Orchesis Expectations

In order to be an Orchesis member, a two-part commitment is required. The Orchesis class meets every day during eighth period and receives half a Physical Education credit and half a fine art credit. The Orchesis class is devoted to building dance techniques, dance as an art form as well as building Physical Fitness. Additionally, Orchesis is an afterschool/club commitment. The highlight of the club’s afterschool commitments ends in the spring after the Orchesis Show. The dancers begin to rehearse in September with rehearsals increasing during the winter months. Attendance is MANDATORY during rehearsals leading to the annual production. Doctors appointments and college visits need to be scheduled around the dancer’s scheduled rehearsal times!
    
Fall athletes MAY NOT perform with Orchesis during their athletic season. Spring athletes ARE able to perform because performances are during the day.  The second semester is a time when Orchesis members perform a lot, experience guest artists, prepare for college, and experience other forms of dance.

Orchesis Membership

Membership to Orchesis is by AUDITIONS only held in early spring. Orchesis hopefuls are expected to attend a one-day audition and possible callback. Proper attire, black capris or black leotard with tights are preferred.When a dancer has specialized training such as tap or point, it is requested that the proper shoes are brought for auditions.   The specialized dancer is advised to bring a 36-count piece of choreography to the audition so that judges may view their speciality.

 

Annual Show

The annual performance is in late February. The show is comprised of twelve student choreographed pieces. All students are required to present a choreographed piece and project for a grade. Choreographers have the option of auditioning two pieces in the show, but they have to turn in a project with each.  The dance teacher selects dances that will appear in the show. The show offers a variety of dance techniques including modern, ballet, tap, break-dancing, hip-hop, jazz and multicultural dances. Choreographic and technical preparation for the show is done during the first semester of school. Several hours and months of rehearsal go into the final production, which is evidenced by the many awards our dancers have won throughout the years

 

Orchesis Requirements

Attendance @ rehearsals
Attend Artist in Residence Performance
Attend Illinois State High School Dance Festival
Attend District 214 Performance
Attend 214 on Tour
Attend morning ballet classes during the first semester
Attend Pavilion Dance Workshops during the second semester
Attend morning meetings
Participation in ALL fundraising projects
Transportation to/from all rehearsals
Additional/personal items necessary for health/safety of dancer
(Black leotard, dance shoes, black tights, kneepads, ballet shoes)
Maintain proper dance etiquette
Follow all IHSA requirements of co-curricular code for grades