Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will return to New York City Center for a five-week holiday engagement from Dec. 2 through Jan. 3, 2027, featuring world premieres, new productions, repertory favorites and the company’s signature masterpiece, “Revelations.”
Led by Alicia Graf Mack, the Daria L. and Eric J. Wallach artistic director, the celebrated dance company will showcase its dancers’ technical skill and expressive storytelling through a season that honors Alvin Ailey’s legacy while embracing contemporary choreography.
Among the highlights are two world premieres. “Power of Love,” choreographed by former Ailey dancer Jamar Roberts, celebrates the music of R&B legend Luther Vandross. Developed in collaboration with Primary Wave Music and the Luther Vandross Estate, the new ballet brings Vandross’ romantic melodies and rhythmic sound to the stage through Roberts’ emotionally driven choreography.
The second premiere, “A Matter of Time,” by choreographer Yue Yin, combines her signature FoCo Technique, which blends Chinese folk and contemporary movement, with music by Javanese musical group Raja Kirik. The high-energy work explores the power of collective action through movement and sound.
The season will also feature the company premiere of William Forsythe’s “In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated.” The landmark work, known for its demanding technique and contemporary approach to ballet, will be performed by Ailey for the first time, bringing a fresh perspective to a celebrated piece of late 20th-century dance.
Additional productions include “Hymn,” an Emmy Award-winning tribute to Ailey founder Alvin Ailey by former artistic director Judith Jamison. The work combines powerful ensemble sequences and intimate solos to reflect on Ailey’s humanity and the individuality of the dancers.
Audiences can also experience “Pas de Duke,” Ailey’s modern dance interpretation of a classical pas de deux set to the jazz music of Duke Ellington.
Special programs throughout the engagement will include All Ailey performances highlighting works by the company’s founder, an Ailey and Jamison tribute and programs featuring several of the season’s premieres.
Family matinees will take place on Saturdays, followed by question-and-answer sessions with company dancers. Select Sunday performances will feature “Passport to Rhythm,” celebrating Graf Mack’s children’s book, “Introducing Rhythm,” with interactive activities and book signings.
The season will also include a New Year’s Eve matinee of “Revelations,” the enduring 1960 masterpiece inspired by African American spiritual traditions.
With its combination of groundbreaking choreography and beloved classics, the holiday engagement continues Ailey’s tradition of bringing audiences together through dance, music and powerful storytelling.
Performances will take place at New York City Center in Manhattan. Tickets and the complete performance calendar are available through the venue and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s official website.