Orchesis
Orchesis members consists of a group of auditioned dancers who share a passion for dance. Students meet every other day during Block 8. Auditions are held in the winter for the following year. All 8th graders, current freshmen, sophomores and juniors are encouraged to audition. While prior dance experience is helpful, it is not necessary. After acceptance in the group students are given rigorous technique classes. This group of distinguished talented dancers is well known throughout the community and state of Illinois. Students in the Orchesis program will not only become trained dancers and choreographers, but they also develop time management, leadership skills, maturity, and appreciation for the arts.
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Course Units:
Ballet
Contemporary
Jazz
Musical Thetaer
Partnering
Choreography
Gymnastics
Physical Fitness
Audition Skills
Stage Etiquette
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Orchesis also meets after school for rehearsal. The schedule varies according what pieces dancers signup for. EGHS members perform throughout the year and train during the second session of summer camp.
Orchesis provides dancers with performance opportunities and seeks to provide a supportive environment that challenges their creativity to broaden their view of art. All members of the Orchesis are expected to uphold the code of conduct at all times throughout the season, both on and off the dance floor, to ensure a positive, respectful, and professional environment for all.
Competitive Dance
Competition dance is highly structured and focused on precision. The practices are rigorous, with each daily practice being focused on one dance that will be performed in a competitive environment. In this environment, synchronization is key. Every dancer must move in perfect unison, especially during group sections, ensuring that the performance appears flawless and uniform. The overall look and execution of the routine are highly controlled, with little room for individual interpretation. The main goal is to impress judges with technical skill, precision, and sharpness. All members of the Competitive Dance team are expected to uphold the code of conduct at all times throughout the season, both on and off the dance floor, to ensure a positive, respectful, and professional environment for all.
Dance Competitions
The IHSA Dance Competitions are an exciting and highly competitive events that celebrate athleticism, artistry, and teamwork. Teams from across Illinois come together to showcase their talent, with many hoping to earn a place on the podium and claim the coveted State Championship title in their respective category.
Dance Class
In school class that counts as a students gym period
If a student is not interested in auditioning for Orchesis but would still like to dance and have dance fulfill their PE requirement then the dance classes are an option. The levels are listed below:
Dance I: 08550
Dance I is open to all sophomores, juniors and seniors. While prior dance experience may be helpful, it is not necessary. This course serves as an introduction to dance as an art form as well as a lifetime leisure experience. Students experience units in jazz, modern, ballet and ethnic dance, as well as dance choreography. Students work in small groups to choreograph their own dance at the end of the semester. Through their participation in Dance I, students not only begin dance technique in three areas, but begin to develop self-confidence, self direction, social interaction and their own creativity.
Dance II: 08560
Dance II is open to all students who have successfully completed Dance I. Dance II focuses on dance technique and choreographic theories at the intermediate level. Jazz, modern and ballet skills at the intermediate level are taught with the emphasis focusing on the development of the student's choreographic abilities. During the course, the class performs a mini-concert, which showcases their talents.
Dance III: 08540
Dance III is open to all students who have successfully completed Dance I and II. Dance III focuses on the continuation of dance technique, choreographic theories and performance skills at the intermediate to advanced level. The class emphasis is on developing performance skills alongside dance techniques. During the course the class performs a mini concert, which showcases their talents.
Dance Units Include:
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Ballet Technique
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Jazz Technique
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Hip Hop Technique
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Modern Technique
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Choreography Presentation
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Contact Improvisation
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Homecoming Activities
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Holiday Dances (Halloween, Christmas)
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Cultural Dances
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Yoga
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So/Jun/Sen MC Production
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Mock Audition
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Cross Training
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Gymnastics
Written Assignments Include:
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Dance Critique Papers
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Choreography Projects
Grading for both Orchesis and Dance classes is:
40% Units of Study; 30% Daily Participation; 20% Written Assignments; 10% Final Exam