Swirling skirts, swiveling hips and arms outstretched to heaven fill the stage for this ritualistic celebration of courtship and marriage with African tribal influences. A regal couple in virginal white is juxtaposed with tribesmen and priestesses in vivid shades of pink and teal. The choreography is upheld by George Winston's well known piano score, "Autumn." The ballet ends in a festive finale that combines balletic turns and jumps with sensuous ethnic movement.

"Isba is Ailey’s version of a neo-classical ballet with its hierarchy of nobles, romantic pas de deux and festive ensemble dances."
- Valerie Sudol, Newark Star-Ledger

"A beautiful ensemble piece... [Ailey II] infused its performance with spirit and love for its art."
- John Wirt, Daytona News-Journal

This ballet is performed in excerpt in Ailey Highlights.