Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater recently announced that Alicia Graf Mack will succeed Robert Battle as its new artistic director. This marks a significant moment in the world of dance, as Mack takes on the leadership role after an extensive global search. She will officially begin her term in July 2025, following a successful tenure as the director of the dance division at Juilliard.
A Historic Appointment: Stepping into a Legacy
Alicia Graf Mack’s appointment is historic for several reasons. She becomes the fourth artistic director in the company’s 65-year history, following in the footsteps of Alvin Ailey, Judith Jamison, and Robert Battle. Mack, a former member of the dance company, is deeply connected to its history and culture. She shared her excitement, saying, “I am feeling incredibly blessed and grateful for the opportunity.”
Her new role comes at a time of great change for the company. Robert Battle, who served as artistic director for over a decade, stepped down unexpectedly last November. Judith Jamison, a legend in the dance world, passed away earlier this month. Mack’s appointment brings both continuity and a fresh perspective to the organization.
A Full-Circle Moment for Mack
Alicia Graf Mack’s journey with Alvin Ailey has been long and full of growth. A native of Columbia, Maryland, she joined the Dance Theater of Harlem at 17 but faced early career setbacks due to health issues and financial challenges. Despite these obstacles, Mack’s determination and talent led her to Alvin Ailey, where she discovered new dance styles such as modern dance and hip-hop.
She performed with the company from 2005 to 2008 and returned to Alvin Ailey in 2011, after completing a master’s degree in nonprofit management. Her return marks a full-circle moment, as she credits the company for embracing her as a Black woman with a unique physique and artistic style. Mack explained, “To step into a company that embraced me for exactly who I am allowed me to hone my craft and grow into myself.”
Embracing the Ailey Tradition
Mack’s leadership will be guided by the values that Alvin Ailey instilled in the company: the connection between art and social justice. She plans to carry forward Ailey’s mission to “hold a mirror to society and show people how beautiful they are.” As she prepares for her new role, Mack emphasized that her leadership will focus on ensuring the dancers remain cultural ambassadors, continuing the legacy of using art to bring beauty and hope to the world.
In these challenging times, Mack’s vision for the company is clear. She looks forward to bringing the lessons she has learned throughout her career to inspire the next generation of artists. “Ailey dancers are always aware that they are cultural ambassadors,” Mack said. “The role of artists to bring beauty and hope is even more important now.”
Mack’s Leadership Qualities
Alicia Graf Mack’s selection as artistic director was not accidental. The board, led by Anthony A. Lewis, highlighted her emotional intelligence, humility, and sense of purpose. Lewis noted that Mack possesses a strength of character similar to Alvin Ailey’s, making her the perfect choice to lead the company into the future. Her vision for the next chapter of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater promises to honor its rich history while pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance.
Mack’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but also a milestone for the dance world. As she prepares to take the reins in 2025, the Alvin Ailey community and dance enthusiasts everywhere are eager to see how she will shape the company’s future.
