The Esbenshade Series and Marietta College will welcome Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance to Peoples Bank Theatre on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 7 p.m., opening the 2026-27 Esbenshade Series season with an evening of modern dance featuring some of the country’s finest early-career dancers and emerging choreographers.
For more than 50 years, Ailey II has carried forward the vision of legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey, who founded the company in 1974. Mr. Ailey created the company to support the development of early-career dancers while expanding his pioneering mission to bring performance, training, and community programs to all people.
“Ailey II carries forward the legacy of a true institution in modern dance, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to open our Esbenshade season,” said Todd Burge, director of the Esbenshade Series. “I’m grateful the series makes it possible to bring these extraordinary artists to Marietta, and, as always, admission is free for everyone.”
Now led by Artistic Director Francesca Harper, Ailey II continues to build on Mr. Ailey’s legacy, bringing fresh perspectives and extraordinary skills to the stage. The company has been praised for its versatility, energy and technical ability, with The Hartford Courant describing Ailey II as “a national treasure,” highlighting its “bedrock creativity” and ability to bring “cutting-edge modern dance works to the masses.”
Ailey II has grown into an internationally renowned company, recognized for reshaping the meaning of modern dance and for its role in developing the next generation of dancers. LA Dance Chronicle described the company as “a great vehicle for starting the careers of these dancers,” while Broadway World praised the company for "showcasing strong technical control."
The performance will begin at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public thanks to the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund. Tickets are required, with reservations limited to four tickets per person. Free ticket reservations are available now through Peoples Bank Theatre.
For more information about Ailey II and the 2026-27 Esbenshade Series, visit marietta.edu/esbenshade-series.