One of the world’s most popular modern dance companies is coming to the Southern Tier. The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University will present Ailey II in a spectacular performance at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, in the Rigas Family Theater. 

For more than 50 years, Ailey II – The Next Generation of Dance, has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding and emerging choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, this universally renowned company embodies his pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training and community programs for all people.

Under the leadership of Sylvia Waters, who served as artistic director for 38 seasons, Ailey II flourished into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs. Today, Francesca Harper sits at the helm in her sixth season as artistic director, bringing fresh perspectives to Ailey’s legacy while nurturing new creative voices and propelling the company forward. 

Ailey II represents the vanguard of modern dance.

Theater critic Lora Strum described Ailey II as “at its core, versatile, technically sound, and full of energy” in a March article in BroadwayWorld.

Beyond their stage performance, the artists of Ailey II will share their talents directly with the region. Leading up to the Oct. 18 show, the company will host dynamic dance workshops for local dance studios and their students. A special dance class will be offered Oct. 17 to local community members interested in learning new moves and experiencing the rhythm and movement of the Ailey style firsthand.  

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ailey II to St. Bonaventure,” said Rachel Harris, executive director of the Quick Center. “By hosting workshops for local young dancers and a movement class for our community, we are fulfilling our mission to make world-class visual and performing arts active and accessible for everyone in our region.”  

Each performance in the Quick Center’s Performing Arts Series is made possible through the generous collaboration with Friends of Good Music.

Ticket and Event Information 

• Date & Time: 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 (The Quick Center galleries will open one hour before the performance and remain open through intermission.)  

• Admission: $20 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and SBU employees, and $5 for students.  

• Tickets: Purchase online at LINK or call the Quick Center Box Office at (716) 375-2494.  

• Workshops & Classes: Register online at LINK 

• Eligible St. Bonaventure faculty and staff may also use their Meritain Health Wellness Card to purchase tickets to Quick Center performances.