Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is closing out its New York holiday season with power, purpose, and a clear look ahead. The company will soon take its work nationwide in 2026, carrying its legacy beyond the city stage.
The final performances bring together classic works, new creations, and a renewed focus on access and community.
Alvin Ailey’s New York Holiday Run Nears Its Final Days
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is entering the final two weeks of its annual holiday engagement at New York City Center. The season features special Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve programs.
The residency ends January 4, 2026. Audiences still have time to experience world premieres and the iconic Revelations before the company hits the road.
As a result, demand remains strong. Many see this run as a final chance to witness the full range of the season’s work in one place.
Revelations Anchors a Season of New and Classic Works
Revelations continues to serve as the emotional center of the program. The work closes nearly every performance during the holiday run.
The December 24 schedule offers two experiences. The afternoon Ailey Classics matinee highlights Alvin Ailey’s repertory and ends with Revelations. The evening All New program focuses on recent works.
Featured pieces include The Holy Blues, Blink of an Eye, A Case of You, and Embrace. Together, they reflect tradition, innovation, and emotional depth.
Holiday Performances Bring Families and First Time Viewers
Family friendly programming remains a key focus this season. The December 27 matinee includes Sacred Songs and Treading.
Following the performance, dancers take part in a live question and answer session. This gives audiences a deeper connection to the work and performers.
Meanwhile, nine remaining shows still feature Revelations. Each performance draws new viewers into the company’s story.
New Year Programs Mark a Transition to 2026
New Year’s Eve includes a daytime matinee designed for holiday crowds. The following evening ushers in 2026 with an All New program.
Four world premieres headline the January 1 show. These include Jazz Island, Difference Between, Song of the Anchorite, and Embrace.
The final New York performances take place on January 4. Both matinee and evening shows close with Revelations.
Giving Dance Back to the People Beyond the Stage
The company continues to honor Alvin Ailey’s mission to make dance accessible. Education remains central to that goal.
Through the Chance to Dance program, first time Ailey Extension students receive two free classes. They simply exchange their performance ticket.
Classes include West African, Samba, and the Horton technique. These styles shape many of the company’s signature works.
2026 National Tour and Alvin Ailey Birthday Tribute
Celebration continues January 5 with a workshop honoring what would have been Alvin Ailey’s 95th birthday. Associate Artistic Director Matthew Rushing leads the session.
Participants explore movements inspired by Ailey’s most celebrated works. The workshop also reflects on Ailey’s impact on American culture.
Soon after, the company begins a 20 city national tour. The tour starts January 30, 2025, in Washington, D.C., and ends May 2026 in Newark.
