ASL interpretation, open captioning, or audio description, among other options. These accommodations are specific to each event, and may not be available everywhere. When registering with us, please let us know what accommodations you need and we will follow up with you!

Transportation

If you do not have access to a ride, call Project Success and we can provide transportation for you. Please let us know if you need a ride when you make your reservation. We will need at least 2 days’ notice to set up transportation.

Childcare

Childcare is available for this performance. Please let us know if you need childcare when you make your reservation.

Additional Media

Here are samples of what you may see, depending on which evening you come:

The Holy Blues

Difference Between

Revelations (both evenings)