The Esbenshade Series & Marietta College Present: Ailey II The Next Generation of Dance

Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, Ailey II showcases the country’s finest early-career dancers alongside outstanding emerging choreographers. The internationally renowned company carries forward Ailey’s pioneering mission through performance, training, and community engagement. Now led by Artistic Director Francesca Harper, Ailey II brings fresh creative voices and extraordinary energy to the stage. The New Yorker praises its “off-the-charts energy,” while The New York Times declares, “Clearly, the future is theirs.”

Events in the series have been funded by the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund, which provides annual income for the purpose of bringing lectures, performing artists, and programs of a diverse nature to the campus and community at large. The endowed fund was established in 1980 by Harry H Esbenshade Sr., and Harry H. Esbenshade Jr., husband and son, respectively, of the late Mrs. Esbenshade of Uniontown, Pa. All events are free and open to the public.