A lot can be accomplished in 25 years. Eastern has built a dance program from the ground up in that amount of time. They have trained 25 years of dancers “on physical, intellectual, social and emotional levels anchored in Christian spirituality, which helps to shape a well-rounded and grounded dance professional.”
This weekend, the EU Dance Department will celebrate their 25th anniversary at their annual Spring Dance Concert. This year’s concert, “Alive in 25!,” will feature pieces choreographed by students and faculty, in addition to a special performance by guest artist Janet Pilla and a visit from alumnus Caroline Butcher (’12).
At the show, dancers from first years to seniors will perform a collection of unique pieces that fall into every genre of dance. The dancers, who come from a variety of backgrounds, bring different strengths to the stage, as they all seek to use their talents to share a story with the audience.
Dominique Ridley, a sophomore dance major, said, “A concert at EU…is a time when all of the department collaborates together to create one big final project. It is like the practicum for every dance class we’ve ever taken. Eastern’s Dance Department is a wonderful community full of encouraging and inspiring ladies and gentlemen.”
In order to participate in an EU Dance Concert, a student needs to attend the Choreographer’s Audition in the fall to try out to be in certain pieces. Later, those selected to be in a piece have to try out with their group to be in the concert at the Concert Audition. All of the performers must then work hard for months in order to prepare, attending rehearsals for their individual pieces as well as technical and dress rehearsals the week of the show.
Come to the McInnis Auditorium this weekend to support the EU Dance Department and enjoy a great show. Performances will be held on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18 at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, April 19 at 3 p.m. Each show will run for approximately two hours.
“I am most looking forward to being surrounded by the lovely dancers in the dance department and being encouraged by all the wonderful professors,” said Ridley. “For dancers the show is like the game for which we’ve been practicing.” So turn out for this year’s Spring Dance Concert to watch some talented dancers turn out (their feet) and put on a fantastic show.
Thank you to everyone who has helped put this concert together, especially the EU Dance Department, led by faculty members Janine Bryant, Saleana Pettaway and Stephen Welsh, and the entire Fine and Performing Arts Division.
$10 general admission
$8 children and seniors
$5 with EU ID
Sources: Eastern.edu, Easternarts.ticketleap.com, Facebook.com
Grace Nealy 
Ethan Goonewardene 
Chloe Rupe