Orchesis
Orchesis is a thriving, performance-based dance organization, and all students are invited to participate. More than 100 members from across campus perform in their annual event, where beginners and experts alike come together to choreograph and produce pieces for the entire campus community.
80+ Years of Dance and Performance
An Annual Tradition
Orchesis hosts a yearly weekend of performances during the fall semester, with productions showcasing multiple dance pieces and a variety of dance styles that have evolved through the years, including ballet, contemporary, lyrical, modern, hip hop, jazz, and tap.
Students in the Spotlight
From the planning and creativity of the dancers and choreographers to the hard work and talents of the lighting and sound technicians, every aspect of an Orchesis performance is student-designed and produced.
A Longstanding Organization
An important piece of the College’s rich history, Orchesis celebrates over 80 years of the creativity and energy of a vibrant, supportive student community. The annual event is attended and celebrated by the entire campus community.
A Look Back
What started as a call for dancers in a 1943 Campus newspaper ad to join a new modern dance club has grown into a thriving performance-based dance company with more than 100 members each year.
Orchesis, a student-run organization that welcomes anyone to dance, holds yearly shows in the fall where all dancers, choreographers, and lighting and sound technicians are recognized for their hard work and creativity. The group contributes each year to an inclusive and vibrant campus. Every aspect of the show is student-designed, with productions showcasing multiple dance pieces and a variety of dance styles that have evolved through the years, including ballet, contemporary, lyrical, modern, hip hop, jazz, and tap. Also evolving are the dance numbers, which have ranged from one of the group’s first numbers, “Peter and the Wolf” by Sergei Prokofiev, to “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John and “What About Us” by P!nk.
Many past and current participants agree that Orchesis gave them more than an opportunity to dance, citing the ability to learn about collaboration and leadership, to make new friends, and to grow their confidence. Here, past and current members share their favorite Orchesis memories through the years.
“The annual performances were a highlight of the Orchesis experience.”
My roommate (Christine Herbst ’68) and I danced a duet senior year. In September 1964, during my first term as a freshman, I took a modern dance class from Elinor McGrath. Working with her became a passion, and I continued to audit the class, although only one course was required. I didn’t make my first competition but was encouraged to try again and made it. Unfortunately, Miss McGrath had to leave due to illness midyear and never finished our recital choreography. I remember the fragments of our finale to this day. Orchesis was a highlight of my college years, and I still work out in the tights (leggings) from those years!
I was part of Orchesis during all four of my undergraduate years at Allegheny (1967-1971), serving as president during the 1969-1970 school year. Orchesis and dancing played a significant role in helping me get through those four years! And, I still continue to dance to this day, currently taking seven hours of ballet, tap, jazz, and modern classes each week. I will once again perform in The Silver City Dance Center’s recital this June, which also means I will once again own costumes no woman my age should be caught dead in.
There remains for me one Orchesis memory that captures that singular moment when I knew dance would fill my life. In the fall of 1977, I was cast as Fletcher in a production of ‘Jonathan Livingston Seagull,’ alongside Don Delach ’79 in the titular role. My first entrance as Fletcher was a full, powerful, low-to-the-earth run that took me across the Campus Center stage in an arc from the upstage right wing to stand next to my best friend, Jonathan, downstage left. That burst onto stage, which lasted no more than two seconds, was soaring, breathtaking, majestic, and exhilarating. With that entrance, I experienced the transformational intersection of commitment, practice, purpose, and freedom that is the essence of dance. I am forever grateful for Orchesis and the treasured opportunities the organization provided.
Dancing in some of the Orchesis productions in the late 70s was a blast. My fondest memory was when I played a bird (Jonathan) in Jonathan Livingston Seagull. A reporter from the Meadville newspaper took a picture of me and turned it into this artsy image that was printed in the paper, and then he gave me the original. Many years later, my spouse found it and had it matted and framed.
Orchesis was a huge part of my Allegheny experience. From the moment I arrived freshman year, I looked forward to going to that little dance studio on top of Montgomery Hall and dancing with friends. During my time there, I had the privilege of dancing and working with so many wonderful people, and I received the guidance of a special advisor, Roseann Lyle. I could not have asked for a better college experience, one that prepared me for an academic career as a paralegal as well as many years of teaching dance and choreographing local plays.
Orchesis allowed me to reconnect with my experience as a professional ballet dancer while immersed in the world of academia. Music, movement, and people made this community the best place to spend time outside of class.
