About Orchesis
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Dorothy Harris founded Orchesis Dance at the University of Alberta in 1964, drawing inspiration from Margaret H'Doubler, a visionary dance educator at the University of Wisconsin. Harris, who studied at Wisconsin, was deeply influenced by H'Doubler's philosophy that dance was essential to the holistic development of individuals. H'Doubler emphasized the Greek concept of orchesis—a term derived from orchestra, meaning "place to dance"—to represent the integration of movement and gesture as both art and science.
H'Doubler viewed dance as a means to promote social progress, physical health, and artistic growth, striving for the Greek ideal of harmony between the intellectual, physical, and spiritual realms. She believed that dance could nurture a generous social spirit, one capable of inspiring and uplifting entire communities. Following this ethos, the name "Orchesis" was adopted by many North American colleges and universities for their extracurricular dance groups. By the late 1960s, over 200 Orchesis programs had been established. The current number of such programs is unknown. In recent years Orchesis moved from the University of Alberta to the community, where it continues to provide choreographic and performance opportunities for dancers of all walks of life. Our Mandate Orchesis Dance Society is an Edmonton-based (amiskwaciwaskahikan) not-for-profit community dance organization offering inclusive and high-caliber instruction and performance opportunities for adult dancers of all levels and abilities. Our annual professionally-produced show features original choreography that is performed by a community of dedicated dancers. Our dance art is informed by diverse genres including contemporary forms of jazz and modern dance. Our Mission We strive for accessible and wellness-driven approaches to dance, training, and performance, aiming to build a community of life-long dancers in Edmonton and the surrounding area |
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