University of Montana Dance Program Receives Recognition From American College Dance Association

The University of Montana Dance Program cemented its reputation as one of the best schools in the nation following an unprecedented showing at last week's American College Dance Association (ACDA) Northwest Regional Conference in Eugene, Oregon.

The conference, which attracts more than 500 students, artists and educators from throughout the West, offers programs a chance to showcase original work and receive constructive feedback from nationally and internationally renowned adjudicators. The UM Dance Program performed two pieces and was the only university to have both of its submissions selected for the event's Gala Concert. UM's recognition came despite the presence of much larger institutions such as the University of Utah, University of Oregon, University of Colorado in Boulder, and Brigham Young University.

Describing the University of Montana's choreography and performance, adjudicator and ballet master of New York Ballet Theatre Jim Sutton applauded the fierce "engagement of the performers" and their ability to fully commit to their craft. Adjudicator Holly Johnston furthered her accolades of the University of Montana Dance Program, noting that the students and faculty are "doing very strong, very extraordinary and incredibly important work that continues to push the art form forward." The entire adjudicator panel noted the University of Montana's contributions to this conference "as truly exceptional," particularly for the size and location of the school.

The UM Dance Program's two pieces were performed by 12 students. "Peach & Pit," choreographed by sophomore Logan Prichard, features seven students performing a high-energy, dark and empowering commentary on what one might find simultaneously grotesque and beautiful. The adjudicators praised the students for their ability to "go eagerly and without shame into the belly of the work" and "disrupt our notions of normalcy."