Orchesis gave students an opportunity to dance and perform. Our class was lucky to have Glenn Ford Good ’81 as our artistic muse and most gifted dancer. I remember his senior concert featuring the music of Dire Straits. The auditorium was alive with joy and movement! After graduation, Glenn went on to dance professionally in NYC. Sadly, we lost Glenn before we were 30. His memory lives on in all who knew him and had the chance to dance with and for him!
Orchesis was the only student-run dance club during my time on campus. It was a great outlet for students who wanted to perform and choreograph various styles of dance. During my time, we brought a guest artist to campus with the support of the Dance Department, CORIS, and The Black History Month Committee. Professional dancer Howard Lucas provided master classes in jazz dance and gave a lecture on the history of jazz dance. We also would combine with the International Club each fall to present the International Dance Festival. International students would teach various dance styles or traditional dances from their home countries, and we would all perform them. I enjoyed learning a traditional Pakistani wedding dance as well as belly dancing. Orchesis was a fulfilling experience for me as a dancer, performer, and choreographer. Orchesis was a great organization to be a part of and has given me many wonderful college memories. I have also had the honor of watching my daughter, Sara ’26, continue the tradition of being a dancer and choreographer for Orchesis. I am so happy to see Orchesis continue as a successful organization that provides an artistic outlet for the students.
While I was one of the ‘naked’ dancers in the controversial ‘Psycho Haze’ dance from the musical Hair in 1996 (which I am so very proud of), I have to say that my favorite memories are more about the camaraderie, creativity, and diversity of all the dancers and choreographers. I was so fortunate to be reintroduced to dance through Orchesis, and now I am a dance teacher and theatre educator.
I loved performing in the Devil Went Down to Georgia! I played the part of one of the farmers, and it was so fun to play off the “devils.” The choreography was outstanding, and even though I’m not the most coordinated or skilled dancer, the creators of the dance welcomed anyone and everyone who wanted to join, which made for a huge cast, and it was so much fun! I wish I had pictures or videos of the dance to look back on, but we didn’t even have cell phones back then. It’s crazy to think! I also wanted to share how much fun I had with my roommates and hallmates walking from Brooks Hall to Montgomery Gymnasium for practice. We even had our very own little club called “Morechesis”—if you know, you know. 😉 I wish I lived closer so I could go see the performances each year! Thanks for the memories, Orchesis!
Orchesis was EVERYTHING to me during my four years at Allegheny. In my opinion, there was no other organization that brought so many people together from different walks of life. Whether you had a background in dance or were trying it for the first time, you could participate. In my choreographed piece my junior year, I had a dance club scene in the background that gave ANYONE the chance to be on stage. It was so much fun seeing it all come together with the work of the amazing lighting and stage crew members! And having so many people come to watch the shows — just fantastic! Those performances were definitely the highlight of my time at Allegheny.
The years I danced in Orchesis were some of the best, most stressful Novembers of my life. I served as a choreographer for three years, was on the board for two years, and was also the 2010 president. Back then, Orchesis and its legacy were larger than life. It was the main event of the first semester. From auditions in September through opening night in November, the buildup and camaraderie were unmatched. Looking back, our shows and the talent within them were quite impressive for being an entirely student-run organization at a school with only a dance minor. More than anything, Orchesis helped me become more versatile as a dancer and refined my leadership skills. From hip hop to lyrical, to ballroom, to tap (in straight jackets!), we did it all. After graduation, I went on to become a professional dancer for a decade in NYC and Vegas and was also the dance captain for Norwegian Cruise Lines; I like to think that Orchesis had a small part in that. To the hundreds of dancers I ever shared a stage with over my four years in Orchesis, I see you, love you, and hope you are absolutely killing it in life, just like you did on stage. Xoxo!
Orchesis was such a great experience! It really helped me make friends during my freshman year, and allowed me to continue dancing in college amidst all my studies, providing a great creative outlet. I always look back on my four years with Orchesis fondly!
My favorite memory is the senior dance in the Fall 2011 show. There were small groups that danced to various 90s cartoon opening theme songs including Rocket Power, Hey Arnold, and Rugrats. I have attached a picture of a group of seniors participating in that dance. Pictured from left to right are Christina Moreschi, Stephanie Zellers, Jules D’Amico, and Becca Moore, all class of 2012. Additionally in Fall 2011 while I was a senior working on my comp, the Orchesis dance I was in was a bright spot that kept me going. It was choreographed by Caitlyn McNamee ’14 to the song ‘Sort of’ by Ingrid Michaelson. I will have to send the two pictures of us in our final pose- one at rehearsal and one at the performance- since I can’t attach them here. In fall 2010, Stephanie Zellers ’12 choreographed a dance to Christina Aguilera’s Candyman, and I’ll also share those photos via email.
