A New Jersey tradition continues this May as the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center for its annual Mother's Day weekend residency.

The engagement, running from May 8 through May 10, marks a historic new chapter for the company. Audiences will witness the local debut of Alicia Graf Mack as Artistic Director. Mack, a former Ailey star and visionary educator, takes the helm to lead the company into a season defined by both its storied legacy and a bold new creative direction.

NJPAC ticket holders will be among the first to see five world-premiere works that highlight the company's legendary athleticism and expressive range.

In addition, the program features the company premiere of Mehdi Walerski's Blink of an Eye and a fresh production of Judith Jamison's soulful A Case of You.

The performances will also feature repertory favorites, including Ronald K. Brown's Rapturous Grace and Alvin Ailey's 1960 masterpiece Revelations.

Since its founding in 1958, the company has served as a cultural beacon, celebrating African American heritage and the universal human experience through a blend of modern dance and spiritual music.

"Alicia Graf Mack brings a fresh perspective to the company," NJPAC representatives noted, "building on its rich legacy of excellence and innovation."

Tickets for the Mother's Day weekend performances are now available through the NJPAC box office and official website.