10 Sep Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) Receives $15,000 Grant from the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund (NTDF)

Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund (NTDF) to continue their mission of promoting arts education and cultural diversity through their annual Ailey II performance series. With this funding, KCFAA will bring the internationally renowned dance company to local schools and host public performances at the historic Folly Theater in downtown Kansas City. Ailey II merges the spirit and energy of the country’s best dance talent with the passion and creative vision of Alvin Ailey. Through this grant, KCFAA aims to bring Ailey II, a renowned dance company, to perform at local schools and host public performances, promoting arts education and cultural diversity.

Funding will provide support for their upcoming initiatives, including hosting two public performances by Ailey II at the historic Folly Theater. These performances not only showcase cutting-edge choreography and diverse dance styles but also contribute to the vibrancy of the downtown neighborhood. By drawing tourists and residents to explore the bustling downtown area, including its restaurants, shops, and bars, the performances promote tourism and generate additional revenue for local businesses. In addition to these public shows, KCFAA will also organize a special school performance, offering reduced ticket prices for students from underserved communities. As part of Ailey II’s residency in Kansas City, lecture demonstrations will be provided in schools, enriching the educational experience for students.

Thanks to the funding from NTDF, KCFAA can continue their mission of promoting arts education and cultural experiences for diverse audiences, with a special focus on underserved youth. Through the captivating performances of Ailey II, they aim to cultivate an appreciation for modern dance and introduce students to the transformative potential of the arts. This initiative seeks to provide young individuals with an affordable opportunity to immerse themselves in the inspiring world of the arts. In line with this, the grant will be utilized to organize a school performance featuring reduced ticket prices, ensuring that the enchantment of Ailey II is accessible to students from underserved communities. Additionally, KCFAA plans to conduct lecture demonstrations in up to four schools, enhancing the students’ educational journey by showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity of Ailey II’s dancers.

KCFAA has a broad audience encompassing residents and tourists from the Kansas City metropolitan area and the wider Midwest region. The public performances draw in dance enthusiasts, while the school performance offers an affordable opportunity for students who may not have access to experience Ailey II otherwise. Through their outreach efforts, KCFAA aims to actively engage diverse communities and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the neighborhood. The grant not only ensures the continuation of KCFAA’s Ailey II performance series but also reinforces their dedication to arts education and diversity. By reaching out to diverse audiences, particularly underserved communities, and promoting cultural vibrancy in the neighborhood, KCFAA plays a crucial role in enhancing the accessibility and appreciation of the arts in the Kansas City region. Through these efforts, the organization establishes a strong foundation for future audiences and patrons, further enhancing the city’s livability and cultural reputation.