Celebrating Hope, Promise and the Future

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Thank you for tuning into The Ailey Spring Gala. The video is no longer available, but please visit our "Ailey All Access" page for more content.

The Ailey Spring Gala paid special homage to our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. for being the site of so much hope, so much promise, and where we, together as a people, strive for a better future.

The free virtual event featured premiere performances by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and students from The Ailey School, plus special guests Congressman James E. Clyburn and former First Lady Michelle Obama, special remarks from guest of honor Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian, and surprise celebrity appearances. The evening also included a special VIP pre-performance virtual reception and a post-benefit celebration with DJ M.O.S. and DJ Kiss. It was surely a night to remember — a night of celebration, dance, and a true labor of love for our mainstay and newly minted international fans.

Our commitment remains raising the vital funds Ailey needs to sustain its important programs for young people, especially during this challenging time when other sources of funding, such as from live theater performances, aren't possible.

CO-CHAIRS
Michele and Timothy Barakett
Lyndon K. Boozer
Sela and Art Collins
Stephen J. Meringoff
Daria and Eric Wallach
Yelberton R. Watkins

VICE CHAIRS
Joyce Brayboy
Janell Mayo Duncan and Lawrence Duncan III
Tanya Leah Lombard
Nicole Venable
Vanessa Reed
Katharine Weymouth

CORPORATE CHAIR
Thomas A. Fanning, Chairman, President & CEO, Southern Company

AILEY SPRING GALA AMBASSADORS COMMITTEE
Kehinde Akiwowo
Yasmeen Akounou
Amira Karriem Artis
Stephanie Durden Barfield
Angelina Darrisaw
Janelle Faulk
Rasanah Goss
Alexis M. Jeffries
Dr. Diarra K. Lamar
Rufaro Makanda
Gregory C. Paul
Naima Pittman
Jen Queliz
Kelly R. Rodigas
Dr. Binita Shah
Anthony Young, RN
Marques E. Zak