to Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive 2026

Hi, I'm Devyn Black, a 17 year-old high school junior and dance major with a passion for dance. Since the age of three, dance has been woven into the fabric of who I am, and with every year that passes, my commitment to this art form only grows deeper.

This summer, I was honored to be accepted into the Professional Division Summer Intensive at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. I truly cannot put into words what that means to me. Alvin Ailey was founded in 1958 with a mission to uplift the African American experience and preserve the legacy of modern dance. Ailey represents everything I aspire toward as a dancer. I was fortunate enough to see Revelations performed live recently, and sitting in the audience only confirmed what I already felt in my heart, this is where I belong.

Alvin Ailey himself trained under Lester Horton, the creator of the Horton Technique, and went on to choreograph some of the most iconic works in modern dance history. To train in that lineage, under exceptional professionals who carry that legacy forward, would shape my artistry in ways that no classroom alone ever could.

Three years ago, I began training at Dallas Black Dance Academy here in Dallas, TX, and it transformed both my technique and my work ethic. Being accepted into their Allegro Senior Performing Ensemble, where I now train 6 to 10 hours each week has been one of the greatest privileges of my dance journey so far. The Ailey Summer Intensive would take that dedication even further, bringing my weekly training to nearly 42 hours over five weeks of full immersion in New York City.

That level of opportunity also comes with real financial responsibility. Between tuition, housing, travel, meals, supplies, and required dancewear, the total cost is significant, and that's why I'm humbly reaching out. Every dollar donated goes directly toward making this experience possible. If giving isn't something you're able to do right now, simply sharing this page carries just as much weight and is equally appreciated.

Dance has given me discipline, resilience, confidence, and an unshakable belief in hard work. This opportunity would bring me one step closer to the future I've been working toward my entire life. I am so grateful for your time, your generosity, and your belief in my dream.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

With love,

Devyn Black

Costs:

Summer Intensive for 5-weeks June 29 - July 31, 2026 (5-weeks)

Tuition $2,919.00 due May 8, 2026

Housing $2980 due May 15

Meals $980 due May 18