PORTLAND — Portland Ovations will present Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, known for its artistry and passionate energy, Tuesday, April 24,  at Merrill Auditorium.

Since its first performance in 1958, the company has danced at theaters in 48 states and 71 countries on six continents. A U.S. Congressional resolution in 2008 designated the company as “a vital American cultural ambassador to the world,” one that celebrates the African-American culture and the enrichment of the American modern dance heritage.

All told, 200-plus works by more than 80 choreographers are part of the Ailey company’s repertory. At Merrill, the company will perform these works:  “Streams” (1970), “Takademe” (1999), “Home” (2011) and “Revelations” (1960).

The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. One hour prior, Ovations Offstage will present a lecture, “Life as an Ailey Dancer,” with Portland Ovations Executive Director Aimee Petrin talking with a member of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater about the history of the company, repertoire and life as an Ailey dancer.

For tickets, $45 to $60, call PortTix at 842-0800, visit the box office window at Merrill Auditorium or log on to www.portlandovations.org.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Matthew Rushing, Briana Reed and Rosalyn Deshauteurs perform Aileyís “Revelations.”