PHOTOS: Acclaimed Dance Company Ailey II Performs At The Dreamland

The Dreamland hosted Ailey II, an internationally acclaimed second company of the legendary Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, for a sold-out show this week, as well as a special performance for island students.

The engagement marked the first time Ailey II has ever performed on Nantucket, and it was the official opening stop of the company's 2026–27 national touring season.

The performance "stands as one of the most significant cultural performances in the Dreamland's history as the island's year-round nonprofit film, performing arts and cultural center," the non-profit stated. 

“Bringing a world-class cultural treasure of this caliber to our stage creates a profound connection for our island and regional community," said Alicia Carney, executive director of the Nantucket Dreamland. "To be the very first stop on their national tour is an extraordinary honor for our organization, and everything we strive to bring to this island.”

Beyond the evening performance, Ailey II's Nantucket performance also included an accessibility and education component for island students. On Monday, September 21, the Dreamland presented two master class workshops led by Ailey II company members, offered completely free of charge to students, at The Dance Space. The residency continued on Tuesday, September 22, with a special daytime school performance at the Dreamland, coordinated directly with Nantucket's public schools that was open to students across the island.

All photos below by Charity Grace Mofsen