Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to Philadelphia with a new artistic director and a premiere of the Neenan ballet.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, one of the premier dance companies in the United States, is scheduled to perform in Philadelphia this weekend as part of its extensive 20-city tour across the country. This visit is especially significant for the company as it brings both its classic repertoire and new works to the audience.

Among the highlights of the performances will be the acclaimed piece, “Revelations,” a staple of the Ailey catalog known for its powerful narrative and stunning choreography. The company will also debut new works, showcasing its dedication to innovation alongside tradition.

A pivotal change for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is the appointment of Alicia Graf Mack as the new artistic director, a move that represents a significant evolution in the company’s 68-year history. She is only the fourth artist to lead the company since its founding by Alvin Ailey himself. Graf Mack follows in the footsteps of Judith Jamison, a Philadelphian, and Robert Battle, who directed the company for over a decade.

Alicia Graf Mack, now 47, returns to Ailey after an impressive tenure as dean and director of the dance division at Juilliard, where she nurtured young talent and commissioned numerous works, including collaborations with renowned Philadelphia choreographers such as Rennie Harris and Matthew Neenan. The ongoing tour will include “Difference Between,” a new work by Neenan, which has received acclaim for its emotional depth and choreography.

In an effort to honor the legacy of influential figures in dance, Ailey will also feature “Jazz Island,” a piece created by Maija Garcia that pays tribute to the artistic contributions of Geoffrey Holder and Carmen de Lavallade, both of whom played vital roles in Ailey’s history.

Graf Mack’s journey in dance began at a young age in California and blossomed during her time at the School of American Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre. Despite facing challenges, including managing ankylosing spondylitis, she navigated her career with resilience and determination. Her experiences with dance and arts administration have uniquely positioned her to lead the Ailey Company into a new era.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will perform at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia from February 27 to March 1, with ticket prices ranging from to 7. For more information, interested parties can visit ensembleartsphilly.org.