Ailey Celebrates the Opening of The Joan Weill Center for Dance

Ailey II celebrates its 30th anniversary season with engagements in more than 40 cities, performing and conducting outreach activities for more than 65,000 people. The Company also presents its New York season at the world-famous Apollo Theater.

For four days in March, the Ailey organization celebrates the official opening and public dedication of The Joan Weill Center for Dance.

In April, the Ailey organization launches The Ailey Extension, an exciting new dance and fitness program for the general public.

On May 8, the legendary dancer Dudley Williams gives his final performance with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater after 41 years. Mr. Williams helped define the artistry of an Ailey dancer and originated leading roles in numerous ballets.

The National Black Sports & Entertainment Hall of Fame (NBS&EHF) inducts Alvin Ailey. Judith Jamison accepts the award on behalf of Mr. Ailey and the Ailey organization.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to Russia after an absence of 15 years as the only American company to perform in the Stars of the White Nights Festival. The engagement marks the first time a modern dance company is presented at the legendary Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg.

Judith Jamison is elected to the 225th Class of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, which celebrates the achievements of leaders in the fields of scholarship, business, the arts, and public affairs.

The Arts & Business Council of New York awards Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Morgan Stanley the Arts and Business Partnership Award.