An expanded cast of 50 dancers fills the stage and theater aisles at select performances.  Embracing the full spectrum of the Ailey family, the first company is joined by dancers from Ailey II and selected students from The Ailey School in Alvin Ailey's signature masterpiece.

Alvin Ailey said that one of America’s richest treasures was the cultural heritage of the African-American - ”sometimes sorrowful, sometimes jubilant, but always hopeful.” This enduring classic is a tribute to that heritage and to Ailey’s genius. Using African-American traditional spirituals, this suite fervently explores the places of deepest grief and holiest joy in the soul.