Debbie Allen at the Whitney
Fri, May 8, 2026
5–10 pm
Debbie Allen in Fame, 1982-87. Courtesy NBCUniversal, via Getty Images
Tickets
Registration is required for 100 Years of Debbie Allen. Tickets are free and Museum admission is included. Capacity is limited; visitors are encouraged to register in advance.
The DJ set and Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts are open to all. Book a Free Friday Night ticket.
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The Susan and John Hess Family Theater is equipped with an induction loop and infrared assistive listening system. Accessible seating is available.
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Throughout the Whitney
Join us in the theater for a special screening of 100 Years of Debbie Allen, followed by a conversation with Debbie Allen. Created in celebration of Debbie Allen’s 75th birthday and the 25th anniversary of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, the film reflects a centennial milestone—honoring a remarkable legacy while offering an intimate portrait of her personal and professional journey, and the enduring impact of her artistry and activism across generations.
Prior to the screening, enjoy a special pop-up class from 6—7pm created by Debbie Allen, Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts, and a live DJ set in the Museum Lobby. Exclusive Debbie Allen Dance Academy merchandise—including limited-edition Debbie Allen tribute Barbie collectibles—will be available at the Whitney Shop all evening.
Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts
Floor 1, Lobby
6–7 pm
Dance with us in a special class created by Debbie Allen! Originally launched at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, this initiative provides free, high-energy dance and arts experiences for all levels, designed to foster hope, resilience, and emotional healing.
100 Years of Debbie Allen: Film Screening and Q&A with Debbie Allen—ticketed
Floor 3, Theater
7:30–9 pm
100 Years of Debbie Allen is a powerful, intimate, and celebratory portrait of an icon whose artistry, activism, and impact have spanned generations. As Debbie Allen turns 75 and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) celebrates its 25th anniversary, this feature documentary weaves together the personal and professional milestones that make up a century of cultural legacy.
Debbie Allen Dance Academy Merchandise
Floor 1, Whitney Shop
Exclusive Debbie Allen Dance Academy merchandise—including limited-edition Debbie Allen tribute Barbie collectibles—will be available in the Museum Shop all evening. All purchases are considered donations to the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. DADA relies on the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations to advance its mission of making dance accessible and meaningful for all.
DJ set
Floor 1, Lobby
7:30–10pm