I think for a lot of dancers, you give it your all through high school, and then, when you graduate, there can very suddenly be a halt to all things dance. Studios aren’t really built for adult dancers, and teaching doesn’t provide the same outlets to perform the way dancers are used to. Orchesis was the perfect outlet for those of us who still loved to dance, couldn’t imagine life without it, and wanted to extend that creative outlet beyond high school. Working with your peers to create a performance was so special, and Orchesis instantly became a family of passionate folks who still loved to dance. It was one of the most special spaces at Allegheny for me.
I think about all the moments spent on stage, telling the stories my friends had choreographed for the audience, while also reflecting on the stories and bonding moments we shared between rehearsals. Regardless of which sororities or other organizations we were affiliated with outside of dance, we were an Orchesis family.
Community. Diversity. Legacy.
I cherished every moment of the process of putting an Orchesis production together, from the long days of auditions and rehearsals to the raising and falling of the curtain. There was never a lack of dance styles to try out for, nor a shortage of talent. It gives students an opportunity to teach each other, learn, hone skills, or just… try something new.
I always loved that you don’t need to have a technical dance background to be a part of Orchesis. You just need to have the passion to be there and work hard. I’ve watched countless “non-dancers” try out just because, and find out dancing fills their hearts with joy.
It gives people a home and an escape all in the same breath.
I am so grateful to have been a part of Orchesis Dance Company from 2010-2014.
Orchesis was a chance to relax away from school and work. It didn’t matter how good you were or how much experience you had. There was a place for everyone, which is part of what makes Orchesis so special. I came to Orchesis with very little dance experience and was placed in multiple contemporary, jazz, and ballet pieces. The choreographers always believed in you and provided the space to try. Orchesis is one of the things I miss most about Allegheny.
Orchesis is the type of club that promotes the idea that “anyone can do anything they set their mind to.” The company provides space to try something new, exercise, and meet new people, which are all foundational elements of what a club should be about. I was fortunate enough to be a dancer, choreographer, and boardeographer with the company, and my most memorable college experiences involve Orchesis. One of my favorite memories is the excitement felt by my dancers and the audience when I conveyed a ballroom dance that revolved around the Mario Brothers (before they planned to make a film). It was the most thrilling experience on stage to feel the abundant joy from everyone participating or watching a silly, fun, and unique performance of my creation. Orchesis is one of the greatest clubs on Allegheny’s campus, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the company in multiple ways.
I loved being in the company as a dancer for four years and on the board (recording secretary for 2021 and 2022) of Orchesis, as well as a choreographer in 2022 with my co-choreographer Lirona Wainer Yaffe ’24. Each year, I dipped my toes into different styles and gained a plethora of friendships through dance! I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I love dancing and have continued it post-college, but I wish I could be back on Shafer Stage with my fellow classmates and alumni! I’m so proud of the company for being amazing year after year, with creative and talented dances performed.
I chose Take Me to Church because it was the song I choreographed to during my sophomore year in Orchesis. Now, as a senior and after serving as the 2024 President, it feels right to reflect on my first experience choreographing for Orchesis. This organization has taught me so much about collaboration, leadership, and the importance of a creative outlet. I owe a lot to Orchesis.
When I think of Orchesis, I think of a place where anyone interested in dance is welcome to try out different styles, regardless of their experience level. A favorite memory I have from Orchesis is being able to try ballet for the first time during the 2024 fall season. Also, last season, being able to further connect with my friend as she taught me tap made me realize how much I love it. I have always wanted to try dance, and Orchesis gave me that opportunity. Thanks to Orchesis, I will continue dancing after graduation this spring.
Orchesis was the first group I joined at Allegheny, and it has been central to my college experience. Having danced since I was two, I knew I wanted to continue pursuing my passion, and Orchesis provided the perfect outlet. Since my first year, I’ve been both a board member and choreographer, roles that have deepened my love for dance and collaboration. My favorite memory is choreographing for this year’s show. I chose a song that truly resonated with me, and my dancers brought the piece to life in a way that filled me with pride. From the excitement of rehearsals to the thrill of seeing it performed on stage, the experience was unforgettable. Beyond choreographing, I cherish the countless backstage moments with friends—moments filled with laughter, support, and camaraderie. These memories are irreplaceable, and I’m profoundly grateful for the community Orchesis has given me.
