Home to the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the largest building dedicated to dance in New York City, The Ailey Extension program was created to expand on the legacy of Alvin Ailey who believed that "dance comes from the people and should be delivered back to the people." 

Offering over 80 classes per week in over 25 different dance and fitness techniques, The Ailey Extension offers something for everyone.  Boasting 12 beautiful studios with views of the NYC skyline, the Extension is a premier destination for dancers of all ages and levels. Since its inception in 2005, over 70,000 people have taken classes at The Ailey Extension fulfilling Mr. Ailey’s life-long commitment of bringing dance to everyone by offering “real classes for real people.”  

Location: The Joan Weill Center for Dance, home of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, on West 55th Street in Manhattan

Classes Offered: Over 25 different dance and fitness techniques including Horton, Ballet, Masala Bhangra, West African, Samba, Jazz, Capoeira, Hip Hop, Belly Dance, Zumba, Yoga, Pilates, and more.  All classes are taught by leading instructors in their respective techniques and all levels are welcome, including beginners. 

Know Before You Go: When you come in for your first class, visit the Ailey Extension desk located on the right side as you enter the building and a staff member will provide you with a keytag which will be yours to keep for future classes. Once you have a keytag, you can either check-in with an Extension staff member who will scan your keytag, or use the self sign-in kiosk and scanner located in the front lobby.

The Ailey Studios have a state-of-the-art locker room with showers. Lockers are for day use only so you will need to provide your own lock and belongings may not be kept in lockers overnight.

Professional classes start at the Advanced Beginner level, with at least 2-3 years of prior training at least twice per week recommended.  If you are interested in a particular class but are concerned about the level, The Ailey Extension recommends observing the class before taking it.

Notable Facts: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is recognized by U.S. Congress as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World” and The Joan Weill Center for Dance is the nation's largest building dedicated to dance. 

Bonus Tip: For the Fans of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, bring your ticket stub from any of their performances and receive 1 FREE CLASS for first-time students and with the purchase of a 10-class card for returning students.

Ready to get inspired in body, mind, and spirit? Check out The Ailey Extension's extensive class schedule here.