AileyCamp

"I will not use the word can't to define my possibilities." - AileyCamp Daily Affirmation 

AileyCamp is an innovative summer program designed to serve inner-city children in grades six through eight, ages 11-14.  It does not serve as a training ground for professional dancers, but rather uses dance as a vehicle for developing self-esteem, self-discipline, creative expression and critical thinking skills.

Founded by Alvin Ailey and the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey in 1989, AileyCamp targets students with academic, social and domestic challenges, but also welcomes students who have little opportunity to develop their artistic interests.  An important aspect of the program's success is in providing positive adult and peer role models, and giving campers an invaluable opportunity to explore their creativity, learn to master their bodies, and strengthen their respect for themselves and others within a supportive framework that gives them an important foundation for the future.

Camp Curriculum

The AileyCamp curriculum includes:

• Daily technique classes in ballet, Horton-based modern dance, jazz and tap
• Personal development classes:  goal setting, nutrition, conflict/resolution, career development and self-image
• Creative communications classes:  with performance techniques, deepen the students' awareness of their potential for self-expression

 AileyCamp Too! is a special follow-up program for campers to reinforce and expand upon the meaningful experience of the summer program.

"The most important moment in a child's education is the 'crystallizing experience' -- the experience that helps a young person focus, engage and deeply connect to something he or she cares about." - Howard Gardner, noted educator

2010 AileyCamp Dates

Berkeley:  June 21 - July 30
Boston:  July 1 - August 5
Kansas City, KS:  June 14 - July 23
Kansas City, MO:   June 14 - July 23
Bridgeport:  July 5 - August 13
Chicago:  June 28 - August 6
Atlanta:  June 1 - July 9
Staten Island, NY:  July 6 - August 13
Washington Heights, NY:  July 6 - August 13
Miami:  June 28 - August 7

Listen to the Miami NPR feature on the launch of AileyCamp Miami AileyCamp.

Learn more about becoming a member of the AileyCamp staff.