UNIVERSITY PARK—Ailey II, the "next generation of dance," will bring 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 dynamic duo of Baye & Asa; as well as “Revelations,” a must-see masterpiece by Ailey.

Call 814-863-0255 or visit Ailey II online for more information about the ticketed event and a related "Dancing with Ailey II" event; and to reserve ASL interpretation or audio description services.

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.

'Dancing with Ailey II'

The Center for the Performing Arts in collaboration with local theater company Tempest Studios will present “Dancing With Ailey II” at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16, in the State College Municipal Building Community Room, 243 S. Allen Street, State College. Stairs and an elevator are available to the second-floor room.

The open class will be focused on Alvin Ailey’s “Revelations.” Since its premiere in 1960, “Revelations” has been a lasting cultural treasure beloved by people from around the world. “Revelations” has performed continuously around the globe, transcending barrier of faith and nationality, and appealing to universal emotions, making it one of the most recognized ballets in the world.

The workshop is open to dancers of all abilities age 12 and older. It is recommended that participants wear comfortable, loose clothing and have bare feet.

Movement will be taught in this class, but modifications can be made to accommodate participants that may have mobility challenges. There will be space for those with mobility devices, and some chairs will be available.

Registration is required and limited to 40 participants. For more information about other available accommodations, email Medora Ebersole or call 814-863-6752.

For more information about the season, visit the Center for the Performing Arts online, Facebook and Instagram.

Accessibility

American Sign Language (ASL) translation will be provided for this performance. Contact the Arts Ticket Center by Thursday, Oct. 3, at artstix@psu.edu or by calling 814-863‑0255 to discuss ASL seating preferences.

Audio description will be offered for this performance. Reservations are required and must be made by Thursday, Oct. 3. Call the Sight Loss Support Group of Central Pennsylvania at 814-238-0132 to reserve the service.

We welcome patrons of all sensory sensitivities to its performances. Eisenhower Auditorium is certified by KultureCity as a sensory-friendly venue. Upon request, you can sign out a variety of items to accommodate your visit, including noise-reducing earmuffs, anti-strobe glasses, lap pads and fidget toys.

Learn more about the center’s available Accessibility services.

Acknowledgements

Support for this event is provided by McQuaide Blasko Endowment and Penn State International Dance Ensemble Endowment. Accessibility services are supported by William E. McTurk Endowment for Program Support. A grant from the University Park Fee Board makes student prices possible.