The Ailey II dance company merges the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today’s most outstanding emerging choreographers, according to Allied Arts Director Randy Cannon.

The dancers will perform at 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 in Russell Auditorium and will conduct a lecture and demonstration at 1 p.m. Monday, April 14 in Russell Auditorium. Both events are open to the public.

Ailey II members, who have each completed advanced programs at The Ailey School, refine their technique while gaining invaluable performing and teaching experience during their tenure with the Company (usually two years). Throughout its history, more than 50 Ailey II members have been selected to join the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Many others have gone on to pursue successful careers as dancers, teachers and choreographers with other professional dance companies, on Broadway and in schools.

“Ailey II performed here in 2003 and 2005 and were well received. We are pleased to have them back,” Cannon said.

They will perform one of Alvin Ailey’s best-known works, “Revelations,” will include new works in the program as well.”

The dance company’s lecture and demonstrations are a main component of its education outreach program at schools and universities throughout the United States, according to Allied Arts Director Randy Cannon.

Town and Gown Arts is co-sponsored by Allied Arts and the Georgia College and State University Arts Unlimited Committee. Ailey II’s residency in Milledgeville is funded, in part, by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the Southern Arts Federation and the Georgia Council for the Arts.

Tickets for the 8 p.m. April 15 performance are $10. Groups of 12 or more can purchase tickets for $8 each through April 14. Tickets for the 1 p.m. April 14 lecture and demonstration are $6. Georgia College & State University students are admitted to both events with their Bobcat ID card.

Call Allied Arts at 478.452.3950 or visit www.milledgevillealliedarts.com for more information.