When I think of Orchesis, words like community, friendship, joy, fulfillment, and calm come to mind. I’ve been a part of Orchesis since my sophomore year, and each experience has offered something special. From performing and connecting with new people to learning from others and immersing myself in a dance space that feels like home—Orchesis has given me so much. Every time I dance, my mind clears, and I feel truly at peace.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Orchesis is contributing to others’ creative work and sharing it with the community. It’s not just about showcasing talent; it’s also a chance to have fun, be recognized, and grow personally.
Dance has been a major part of my life since I was four, and when I came to college, I worried that I might not find many opportunities to continue. Thankfully, I discovered a ballet class and later joined Orchesis, cherishing every moment since—learning choreography, experiencing tech rehearsals, and seeing the dedication of everyone who makes Orchesis possible year after year.
Orchesis has reinforced the importance of community and connection in dance. Sharing a love for dance with others and with the broader community adds depth and purpose to the art form. For anyone at Allegheny College with an interest in movement, dance, or theater, I wholeheartedly recommend joining Orchesis—not just for the joy of dancing, but for the chance to connect with an amazing, diverse group of people who each bring their own unique dance backgrounds to the stage.
For me, my favorite Orchesis memories are all the tech weeks I’ve been a part of, especially the last two years when I got to experience them as a choreographer. The tech weeks can be long, but I love how, during tech week, you can really see the show come together — from separate pieces to a fully formed production and community. I can’t imagine my Allegheny experience without Orchesis. It has not only provided me with an artistic outlet but has also helped me believe in myself, my dance ability, and encouraged me to help others do the same.
I am a relatively new dancer, and Orchesis has openly welcomed me, providing a space to share my passion and love for dance with other dancers. There were two practices back to back right before Fall break, during which both choreographers told us that practice was optional. Of course, I went to both, but I was nervous about spending two hours straight practicing. It was the best decision I could have made. At the first practice, I helped teach someone the choreography they had missed the week before; someone even called me a “dancing TA.” Then, in both practices, I learned the finale of the dance. All the work we had done over the past several weeks had paid off, and I got to finish both dances all the way through. The feeling of excitement, clarity, and appreciation between the dancers and me was something I’d been looking for for a long time.
My favorite part of Orchesis is the friends I have made. It may sound cliché, but I have met people I never would have interacted with if I hadn’t taken a chance and auditioned. I love the inclusive atmosphere that Orchesis fosters by providing an environment where dancers of all skill levels can come together to produce a show.
When I think of Orchesis, I think of the people who make up its community. I met a few of my closest friends through Orchesis, and by continuing to participate in it each year, I am able to nurture these friendships while also making new ones. The community of Orchesis is so welcoming and embraces everyone who is involved. For me, that is what comes to mind and what keeps me staying involved year after year.
My favorite moment of Orchesis this year was relatively insignificant compared to the glitz and glamor of the performance. Right before the curtains opened on closing night, I took some time to walk onto the stage and center myself in anticipation of the show. It was incredible to stand on stage and appreciate how much work the company had put into the performance. That small moment of silence reminded me how lucky I am to be able to create art with my best friends and share the vulnerability, beauty, and rawness of dance with our community. Dance and theater have always been special to me, but continuing to perform in college has shown me that it’s never too late to fall in love with the art of dance.
I came to Allegheny as a South Asian international student with a passion for dance and a fear of public performance, resulting from my experiences with body shaming. That changed when I joined Orchesis. I felt accepted and valued just the way I was by Ellie’s group, particularly under Sarah’s guidance. Sarah showed great concern and commitment through her kindness and careful management of our schedules. No matter their origin or level of expertise, she made sure that everyone felt acknowledged, welcomed, and appreciated. I was able to rediscover my joy, pride, and self-assurance in my dancing because of this feeling of belonging. I found solace and personal development in Orchesis, which evolved into much more than just a dance group.
One of my favorite moments of participating in Orchesis was when I was backstage before a number, listening to the shoutouts. I could see the appreciation and love on people’s faces when they were recognized, and I felt gratitude for the community that is built at Allegheny.
