Ailey II

Step into an evening of electrifying modern dance as Ailey II, the acclaimed second company of the Alvin Ailey legacy, brings its 2025-26 season to Chico. Known for fusing the raw energy of early-career artists with visionary choreography, Ailey II continues the mission of Alvin Ailey to create—through dance—a culturally rich, inclusive community.

This season’s repertoire features four newly commissioned world premieres by emerging and established choreographers—Rena Butler, Renée I. McDonald, Chalvar Monteiro and My’Kal Stromile—alongside repertory highlights including Alvin Ailey’s masterwork Revelations, Francesca Harper’s Luminous, Houston Thomas’ Down the Rabbit Hole, and other bold contemporary works.

Experience dance that captivates the eye, stirs the heart, and ignites the spirit—a vibrant celebration of movement, identity, and community. All ages are welcome to witness this dynamic performance.

Ailey II’s Jordyn White, Jennifer M. Gerken, and Carley Cruzat Brooks. Photo by Nir Arieli.

Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, the company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all people. Ailey II flourished into one of the most popular dance companies in the country under the leadership of Sylvia Waters, who was selected by Mr. Ailey to be its founding Artistic Director, serving in that role for the Company’s first 38 seasons. With Artistic Director Francesca Harper at the helm, Ailey II continues to thrive as she brings a fresh dimension to this beloved company. Dance Magazine calls Ailey II "second to none," and The New York Times declares, "There's nothing like an evening spent with Ailey II, the younger version of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater."