History
Alvin Ailey had a relationship with Kansas City since 1968, bringing his groundbreaking modern dance company Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to the city for performances. In 1982, the connection grew even stronger as Mr. Ailey shared his vision of a second home for his growing company. Kansas City community organizations, civic leaders, arts groups and financial partners responded and in 1984, Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) was born as the official second home to this remarkable company. As a presenter, KCFAA engaged Mr. Ailey’s company for public performances and community and educational outreach. As demand for programming grew, so too did the need for year-round Ailey-trained artists to serve over 35,000 young people annually through ten different arts education programs. Mr. Ailey’s successor, dance legend Judith Jamison, continues to support Mr. Ailey’s belief that “dance is for everybody.” Today, after 25 years of service to the Kansas City community, KCFAA’s efforts - through the legacy of Alvin Ailey and partnering with the extraordinary vision of Judith Jamison - have reached over 1 million people. With a successful $1,000,000 Endowment Campaign that began in 2001, KCFAA will continue to reach and positively impact people young and old far into the future.