Thousands of local fourth-grade students will experience the electrifying moves of Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance at the historic Coronado Theatre as Friends of the Coronado presents its 23rd free Reach for the Stars program.

• Reach for the Stars opens with a matinee Feb. 26 for private, charter and home school students, followed by an evening performance that’s open to the general public, both at no charge.
• Another matinee Feb. 27 for Rockford Public Schools 4th-graders is expected to fill the theater to or near capacity and will take place even in the face of a possible teacher strike that week.
• More than 4,000 are expected for Ailey II, internationally recognized for its artistry, athleticism and commitment to education and outreach.

“Over nearly a quarter century now, tens of thousands of school children have witnessed mesmerizing artistic performances in an equally mesmerizing architectural landmark,” said Mark Bonne, president of Friends of the Coronado. “Reach for the Stars brings world-renown talent to a world-class stage that we’re fortunate to have in our hometown. Thanks to the generosity and vision of our key benefactors, these unforgettable experiences have occurred at no cost to schools or families.”

Reach for the Stars was established in 2001 after the grand reopening of a modernized, expanded and pristinely restored Coronado. The initiative reflects Friends of the Coronado’s ongoing commitment to providing children with access to live performing arts experiences.

The event is supported in part by the C. Gordon Smith Reach for the Stars Endowment for Children, established in memory of Gordy Smith, who with his wife, Mary Ann, led the campaign to save the national landmark. Mary Ann Smith remains actively involved in the organization, serving as president emerita.

Additional support is provided through the Brubaker Charitable Trust, honoring Jake Brubaker’s passion for ensuring all children can experience the Coronado’s beauty and inspiration.

“Reach for the Stars was one of Jake’s favorite events,” a trustee for Brubaker Charitable Trust said. “He looked forward to it each year and believed every young person should experience the Coronado. The Trust is proud to continue his legacy by supporting this wonderful program.”

EVENT DETAILS

What: Friends of the Coronado 23rd Reach for the Stars featuring Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance.

Founded in 1974 by legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey, Ailey II—The Next Generation of Dance brings together some of the nation’s most promising early-career dancers with works by today’s most compelling choreographers. Now under the leadership of Artistic Director Francesca Harper, Ailey II continues its legacy of powerful performances, artistic innovation and deep community engagement.

When:
 • Student Matinees: 10:00 AM, Feb. 26 & 27, 2026
 • Free Community Performance: 6:30 PM, Feb. 26, 2026