About

Orchesis (a Greek word which means “to dance”) was a national dance organization originally founded in Wisconsin in 1917. Over the 1920s, Orchesis dance clubs became popular in universities across the United States, enabling university students to organize and present their choreography in concerts. The University of Utah chapter of Orchesis (“Utah Orchesis”) was established in 1931 by Myrtle Clancy Knudson and Blanche Hayes to provide an organization where interested students could receive extra-curricular experience in dance techniques, performance, and choreography. Utah Orchesis was one of the first organizations of its type to be established west of the Mississippi. In 1931, the Utah Orchesis concert, “Dance Drama,” was held in the recently completed Kingsbury Hall. Prior to this time, all Orchesis dance performances were held outdoors. After this time, the Orchesis performances were staged regularly within the theatre (sources: Utah History Encyclopedia and Utah Digital Newspapers 04/28/1931 and 05/13/1931)*.

Beginning around 1967, Utah Orchesis took on the roll as the honor society for the University of Utah’s School of Dance. Utah Orchesis recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional achievement within the School of Dance in regards to performance, choreography, and/or service. The student committee fundraises year-round for School of Dance scholarships through various fundraising events. Utah Orchesis works to promote student wellness through providing service around the Marriott Center for Dance as well as around the Salt Lake community.

*Information provided Henrik Gustafson (former Modern Dance BFA student and employee at the Marriott Library Special Collections).

Leadership

TBD | Faculty Advisor

TBD | President

TBD | Vice-President

TBD | Treasurer

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