On Friday, November 17, the Benet Orchesis Dance Company held their opening night for the 7th Annual Showcase, and it was a roaring success. With a sold-out auditorium, the company, directed by Mrs. Kelsey Peceniak and Ms. Haley Celeste, had the opportunity to perform three shows on the weekend, with each show lasting nearly three hours.

Ranging from duets to company dances, the showcase consisted of many dances from many different styles of dance including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and musical theater. Each dance was student-choreographed, totaling around forty dances. The showcase began with an opening number performed by the Seniors and Sophomores and ended with a closing dance by the Juniors and Freshmen. 

Just before the final closing dance, a slideshow recognized the senior dancers. Many seniors have done Orchesis all four years, like Senior Neave McConnell, who voices her appreciation for the company: “Orchesis was one of my favorite things I’ve done at Benet. I’m super thankful that I was able to experience it these last four years and I am going to miss Orchesis so much.”

The directors, and over one hundred dancers, worked hard for the show’s success, having started preparations back in August. The Benet Orchesis Company is one of the many ways that students at Benet can be involved in the performing arts, and the Showcase is a great opportunity for friends and family to appreciate their talents and hard work.