W&L’s Lenfest Center Presents Ailey II Dance Company The modern dance troupe will return to campus for an Oct. 6 performance celebrating the Lenfest Center’s 35th anniversary.

The Lenfest Center for the Arts
September 23, 2026

Washington and Lee University’s Lenfest Center for the Arts presents the Ailey II dance company at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 6 in the Keller Theatre. This will be the ensemble’s third visit to W&L, having performed during the Lenfest Center’s first season in 1991 and again during the 20th anniversary celebration in 2011.

Tickets are required and available online or in person at the Lenfest Box Office.

Founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, the company has become an important bridge between the Ailey School and the professional dance world and honors the legacy of its visionary dancer and founder, the late Alvin Ailey.

Under the direction of Francesca Harper, Ailey II is a showcase of daring choreography, technical expertise and stunning young talent. Set against the experimental landscape of modern dance, their performances feature the works of renowned choreographers like Ronald K. Brown, My’Kal Stromile and Ailey.

Ailey II interacts with rich cultural dynamics, giving voice to the African American experience, empowering women in the modern dance landscape and bringing emotional depth to each performance. A highlight of the evening’s performance will be “Revelations,” Ailey’s iconic masterpiece that is a deeply moving celebration of the enduring human spirit. Set to a soundtrack of African American spirituals, gospel and blues, the piece takes audiences on a powerful emotional journey from sorrow and struggle to freedom, resilience and exuberant joy.

The company graces every stage with their founder’s philosophy in mind, that “dance is for everybody,” and Ailey II alumni go on to pursue vibrant professional dance careers, with many joining the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Dance Theater of Harlem, the Martha Graham Dance Company, Philadanco and Ronald K. Brown’s Evidence, or to build careers on Broadway.

In addition to their Oct. 6 performance, Ailey II will host masterclasses with W&L Dance and the Rockbridge Ballet.

Order your tickets online today or call the Lenfest Center box office at 540-458-8000 for ticket information. Box office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The cost is $35 for adults, $32 for seniors, $29 for W&L faculty and staff and $8 for students; W&L students receive free tickets by showing their student identification.

This performance is sponsored in part by the Class of 1964 Performing Arts Fund.

For a full list of performances, visit the Lenfest Center’s website.