AileyCamp

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

Alvin Ailey believed that “dance is for everybody,” and was especially dedicated to using dance to enhance the lives of underserved children. AileyCamp represents a vital continuation of Alvin Ailey’s vision, using the power of dance to enrich and positively alter the lives of children.

AileyCamp is an innovative summer program that uses disciplined dance training, creative writing instruction, personal development, and communication workshops, to help campers develop a respect for themselves and others that meaningfully impacts their lives.

Since its inception in 1989, this vital program has reached thousands of youth across the country, providing direction and hope to children who are most in-need of knowing there can be a bright future.

"My son enjoyed learning different dances [and] making friends, and benefitted from writing about respect and self-image."  - Parent of 2010 camper

“Compared with other camps that I’ve heard about, there is NO comparison. The staff is totally dedicated to Mr. Ailey’s ideals, and the students finish the camp with confidence, new friendships, and a deeper love of dance.”  - Parent of 2010 camper

“The teachers taught me that when you dance you should dance with your soul, mind, body, and spirit. Dancing is not just a way of moving. It’s a way to communicate with each other.” – 2009 camper

“AileyCamp helped me have more respect for others.”  - 2010 camper

 View the article and slideshow by The New Jersey Star-Ledger of students participating in the first-ever AileyCamp in Newark, NJ.

 Meet Solomon Dumas, an Ailey II dancer whose life was changed when he attended AileyCamp at the age of 12.

Camp Curriculum

The AileyCamp curriculum includes:

• Daily technique classes in ballet, Horton-based modern dance, jazz and tap or West African
• 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

2012 AileyCamp Dates

AileyCamp Atlanta: June 4th – July 13th
AileyCamp Kansas City, Kansas & Missouri: June 4th – July 13th
AileyCamp Miami: June 25th – August 4th
AileyCamp Berkeley: June 25th – August 3rd
AileyCamp Chicago: June 25th – August 3rd
AileyCamp Boston: July 2nd – August 10th
AileyCamp Bridgeport: July 2nd – August 10th
AileyCamp Newark: July 2nd – August 10th
CAS/AileyCamp: July 9th – August 17th

Contact the AileyCamp directors and learn more about becoming a member of the AileyCamp staff.

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