Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
4+ members | EST. 1958
AILEY strives to further the pioneering vision of the choreographer, dancer, and cultural leader Alvin Ailey by building an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, and community programs for all. This performing arts community plays an essential social role, sharing the art of dance with people of all races, ages, and backgrounds
In 1958, Alvin Ailey and a group of young Black modern dancers performed as Alvin Ailey and Company at the 92nd Street Y in New York. Ailey was the company's director, choreographer, and principal dancer. The company started as an ensemble of seven dancers, including Nat Horne, Minnie Marshall, Ella Thompson Moore, and Dorene Richardson, "the only dancer who performed in Alvin Ailey’s two concerts (1958 and 1960) at the 92nd Street Y." In addition to Ailey, the original company worked with guest choreographers. For the company's first performance, Ailey's Ariette Oubliee, Blues Suite, and Cinco Latinos were featured.